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Political Cartoonist Satish Acharya's account was restricted in India, following a legal request to Meta from the Union Government. 55-year-old Satish criticised the move on his social media profile with another sharp caricature: “Block! Block! Block! #NarendraModi @TheSouthfirst cartoon”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Block! Block! Block! <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a><a href="https://x.com/TheSouthfirst?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSouthfirst</a> cartoon. <a href="https://t.co/y3jJZS1wls">pic.twitter.com/y3jJZS1wls</a>&mdash; Satish Acharya (@satishacharya) <a href="https://x.com/satishacharya/status/2105156670230000114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“We reviewed it against our policies and conducted a legal and human rights assessment. After the review, we restricted access to the content in the location where it goes against local law,” read the message displayed by the platform when users tried to access his account. &nbsp;Acharya's most recent works featured cartoons on the Indian Express Investigation from September 23, which revealed a crisis at the top leadership of the apex polling body of India. According to a report by Scroll, Acharya has not received any prior communication from Meta before his account was taken down.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-economy-mixed-signals-midterms-gdp-inflation-jobs-1790786565252">US economy sends mixed signals weeks before midterms</a>“This regime boasts about being the most powerful and fearless government,” he said. “But every bit of criticism scares this government, forcing it to resort to cowardice measures.” He said that he had never seen a government "so scared of cartoons," while drawing irony from a 2018 statement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi praising cartoons as having "healing power".Another cartoonist, Manjul, who faced similar restrictions, said that Instagram had restricted one of his works about the Election Commission.&nbsp;Acharya is well known for witty and hard-hitting satirical cartoons and gained international attention, notably for his powerful illustration following the 2015 Charlie Hebdo tragedy, which featured in The Wall Street Journal and The Guardian.&nbsp;

Political cartoonist Satish Acharya’s Instagram account has been restricted in India following a government legal request, after cartoons on the Election Commission.

Political Cartoonist Satish Acharya's account was restricted in India, following a legal request to Meta from the Union Government. 55-year-old Satish criticised the move on his social media profile with another sharp caricature: “Block! Block! Block! #NarendraModi @TheSouthfirst cartoon”.

Political cartoonist Satish Acharya’s Instagram account has been restricted in India following a government legal request after cartoons on the Election Commission.

‘Block! Block! Block!’: Cartoonist Satish Acharya’s Instagram account restricted in India

Captain Smit Machchhar has been identified as the Indian pilot who fended off the Omani pilot who attempted to hijack the Flydubai flight on Wednesday (Sep 30). Chaos erupted in the cockpit of flight FZ 1073 when the Omani pilot tried to hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. An altercation broke out between the two pilots, and Machchhar was stabbed. Passengers told Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu after landing in Tel Aviv that the stabbed captain managed to open the cockpit door that allowed passengers to get in and interfere. The co-pilot was then restrained by the passengers. Two other pilots who were travelling on the flight as passengers took control of the flight and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. According to reports, Machchhar underwent surgery after being injured in the incident.<h2>Who is Smit Machchhar?</h2>Smit Machchhar, an Indian aviation professional and former SpiceJet commander, was serving as captain on Flydubai Flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to his LinkedIn profile, he has more than 13 years of experience and over 9,750 flying hours across Boeing 737 aircraft, including the B737-800 and B737 MAX 8/9.Machchhar has been working for Flydubai as a captain since June 2022. Before this, he worked for 11 years with SpiceJet, where he was a senior commander. He has also served as a Line Training Captain and is skilled in mentoring and assessing pilots.The Indian pilot completed his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Welingkar Institute of Management.<h2>What happened on Flydubai flight?</h2>According to the passengers’ account, an altercation broke out between the pilots, which turned violent. One of the pilots stabbed his co-pilot in the cockpit and attempted to crash the plane with the intention of killing everyone on board. During the altercation, the plane suddenly plunged several feet, from nearly 34,000 feet to less than 17,000 feet. Passengers intervened and restrained the pilot, who stabbed Machchhar. Two other pilots were among the passengers, who then took over the controls and carried out the emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The Omani pilot was arrested and is being interrogated by the Saudi authorities.The plane also sent distress signal 7700, a general international emergency signal. It also briefly sent the code 7500, which signals hijacking and unlawful interference, before it went back to the original distress code.

Indian captain Smit Machchhar, a former SpiceJet commander with nearly 9,750 flying hours, helped bring a Flydubai flight safely to Saudi Arabia after a cockpit emergency.

Captain Smit Machchhar has been identified as the Indian pilot who fended off the Omani pilot who attempted to hijack the Flydubai flight on Wednesday (Sep 30). Chaos erupted in the cockpit of flight FZ 1073 when the Omani pilot tried to hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. An altercation broke out between the two pilots, and Machchhar was stabbed. Passengers told Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu after landing in Tel Aviv that the stabbed captain managed to open the cockpit door that allowed passengers to get in and interfere. The co-pilot was then restrained by the passengers. Two other pilots who were travelling on the flight as passengers took control of the flight and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. According to reports, Machchhar underwent surgery after being injured in the incident. Who is Smit Machchhar? Smit Machchhar, an Indian aviation professional and former SpiceJet commander, was serving as captain on Flydubai Flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to his LinkedIn profile, he has more than 13 years of experience and over 9,750 flying hours across Boeing 737 aircraft, including the B737-800 and B737 MAX 8/9. Machchhar has been working for Flydubai as a captain since June 2022. Before this, he worked for 11 years with SpiceJet, where he was a senior commander. He has also served as a Line Training Captain and is skilled in mentoring and assessing pilots. The Indian pilot completed his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Welingkar Institute of Management. What happened on Flydubai flight? According to the passengers’ account, an altercation broke out between the pilots, which turned violent. One of the pilots stabbed his co-pilot in the cockpit and attempted to crash the plane with the intention of killing everyone on board. During the altercation, the plane suddenly plunged several feet, from nearly 34,000 feet to less than 17,000 feet. Passengers intervened and restrained the pilot, who stabbed Machchhar. Two other pilots were among the passengers, who then took over the controls and carried out the emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The Omani pilot was arrested and is being interrogated by the Saudi authorities. The plane also sent distress signal 7700, a general international emergency signal. It also briefly sent the code 7500, which signals hijacking and unlawful interference, before it went back to the original distress code.

Indian captain Smit Machchhar, a former SpiceJet commander with nearly 9,750 flying hours, helped bring a Flydubai flight safely to Saudi Arabia after a cockpit emergency.

Who is Capt. Smit Machchhar, Indian pilot who helped avert Flydubai disaster?

An Indian captain has been identified as the pilot who helped prevent a Flydubai passenger jet from crashing after a violent confrontation in the cockpit of a flight bound for Tel Aviv.Smit Machchhar, a former SpiceJet commander who joined the Dubai-based airline in 2022, was flying Flight FZ1073 on Wednesday when, according to officials and media reports, his Omani co-pilot attacked him and attempted to seize control of the Boeing 737 MAX 8.The aircraft, carrying about 174 to 180 passengers and crew, was over north-western Saudi Arabia when it plunged more than 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds.Flight-tracking data showed sharp altitude swings from about 34,000ft. The jet then transmitted emergency codes, including 7500, the international signal for unlawful interference. After the cockpit was secured, the aircraft diverted and landed safely at Tabuk airport. All those on board were accounted for.Israeli officials have described the episode as a possible terrorist attack or attempt to crash the plane; an investigation is continuing and the airline has not confirmed a motive. Flydubai said an “altercation” occurred on the flight deck and that off-duty crew travelling as passengers helped secure the aircraft.Machchhar, at SpiceJet served as a senior commander. He holds a business administration degree from Welingkar Institute.

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar helped prevent a Flydubai jet from crashing after a cockpit confrontation forced the Boeing 737 MAX 8 to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

An Indian captain has been identified as the pilot who helped prevent a Flydubai passenger jet from crashing after a violent confrontation in the cockpit of a flight bound for Tel Aviv. Smit Machchhar, a former SpiceJet commander who joined the Dubai-based airline in 2022, was flying Flight FZ1073 on Wednesday when, according to officials and media reports, his Omani co-pilot attacked him and attempted to seize control of the Boeing 737 MAX 8. The aircraft, carrying about 174 to 180 passengers and crew, was over north-western Saudi Arabia when it plunged more than 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds. Flight-tracking data showed sharp altitude swings from about 34,000ft. The jet then transmitted emergency codes, including 7500, the international signal for unlawful interference. After the cockpit was secured, the aircraft diverted and landed safely at Tabuk airport. All those on board were accounted for. Israeli officials have described the episode as a possible terrorist attack or attempt to crash the plane; an investigation is continuing and the airline has not confirmed a motive. Flydubai said an “altercation” occurred on the flight deck and that off-duty crew travelling as passengers helped secure the aircraft. Machchhar, at SpiceJet served as a senior commander. He holds a business administration degree from Welingkar Institute.

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar helped prevent a Flydubai jet from crashing after a cockpit confrontation forced the Boeing 737 MAX 8 to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

Hero Indian captain stops cockpit attack on Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai jet

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Sep 30) rejected the bail pleas of former JNU scholar Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 North East Delhi riots case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).A division bench of Justice Prathiba M Singh and Justice Dinesh Bhatt said it was bound by the Supreme Court’s January 2026 ruling in the case concerning Gulfisha Fatima and could not alter the conditions laid down by the apex court.“This court is bound by judicial discipline,” the High Court said.<h2>Court rejects bail pleas</h2>The Supreme Court had earlier denied regular bail to Khalid and Imam while granting relief to several other accused. It had allowed them to renew their bail pleas after the examination of protected witnesses was completed or after one year from its January 5, 2026 order, whichever came earlier.The High Court noted that Khalid and Imam had sought bail citing changes in circumstances, including developments concerning the Supreme Court’s Gulfisha Fatima judgment and interim bail granted to co-accused Tasleem Ahmed and Khalid Saifi.However, the bench held that the roles attributed to Ahmed and Saifi were different from those alleged against Khalid and Imam. Therefore, the two could not claim bail on the basis of parity.<h2>Case returns to trial proceedings</h2>Khalid and Imam had approached the High Court after a trial court rejected their bail applications on July 4. Their latest pleas were filed under Section 21 of the National Investigation Agency Act.The case stems from FIR 59 of 2020, which concerns allegations of a larger conspiracy linked to the February 2020 communal violence in North-East Delhi. The prosecution case includes charges under the IPC and UAPA.The High Court ultimately dismissed both appeals, leaving the Supreme Court’s January 2026 conditions intact. &nbsp;

Delhi High Court rejects Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam’s bail pleas in the 2020 Delhi riots case, citing Supreme Court directions and differences in the roles attributed to the accused.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Sep 30) rejected the bail pleas of former JNU scholar Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 North East Delhi riots case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). A division bench of Justice Prathiba M Singh and Justice Dinesh Bhatt said it was bound by the Supreme Court’s January 2026 ruling in the case concerning Gulfisha Fatima and could not alter the conditions laid down by the apex court. “This court is bound by judicial discipline,” the High Court said. Court rejects bail pleas The Supreme Court had earlier denied regular bail to Khalid and Imam while granting relief to several other accused. It had allowed them to renew their bail pleas after the examination of protected witnesses was completed or after one year from its January 5, 2026 order, whichever came earlier. The High Court noted that Khalid and Imam had sought bail citing changes in circumstances, including developments concerning the Supreme Court’s Gulfisha Fatima judgment and interim bail granted to co-accused Tasleem Ahmed and Khalid Saifi. However, the bench held that the roles attributed to Ahmed and Saifi were different from those alleged against Khalid and Imam. Therefore, the two could not claim bail on the basis of parity. Case returns to trial proceedings Khalid and Imam had approached the High Court after a trial court rejected their bail applications on July 4. Their latest pleas were filed under Section 21 of the National Investigation Agency Act. The case stems from FIR 59 of 2020, which concerns allegations of a larger conspiracy linked to the February 2020 communal violence in North-East Delhi. The prosecution case includes charges under the IPC and UAPA. The High Court ultimately dismissed both appeals, leaving the Supreme Court’s January 2026 conditions intact.

Delhi High Court rejects Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam’s bail pleas in the 2020 Delhi riots case, citing Supreme Court directions and differences in the roles attributed to the accused.

Delhi riots case: HC rejects bail pleas of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam

One Indian sailor among five was killed by Somali pirates aboard a hijacked oil tanker MT Hoarner 25, off the coast of Somalia. Among the five were also three Pakistanis and one Myanmar national, said the Puntland maritime officials. Additionally, three Pakistanis and one Indian were injured. Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) said that it successfully retook control of the vessel.&nbsp;The tanker, which was carrying about 18,500 barrels, was moving towards Mogadishu. It had been held by pirates since April 21. According to the BBC, &nbsp;the hijacked tanker was anchored near the Somali coast between the fishing towns of Xaafun and Bander Beyla. Officials said that there were a total of 17 citizens on board. &nbsp;They included 10 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, one Sri Lankan and a Myanmar national. The PMPF launched the rescue operation on September 29, 2026, capturing 16 suspected pirates.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-jordan-deny-netanyahu-abu-dhabi-meeting-1790772014170">Saudi Arabia, Jordan deny reports of meeting with Netanyahu in Abu Dhabi</a>India has expressed grief over the tragic death of its citizen during the counter-piracy operations. The Indian High Commission in Kenya expressed deep grief over the tragedy. The embassy confirmed it is in close contact with Somali authorities and the victim's family in Kolkata to expedite the repatriation of his mortal remains.“All other Indian seafarers on board are reportedly safe, including those on MT Sibu 1 and MT Eureka, which have also been recently rescued. The High Commission remains in close touch with the concerned authorities in Somalia regarding their safety, well-being and repatriation.”&nbsp;

One Indian sailor was among five killed as Puntland forces retook the hijacked tanker MT Hoarner 25 off Somalia after a rescue operation.

One Indian sailor among five was killed by Somali pirates aboard a hijacked oil tanker MT Hoarner 25, off the coast of Somalia. Among the five were also three Pakistanis and one Myanmar national, said the Puntland maritime officials. Additionally, three Pakistanis and one Indian were injured. Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) said that it successfully retook control of the vessel. The tanker, which was carrying about 18,500 barrels, was moving towards Mogadishu. It had been held by pirates since April 21. According to the BBC, the hijacked tanker was anchored near the Somali coast between the fishing towns of Xaafun and Bander Beyla. Officials said that there were a total of 17 citizens on board. They included 10 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, one Sri Lankan and a Myanmar national. The PMPF launched the rescue operation on September 29, 2026, capturing 16 suspected pirates. Also Read: Saudi Arabia, Jordan deny reports of meeting with Netanyahu in Abu Dhabi India has expressed grief over the tragic death of its citizen during the counter-piracy operations. The Indian High Commission in Kenya expressed deep grief over the tragedy. The embassy confirmed it is in close contact with Somali authorities and the victim's family in Kolkata to expedite the repatriation of his mortal remains. “All other Indian seafarers on board are reportedly safe, including those on MT Sibu 1 and MT Eureka, which have also been recently rescued. The High Commission remains in close touch with the concerned authorities in Somalia regarding their safety, well-being and repatriation.”

One Indian sailor was among five killed as Puntland forces retook the hijacked tanker MT Hoarner 25 off Somalia after a rescue operation.

