India's Sunburn Music Festival is debuting in Mumbai on 19–21 December, but some people do not want the entry of one of Asia’s biggest electronic dance music (EDM) events in the megapolis. Opponents cite alleged drug culture associated with EDM events, cultural concerns, and environmental and infrastructural problems. Sunburn organisers have had to shift the festival from its original base of Goa to Sewri on Mumbai Port Trust land after a series of issues over the years.<h2>Who is opposing Sunburn in Mumbai?</h2>Several citizen groups in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, organised both online and offline, are opposing it for different reasons. Some claim that the event encourages drug abuse and undermines youth safety. Nasha Virodhi Sangharsh Abhiyan, a local organisation against narcotic abuse, has organised protests and petitioned authorities to cancel permissions given to the festival. Some other social and religious groups say the festival promotes behaviour they consider unsuitable to Indian cultural values and harmful to young people.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/fa9la-dhurandhar-star-akshaye-khanna-s-viral-entry-song-what-does-it-mean-1765368991282">FA9LA: What does Akshaye Khanna's viral entry song in Dhurandhar mean?</a>&nbsp;Small demonstrations have been held in parts of Navi Mumbai and neighbouring areas in the past few days. Some opponents also raise issues of obscenity at large EDM gatherings, disturbance of public order, and pressures on policing.<h2>Will the Sunburn fest go on as planned in Mumbai?</h2>Most likely yes. The protests have been few and scattered, even as they gain traction through hashtags on social media platforms. The festival is expected to be attended by tens of thousands of people, going by early ticket sales. Authorities have not revoked permissions to Sunburn at the time of writing.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-magic-of-tomorrowland-dance-music-festival-makes-spectacular-china-debut-1764131983434/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-magic-of-tomorrowland-dance-music-festival-makes-spectacular-china-debut-1764131983434/embed</a><h2>Why did Sunburn leave Goa?</h2>Over the years, Sunburn faced several issues with local communities in Goa, even as it was attended by thousands of tourists and boosted seasonal business for the west Indian state. Objections came from residents, environmental activists as well as village councils, over excessive noise, stressed local infrastructure, and environmental concerns affecting the coastal ecosystems of beach towns.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/iceland-says-will-boycott-2026-eurovision-song-contest-1765423964969">Iceland says will boycott 2026 Eurovision song contest</a>Several gram sabhas (village councils) passed resolutions refusing permission for the festival in their jurisdictions, including long-standing northern venues such as Vagator and proposed alternative locations in South Goa.Alleged drug use, crime, regulatory compliance issues, and crowd disturbances were behind much of the opposition, with some local politicians arguing that Sunburn did not align with Goa’s cultural norms.It is after this longstanding opposition that the organisers opted to relocate the event to Mumbai for 2025.

Sunburn Festival debuts in Mumbai after leaving Goa, but there is some opposition to the EDM event over alleged drug use, cultural and environmental concerns. Sporadic protests have taken place. Here is all about the controversy

India's Sunburn Music Festival is debuting in Mumbai on 19–21 December, but some people do not want the entry of one of Asia’s biggest electronic dance music (EDM) events in the megapolis. Opponents cite alleged drug culture associated with EDM events, cultural concerns, and environmental and infrastructural problems. Sunburn organisers have had to shift the festival from its original base of Goa to Sewri on Mumbai Port Trust land after a series of issues over the years. Who is opposing Sunburn in Mumbai? Several citizen groups in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, organised both online and offline, are opposing it for different reasons. Some claim that the event encourages drug abuse and undermines youth safety. Nasha Virodhi Sangharsh Abhiyan, a local organisation against narcotic abuse, has organised protests and petitioned authorities to cancel permissions given to the festival. Some other social and religious groups say the festival promotes behaviour they consider unsuitable to Indian cultural values and harmful to young people. Also read: FA9LA: What does Akshaye Khanna's viral entry song in Dhurandhar mean? Small demonstrations have been held in parts of Navi Mumbai and neighbouring areas in the past few days. Some opponents also raise issues of obscenity at large EDM gatherings, disturbance of public order, and pressures on policing. Will the Sunburn fest go on as planned in Mumbai? Most likely yes. The protests have been few and scattered, even as they gain traction through hashtags on social media platforms. The festival is expected to be attended by tens of thousands of people, going by early ticket sales. Authorities have not revoked permissions to Sunburn at the time of writing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-magic-of-tomorrowland-dance-music-festival-makes-spectacular-china-debut-1764131983434/embed Why did Sunburn leave Goa? Over the years, Sunburn faced several issues with local communities in Goa, even as it was attended by thousands of tourists and boosted seasonal business for the west Indian state. Objections came from residents, environmental activists as well as village councils, over excessive noise, stressed local infrastructure, and environmental concerns affecting the coastal ecosystems of beach towns. Also read: Iceland says will boycott 2026 Eurovision song contest Several gram sabhas (village councils) passed resolutions refusing permission for the festival in their jurisdictions, including long-standing northern venues such as Vagator and proposed alternative locations in South Goa. Alleged drug use, crime, regulatory compliance issues, and crowd disturbances were behind much of the opposition, with some local politicians arguing that Sunburn did not align with Goa’s cultural norms. It is after this longstanding opposition that the organisers opted to relocate the event to Mumbai for 2025.