One Indian sailor among 5 killed aboard oil tanker off Somalia coast

The chargesheet in the Ketan Agarwal murder case has revealed details of an alleged conspiracy that police say was planned over several weeks before the 26-year-old businessman died after falling from Maharashtra’s Lohagad Fort.The 5,053-page chargesheet filed by Pune Rural Police names Ketan’s fiancée Siya Goyal, her alleged lover Chetan Chaudhary and Ritesh Hange as accused.According to investigators, the alleged conspiracy went through several stages — including plans to seriously injure Ketan, attempts to find people outside Maharashtra to carry out an attack, reconnaissance of possible locations, digital research, creation of a fake Instagram account and an alleged earlier attempt at Lohagad.Here are the major revelations from the chargesheet:<h2>1. Before Pune murder, plan was to break Ketan’s bones in Bengaluru</h2>One of the most significant revelations concerns an alleged plan that preceded the Lohagad murder.Police allege that the accused initially discussed taking Ketan to Bengaluru and breaking his bones.The objective, investigators say, was to seriously injure him rather than immediately kill him.A Bengaluru-based person was allegedly approached in connection with the plan but refused to participate.The person was subsequently treated as a witness in the investigation.<h2>2. An alleged contract-killing plan was also explored</h2>Investigators say the accused subsequently explored the possibility of getting an outsider to attack Ketan.Police allege that a Bengaluru connection was approached to find someone who could carry out the killing.That plan too allegedly failed to take shape.Investigators say the accused eventually decided that involving an outsider could expose the conspiracy and instead moved towards executing the alleged plan themselves.<h2>3. The alleged conspiracy was planned weeks before Ketan’s death</h2>The chargesheet indicates that police do not view the death as a crime that was suddenly conceived on June 18.Investigators allege that discussions about eliminating Ketan had begun weeks earlier.Police say Siya and Chetan’s relationship and the impending marriage between Siya and Ketan formed the backdrop to the alleged conspiracy.Ritesh Hange allegedly became involved in discussions surrounding the plan.<h2>4. Several locations were allegedly surveyed</h2>Police say the accused examined different locations around Lonavala before settling on Lohagad.Investigators have referred to alleged reconnaissance of areas including Tiger Point.Factors such as accessibility, isolation and the possibility of the death appearing accidental were allegedly considered.Lohagad was eventually selected, according to the police theory.<h2>5. Police allege an earlier attempt was made on June 14</h2>The chargesheet contains another significant revelation — the alleged murder attempt did not begin on June 18.Police allege that Ketan and Siya visited Lohagad on June 14, four days before his death.Investigators allege that Siya attempted to push Ketan towards a dangerous edge.The attempt allegedly failed after Ketan managed to hold on.Police say Siya subsequently used the explanation that she had seen a snake.<h2>6. The Bali trip was allegedly disrupted</h2>Ketan and Siya had reportedly planned a trip to Bali for a pre-wedding photoshoot.Police allege that the trip was an obstacle because the accused wanted the alleged murder plan to be carried out before they travelled.Investigators say Ketan’s passport was torn and discarded at a food outlet in Khalapur on June 6.The Bali trip was subsequently cancelled.<h2>7. A fake Instagram account called ‘Mahi’ was allegedly created</h2>Police say the accused created a fake Instagram identity using the name “Mahi”.Investigators allege that the account used the photograph of another woman and was presented as an acquaintance of Siya.The account allegedly communicated with Ketan.According to the police case, the digital identity was used to gain Ketan’s confidence and persuade him to visit Lohagad.<h2>8. The fake account allegedly lured Ketan to Lohagad</h2>The chargesheet alleges that Ketan was persuaded to visit Lohagad on June 18, one day before Siya’s birthday.The proposed outing was allegedly presented as a surprise birthday plan for Siya.Police allege that Ketan did not know that the person communicating with him was not genuinely the woman represented by the account.The account was later deleted, but investigators say forensic examination of electronic devices helped recover relevant material.<h2>9. Police say the accused researched previous murder cases</h2>The digital investigation has allegedly uncovered searches relating to previous high-profile murders.Police have particularly examined searches concerning the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case involving Raja Raghuvanshi.Investigators also found material relating to an earlier death at Lohagad.Police are examining these searches as part of their allegation that the accused researched how murders were carried out and how investigations unfolded.<h2>10. Murder films and crime-related content allegedly formed part of the research</h2>Investigators say the accused also watched crime and murder-related films and podcasts.Police allege that the material was used to understand possible methods of killing and how investigators could potentially trace the perpetrators.The digital material forms part of the wider evidence presented in the chargesheet.<h2>11. Searches allegedly included poison and methods of killing</h2>The investigation also flagged internet searches concerning poison, poisonous mushrooms and different methods of causing death.Police have examined these searches alongside other digital material recovered from the accused’s devices.However, an internet search alone does not establish that a particular method was used in Ketan’s death. Its evidentiary significance will have to be determined during the legal proceedings.<h2>12. ChatGPT allegedly featured in the digital trail</h2>Another unusual aspect of the investigation is the alleged use of ChatGPT during the planning phase.Police say the accused used online resources while researching crime, possible methods and ways of avoiding detection.Investigators have included this digital activity in the broader evidence they say demonstrates preparation for the alleged crime.<h2>13. Police allege attempts were made to erase digital evidence</h2>The chargesheet describes alleged attempts to remove traces of conversations.Investigators say WhatsApp chats and other digital material were deleted.Electronic devices were subsequently seized and subjected to forensic examination.Police allege that deleted conversations and other relevant material were recovered.<h2>14. A damaged phone allegedly contained relevant searches</h2>Investigators also recovered a damaged mobile phone from Siya’s bedroom.Police allege that the device had been used for searches connected to the alleged planning.The investigation claims the phone was damaged in an attempt to destroy evidence.Forensic examination subsequently formed part of the police evidence.<h2>15. Chetan allegedly tried to keep his digital trail away from the crime scene</h2>Police have also examined Chetan’s phone and movements on June 18.Investigators allege that his phone activity did not straightforwardly place him at Lohagad and that he took steps to limit his digital trail.Police reconstructed his movements using other technical evidence, call records and witness accounts.<h2>16. Tourist photographs allegedly captured the accused at Lohagad</h2>Investigators have also relied on photographs taken by tourists at Lohagad.Police say photographs taken around the relevant time show Ketan, Siya and Chetan at or near the location.Investigators have used these images along with CCTV and other technical evidence to reconstruct the movements of the accused.<h2>17. What police allege happened on June 18</h2>According to the prosecution’s version, Ketan reached Lohagad with Siya.Chetan allegedly arrived separately and positioned himself near the area where Ketan was taken.Police allege that Siya and Chetan then carried out the final act of the conspiracy.Ketan was allegedly pushed from the rocky edge and fell into the gorge.He died in the fall.<h2>18. An eyewitness allegedly saw the incident</h2>The chargesheet contains statements from witnesses who police say were present around the location.Investigators have relied on eyewitness testimony to support their allegation that Ketan’s death was not an accident.Police also allege that one witness was subsequently threatened and warned against speaking about what had been witnessed.<h2>19. Police allege the death was made to look like an accident</h2>A central element of the investigation is the alleged attempt to create an accidental-fall narrative.Lohagad is a trekking destination and has previously witnessed fatal falls.According to investigators, the location was deliberately selected because Ketan’s death could initially be explained as a trekking accident.Police say the circumstances changed after investigators examined digital records, witness accounts and other evidence.<h2>20. Chetan allegedly had Siya’s name tattooed on his body</h2>The chargesheet also reportedly contains a personal detail that investigators have cited while establishing the relationship between Chetan and Siya.Police allege that Chetan had got Siya’s name tattooed on his body.Investigators have cited the tattoo along with their communications, calls and other material while establishing the nature of their relationship.Police allege that Chetan and Siya were in a relationship while Siya was engaged to Ketan.The tattoo itself, however, is not independently evidence of murder. Its relevance lies in the prosecution’s attempt to establish the relationship and the circumstances surrounding the alleged conspiracy.<h2>21. Siya allegedly did not want to go ahead with the marriage</h2>Investigators have cited conversations in which Siya allegedly expressed reluctance about marrying Ketan.Police say she had indicated to people around her that she did not want the marriage to proceed.Investigators have presented this alleged reluctance, along with her relationship with Chetan, as part of the possible motive behind the conspiracy.<h2>22. Two people allegedly knew about the plan</h2>The chargesheet also refers to people who allegedly became aware of the proposed attack.Police say individuals connected to the accused were approached during the earlier stages of the alleged plan.At least one Bengaluru connection allegedly refused to participate.Investigators have recorded statements from such people as witnesses.<h2>23. The chargesheet contains a substantial digital trail</h2>The prosecution case is built around multiple categories of evidence.These include:<ul><li>Mobile-phone data</li><li>WhatsApp conversations</li><li>Instagram activity</li><li>Snapchat conversations</li><li>Internet search history</li><li>Call-detail records</li><li>CCTV footage</li><li>Tourist photographs</li><li>Forensic examination of electronic devices</li><li>Deleted digital material</li><li>Witness statements</li><li>Technical evidence</li><li>Statements of people allegedly approached during earlier stages of the conspiracy</li></ul><h2>What the chargesheet reveals</h2>The biggest revelation in the chargesheet is the alleged evolution of the conspiracy.Police say the plan did not begin with Lohagad. It allegedly moved through different options — from breaking Ketan’s bones in Bengaluru and exploring a contract killing to reconnaissance, digital research and finally a carefully planned meeting at Lohagad.The investigation also places significant emphasis on the alleged relationship between Siya and Chetan, including their communications and the claim that Chetan had Siya’s name tattooed on his body.The case now moves into the judicial process, where the prosecution’s evidence and the defence’s response will be examined.

The Ketan Agarwal murder chargesheet alleges a weeks-long conspiracy involving injury plans, reconnaissance, digital research and a fake Instagram account used to lure him to Lohagad before his death.

The chargesheet in the Ketan Agarwal murder case has revealed details of an alleged conspiracy that police say was planned over several weeks before the 26-year-old businessman died after falling from Maharashtra’s Lohagad Fort. The 5,053-page chargesheet filed by Pune Rural Police names Ketan’s fiancée Siya Goyal, her alleged lover Chetan Chaudhary and Ritesh Hange as accused. According to investigators, the alleged conspiracy went through several stages — including plans to seriously injure Ketan, attempts to find people outside Maharashtra to carry out an attack, reconnaissance of possible locations, digital research, creation of a fake Instagram account and an alleged earlier attempt at Lohagad. Here are the major revelations from the chargesheet: 1. Before Pune murder, plan was to break Ketan’s bones in Bengaluru One of the most significant revelations concerns an alleged plan that preceded the Lohagad murder. Police allege that the accused initially discussed taking Ketan to Bengaluru and breaking his bones. The objective, investigators say, was to seriously injure him rather than immediately kill him. A Bengaluru-based person was allegedly approached in connection with the plan but refused to participate. The person was subsequently treated as a witness in the investigation. 2. An alleged contract-killing plan was also explored Investigators say the accused subsequently explored the possibility of getting an outsider to attack Ketan. Police allege that a Bengaluru connection was approached to find someone who could carry out the killing. That plan too allegedly failed to take shape. Investigators say the accused eventually decided that involving an outsider could expose the conspiracy and instead moved towards executing the alleged plan themselves. 3. The alleged conspiracy was planned weeks before Ketan’s death The chargesheet indicates that police do not view the death as a crime that was suddenly conceived on June 18. Investigators allege that discussions about eliminating Ketan had begun weeks earlier. Police say Siya and Chetan’s relationship and the impending marriage between Siya and Ketan formed the backdrop to the alleged conspiracy. Ritesh Hange allegedly became involved in discussions surrounding the plan. 4. Several locations were allegedly surveyed Police say the accused examined different locations around Lonavala before settling on Lohagad. Investigators have referred to alleged reconnaissance of areas including Tiger Point. Factors such as accessibility, isolation and the possibility of the death appearing accidental were allegedly considered. Lohagad was eventually selected, according to the police theory. 5. Police allege an earlier attempt was made on June 14 The chargesheet contains another significant revelation — the alleged murder attempt did not begin on June 18. Police allege that Ketan and Siya visited Lohagad on June 14, four days before his death. Investigators allege that Siya attempted to push Ketan towards a dangerous edge. The attempt allegedly failed after Ketan managed to hold on. Police say Siya subsequently used the explanation that she had seen a snake. 6. The Bali trip was allegedly disrupted Ketan and Siya had reportedly planned a trip to Bali for a pre-wedding photoshoot. Police allege that the trip was an obstacle because the accused wanted the alleged murder plan to be carried out before they travelled. Investigators say Ketan’s passport was torn and discarded at a food outlet in Khalapur on June 6. The Bali trip was subsequently cancelled. 7. A fake Instagram account called ‘Mahi’ was allegedly created Police say the accused created a fake Instagram identity using the name “Mahi”. Investigators allege that the account used the photograph of another woman and was presented as an acquaintance of Siya. The account allegedly communicated with Ketan. According to the police case, the digital identity was used to gain Ketan’s confidence and persuade him to visit Lohagad. 8. The fake account allegedly lured Ketan to Lohagad The chargesheet alleges that Ketan was persuaded to visit Lohagad on June 18, one day before Siya’s birthday. The proposed outing was allegedly presented as a surprise birthday plan for Siya. Police allege that Ketan did not know that the person communicating with him was not genuinely the woman represented by the account. The account was later deleted, but investigators say forensic examination of electronic devices helped recover relevant material. 9. Police say the accused researched previous murder cases The digital investigation has allegedly uncovered searches relating to previous high-profile murders. Police have particularly examined searches concerning the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case involving Raja Raghuvanshi. Investigators also found material relating to an earlier death at Lohagad. Police are examining these searches as part of their allegation that the accused researched how murders were carried out and how investigations unfolded. 10. Murder films and crime-related content allegedly formed part of the research Investigators say the accused also watched crime and murder-related films and podcasts. Police allege that the material was used to understand possible methods of killing and how investigators could potentially trace the perpetrators. The digital material forms part of the wider evidence presented in the chargesheet. 11. Searches allegedly included poison and methods of killing The investigation also flagged internet searches concerning poison, poisonous mushrooms and different methods of causing death. Police have examined these searches alongside other digital material recovered from the accused’s devices. However, an internet search alone does not establish that a particular method was used in Ketan’s death. Its evidentiary significance will have to be determined during the legal proceedings. 12. ChatGPT allegedly featured in the digital trail Another unusual aspect of the investigation is the alleged use of ChatGPT during the planning phase. Police say the accused used online resources while researching crime, possible methods and ways of avoiding detection. Investigators have included this digital activity in the broader evidence they say demonstrates preparation for the alleged crime. 13. Police allege attempts were made to erase digital evidence The chargesheet describes alleged attempts to remove traces of conversations. Investigators say WhatsApp chats and other digital material were deleted. Electronic devices were subsequently seized and subjected to forensic examination. Police allege that deleted conversations and other relevant material were recovered. 14. A damaged phone allegedly contained relevant searches Investigators also recovered a damaged mobile phone from Siya’s bedroom. Police allege that the device had been used for searches connected to the alleged planning. The investigation claims the phone was damaged in an attempt to destroy evidence. Forensic examination subsequently formed part of the police evidence. 15. Chetan allegedly tried to keep his digital trail away from the crime scene Police have also examined Chetan’s phone and movements on June 18. Investigators allege that his phone activity did not straightforwardly place him at Lohagad and that he took steps to limit his digital trail. Police reconstructed his movements using other technical evidence, call records and witness accounts. 16. Tourist photographs allegedly captured the accused at Lohagad Investigators have also relied on photographs taken by tourists at Lohagad. Police say photographs taken around the relevant time show Ketan, Siya and Chetan at or near the location. Investigators have used these images along with CCTV and other technical evidence to reconstruct the movements of the accused. 17. What police allege happened on June 18 According to the prosecution’s version, Ketan reached Lohagad with Siya. Chetan allegedly arrived separately and positioned himself near the area where Ketan was taken. Police allege that Siya and Chetan then carried out the final act of the conspiracy. Ketan was allegedly pushed from the rocky edge and fell into the gorge. He died in the fall. 18. An eyewitness allegedly saw the incident The chargesheet contains statements from witnesses who police say were present around the location. Investigators have relied on eyewitness testimony to support their allegation that Ketan’s death was not an accident. Police also allege that one witness was subsequently threatened and warned against speaking about what had been witnessed. 19. Police allege the death was made to look like an accident A central element of the investigation is the alleged attempt to create an accidental-fall narrative. Lohagad is a trekking destination and has previously witnessed fatal falls. According to investigators, the location was deliberately selected because Ketan’s death could initially be explained as a trekking accident. Police say the circumstances changed after investigators examined digital records, witness accounts and other evidence. 20. Chetan allegedly had Siya’s name tattooed on his body The chargesheet also reportedly contains a personal detail that investigators have cited while establishing the relationship between Chetan and Siya. Police allege that Chetan had got Siya’s name tattooed on his body. Investigators have cited the tattoo along with their communications, calls and other material while establishing the nature of their relationship. Police allege that Chetan and Siya were in a relationship while Siya was engaged to Ketan. The tattoo itself, however, is not independently evidence of murder. Its relevance lies in the prosecution’s attempt to establish the relationship and the circumstances surrounding the alleged conspiracy. 21. Siya allegedly did not want to go ahead with the marriage Investigators have cited conversations in which Siya allegedly expressed reluctance about marrying Ketan. Police say she had indicated to people around her that she did not want the marriage to proceed. Investigators have presented this alleged reluctance, along with her relationship with Chetan, as part of the possible motive behind the conspiracy. 22. Two people allegedly knew about the plan The chargesheet also refers to people who allegedly became aware of the proposed attack. Police say individuals connected to the accused were approached during the earlier stages of the alleged plan. At least one Bengaluru connection allegedly refused to participate. Investigators have recorded statements from such people as witnesses. 23. The chargesheet contains a substantial digital trail The prosecution case is built around multiple categories of evidence. These include: Mobile-phone data WhatsApp conversations Instagram activity Snapchat conversations Internet search history Call-detail records CCTV footage Tourist photographs Forensic examination of electronic devices Deleted digital material Witness statements Technical evidence Statements of people allegedly approached during earlier stages of the conspiracy What the chargesheet reveals The biggest revelation in the chargesheet is the alleged evolution of the conspiracy. Police say the plan did not begin with Lohagad. It allegedly moved through different options — from breaking Ketan’s bones in Bengaluru and exploring a contract killing to reconnaissance, digital research and finally a carefully planned meeting at Lohagad. The investigation also places significant emphasis on the alleged relationship between Siya and Chetan, including their communications and the claim that Chetan had Siya’s name tattooed on his body. The case now moves into the judicial process, where the prosecution’s evidence and the defence’s response will be examined.

The Ketan Agarwal murder chargesheet alleges a weeks-long conspiracy involving injury plans, reconnaissance, digital research and a fake Instagram account used to lure him to Lohagad before his death.

Ketan Agarwal murder: From Bengaluru bone-breaking plan to Lohagad — What the chargesheet reveals

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (September 30) held a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, their first such conversation since the US Congress passed a new law giving the US president greater powers to impose tariffs on countries importing Russian energy.&nbsp;The two leaders reviewed India-US cooperation in trade, defence, energy and critical technologies. They also discussed regional and international developments and ongoing efforts to promote global peace and security.&nbsp;Sharing details of the conversation on X, Modi said the two leaders agreed to maintain close engagement and take the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership forward.&nbsp;"Had a productive conversation with President Trump. We reviewed our bilateral cooperation in trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and other areas. We agreed to maintain close engagement to take our Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership forward."&nbsp;The Prime Minister also said he and Trump exchanged views on regional and international issues, including efforts to advance global peace and security.&nbsp;"We also exchanged views on regional and international issues, including ongoing efforts to advance global peace and security".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a productive conversation with President Trump. We reviewed our bilateral cooperation in trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and other areas. We agreed to maintain close engagement to take our Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership forward. We also exchanged…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2105293086419239306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 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/india-bloc-announces-save-democracy-marches-from-october-2-ec-protest-on-october-6-1790774872187">INDIA bloc announces 'Save Democracy' marches from October 2, EC protest on October 6</a><h2>Modi, Trump review bilateral cooperation</h2>The Prime Minister's Office said the conversation covered progress in several areas of bilateral cooperation and other issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;"The two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and other areas of mutual interest," the statement reads.&nbsp;The PMO said Modi and Trump also reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both leaders agreed to maintain close engagement to deepen cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;"They reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and agreed to maintain close engagement to deepen cooperation for the benefit of the people of both countries."&nbsp;Their discussion also included regional and international developments and ongoing efforts to promote global peace and security.&nbsp;"The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international developments and discussed ongoing efforts to promote global peace and security," according to the release.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Both leaders agreed to remain in touch,” it added.&nbsp;<h2>Call comes amid Russia sanctions law</h2>The conversation comes days after the US Congress passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The law gives Trump the authority to impose secondary tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries that import Russian energy.&nbsp;The legislation allows the US president to select tariff rates, modify them every 180 days or issue strategic waivers. India, as a major importer of Russian energy, could be affected by the new powers.&nbsp;However, neither Modi's post nor the PMO's readout mentioned the sanctions law or any specific tariff discussion during the phone call.

PM Modi and Donald Trump reviewed India-US ties and discussed trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and global developments during a “productive” phone conversation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (September 30) held a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, their first such conversation since the US Congress passed a new law giving the US president greater powers to impose tariffs on countries importing Russian energy. The two leaders reviewed India-US cooperation in trade, defence, energy and critical technologies. They also discussed regional and international developments and ongoing efforts to promote global peace and security. Sharing details of the conversation on X, Modi said the two leaders agreed to maintain close engagement and take the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership forward. "Had a productive conversation with President Trump. We reviewed our bilateral cooperation in trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and other areas. We agreed to maintain close engagement to take our Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership forward." The Prime Minister also said he and Trump exchanged views on regional and international issues, including efforts to advance global peace and security. "We also exchanged views on regional and international issues, including ongoing efforts to advance global peace and security".

PM Modi and Donald Trump reviewed India-US ties and discussed trade, defence, energy, critical technologies and global developments during a “productive” phone conversation.

PM Modi, Trump hold 'productive' phone call, discuss trade, defence, energy

The Opposition INDIA bloc on Wednesday (Sept. 30) announced a series of protests against the Election Commission, raising concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and what it described as threats to democratic institutions.&nbsp;The announcement followed a coordination meeting of opposition parties in New Delhi. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the meeting lasted nearly three-and-a-half hours, with several leaders sharing their views. Uddhav Thackeray and Hemant Soren also participated in the discussions.&nbsp;"Discussions continued for around three-and-a-half hours. Many leaders expressed their views. Uddhav Thackeray ji and Hemant Soren ji also shared their views. Everyone has decided to fight together in a united manner," Kharge said.&nbsp;Kharge alleged that democratic institutions were being weakened and claimed that the Election Commission was being influenced by the government. He also accused the opposition of facing disruptions to its democratic functioning and alleged that elections were being won through unfair means.<h2>INDIA bloc announces nationwide protest plan</h2>The INDIA bloc will organise district-level “Save Democracy Marches” from October 2 to October 8. Opposition MPs will march to the Election Commission on October 6.&nbsp;Opposition leaders will also seek an appointment with President Droupadi Murmu in the second week of October to raise their concerns over electoral institutions and electoral rolls.&nbsp;The bloc has planned five major rallies in October and November, with venues and dates to be finalised soon. A major rally will be held in Delhi on November 1.&nbsp;"Members of the INDIA bloc will stage protests at DM offices from October 2 to October 8, and on October 6, all opposition MPs will march to the Election Commission. Opposition leaders will seek an appointment with the President in the second week of October to apprise her of the manner in which institutions are being taken over. Five major rallies will be held in Oct-Nov, and the venues and dates will be finalised soon. A major rally will be organised in Delhi on November 1 because everyone now acknowledges what Rahul ji and Didi used to say on 'vote chori'"&nbsp;Kharge also demanded the rollback of the SIR process and greater transparency in electoral rolls. He called for accountability from the Election Commission and said, “the ballot belongs to the people.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meerut-blue-drum-case-muskan-lover-sahil-convicted-of-husband-saurabh-rajput-s-murder-1790769408135">Meerut Blue Drum Case: Muskan, lover Sahil convicted of husband Saurabh Rajput’s murder</a><h2>Rahul Gandhi targets CEC Gyanesh Kumar</h2>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi targeted Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was using him to manipulate electoral outcomes.&nbsp;In a post on X, Gandhi questioned why Kumar was the only Indian citizen with what he described as lifelong blanket legal immunity.&nbsp;"Q. Why is CEC Gyanesh Kumar the only Indian with lifelong blanket legal immunity? A. Because PM Modi uses him to steal elections," said Gandhi.&nbsp;Kharge also called for Kumar's removal, claiming that the Chief Election Commissioner had been exposed over questions raised by his fellow members.&nbsp;"Today our Chief Election Commissioner stands totally exposed. His two fellow members have written 14 times in 10 months! It questions his very integrity and intentions. Therefore, he should be removed from his position. If he has even an iota of Constitutional or moral shame left in him, he will resign himself and turn approver against the powers who are interfering in our electoral rolls."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q. Why is CEC Gyanesh Kumar the only Indian with lifelong blanket legal immunity? A. Because PM Modi uses him to steal elections.&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2105208568836440067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Opposition INDIA bloc has announced a series of protests against the Election Commission and SIR while Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge stepped up their criticism of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.

The Opposition INDIA bloc on Wednesday (Sept. 30) announced a series of protests against the Election Commission, raising concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and what it described as threats to democratic institutions. The announcement followed a coordination meeting of opposition parties in New Delhi. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the meeting lasted nearly three-and-a-half hours, with several leaders sharing their views. Uddhav Thackeray and Hemant Soren also participated in the discussions. "Discussions continued for around three-and-a-half hours. Many leaders expressed their views. Uddhav Thackeray ji and Hemant Soren ji also shared their views. Everyone has decided to fight together in a united manner," Kharge said. Kharge alleged that democratic institutions were being weakened and claimed that the Election Commission was being influenced by the government. He also accused the opposition of facing disruptions to its democratic functioning and alleged that elections were being won through unfair means. INDIA bloc announces nationwide protest plan The INDIA bloc will organise district-level “Save Democracy Marches” from October 2 to October 8. Opposition MPs will march to the Election Commission on October 6. Opposition leaders will also seek an appointment with President Droupadi Murmu in the second week of October to raise their concerns over electoral institutions and electoral rolls. The bloc has planned five major rallies in October and November, with venues and dates to be finalised soon. A major rally will be held in Delhi on November 1. "Members of the INDIA bloc will stage protests at DM offices from October 2 to October 8, and on October 6, all opposition MPs will march to the Election Commission. Opposition leaders will seek an appointment with the President in the second week of October to apprise her of the manner in which institutions are being taken over. Five major rallies will be held in Oct-Nov, and the venues and dates will be finalised soon. A major rally will be organised in Delhi on November 1 because everyone now acknowledges what Rahul ji and Didi used to say on 'vote chori'" Kharge also demanded the rollback of the SIR process and greater transparency in electoral rolls. He called for accountability from the Election Commission and said, “the ballot belongs to the people.” Also Read: Meerut Blue Drum Case: Muskan, lover Sahil convicted of husband Saurabh Rajput’s murder Rahul Gandhi targets CEC Gyanesh Kumar Congress leader Rahul Gandhi targeted Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was using him to manipulate electoral outcomes. In a post on X, Gandhi questioned why Kumar was the only Indian citizen with what he described as lifelong blanket legal immunity. "Q. Why is CEC Gyanesh Kumar the only Indian with lifelong blanket legal immunity? A. Because PM Modi uses him to steal elections," said Gandhi. Kharge also called for Kumar's removal, claiming that the Chief Election Commissioner had been exposed over questions raised by his fellow members. "Today our Chief Election Commissioner stands totally exposed. His two fellow members have written 14 times in 10 months! It questions his very integrity and intentions. Therefore, he should be removed from his position. If he has even an iota of Constitutional or moral shame left in him, he will resign himself and turn approver against the powers who are interfering in our electoral rolls."

The Opposition INDIA bloc has announced a series of protests against the Election Commission and SIR while Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge stepped up their criticism of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.

INDIA bloc announces 'Save Democracy' marches from October 2, EC protest on October 6

The Meerut District Court on Wednesday (Sept. 30) convicted Muskan and Sahil in the murder case of Merchant Navy worker Saurabh Rajput, who was killed in March 2025.&nbsp;The case has gone through 126 hearings and testimonies before District Judge Arvind Kumar Mishra, with both the prosecution and defence presenting their arguments. The judge remarked that crime creates an atmosphere of fear in society before delivering the verdict.&nbsp;The case gained widespread attention after Rajput's dismembered body was found concealed in a blue plastic drum at his home in Meerut. The drum later emerged as a key piece of evidence in the investigation.<h3>How the case unfolded</h3>According to the police case, Muskan Rastogi sedated her husband by mixing a substance into his food at their Indra Nagar home on March 3, 2025. Her lover Sahil Shukla arrived soon after, and the prosecution said the two stabbed Rajput to death.&nbsp;The prosecution further said that the couple then dismembered his body in the bathroom. They placed the body parts inside a large blue plastic drum and filled it with a mixture of sand, water and cement. The investigation found that the container was sealed after the mixture was poured into it to help suppress the smell from decomposition.&nbsp;The following day, the two left for Himachal Pradesh. According to the investigation, Rastogi continued using Rajput's mobile phone and sent messages to his family, giving the impression that he was alive and away on a business trip.&nbsp;The court's conviction came 13 months after the murder, bringing the trial to a major stage.

Meerut District Court has convicted Muskan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla in the March 2025 murder of Merchant Navy worker Saurabh Rajput after 126 hearings and testimonies.

The Meerut District Court on Wednesday (Sept. 30) convicted Muskan and Sahil in the murder case of Merchant Navy worker Saurabh Rajput, who was killed in March 2025. The case has gone through 126 hearings and testimonies before District Judge Arvind Kumar Mishra, with both the prosecution and defence presenting their arguments. The judge remarked that crime creates an atmosphere of fear in society before delivering the verdict. The case gained widespread attention after Rajput's dismembered body was found concealed in a blue plastic drum at his home in Meerut. The drum later emerged as a key piece of evidence in the investigation. How the case unfolded According to the police case, Muskan Rastogi sedated her husband by mixing a substance into his food at their Indra Nagar home on March 3, 2025. Her lover Sahil Shukla arrived soon after, and the prosecution said the two stabbed Rajput to death. The prosecution further said that the couple then dismembered his body in the bathroom. They placed the body parts inside a large blue plastic drum and filled it with a mixture of sand, water and cement. The investigation found that the container was sealed after the mixture was poured into it to help suppress the smell from decomposition. The following day, the two left for Himachal Pradesh. According to the investigation, Rastogi continued using Rajput's mobile phone and sent messages to his family, giving the impression that he was alive and away on a business trip. The court's conviction came 13 months after the murder, bringing the trial to a major stage.

Meerut District Court has convicted Muskan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla in the March 2025 murder of Merchant Navy worker Saurabh Rajput after 126 hearings and testimonies.

Meerut Blue Drum Case: Muskan, lover Sahil convicted of husband Saurabh Rajput’s murder

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has released new Class 9 Social Science textbook, titled “Understanding Society: India and Beyond, Social Science Textbook for Grade 9, Part 2." Among other things, it contains chapters and sections on income tax, &nbsp;startup entrepreneurship, Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. NCERT is rolling out new textbooks under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. It has so far released new textbooks for Classes 1 to 9.&nbsp;The textbook introduces students to actual slab-wise income-tax calculations under the new tax regime. The chapter ‘Managing Your Personal Finances’, contains tax slabs and worked examples and explains the payment of taxes as a civic responsibility. It also tells students that paying taxes “honestly and on time” is an important responsibility of citizens and links tax revenues to national development. It uses Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY) as an example of financial protection for low-income households. The chapter places health insurance, taxation and personal financial management within a broader discussion of citizens’ economic responsibilities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ncert-releases-new-class-9-social-science-textbook-details-mughal-brutality-against-sikhs-jats-1790672125308">NCERT releases new Class 9 Social Science textbook, details Mughal brutality against Sikhs, Jats</a> The chapter ‘From Ideas to Startups’, turns to entrepreneurship and cites the growth of Lijjat Papad, tracing it from seven Mumbai homemakers who pooled ₹80 in 1959 to a cooperative with 45,000 members and a reported turnover of ₹1,600 crore by 2023. It also profiles a Padma Bhushan hotelier Mohan Singh Oberoi, beginning with his job as a hotel desk clerk earning ₹50 a month and tracing his rise to the founder of one of India’s largest hotel chains. The chapter also brings the Chettiar community’s historical trading, banking and trust-based lending networks into the discussion of India’s local economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chits-memory-tricks-and-ncert-marks-how-nta-experts-allegedly-leaked-neet-questions-1786083540527">Chits, memory tricks and NCERT marks: How NTA experts allegedly leaked NEET questions</a>&nbsp;While mentioning Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and Atmanirbhar Bharat, a quote from Swami Vivekananda — “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached” is used. It introduces a discussion of India’s 120-plus unicorns, with entrepreneurship presented in the context of the country’s development. The textbook identifies six contributions of business: creating employment and income, producing goods and services, paying taxes, promoting innovation, improving quality of life and undertaking corporate social responsibility.&nbsp;

NCERT’s new Class 9 Social Science textbook introduces students to income-tax calculations, personal finance and entrepreneurship while discussing Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat. It features examples including Lijjat Papad and hotelier Mohan Singh Oberoi

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has released new Class 9 Social Science textbook, titled “Understanding Society: India and Beyond, Social Science Textbook for Grade 9, Part 2." Among other things, it contains chapters and sections on income tax, startup entrepreneurship, Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. NCERT is rolling out new textbooks under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023. It has so far released new textbooks for Classes 1 to 9. The textbook introduces students to actual slab-wise income-tax calculations under the new tax regime. The chapter ‘Managing Your Personal Finances’, contains tax slabs and worked examples and explains the payment of taxes as a civic responsibility. It also tells students that paying taxes “honestly and on time” is an important responsibility of citizens and links tax revenues to national development. It uses Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY) as an example of financial protection for low-income households. The chapter places health insurance, taxation and personal financial management within a broader discussion of citizens’ economic responsibilities. Also Read: NCERT releases new Class 9 Social Science textbook, details Mughal brutality against Sikhs, Jats The chapter ‘From Ideas to Startups’, turns to entrepreneurship and cites the growth of Lijjat Papad, tracing it from seven Mumbai homemakers who pooled ₹80 in 1959 to a cooperative with 45,000 members and a reported turnover of ₹1,600 crore by 2023. It also profiles a Padma Bhushan hotelier Mohan Singh Oberoi, beginning with his job as a hotel desk clerk earning ₹50 a month and tracing his rise to the founder of one of India’s largest hotel chains. The chapter also brings the Chettiar community’s historical trading, banking and trust-based lending networks into the discussion of India’s local economy. Also Read: Chits, memory tricks and NCERT marks: How NTA experts allegedly leaked NEET questions While mentioning Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and Atmanirbhar Bharat, a quote from Swami Vivekananda — “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached” is used. It introduces a discussion of India’s 120-plus unicorns, with entrepreneurship presented in the context of the country’s development. The textbook identifies six contributions of business: creating employment and income, producing goods and services, paying taxes, promoting innovation, improving quality of life and undertaking corporate social responsibility.

NCERT’s new Class 9 Social Science textbook introduces students to income-tax calculations, personal finance and entrepreneurship while discussing Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat. It features examples including Lijjat Papad and hotelier Mohan Singh Oberoi

Income tax to Viksit Bharat: What’s new in NCERT’s Class 9 Social Science textbook

A loud blast occurred at the CHT unit of the Hydro Sulphur Treatment Unit at Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) near Mangaluru on Wednesday (Sep 30), with fire and thick black smoke seen rising from the premises, triggering panic in nearby areas. The incident reportedly occurred at the third phase of MRPL at Kalavar, about 15 km from Mangaluru, around 12.25 pm. The emergency team of MRPL has rushed to the spot. Fire and thick black smoke were seen rising from the place following the blast.&nbsp;&nbsp;One person, identified as Rajesh Baptist, sustained burn injurie, while six others suffered minor injuries. They are all in Srinivasa Hospital. All employees also underwent medical check-ups, police said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/building-collapses-after-blast-in-athens-4-americans-british-man-among-6-killed-cause-not-known-1790485336617">Building collapses after blast in Athens: 4 Americans, British man among 6 killed; cause not known</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">ಮಂಗಳೂರಿನ ಸುರತ್ಕಲ್ ಬಳಿ ಇರುವ ಎಂಆರ್‌ಪಿಎಲ್‌ನಲ್ಲಿ (MRPL) ದೊಡ್ಡ ಸದ್ದಿನೊಂದಿಗೆ ಭಾರಿ ಸ್ಫೋಟ ಸಂಭವಿಸಿದೆ. ಸ್ಫೋಟದ ತೀವ್ರತೆಗೆ ಆಕಾಶದ ತುಂಬಾ ದಟ್ಟ ಹೊಗೆ ಮತ್ತು ಬೆಂಕಿ ಆವರಿಸಿಕೊಂಡಿದ್ದು, ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರಲ್ಲಿ ತೀವ್ರ ಆತಂಕ ಸೃಷ್ಟಿಸಿದೆ. <a href="https://t.co/qkNvw5LfHc">pic.twitter.com/qkNvw5LfHc</a>&mdash; Shivaram Shetty (@Shivaramshett10) <a href="https://x.com/Shivaramshett10/status/2105206339555545125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The explosion was heard several kilometres away, while window panes were reportedly shattered, including at the Mangaluru Airport office. Residents of Jokatte and Surathkal reported that their houses shook and doors and windows vibrated. According to Times of India report, the city police commissioner, deputy commissioner and Zilla Panchayat CEO, present at the site and said there was no major cause for concern and that necessary precautionary measures were being taken.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-killed-30-injured-after-blast-in-pakistan-s-dera-ismail-khan-1790424115205">11 killed, 30 injured after blast in Pakistan’s Dera Ismail Khan</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Mangaluru district administration adviced the Mangaluru airport to conduct a visual inspection of vital installations in and around the airport, including the Precision Approach Lighting Category I systems and peripheral roads. It said that their operational readiness must be checked. Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta said that he was in constant touch with MRPL officials, the police commissioner and Fire and Emergency Services Department officials and was proceeding to the spot to assess the situation. He appealed to people to remain calm, refrain from spreading rumours or misinformation, and cooperate with the administration. Local hospitals were also instructed to remain prepared as a precautionary measure.

A loud blast was reported at Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) in Kalavar near Mangaluru on Wednesday afternoon. Fire and thick black smoke were seen rising from the premises, triggering panic nearby. MRPL’s emergency team rushed to the site.

A loud blast occurred at the CHT unit of the Hydro Sulphur Treatment Unit at Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) near Mangaluru on Wednesday (Sep 30), with fire and thick black smoke seen rising from the premises, triggering panic in nearby areas. The incident reportedly occurred at the third phase of MRPL at Kalavar, about 15 km from Mangaluru, around 12.25 pm. The emergency team of MRPL has rushed to the spot. Fire and thick black smoke were seen rising from the place following the blast. One person, identified as Rajesh Baptist, sustained burn injurie, while six others suffered minor injuries. They are all in Srinivasa Hospital. All employees also underwent medical check-ups, police said. Also Read: Building collapses after blast in Athens: 4 Americans, British man among 6 killed; cause not known

A loud blast was reported at Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) in Kalavar near Mangaluru on Wednesday afternoon. Fire and thick black smoke were seen rising from the premises, triggering panic nearby. MRPL’s emergency team rushed to the site.

Loud blast at MRPL near Mangaluru triggers panic, fire and thick smoke seen

The killing of Hashim Moosa, a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative, is being described by security forces as a significant setback to the group’s remaining network in Jammu and Kashmir, for several reasons. According to security forces, the operative was among the most-wanted Pakistan-based LeT operatives active in Jammu and Kashmir. His group had operated on both sides of the Pir Panjal range, giving it the ability to move between the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;He was also operating a small group of foreign terrorists in the region, with limited support from the local terrorist network. Security officials believe his elimination could significantly disrupt the group’s ability to coordinate, recruit, maintain logistical support and plan attacks. Security forces have said that Musa was associated with the LeT network operating in the region between 2021 and 2024. He has also been accused of involvement in attacks during that period.&nbsp;The LeT has shrunk massively in the last few years, with its structure in 2026 markedly different from what it was in the mid-2010s. At that time, the group was able to maintain prominent local commanders, relatively large groups of armed cadres and substantial territorial influence in parts of South Kashmir. The successive killings of commanders including Abu Qasim, Abu Dujana, Abu Ismail and Bashir Lashkari progressively weakened that structure. Over time, the conventional commander-and-cadre model that allowed the group to maintain a visible and sustained presence across parts of the Valley has been substantially degraded.&nbsp;What remains, however, is the Pakistan-based command and support structure. According to security forces, infiltration, cross-border communication and logistics continue to pose a challenge, even as the local terror infrastructure has been significantly reduced. According to security data, terrorists and terrorist handlers that are still active and pose a challenge for the forces include: One of the Pakistan-based LeT handlers identified in the investigation into the Pahalgam attack is Sajid Jatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Investigation Agency (NIA), in its chargesheet, has specifically alleged that Saifullah, alias Sajid Jatt, operated from Lahore and communicated with the attackers involved in the Pahalgam incident. Another name identified by investigators is that of local commander Mohammed Latif, who is believed to be operating from within the Valley. Jammu and Kashmir authorities announced a reward of ₹15 lakh for information leading to his capture in August 2026 and circulated wanted posters bearing his details. Investigators have accused Latif of involvement in targeted killings and of working with the Lashkar-e-Taiba network.&nbsp;The broader picture, therefore, is of a LeT network that has lost much of the local commander-led structure it possessed a decade ago but has not disappeared. Its remaining footprint is increasingly characterised by smaller groups, foreign terrorists, Pakistan-based handlers and efforts to sustain infiltration, communication and logistics links into Jammu and Kashmir.

Security forces have said that Musa was associated with the LeT network operating in the region between 2021 and 2024. He has also been accused of involvement in attacks during that period

The killing of Hashim Moosa, a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative, is being described by security forces as a significant setback to the group’s remaining network in Jammu and Kashmir, for several reasons. According to security forces, the operative was among the most-wanted Pakistan-based LeT operatives active in Jammu and Kashmir. His group had operated on both sides of the Pir Panjal range, giving it the ability to move between the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley. He was also operating a small group of foreign terrorists in the region, with limited support from the local terrorist network. Security officials believe his elimination could significantly disrupt the group’s ability to coordinate, recruit, maintain logistical support and plan attacks. Security forces have said that Musa was associated with the LeT network operating in the region between 2021 and 2024. He has also been accused of involvement in attacks during that period. The LeT has shrunk massively in the last few years, with its structure in 2026 markedly different from what it was in the mid-2010s. At that time, the group was able to maintain prominent local commanders, relatively large groups of armed cadres and substantial territorial influence in parts of South Kashmir. The successive killings of commanders including Abu Qasim, Abu Dujana, Abu Ismail and Bashir Lashkari progressively weakened that structure. Over time, the conventional commander-and-cadre model that allowed the group to maintain a visible and sustained presence across parts of the Valley has been substantially degraded. What remains, however, is the Pakistan-based command and support structure. According to security forces, infiltration, cross-border communication and logistics continue to pose a challenge, even as the local terror infrastructure has been significantly reduced. According to security data, terrorists and terrorist handlers that are still active and pose a challenge for the forces include: One of the Pakistan-based LeT handlers identified in the investigation into the Pahalgam attack is Sajid Jatt. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), in its chargesheet, has specifically alleged that Saifullah, alias Sajid Jatt, operated from Lahore and communicated with the attackers involved in the Pahalgam incident. Another name identified by investigators is that of local commander Mohammed Latif, who is believed to be operating from within the Valley. Jammu and Kashmir authorities announced a reward of ₹15 lakh for information leading to his capture in August 2026 and circulated wanted posters bearing his details. Investigators have accused Latif of involvement in targeted killings and of working with the Lashkar-e-Taiba network. The broader picture, therefore, is of a LeT network that has lost much of the local commander-led structure it possessed a decade ago but has not disappeared. Its remaining footprint is increasingly characterised by smaller groups, foreign terrorists, Pakistan-based handlers and efforts to sustain infiltration, communication and logistics links into Jammu and Kashmir.

Security forces have said that Musa was associated with the LeT network operating in the region between 2021 and 2024. He has also been accused of involvement in attacks during that period

LeT’s shrinking footprint in Jammu and Kashmir: What the killing of Hashim Moosa means

The Election Commission on Wednesday night (Sep 29) removed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) declaration added to Form 6, from its ECINET application portal in states where the revision has concluded. According to Indian Express report, the official confirmation comes four days after the ECI announced that “for non-SIR period, the Forms applicable as per Rules (the Registration of Electors Rules 1960) will be used.” The full Commission had decided on Sep 26 that the requirement would apply only during the exercise. Form 6 is the statutory form used by eligible citizens to apply for inclusion in the electoral roll.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-nine-decisions-sir-ecinet-form-6-internal-rift-1790507131449">Election Commission on 'damage control' : What do nine new decisions mean?</a><h2>What this means?</h2>The declaration -- which has been removed now -- requires new applicants to show details linking themselves or their parents or grandparents to electoral rolls prepared during an earlier SIR. While it has been removed for states where SIR has been completed, it remains available on the ECINET portal in states and Union Territories where the SIR is underway. Therefore, in states where SIR has concluded, the new voters seeking enrolment will only have to fill the statutory Form 6 prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 and will not have to furnish details linking themselves to earlier SIR.&nbsp;<h2>The ECI controversy&nbsp;</h2>The ECI found itself in a major political row after an Indian Express report claimed that two Election Commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had objected to several points in the SIR at least 14 times in 10 months. Exposing the rift between the Commissioners and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, the report alleged that major decisions regarding voter registration, the deletion/restoration of names, and the handling of the electoral roll database were being issued unilaterally by the CEC without their knowledge or consent. Joshi had objected to changes to the form on the grounds that a form prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, could not be modified without amending the rules. Sandhu had concurred with him. They explained that Form 6 cannot be altered or appended without a legal amendment enacted through the Union Law Ministry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-sir-rti-response-an-jali-bhardwaj-june-24-order-1790516431918">SIR row: RTI response raises questions over EC’s claim of unanimous approval</a><h2>What was decided on Sep 26?</h2>The declaration asking new applicants to link themselves, their parents, or their grandparents to previous SIR rolls was the "additional declaration" that triggered internal dissent within the commission. On Sep 26, after the row created major controversy, the commissioners held a meeting. The ECI legally and procedurally decided that this declaration must only apply during active SIR periods and be entirely removed for non-SIR periods. It also decided that for any voter who receives an SIR notice for being "unmapped" or having "logical discrepancies," Booth Level Officers (BLOs) must physically visit their home to collect the required documents. The BLOs are then responsible for uploading them to the ECINet portal. Following the announcement, the technical removal took effect on Sep 29 late night.

The Election Commission has removed the SIR-linked declaration from Form 6 on its ECINET portal in states where the Special Intensive Revision has concluded. The move follows the EC’s September 26 clarification that standard forms would apply outside SIR periods.

The Election Commission on Wednesday night (Sep 29) removed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) declaration added to Form 6, from its ECINET application portal in states where the revision has concluded. According to Indian Express report, the official confirmation comes four days after the ECI announced that “for non-SIR period, the Forms applicable as per Rules (the Registration of Electors Rules 1960) will be used.” The full Commission had decided on Sep 26 that the requirement would apply only during the exercise. Form 6 is the statutory form used by eligible citizens to apply for inclusion in the electoral roll. Also Read: Election Commission on 'damage control' : What do nine new decisions mean? What this means? The declaration -- which has been removed now -- requires new applicants to show details linking themselves or their parents or grandparents to electoral rolls prepared during an earlier SIR. While it has been removed for states where SIR has been completed, it remains available on the ECINET portal in states and Union Territories where the SIR is underway. Therefore, in states where SIR has concluded, the new voters seeking enrolment will only have to fill the statutory Form 6 prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 and will not have to furnish details linking themselves to earlier SIR. The ECI controversy The ECI found itself in a major political row after an Indian Express report claimed that two Election Commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had objected to several points in the SIR at least 14 times in 10 months. Exposing the rift between the Commissioners and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, the report alleged that major decisions regarding voter registration, the deletion/restoration of names, and the handling of the electoral roll database were being issued unilaterally by the CEC without their knowledge or consent. Joshi had objected to changes to the form on the grounds that a form prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, could not be modified without amending the rules. Sandhu had concurred with him. They explained that Form 6 cannot be altered or appended without a legal amendment enacted through the Union Law Ministry. Also Read: SIR row: RTI response raises questions over EC’s claim of unanimous approval What was decided on Sep 26? The declaration asking new applicants to link themselves, their parents, or their grandparents to previous SIR rolls was the "additional declaration" that triggered internal dissent within the commission. On Sep 26, after the row created major controversy, the commissioners held a meeting. The ECI legally and procedurally decided that this declaration must only apply during active SIR periods and be entirely removed for non-SIR periods. It also decided that for any voter who receives an SIR notice for being "unmapped" or having "logical discrepancies," Booth Level Officers (BLOs) must physically visit their home to collect the required documents. The BLOs are then responsible for uploading them to the ECINet portal. Following the announcement, the technical removal took effect on Sep 29 late night.

The Election Commission has removed the SIR-linked declaration from Form 6 on its ECINET portal in states where the Special Intensive Revision has concluded. The move follows the EC’s September 26 clarification that standard forms would apply outside SIR periods.

EC rolls back SIR add-on in Form 6 that was objected by two commissioners: What this means

Three people from Gujarat who were travelling to the United States through an alleged illegal migration route have gone missing in Ethiopia, with their families claiming they were kidnapped and a ransom of Rs 1 crore demanded for their release. The three relatives left Gujarat on September 20 with the help of travel agents and were last heard from on September 22, according to their families and police. A missing persons complaint has been registered at Langhnaj police station in Mehsana district, while relatives have appealed to the government for help in bringing them back safely.The missing travellers have been identified in reports as 23-year-old Rutvik Jansari of Vadsma village in Mehsana, 30-year-old Mamta Chavda, originally from Mehsana and currently living in Ahmedabad, and another female relative from Gandhinagar. Some reports identify the third person as Mayuri Solanki, while others have named her Gopi.<h2>Visa rejections led family to seek an ‘alternative route’</h2>According to the complaint cited by police, Mamta's husband had travelled to the US on a student visa, while even after six attempts she had repeatedly failed to secure an American visa.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-foils-major-pakistani-drug-smuggling-bid-five-arrested-with-526-kg-heroin-meth-in-arabian-sea-1790736892325">India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea</a>Her family subsequently approached intermediaries who promised to arrange her journey to the US through an unauthorised route, also referred to as a Dunki, or Donkey route. The agents allegedly connected the family with another intermediary in Vadodara, with the total amount reported to be in the range of Rs 60 lakh to Rs 75 lakh per person. The family says around Rs 70 lakh had already been paid in instalments.The journey began on September 20. The three were taken from Gujarat to Jaipur and then flew to Abu Dhabi on an Etihad Airways flight before travelling onwards to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Reports say they were staying at a facility identified as GSF Camp on Swaziland Street in Addis Ababa and had Ethiopian e-visas valid for around a month.<h2>Family first told they had reached Canada</h2>On September 22, Mamta spoke to her father and reportedly said that the group had reached Canada. The call was followed by a sudden loss of contact. All three phones were switched off, and relatives were unable to reach them.The family's concerns deepened when a man identifying himself as “Khan” allegedly called and demanded Rs 1 crore in exchange for the trio's release.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-tightens-pollution-rules-ahead-of-winter-bs-iv-and-older-goods-vehicles-face-fresh-curbs-all-you-need-to-know-1790743040323">Delhi tightens pollution rules ahead of winter, BS-IV and older goods vehicles face fresh curbs: All you need to know</a>Mamta's father, Kiritbhai Chauhan, said the family had already spent a huge amount trying to arrange their journey and had nothing left. “We have already paid huge money to send them (to the US). We have nothing left and are helpless. We request the government to bring our three children back safely,” PTI quoted him as saying.Rutvik's grandfather, Kanubhai Jansari, has also claimed that Rs 1 crore was demanded for the trio's release.<h2>Agent claims his contact is also missing</h2>Local agent Alpesh Panchal, identified as the man who arranged their journey, has said that the three never actually reached Canada and were allegedly kidnapped while they were still in Ethiopia.Panchal also claimed that his own international contact had gone missing and that money had already been paid to the alleged kidnappers, who are now demanding another Rs 1 crore. The claims have not been independently established.<h2>Police probe disappearance</h2>Langhnaj police have confirmed that the trio has been reported missing and that their whereabouts could not be established after September 22.Police are examining the role of the agents involved in arranging the journey and are trying to establish the trio's actual location and what happened after they reached Ethiopia. The ransom call is also being examined as part of the investigation.The case has also renewed concerns over Indians using illegal migration routes to reach the US, where travellers can become dependent on intermediaries operating outside formal immigration and travel systems.&nbsp;

Three Gujaratis attempting to reach the US through the alleged 'Donkey route' have gone missing in Ethiopia. Their families claim they were kidnapped and have received a Rs 1 crore ransom demand after reportedly paying agents around Rs 70 lakh.

Three people from Gujarat who were travelling to the United States through an alleged illegal migration route have gone missing in Ethiopia, with their families claiming they were kidnapped and a ransom of Rs 1 crore demanded for their release. The three relatives left Gujarat on September 20 with the help of travel agents and were last heard from on September 22, according to their families and police. A missing persons complaint has been registered at Langhnaj police station in Mehsana district, while relatives have appealed to the government for help in bringing them back safely. The missing travellers have been identified in reports as 23-year-old Rutvik Jansari of Vadsma village in Mehsana, 30-year-old Mamta Chavda, originally from Mehsana and currently living in Ahmedabad, and another female relative from Gandhinagar. Some reports identify the third person as Mayuri Solanki, while others have named her Gopi. Visa rejections led family to seek an ‘alternative route’ According to the complaint cited by police, Mamta's husband had travelled to the US on a student visa, while even after six attempts she had repeatedly failed to secure an American visa. Also read | India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea Her family subsequently approached intermediaries who promised to arrange her journey to the US through an unauthorised route, also referred to as a Dunki, or Donkey route. The agents allegedly connected the family with another intermediary in Vadodara, with the total amount reported to be in the range of Rs 60 lakh to Rs 75 lakh per person. The family says around Rs 70 lakh had already been paid in instalments. The journey began on September 20. The three were taken from Gujarat to Jaipur and then flew to Abu Dhabi on an Etihad Airways flight before travelling onwards to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Reports say they were staying at a facility identified as GSF Camp on Swaziland Street in Addis Ababa and had Ethiopian e-visas valid for around a month. Family first told they had reached Canada On September 22, Mamta spoke to her father and reportedly said that the group had reached Canada. The call was followed by a sudden loss of contact. All three phones were switched off, and relatives were unable to reach them. The family's concerns deepened when a man identifying himself as “Khan” allegedly called and demanded Rs 1 crore in exchange for the trio's release. Also read | Delhi tightens pollution rules ahead of winter, BS-IV and older goods vehicles face fresh curbs: All you need to know Mamta's father, Kiritbhai Chauhan, said the family had already spent a huge amount trying to arrange their journey and had nothing left. “We have already paid huge money to send them (to the US). We have nothing left and are helpless. We request the government to bring our three children back safely,” PTI quoted him as saying. Rutvik's grandfather, Kanubhai Jansari, has also claimed that Rs 1 crore was demanded for the trio's release. Agent claims his contact is also missing Local agent Alpesh Panchal, identified as the man who arranged their journey, has said that the three never actually reached Canada and were allegedly kidnapped while they were still in Ethiopia. Panchal also claimed that his own international contact had gone missing and that money had already been paid to the alleged kidnappers, who are now demanding another Rs 1 crore. The claims have not been independently established. Police probe disappearance Langhnaj police have confirmed that the trio has been reported missing and that their whereabouts could not be established after September 22. Police are examining the role of the agents involved in arranging the journey and are trying to establish the trio's actual location and what happened after they reached Ethiopia. The ransom call is also being examined as part of the investigation. The case has also renewed concerns over Indians using illegal migration routes to reach the US, where travellers can become dependent on intermediaries operating outside formal immigration and travel systems.

Three Gujaratis attempting to reach the US through the alleged 'Donkey route' have gone missing in Ethiopia. Their families claim they were kidnapped and have received a Rs 1 crore ransom demand after reportedly paying agents around Rs 70 lakh.

US dream turns nightmare: 3 Gujaratis 'vanish' in Ethiopia, family seeks govt help after scary ransom demand

With winter approaching, Delhiites are preparing for pollution and dangerous AQI levels that plague the Indian national capital every year. In an attempt to keep the AQI levels in check, older goods vehicles carrying essential commodities will no longer be exempt from Delhi-NCR's pollution curbs once the two strictest stages of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are imposed. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has removed the exemption for BS-IV and below vehicles under GRAP Stages III and IV as part of a revised schedule approved by the CAQM Full Commission on Monday.The change means light and medium goods vehicles (LGVs and MGVs) will face restrictions under Stage III, while trucks and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will be covered by the stricter Stage IV measures.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-plan-government-announces-50-wfh-higher-parking-charges-from-november-1-and-construction-ban-1790588775443">Delhi pollution plan: Government announces 50% WFH, higher parking charges from November 1 and construction ban</a><h2>Older goods vehicles face tighter entry rules</h2>Notably, the restrictions are not entirely new. CAQM had already imposed similar measures through separate orders alongside the GRAP framework last year. The latest revision formally brings those provisions into the pollution-control plan.One of the earlier orders tightened restrictions on commercial goods vehicles entering Delhi throughout the year. From November 1, 2025, goods vehicles registered outside Delhi were barred from entering the capital unless they were BS-VI, CNG, LNG or electric.BS-III and older vehicles were prohibited irrespective of the goods they carried. BS-IV vehicles, meanwhile, were given a one-year transitional period, which ends on October 31, 2026.Under the revised GRAP schedule, the entry restriction on diesel BS-IV and below LGVs and MGVs registered outside Delhi is now explicitly included under Stage III.<h2>48 measures across four GRAP stages</h2>CAQM member-technical Dr SD Attri said the revised GRAP schedule contains 48 actions across its four stages. Of these, 25 measures fall under Stage I, eight under Stage II, 10 under Stage III and five under Stage IV. Some restrictions will also now kick in at an earlier stage of pollution.Measures concerning diesel generator sets and the entry of BS-IV and below buses from NCR and adjoining states have been shifted from Stage II to Stage I. Authorities have also been directed to ensure that diesel generator sets are not used as a regular source of power.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-foils-major-pakistani-drug-smuggling-bid-five-arrested-with-526-kg-heroin-meth-in-arabian-sea-1790736892325">India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea</a><h2>Bus restrictions expanded across NCR</h2>Under the revised instructions, governments in Delhi and NCR will have to ensure that inter-city and inter-state buses from Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, as well as adjoining states including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, do not ply in Delhi-NCR unless they meet the permitted standards.Only BS-VI diesel, CNG and electric buses will be allowed to operate in the region.The revised schedule also extends the Stage III restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers to Sonipat.The restrictions already apply in the high vehicle-density districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Budh Nagar.GRAP schedule streamlinedThe revised framework also brings together repeated Stage I measures relating to dust control, municipal solid waste management and transport. A minor relaxation has been allowed under the first Stage III action, including provisions related to pothole repairs.The Citizens Charter for each GRAP stage has also been revised, with additional dos and don'ts for residents and authorities.With the winter pollution season approaching, the changes effectively bring several restrictions that had previously been imposed through separate orders into the main GRAP framework, while moving some measures to earlier stages of deteriorating air quality.

<h2>Older goods vehicles face tighter entry rules</h2>Notably, the restrictions are not entirely new. CAQM had already imposed similar measures through separate orders alongside the GRAP framework last year. The latest revision formally brings those provisions into the pollution-control plan.One of the earlier orders tightened restrictions on commercial goods vehicles entering Delhi throughout the year. From November 1, 2025, goods vehicles registered outside Delhi were barred from entering the capital unless they were BS-VI, CNG, LNG or electric.BS-III and older vehicles were prohibited irrespective of the goods they carried. BS-IV vehicles, meanwhile, were given a one-year transitional period, which ends on October 31, 2026.Under the revised GRAP schedule, the entry restriction on diesel BS-IV and below LGVs and MGVs registered outside Delhi is now explicitly included under Stage III.<h2>48 measures across four GRAP stages</h2>CAQM member-technical Dr SD Attri said the revised GRAP schedule contains 48 actions across its four stages. Of these, 25 measures fall under Stage I, eight under Stage II, 10 under Stage III and five under Stage IV. Some restrictions will also now kick in at an earlier stage of pollution.Measures concerning diesel generator sets and the entry of BS-IV and below buses from NCR and adjoining states have been shifted from Stage II to Stage I. Authorities have also been directed to ensure that diesel generator sets are not used as a regular source of power.<h2>Bus restrictions expanded across NCR</h2>Under the revised instructions, governments in Delhi and NCR will have to ensure that inter-city and inter-state buses from Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, as well as adjoining states including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, do not ply in Delhi-NCR unless they meet the permitted standards.Only BS-VI diesel, CNG and electric buses will be allowed to operate in the region.The revised schedule also extends the Stage III restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers to Sonipat.The restrictions already apply in the high vehicle-density districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Budh Nagar.GRAP schedule streamlinedThe revised framework also brings together repeated Stage I measures relating to dust control, municipal solid waste management and transport. A minor relaxation has been allowed under the first Stage III action, including provisions related to pothole repairs.The Citizens Charter for each GRAP stage has also been revised, with additional dos and don'ts for residents and authorities.With the winter pollution season approaching, the changes effectively bring several restrictions that had previously been imposed through separate orders into the main GRAP framework, while moving some measures to earlier stages of deteriorating air quality.

Delhi has tightened its winter pollution plan, removing exemptions for older goods vehicles under the strictest GRAP stages. The revised rules also bring forward some curbs on diesel generators and buses as the capital prepares for another season of hazardous air quality.

With winter approaching, Delhiites are preparing for pollution and dangerous AQI levels that plague the Indian national capital every year. In an attempt to keep the AQI levels in check, older goods vehicles carrying essential commodities will no longer be exempt from Delhi-NCR's pollution curbs once the two strictest stages of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are imposed. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has removed the exemption for BS-IV and below vehicles under GRAP Stages III and IV as part of a revised schedule approved by the CAQM Full Commission on Monday. The change means light and medium goods vehicles (LGVs and MGVs) will face restrictions under Stage III, while trucks and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will be covered by the stricter Stage IV measures. Also read | Delhi pollution plan: Government announces 50% WFH, higher parking charges from November 1 and construction ban Older goods vehicles face tighter entry rules Notably, the restrictions are not entirely new. CAQM had already imposed similar measures through separate orders alongside the GRAP framework last year. The latest revision formally brings those provisions into the pollution-control plan. One of the earlier orders tightened restrictions on commercial goods vehicles entering Delhi throughout the year. From November 1, 2025, goods vehicles registered outside Delhi were barred from entering the capital unless they were BS-VI, CNG, LNG or electric. BS-III and older vehicles were prohibited irrespective of the goods they carried. BS-IV vehicles, meanwhile, were given a one-year transitional period, which ends on October 31, 2026. Under the revised GRAP schedule, the entry restriction on diesel BS-IV and below LGVs and MGVs registered outside Delhi is now explicitly included under Stage III. 48 measures across four GRAP stages CAQM member-technical Dr SD Attri said the revised GRAP schedule contains 48 actions across its four stages. Of these, 25 measures fall under Stage I, eight under Stage II, 10 under Stage III and five under Stage IV. Some restrictions will also now kick in at an earlier stage of pollution. Measures concerning diesel generator sets and the entry of BS-IV and below buses from NCR and adjoining states have been shifted from Stage II to Stage I. Authorities have also been directed to ensure that diesel generator sets are not used as a regular source of power. Also read | India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea Bus restrictions expanded across NCR Under the revised instructions, governments in Delhi and NCR will have to ensure that inter-city and inter-state buses from Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, as well as adjoining states including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, do not ply in Delhi-NCR unless they meet the permitted standards. Only BS-VI diesel, CNG and electric buses will be allowed to operate in the region. The revised schedule also extends the Stage III restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers to Sonipat. The restrictions already apply in the high vehicle-density districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Budh Nagar. GRAP schedule streamlined The revised framework also brings together repeated Stage I measures relating to dust control, municipal solid waste management and transport. A minor relaxation has been allowed under the first Stage III action, including provisions related to pothole repairs. The Citizens Charter for each GRAP stage has also been revised, with additional dos and don'ts for residents and authorities. With the winter pollution season approaching, the changes effectively bring several restrictions that had previously been imposed through separate orders into the main GRAP framework, while moving some measures to earlier stages of deteriorating air quality.

Delhi has tightened its winter pollution plan, removing exemptions for older goods vehicles under the strictest GRAP stages. The revised rules also bring forward some curbs on diesel generators and buses as the capital prepares for another season of hazardous air quality.

Delhi tightens pollution rules ahead of winter, BS-IV and older goods vehicles face fresh curbs: All you need to know

The head of the company SETE, that runs the Eiffel Tower in France's capital Paris, is stepping down over the row of removal of female staff during a visit by a Hindu religious group - Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). The company in a statement said that Patrick Branco Ruivo, head of the company, will leave his job by the end of the year. The decision was taken after an internal investigation into a management order requiring female staff to remain out of sight during BAPS visit.&nbsp;The incident happened in September this year. After the authorities asked the female staff to move and men to take their place, the staff went on strike to register their anger at the bizarre demand. Staffers said they found the instructions that ran contrary to French values of equality and nondiscrimination. Nearly 100 people linked to the BAPS group visited the monument when they were visiting France for the inauguration of a Hindu temple in the Paris suburbs. According to staff union representative Diane Davoine, women were told to move from their positions. "During the visit of this delegation, women were asked to leave their places of work in order to place men there," she told Reuters, adding that the management has apologised to them for the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eiffel-tower-female-staff-told-to-make-themselves-invisible-for-hindu-group-s-visit-1788837788815">BAPS Eiffel Tower row: Group dismisses claims it asked to restrict women at the monument</a><h2>What BAPS said?</h2> Meanwhile, BAPS denied the charge but apologised later. In a statement on X, the BAPS temple said access to the Eiffel Tower was never denied to anyone, while offering its "sincere apologies" to anyone who may have been hurt or faced any inconvenience due to the situation. "We respect the concerns raised and take them very seriously. Due to the size of our delegation, the visit was arranged in conjunction with the Eiffel Tower team at the start of normal opening hours to avoid disrupting or inconveniencing others. To the best of our knowledge, at no point was anyone prevented access to the Eiffel Tower. Nevertheless, we sincerely apologise for any pain or inconvenience caused. We believe in the universal values of mutual respect and service," read a statement issued by the temple.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-distances-itself-from-eiffel-tower-row-during-baps-delegation-visit-says-it-s-a-matter-between-two-entities-1788872186768">India distances itself from Eiffel Tower row during BAPS delegation visit, says it’s a matter between two entities</a><h2>What had Indian government said?</h2>India has distanced itself from the controversy and had said that it was an issue between two organisations. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government was aware of reports surrounding the visit of a delegation from the BAPS Organisation to Paris. It described the specific matter concerning the Eiffel Tower as an issue between two organisations and declined further comments.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Eiffel Tower operator SETE chief Patrick Branco Ruivo will step down after an internal probe into instructions for female staff to move out of sight during a BAPS delegation’s visit. BAPS denied making such a request and apologised for any inconvenience

The head of the company SETE, that runs the Eiffel Tower in France's capital Paris, is stepping down over the row of removal of female staff during a visit by a Hindu religious group - Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). The company in a statement said that Patrick Branco Ruivo, head of the company, will leave his job by the end of the year. The decision was taken after an internal investigation into a management order requiring female staff to remain out of sight during BAPS visit. The incident happened in September this year. After the authorities asked the female staff to move and men to take their place, the staff went on strike to register their anger at the bizarre demand. Staffers said they found the instructions that ran contrary to French values of equality and nondiscrimination. Nearly 100 people linked to the BAPS group visited the monument when they were visiting France for the inauguration of a Hindu temple in the Paris suburbs. According to staff union representative Diane Davoine, women were told to move from their positions. "During the visit of this delegation, women were asked to leave their places of work in order to place men there," she told Reuters, adding that the management has apologised to them for the incident. Also Read: BAPS Eiffel Tower row: Group dismisses claims it asked to restrict women at the monument What BAPS said? Meanwhile, BAPS denied the charge but apologised later. In a statement on X, the BAPS temple said access to the Eiffel Tower was never denied to anyone, while offering its "sincere apologies" to anyone who may have been hurt or faced any inconvenience due to the situation. "We respect the concerns raised and take them very seriously. Due to the size of our delegation, the visit was arranged in conjunction with the Eiffel Tower team at the start of normal opening hours to avoid disrupting or inconveniencing others. To the best of our knowledge, at no point was anyone prevented access to the Eiffel Tower. Nevertheless, we sincerely apologise for any pain or inconvenience caused. We believe in the universal values of mutual respect and service," read a statement issued by the temple. Also Read: India distances itself from Eiffel Tower row during BAPS delegation visit, says it’s a matter between two entities What had Indian government said? India has distanced itself from the controversy and had said that it was an issue between two organisations. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government was aware of reports surrounding the visit of a delegation from the BAPS Organisation to Paris. It described the specific matter concerning the Eiffel Tower as an issue between two organisations and declined further comments.

Eiffel Tower operator SETE chief Patrick Branco Ruivo will step down after an internal probe into instructions for female staff to move out of sight during a BAPS delegation’s visit. BAPS denied making such a request and apologised for any inconvenience

Eiffel Tower chief steps down after BAPS row over removal of female staff: What happened?

Mumbai: A local Shiv Sena (UBT) leader was killed after unidentified assailants allegedly opened fire at him in Maharashtra’s Thane city on Tuesday night.Pradeep Purnekar, who served as a division head, or vibhag pramukh, of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), was attacked around 9 pm in the area under the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station.According to police, the attackers fired two rounds at Purnekar and also physically assaulted him before fleeing the spot. Purnekar sustained serious injuries in the attack and was rushed to Infinity Hospital near R Mall on Ghodbunder Road for emergency treatment. Despite efforts by doctors, he died while undergoing treatment, police said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-restaurant-licence-suspended-after-diner-allegedly-finds-rat-in-dosa-1790735075842">Mumbai restaurant licence suspended after diner allegedly finds rat in dosa</a><h2>Police launch probe</h2>Following the attack, police teams reached the spot and began collecting evidence. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area and surrounding roads in an attempt to identify the attackers and establish the sequence of events.Police have also deployed checkpoints, or nakabandi, at major exit points in Thane as part of efforts to trace the suspects.The identities of the attackers remain unknown at this stage.Police have also said that the motive behind the attack has not yet been established. Investigators are looking into different possible angles, including political rivalry and personal enmity.The incident has triggered tension in the area and concern among local Shiv Sena (UBT) workers and supporters.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/bollywood-in-focus-as-income-tax-searches-12-mumbai-locations-linked-to-rakul-preet-vashu-bhagnani-1790588809433">Bollywood in focus as Income Tax searches 12 Mumbai locations linked to Rakul Preet, Vashu Bhagnani</a><h2>Attack raises political concerns</h2>Purnekar was active in local political activities in the Ghodbunder-Manpada area and was associated with the Shiv Sena (UBT) organisation in Thane. The killing comes at a politically sensitive time in Maharashtra, with political activity intensifying ahead of upcoming local-body elections.However, police have not yet established any political connection to the killing, and the motive remains under investigation.Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have called for the immediate arrest of those responsible and demanded a thorough investigation into the attack.For investigators, the immediate focus is on identifying the assailants, establishing their movements before and after the shooting and determining why Purnekar was targeted.Police are examining CCTV footage and questioning people who may have witnessed the incident. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses. The case remains under investigation, with police yet to publicly identify any suspect or establish the motive behind the attack.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot and assaulted by unidentified attackers in Thane on Tuesday night. He died during treatment at a hospital. Police are examining CCTV footage and investigating possible motives, including political rivalry and personal enmity.

Mumbai: A local Shiv Sena (UBT) leader was killed after unidentified assailants allegedly opened fire at him in Maharashtra’s Thane city on Tuesday night. Pradeep Purnekar, who served as a division head, or vibhag pramukh, of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), was attacked around 9 pm in the area under the jurisdiction of the Kapurbawdi police station. According to police, the attackers fired two rounds at Purnekar and also physically assaulted him before fleeing the spot. Purnekar sustained serious injuries in the attack and was rushed to Infinity Hospital near R Mall on Ghodbunder Road for emergency treatment. Despite efforts by doctors, he died while undergoing treatment, police said. Also read | Mumbai restaurant licence suspended after diner allegedly finds rat in dosa Police launch probe Following the attack, police teams reached the spot and began collecting evidence. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area and surrounding roads in an attempt to identify the attackers and establish the sequence of events. Police have also deployed checkpoints, or nakabandi, at major exit points in Thane as part of efforts to trace the suspects. The identities of the attackers remain unknown at this stage. Police have also said that the motive behind the attack has not yet been established. Investigators are looking into different possible angles, including political rivalry and personal enmity. The incident has triggered tension in the area and concern among local Shiv Sena (UBT) workers and supporters. Also read | Bollywood in focus as Income Tax searches 12 Mumbai locations linked to Rakul Preet, Vashu Bhagnani Attack raises political concerns Purnekar was active in local political activities in the Ghodbunder-Manpada area and was associated with the Shiv Sena (UBT) organisation in Thane. The killing comes at a politically sensitive time in Maharashtra, with political activity intensifying ahead of upcoming local-body elections. However, police have not yet established any political connection to the killing, and the motive remains under investigation. Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have called for the immediate arrest of those responsible and demanded a thorough investigation into the attack. For investigators, the immediate focus is on identifying the assailants, establishing their movements before and after the shooting and determining why Purnekar was targeted. Police are examining CCTV footage and questioning people who may have witnessed the incident. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses. The case remains under investigation, with police yet to publicly identify any suspect or establish the motive behind the attack.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot and assaulted by unidentified attackers in Thane on Tuesday night. He died during treatment at a hospital. Police are examining CCTV footage and investigating possible motives, including political rivalry and personal enmity.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader killed in shooting in Maharashtra’s Thane

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday (Sep 30) said it had foiled a major maritime drug smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep. India, as per the Coast Guard, has seized narcotics valued at more than ₹3,000 crore in the international market, apprehending five Pakistani nationals.The operation involved an Iranian dhow carrying five Pakistani nationals. It was conducted jointly by the Indian Coast Guard and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).The seized contraband included 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine, according to the Coast Guard.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-kind-of-confession-is-this-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-s-terrorists-would-be-roaming-new-york-remark-goes-viral-raises-alarm-online-watch-1790136284702">'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch</a><h2>Pakistani nationals intercepted after sea-air surveillance</h2>The Coast Guard said its assets acted on actionable intelligence and maintained continuous surveillance of the suspected vessel before launching a hot pursuit.“Executing precise sea-air surveillance based on actionable intelligence, Bharatiya Tatrakshak assets maintained unyielding tracking before initiating hot pursuit, neutralizing the target, and boarding a suspicious Iranian dhow on 25 September 2026,” it said in a statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In an intelligence-led joint operation with ATS Gujarat, and Central Intelligence Agency, <a href="https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> units interdicted a suspicious Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea, west of <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Lakshadweep?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lakshadweep</a>. Positive detection, sustained tracking and a hot pursuit culminated in tactical… <a href="https://t.co/p2BthJvndS">pic.twitter.com/p2BthJvndS</a>&mdash; Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/2105122206099591234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The vessel was intercepted in the Arabian Sea on September 25, with the operation resulting in the seizure of the narcotics.The Coast Guard described the operation as an example of its maritime surveillance and enforcement capabilities against illicit activities in India's maritime zones.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polic-couple-arrested-isi-pakistan-linked-espionage-sim-cards-spy-network-india-1787897385131">ISI spy module busted in Delhi? Police arrest couple over alleged Pakistan links</a><h2>Dhow, crew and drugs taken to Mumbai</h2>Following the interception, the dhow, its crew and the seized contraband were escorted to Mumbai under armed guard.“The intercepted dhow, crew, and seized contraband have been escorted under armed escort to Mumbai for joint interrogation and comprehensive multi-agency legal proceedings,” the Coast Guard said.The joint investigation is expected to examine the origin of the drugs, their intended destination and the wider network allegedly involved in the attempted smuggling.<h2>Coast Guard highlights Nasha Mukt Bharat push</h2>The Coast Guard said the seizure would help disrupt the financial networks behind international drug trafficking and prevent narcotics from reaching India's shores.“By crippling the financial engine of hostile foreign syndicates and intercepting toxic synthetic substances before they reach mainland shores, this mission serves as a critical force multiplier to the government’s vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan,” it said. &nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard, in a joint operation with Gujarat's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), has foiled a major drug smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, seizing narcotics worth more than Rs 3,000 crore in the international market. Five Pakistani nationals aboard an Iranian dhow were apprehended.

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday (Sep 30) said it had foiled a major maritime drug smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep. India, as per the Coast Guard, has seized narcotics valued at more than ₹3,000 crore in the international market, apprehending five Pakistani nationals. The operation involved an Iranian dhow carrying five Pakistani nationals. It was conducted jointly by the Indian Coast Guard and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The seized contraband included 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine, according to the Coast Guard. Also read | 'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch Pakistani nationals intercepted after sea-air surveillance The Coast Guard said its assets acted on actionable intelligence and maintained continuous surveillance of the suspected vessel before launching a hot pursuit. “Executing precise sea-air surveillance based on actionable intelligence, Bharatiya Tatrakshak assets maintained unyielding tracking before initiating hot pursuit, neutralizing the target, and boarding a suspicious Iranian dhow on 25 September 2026,” it said in a statement.

Indian Coast Guard and Gujarat ATS have intercepted an Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea, apprehending five Pakistani nationals and seizing 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine worth over Rs 3,000 crore in the international market.

India foils major Pakistani drug smuggling bid: Five arrested with 526 kg heroin, meth in Arabian sea

US President Donald Trump made an unusual remark about Google CEO Sundar Pichai during an interaction with reporters on Tuesday, describing the tech executive as a ‘monster’ while praising his relatively low public profile. Trump made the comment after a White House lunch attended by several leading technology executives. Turning his attention to Pichai, Trump said, “This guy is a monster, and nobody knows him. What a great life! To be a monster and not have to go through this."<h2>Trump highlights Pichai’s name</h2>The exchange began when Trump invited Pichai to speak. However, as the Google CEO began responding, Trump interrupted to emphasize the prominence of the executives gathered at the White House. “You have no idea who these people are. These are the biggest people in the world. You have no idea who they are," Trump said before turning toward Pichai.&nbsp;“All you have to know is, SUNDARR! Sundar is his name," Trump added. Pichai responded with a light-hearted comment, saying, “Hopefully a better tagline than I’m a monster!" The word “monster" is also occasionally used in business and technology commentary to describe the enormous scale and influence of Alphabet, Google’s parent company.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: This guy is a monster, and nobody knows. <a href="https://t.co/NXAtathj1y">pic.twitter.com/NXAtathj1y</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2105027331823661383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Top tech executives attend White House lunch</h2>Trump’s remarks came during a high-profile gathering of technology leaders at the White House, where artificial intelligence and related issues were among the topics of discussion. The attendees included Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, OpenAI President Greg Brockman, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, whose X platform has developed its own AI model, Grok.&nbsp;Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella were also among those present.According to a seating chart shared by Trump on Truth Social, Huang was seated to Trump’s right, while Musk was seated to his left. US Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and House Speaker Mike Johnson also attended the White House lunch.

Donald Trump called Google CEO Sundar Pichai a“monster” during a White House tech gathering, as top technology leaders met to discuss AI

US President Donald Trump made an unusual remark about Google CEO Sundar Pichai during an interaction with reporters on Tuesday, describing the tech executive as a ‘monster’ while praising his relatively low public profile. Trump made the comment after a White House lunch attended by several leading technology executives. Turning his attention to Pichai, Trump said, “This guy is a monster, and nobody knows him. What a great life! To be a monster and not have to go through this." Trump highlights Pichai’s name The exchange began when Trump invited Pichai to speak. However, as the Google CEO began responding, Trump interrupted to emphasize the prominence of the executives gathered at the White House. “You have no idea who these people are. These are the biggest people in the world. You have no idea who they are," Trump said before turning toward Pichai. “All you have to know is, SUNDARR! Sundar is his name," Trump added. Pichai responded with a light-hearted comment, saying, “Hopefully a better tagline than I’m a monster!" The word “monster" is also occasionally used in business and technology commentary to describe the enormous scale and influence of Alphabet, Google’s parent company. Watch the video here

Donald Trump called Google CEO Sundar Pichai a ‘monster’ at a White House tech lunch, prompting a light-hearted response from the Google chief

'This guy is a monster and nobody knows him': Here's what Trump said about Sundar Pichai | Watch video

A food-safety complaint has emerged from Mumbai after a diner allegedly found a dead rat inside a Mysore masala dosa served at Radhakrishna Hotel in Borivali West. The incident was reported at the restaurant, located near Borivali West railway station, on September 29. The complaint prompted action from the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which suspended the restaurant’s food business licence.&nbsp;According to the complaint, Amit Trivedi had visited the restaurant with his two brothers and son. The family ordered food at the establishment, including a Mysore masala dosa. One of Trivedi’s brothers had reportedly eaten several bites of the dosa when he noticed what appeared to be a small dead rat inside the food.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maharashtra-fda-crackdown-fda-finds-serious-violations-at-popular-coffee-house-in-colaba-1789721419973">Maharashtra FDA crackdown: FDA finds serious violations at popular coffee house In Colaba</a> &nbsp;According to the complaint, the diner subsequently vomited after realising what he had eaten. The family then approached the Borivali police and reported the incident. The complaint was subsequently brought to the notice of the Maharashtra FDA for further action.<h2>FDA suspends restaurant licence</h2>Following the complaint, the FDA suspended the food business licence of Radhakrishna Hotel. The action comes amid an intensified food-safety enforcement drive in Maharashtra led by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The department has significantly stepped up inspections of restaurants, hotels, food manufacturers, dairies and other food businesses since Mundhe took charge earlier this year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/doctor-finds-cockroach-at-mumbai-hotel-tags-fda-chief-over-hygiene-concern-1790002135422">Doctor finds cockroach at Mumbai hotel, tags FDA chief over hygiene concern</a> Between June and August, the Maharashtra FDA conducted 12,083 inspections across the state, issued 5,269 improvement notices and suspended 603 licences, according to figures released by the department. The enforcement drive also involved seizures of food and prohibited products. The FDA’s action continued into September with a dedicated festival-season crackdown. Between September 1 and 23, the department inspected 3,068 food establishments across Maharashtra. It issued 1,506 improvement notices, suspended the licences of 248 establishments and cancelled 12 licences over serious violations. During the same period, officials seized more than 6.34 lakh kilograms of suspected adulterated or unsafe food stock valued at around Rs 9.76 crore. The department also collected 2,423 food samples for laboratory analysis.<h2>Mumbai also under FDA scanner</h2>Mumbai has been among the areas witnessing intensified enforcement. During the September 1-23 festival drive, the Mumbai division recorded 325 inspections. The FDA issued 226 improvement notices, suspended 53 licences and cancelled one licence. The wider crackdown has seen action against several well-known Mumbai eateries following inspections that reportedly detected hygiene and food-safety violations. The latest Borivali case adds to scrutiny over hygiene standards in commercial kitchens, particularly issues involving pest control, food storage and preparation practices.<h2>Investigation into rat found in dosa</h2>The precise circumstances in which the alleged rodent entered the dosa have not yet been established. Food-safety officials are expected to examine the restaurant’s kitchen, storage facilities, food preparation areas and pest-control arrangements as part of their assessment. The suspension of the restaurant’s licence means it faces immediate regulatory consequences while the matter is examined. The incident comes as the Maharashtra FDA continues a broad enforcement drive focused on food hygiene and safety standards across the state.

A diner allegedly found a dead rat inside a Mysore masala dosa at Radhakrishna Hotel in Mumbai’s Borivali West. The complaint prompted Maharashtra FDA action, with the restaurant’s food business licence suspended amid a wider state crackdown on food-safety violations.

A food-safety complaint has emerged from Mumbai after a diner allegedly found a dead rat inside a Mysore masala dosa served at Radhakrishna Hotel in Borivali West. The incident was reported at the restaurant, located near Borivali West railway station, on September 29. The complaint prompted action from the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which suspended the restaurant’s food business licence. According to the complaint, Amit Trivedi had visited the restaurant with his two brothers and son. The family ordered food at the establishment, including a Mysore masala dosa. One of Trivedi’s brothers had reportedly eaten several bites of the dosa when he noticed what appeared to be a small dead rat inside the food. Also Read: Maharashtra FDA crackdown: FDA finds serious violations at popular coffee house In Colaba According to the complaint, the diner subsequently vomited after realising what he had eaten. The family then approached the Borivali police and reported the incident. The complaint was subsequently brought to the notice of the Maharashtra FDA for further action. FDA suspends restaurant licence Following the complaint, the FDA suspended the food business licence of Radhakrishna Hotel. The action comes amid an intensified food-safety enforcement drive in Maharashtra led by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The department has significantly stepped up inspections of restaurants, hotels, food manufacturers, dairies and other food businesses since Mundhe took charge earlier this year. Also Read: Doctor finds cockroach at Mumbai hotel, tags FDA chief over hygiene concern Between June and August, the Maharashtra FDA conducted 12,083 inspections across the state, issued 5,269 improvement notices and suspended 603 licences, according to figures released by the department. The enforcement drive also involved seizures of food and prohibited products. The FDA’s action continued into September with a dedicated festival-season crackdown. Between September 1 and 23, the department inspected 3,068 food establishments across Maharashtra. It issued 1,506 improvement notices, suspended the licences of 248 establishments and cancelled 12 licences over serious violations. During the same period, officials seized more than 6.34 lakh kilograms of suspected adulterated or unsafe food stock valued at around Rs 9.76 crore. The department also collected 2,423 food samples for laboratory analysis. Mumbai also under FDA scanner Mumbai has been among the areas witnessing intensified enforcement. During the September 1-23 festival drive, the Mumbai division recorded 325 inspections. The FDA issued 226 improvement notices, suspended 53 licences and cancelled one licence. The wider crackdown has seen action against several well-known Mumbai eateries following inspections that reportedly detected hygiene and food-safety violations. The latest Borivali case adds to scrutiny over hygiene standards in commercial kitchens, particularly issues involving pest control, food storage and preparation practices. Investigation into rat found in dosa The precise circumstances in which the alleged rodent entered the dosa have not yet been established. Food-safety officials are expected to examine the restaurant’s kitchen, storage facilities, food preparation areas and pest-control arrangements as part of their assessment. The suspension of the restaurant’s licence means it faces immediate regulatory consequences while the matter is examined. The incident comes as the Maharashtra FDA continues a broad enforcement drive focused on food hygiene and safety standards across the state.

A diner allegedly found a dead rat inside a Mysore masala dosa at Radhakrishna Hotel in Mumbai’s Borivali West. The complaint prompted Maharashtra FDA action, with the restaurant’s food business licence suspended amid a wider state crackdown on food-safety violations.

Mumbai restaurant licence suspended after diner allegedly finds rat in dosa

Security forces have killed one of the most wanted terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir during a joint counter-terrorism operation in central Kashmir’s Budgam district. The terrorist, identified as Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa, was killed in an operation in the remote and rugged area between the tourist destinations of Yusmarg and Doodhpatri.&nbsp;The joint operation was launched on Tuesday night following specific intelligence inputs about the movement of terrorists in the higher reaches around Korag. The operation involved the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The Army said that during a search operation in the general area of Palmaidan, troops recovered the body of Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa along with a cache of arms and other war-like stores.&nbsp;“Update: OP KORAG. Further to the ongoing operation, during the search early morning in General Area Palmaidan, body of Pak-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist, identified as Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa, recovered along with war-like stores. Operation under progress,” the Indian Army said. According to the Army’s Chinar Corps, troops moving towards a suspected terrorist hideout came under fire, triggering an exchange of fire. One terrorist was subsequently killed in the operation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Update: OP KORAG Further to the ongoing operation, during the search early morning in General Area Palmaidan, body of Pak based Lashkar-e-Taiba ( LeT) terrorist, identified as Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa recovered along with war like stores. Operation under progress.…&mdash; Chinar Corps🍁 - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) <a href="https://x.com/ChinarcorpsIA/status/2105128784257253583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The search operation continued through the night, with security forces maintaining a tight cordon across the dense and difficult terrain of the Pir Panjal range to prevent any remaining terrorists from escaping. Security agencies had previously identified Moosa as a senior LeT operative active in Kashmir. Officials have linked him to several terror-related activities and attacks across the Valley, including areas such as Poonch-Rajouri, Gulmarg, Ganderbal and Pahalgam.&nbsp;In April 2025, investigative agencies released photographs of four terrorists linked to the Pahalgam attack. Among those named were suspects identified by aliases including ‘Musa’ and ‘Yunus’. Officials had alleged that Musa was involved in directing LeT operations in Kashmir and in planning and executing attacks in the Valley. The latest operation comes weeks after a joint counter-terrorism operation by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF in the high-altitude Korag area near Yusmarg in September. According to officials, Moosa had escaped during an encounter in the Yusmarg hills on September 5, while his close associate and alleged aide, Yasir, was killed.&nbsp;The killing of Moosa is a significant development in ongoing counter-terrorism operations against the LeT in central Kashmir. Security forces are continuing search operations in the area.

In April 2025, investigative agencies released photographs of four terrorists allegedly linked to the Pahalgam attack. Among those named were suspects identified by aliases including ‘Musa’ and ‘Yunus'

Security forces have killed one of the most wanted terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir during a joint counter-terrorism operation in central Kashmir’s Budgam district. The terrorist, identified as Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa, was killed in an operation in the remote and rugged area between the tourist destinations of Yusmarg and Doodhpatri. The joint operation was launched on Tuesday night following specific intelligence inputs about the movement of terrorists in the higher reaches around Korag. The operation involved the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The Army said that during a search operation in the general area of Palmaidan, troops recovered the body of Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa along with a cache of arms and other war-like stores. “Update: OP KORAG. Further to the ongoing operation, during the search early morning in General Area Palmaidan, body of Pak-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist, identified as Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa, recovered along with war-like stores. Operation under progress,” the Indian Army said. According to the Army’s Chinar Corps, troops moving towards a suspected terrorist hideout came under fire, triggering an exchange of fire. One terrorist was subsequently killed in the operation.

In April 2025, investigative agencies released photographs of four terrorists allegedly linked to the Pahalgam attack. Among those named were suspects identified by aliases including ‘Musa’ and ‘Yunus’

Top LeT commander 'Fauji Musa’ killed in Budgam encounter, Indian Army confirms

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that a stand-off between India and China “won’t help either of us, and third parties will take advantage of it”, and added that he conveyed the message to Beijing multiple times and at a personal level.&nbsp;&nbsp;In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi.&nbsp;Speaking about India-China relations at the event, Jaishankar said, “If you asked me, compared to where you were in 2025, is the relationship better today? I would say yes. Compared to 2024, even more so.”&nbsp;“After what happened in 2020 and the long standoff that we had on the border, the relationship had really been impacted. Once the border standoff was resolved, it was natural that this would start to improve... We have long been telling the Chinese, personally at my level, that a standoff between us, a dip in our relationship, doesn’t help either of us. Third parties will take advantage of that. It took a little while for the Chinese side to agree with that, for whatever reason,” the EAM said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A &quot;stand off&quot; between India, China wont help &quot;either of us, 3rd party will take advantage of it&quot;, says EAM Jaishankar; Points to &quot;improvement&quot; in ties. Vdo source: Asia Society <a href="https://t.co/C5hQP4fYc6">pic.twitter.com/C5hQP4fYc6</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://x.com/sidhant/status/2104805695652577412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“But I don’t think that long standoff served our interests. It certainly didn’t serve theirs... what we’ve had is that, as the border comes back more towards normalcy, the relationship comes back more towards normalcy... If it happens, it helps both of us,” he added.&nbsp;Jaishankar said the improvement was a recovery from a relationship that had gone “so much off-track”.&nbsp;Meanwhile, sources said India is holding talks with China in order to explore the possibility of an alternate air route for Indian airlines amid the continuing Pakistan airspace ban that makes flights to Europe and the United States longer and more expensive.The talks are focused on the use of Xinjiang airspace as an alternate route.&nbsp;Sources said the Ministry of External Affairs is engaging with Chinese counterparts on alternate routes and that talks are on for over a year to route flights via Hotan in western China.&nbsp;Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s arrival in New Delhi for the BRICS Summit, China Southern Airlines announced that it will resume direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi from September 21, restoring a route that had been suspended for six years.&nbsp;The resumption is part of a broader restoration of direct air links between the two countries after services were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent tensions along the India-China border.

In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi. He said the improvement was a recovery from a relationship that had gone “so much off-track”.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that a stand-off between India and China “won’t help either of us, and third parties will take advantage of it”, and added that he conveyed the message to Beijing multiple times and at a personal level. In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi. Speaking about India-China relations at the event, Jaishankar said, “If you asked me, compared to where you were in 2025, is the relationship better today? I would say yes. Compared to 2024, even more so.” “After what happened in 2020 and the long standoff that we had on the border, the relationship had really been impacted. Once the border standoff was resolved, it was natural that this would start to improve... We have long been telling the Chinese, personally at my level, that a standoff between us, a dip in our relationship, doesn’t help either of us. Third parties will take advantage of that. It took a little while for the Chinese side to agree with that, for whatever reason,” the EAM said.

In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi. He said the improvement was a recovery from a relationship that had gone “so much off-track”.

‘Told China standoff won’t help either of us, third parties will take advantage’: Jaishankar

Srinagar:&nbsp;Security forces on Tuesday neutralised one terrorist during an ongoing encounter in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, officials said.&nbsp;The body of the slain terrorist has been recovered from the site of the operation, while the search operation remains underway.&nbsp;According to officials, security forces received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the area, following which a joint cordon-and-search operation was launched.&nbsp;During the search, terrorists opened fire on the security forces, triggering an exchange of fire and leading to an encounter.&nbsp;So far, one terrorist has been killed in the operation. Additional security personnel have been deployed in the area as a precautionary measure to prevent any other terrorists who may be present from escaping.&nbsp;The operation is being jointly carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army and paramilitary forces. Further details are awaited as the operation continues.

Security forces received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the area, following which a joint cordon-and-search operation was launched. Terrorists opened fire on the security forces, triggering an exchange of fire and leading to an encounter.

Srinagar: Security forces on Tuesday neutralised one terrorist during an ongoing encounter in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, officials said. The body of the slain terrorist has been recovered from the site of the operation, while the search operation remains underway. According to officials, security forces received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the area, following which a joint cordon-and-search operation was launched. During the search, terrorists opened fire on the security forces, triggering an exchange of fire and leading to an encounter. So far, one terrorist has been killed in the operation. Additional security personnel have been deployed in the area as a precautionary measure to prevent any other terrorists who may be present from escaping. The operation is being jointly carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army and paramilitary forces. Further details are awaited as the operation continues.

Security forces received specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the area, following which a joint cordon-and-search operation was launched. Terrorists opened fire on the security forces, triggering an exchange of fire and leading to an encounter.

One terrorist killed in encounter in central Kashmir’s Budgam

The Prime Minister's Office has asked for a review of the writings of key anti-caste and feminist texts taught in Indian universities, following a viral social media post from an anonymous handle called @IamTheStory branded the writings as “poison” that is being fed to “young minds” by a “Leftist cabal.”&nbsp;An “urgent” email was sent by Raj Kamal Kumar, an official in the Department of Higher Education, part of the Ministry of Education, on Sunday, September 27, to the Registrar of the University of Hyderabad, Pondicherry University, Rajiv Gandhi University, Tezpur University, Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU), and English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), among other seeking comments from them. The email was obtained by <a href="https://thewire.in/education/pmo-wants-central-universities-to-rethink-seminal-anti-caste-readings-based-on-anonymous-x-post">The Wire,</a> which had a link to the Twitter post by the user @IamTheStory.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-ncr-parvesh-verma-fir-jarnail-singh-slap-row-1790702394870">Delhi Police file NCR against Parvesh Verma, FIR against Jarnail Singh</a>The user claims to be a storyteller on “geopolitics”, “history”, “Vedas”, “Sanatan” and “Bharat”. He listed 35 works, including books by Ambedkar, Phule, Gail Omvedt, Sharmila Rege, Braj Ranjan Mani, Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, R.S. Sharma, Savitribai Phule, Uma Chakravarti, Suvira Jaiswal, Aloka Parasher, Shireen Ratnagar, G. Aloysius and Anupama Rao. It refers to various texts from the MA and MPhil syllabus of History, Sociology, Political Science and English, which are some of the most critical and academic readings for any student of the humanities in postgraduate and research coursework in India and across the world.The list specifically mentions Annihilation of Caste, written in 1936 by Dr BR Ambedkar.&nbsp;“From patriarchy to Caste Annihilation to Debrahmanising the history to Curse of Manu, we are feeding young minds with a poison which our leftist cabal use a apprenticeship for grooming their future rank and file,” read the post.&nbsp;Academic writer Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd, whose name was also included on the list, has questioned the PMO's review of the university curricula and its implications. The syllabi fall strictly within the institutional purview of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Department of Higher Education, and compromise academic autonomy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The PMO has sought a review of anti-caste and feminist texts taught at central universities after an anonymous social media post called them “poison”

The Prime Minister's Office has asked for a review of the writings of key anti-caste and feminist texts taught in Indian universities, following a viral social media post from an anonymous handle called @IamTheStory branded the writings as “poison” that is being fed to “young minds” by a “Leftist cabal.” An “urgent” email was sent by Raj Kamal Kumar, an official in the Department of Higher Education, part of the Ministry of Education, on Sunday, September 27, to the Registrar of the University of Hyderabad, Pondicherry University, Rajiv Gandhi University, Tezpur University, Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU), and English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), among other seeking comments from them. The email was obtained by The Wire, which had a link to the Twitter post by the user @IamTheStory. Also Read: Delhi Police file NCR against Parvesh Verma, FIR against Jarnail Singh The user claims to be a storyteller on “geopolitics”, “history”, “Vedas”, “Sanatan” and “Bharat”. He listed 35 works, including books by Ambedkar, Phule, Gail Omvedt, Sharmila Rege, Braj Ranjan Mani, Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, R.S. Sharma, Savitribai Phule, Uma Chakravarti, Suvira Jaiswal, Aloka Parasher, Shireen Ratnagar, G. Aloysius and Anupama Rao. It refers to various texts from the MA and MPhil syllabus of History, Sociology, Political Science and English, which are some of the most critical and academic readings for any student of the humanities in postgraduate and research coursework in India and across the world. The list specifically mentions Annihilation of Caste, written in 1936 by Dr BR Ambedkar. “From patriarchy to Caste Annihilation to Debrahmanising the history to Curse of Manu, we are feeding young minds with a poison which our leftist cabal use a apprenticeship for grooming their future rank and file,” read the post. Academic writer Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd, whose name was also included on the list, has questioned the PMO's review of the university curricula and its implications. The syllabi fall strictly within the institutional purview of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Department of Higher Education, and compromise academic autonomy.

The PMO has sought a review of anti-caste and feminist texts taught at central universities after an anonymous social media post called them “poison”

PMO seeks review of anti-caste, feminist texts in universities after anonymous X post

Amid growing concerns over children's use of social media, the Supreme Court has asked the Narendra Modi-led government to frame statutory rules to prevent intermediaries from creating social media accounts for minors.&nbsp;The Centre has agreed to examine the issue following the court's intervention.&nbsp;The case came before the Supreme Court through a plea filed by NGO Just Rights for Children Alliance, which sought safeguards for children using social media and other digital platforms. The plea questioned how minors can independently create social media accounts despite the Indian Contract Act of 1872 making them ineligible to enter into binding contracts.&nbsp;During the hearing, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana stressed that social media intermediaries must comply with Indian legal requirements, regardless of whether they are registered outside the country.&nbsp;The Supreme Court's intervention comes at a time of growing concern over children's vulnerability on online platforms and the possible impact of excessive social media use on their mental health.&nbsp;Countries around the world are also taking steps to address digital addiction among children and young people. Nearly 40 per cent of education systems globally have introduced varying levels of bans and restrictions on mobile phone use in schools.&nbsp;Countries such as Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia have also banned children below the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms.&nbsp;India is also grappling with concerns over social media addiction. According to a report, social media users in the country spend up to one hour and 30 minutes every day on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.&nbsp;In the US, Meta agreed to strengthen its age verification measures as part of an $18 billion settlement with multiple US states. The states had sued the technology giant over claims that its platforms contributed to social media addiction and mental health problems.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-mess-with-us-netanyahu-warns-of-possible-attack-ahead-of-israel-polls-1790702151986">'Don't mess with us': Netanyahu warns of possible attack ahead of Israel polls</a>&nbsp;Meta also agreed to restrict Instagram and Facebook use for minors to two hours a day. Minors will also not be able to see the number of likes and reactions on posts.&nbsp;The changes are aimed at addressing concerns over the impact of social media, which can amplify peer pressure and contribute to anxiety and depression among young users.&nbsp;Following the Supreme Court's intervention, attention will now turn to the steps the Indian government takes to regulate social media access for minors and ensure a safer online experience for children.

The Indian Supreme Court has asked the Centre to examine rules restricting minors from creating social media accounts amid growing concerns over children's online safety and social media addiction

Amid growing concerns over children's use of social media, the Supreme Court has asked the Narendra Modi-led government to frame statutory rules to prevent intermediaries from creating social media accounts for minors. The Centre has agreed to examine the issue following the court's intervention. The case came before the Supreme Court through a plea filed by NGO Just Rights for Children Alliance, which sought safeguards for children using social media and other digital platforms. The plea questioned how minors can independently create social media accounts despite the Indian Contract Act of 1872 making them ineligible to enter into binding contracts. During the hearing, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana stressed that social media intermediaries must comply with Indian legal requirements, regardless of whether they are registered outside the country. The Supreme Court's intervention comes at a time of growing concern over children's vulnerability on online platforms and the possible impact of excessive social media use on their mental health. Countries around the world are also taking steps to address digital addiction among children and young people. Nearly 40 per cent of education systems globally have introduced varying levels of bans and restrictions on mobile phone use in schools. Countries such as Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia have also banned children below the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms. India is also grappling with concerns over social media addiction. According to a report, social media users in the country spend up to one hour and 30 minutes every day on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. In the US, Meta agreed to strengthen its age verification measures as part of an $18 billion settlement with multiple US states. The states had sued the technology giant over claims that its platforms contributed to social media addiction and mental health problems. Also Read: 'Don't mess with us': Netanyahu warns of possible attack ahead of Israel polls Meta also agreed to restrict Instagram and Facebook use for minors to two hours a day. Minors will also not be able to see the number of likes and reactions on posts. The changes are aimed at addressing concerns over the impact of social media, which can amplify peer pressure and contribute to anxiety and depression among young users. Following the Supreme Court's intervention, attention will now turn to the steps the Indian government takes to regulate social media access for minors and ensure a safer online experience for children.

The Indian Supreme Court has asked the Centre to examine rules restricting minors from creating social media accounts amid growing concerns over children's online safety and social media addiction

India mulls banning social media accounts for minors as SC steps in | Gravitas

Delhi Police on Tuesday filed an FIR non-cognisable report (NCR) against the Deputy Chief Minister and PWD Minister Parvesh Verma for allegedly slapping 22-year-old Sahib Singh, who manages the social media of the AAP MLA Jarnail Singh. A separate FIR was also registered against MLA Jarnail Singh for allegedly assaulting a Delhi Police head constable who was video-recording their protest following the slapping incident. The FIR also names AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj and other party workers.The total tally of complaints filed now is six; two were filed by BJP workers on Monday, alleging that Pravesh Kumar was mistreated, one is for Shahib, who was slapped on camera, while two of them are complaints filed by a construction company and a Public Works Department official against Jarnail Singh.The report was filed under Section 115 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for “voluntarily causing hurt” where action can't be taken without a direct mandate from a magistrate. The FIR against Singh charges him with obstructing public servants in the discharge of their duty and extortion.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-tu-95-bomber-crash-amur-region-six-killed-1790698430312">Russian nuclear-capable Tu-95 bomber crashes after takeoff, six crew members killed</a>“We came here after the PWD called us to inspect the condition of this road. I showed him how the road surface was breaking apart. When this was pointed out, the minister couldn’t handle it. He raised his hand against me. There were police personnel right there, and all of this happened in their presence,” said Shahib, demanding an apology from the minister.Varma later released a video accusing the AAP workers of abusing his family during the road inspection exercise. “Jarnail Singh arrived with his workers who had been informed in advance, and he immediately began behaving rudely. One of his workers started hurling abuses at my family,” said Varma. He claimed that his sole purpose was development work he would not tolerate if anyone tried to obstruct him.&nbsp;

Delhi Police filed an NCR against Parvesh Verma over an alleged slap and an FIR against AAP MLA Jarnail Singh over alleged obstruction and assault.

Delhi Police on Tuesday filed an FIR non-cognisable report (NCR) against the Deputy Chief Minister and PWD Minister Parvesh Verma for allegedly slapping 22-year-old Sahib Singh, who manages the social media of the AAP MLA Jarnail Singh. A separate FIR was also registered against MLA Jarnail Singh for allegedly assaulting a Delhi Police head constable who was video-recording their protest following the slapping incident. The FIR also names AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj and other party workers. The total tally of complaints filed now is six; two were filed by BJP workers on Monday, alleging that Pravesh Kumar was mistreated, one is for Shahib, who was slapped on camera, while two of them are complaints filed by a construction company and a Public Works Department official against Jarnail Singh. The report was filed under Section 115 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for “voluntarily causing hurt” where action can't be taken without a direct mandate from a magistrate. The FIR against Singh charges him with obstructing public servants in the discharge of their duty and extortion. Also Read: Russian nuclear-capable Tu-95 bomber crashes after takeoff, six crew members killed “We came here after the PWD called us to inspect the condition of this road. I showed him how the road surface was breaking apart. When this was pointed out, the minister couldn’t handle it. He raised his hand against me. There were police personnel right there, and all of this happened in their presence,” said Shahib, demanding an apology from the minister. Varma later released a video accusing the AAP workers of abusing his family during the road inspection exercise. “Jarnail Singh arrived with his workers who had been informed in advance, and he immediately began behaving rudely. One of his workers started hurling abuses at my family,” said Varma. He claimed that his sole purpose was development work he would not tolerate if anyone tried to obstruct him.

Delhi Police filed an NCR against Parvesh Verma over an alleged slap and an FIR against AAP MLA Jarnail Singh over alleged obstruction and assault.

Delhi Police file NCR against Parvesh Verma, FIR against Jarnail Singh

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Loud blast at MRPL near Mangaluru triggers panic, fire and thick smoke seen

LeT’s shrinking footprint in J&K: What the killing of Hashim Moosa means

EC rolls back SIR add-on in Form 6 in states where revision is complete

US dream turns nightmare: 3 Gujaratis 'vanish' in Ethiopia, family seeks govt help after scary ransom demand

Delhi-NCR pollution crackdown: Is your vehicle on the new GRAP restriction list?

Eiffel Tower chief steps down after BAPS row over removal of female staff

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader killed in shooting in Maharashtra’s Thane

5 Pakistanis arrested as India foils major drug smuggling bid in Arabian Sea

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Mumbai restaurant licence suspended after diner allegedly finds rat in dosa

Top LeT commander 'Fauji Musa’ killed in Budgam encounter, Indian Army confirms

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One terrorist killed in encounter in central Kashmir’s Budgam

PMO seeks review of anti-caste, feminist texts in universities

India mulls banning social media accounts for minors as SC steps in | Gravitas

Delhi Police file NCR against Parvesh Verma, FIR against Jarnail Singh