Sunburn Festival debuts in Mumbai after leaving Goa, but there is some opposition to the EDM event over alleged drug use, cultural and environmental concerns. Sporadic protests have taken place. Here is all about the controversy

Sunburn Fest is debuting in Mumbai after exiting Goa, but some people don’t want it there. What’s the controversy about the EDM music festival?

The world is experiencing different worlds colliding and in this case, change starts not only of the systems, but of ideas, processes, and people too. Think of a difficult puzzle, in which each of the departments and regions has a piece about it finance, treasury, tax, and IT. It is not easy to bring these pieces to the comprehensible picture. The true opportunity, however, herein, in this difficulty, lies in the possibility of drawing smooth lines that turn complication into clarity. This is the kind of transformation that has been of interest to Karunakar Grandhe an executive with over 20 years experience of hopping up and down the thin threads of technology and finance in the international business.&nbsp;Karunakar entered the world at the crossroad between the conventional ERP systems and the new analytics systems. He was a technologist and strategist as well as having knowledge of SAP S/4HANA, Wallstreet Suite in Treasury and cloud solutions, like AWS and Databricks. It was more than just another program installed to him but creation of ecosystems where the flow of information is not limited, automatic generation of insights and a leader can work with confidence.&nbsp;The strategist is the person in charge of various breakthrough projects in a major drug firm where he works as an Associate Director of Technical Product Management and which represent this philosophy. One such project was the VAT Data Analytics platform, which was the consolidation of the SAP and the third party tax data into a single source of truth. The project replaced years of manual and siloed reports with automated and smooth compliance checks. Similarly, he has transformed the Management Service Fee System that would have been challenging to automate before because of the complexity involved in the process of allocating fees and billing but now, he has centralized it bythe HANA and Spotfire. These findings show how the actual world challenges can be addressed not through introducing the layers of technology, but by bringing together the resources available with caution.&nbsp;His writing on treasury solutions bears a very repetitive theme which is connectiveness to showcase broader viewpoints. The Treasury Cash Alignment project increased cash flow forecasting through the addition of invoice data to accounts receivable and payable, which sounds technical, but allowed the leadership to have a better understanding of financial data. It has developed its Bank Risk Management System on the cloud and data processing platforms that have dynamic dashboards to monitor the global exposures and risks easily. To realize more Treasury Insurance Dashboard consolidates the assets values of multiple SAP systems, and the financial teams may have a cohesive view that may result in the decisions that have the impact and are timely.&nbsp;Not only the deployment of technology but bringing together the stakeholders in both business and IT is the strength of the expert. His work as an IT head of FX Risk and analytics implies the constant cooperation, mentoring of teams, and product lifecycles with the focus to alignment and quality. His high credentials and awards testify to his willingness to continue learning and never-ending improvement, which is the spirit of sustainable change.&nbsp;Speaking about his career, he is inclined to mention the fact that the change should be realized not just with the help of technical knowledge: It is also about listening to all sides of the business and attempting to make their stories intertwined with facts and technologies. His SAP enhancements to global product ownership underscores a philosophy in which technology may be employed as a bridge. not barrier.&nbsp;With the enterprises looking into the future, such integrative leaders are becoming more necessary. The future of finance requires systems that are adaptive, connected and empowered, where insights based on data cause action to be taken without a bottleneck. It is a very interesting chapter in an overall story of how a leadership that is based on not only technical know-how, but also on strategic insight can turn the complicated into the uncomplicated, and points out the universal law that significant change is only made when the technology and people grow together.

Karunakar entered the world at the crossroad between the conventional ERP systems and the new analytics systems. 

The world is experiencing different worlds colliding and in this case, change starts not only of the systems, but of ideas, processes, and people too. Think of a difficult puzzle, in which each of the departments and regions has a piece about it finance, treasury, tax, and IT. It is not easy to bring these pieces to the comprehensible picture. The true opportunity, however, herein, in this difficulty, lies in the possibility of drawing smooth lines that turn complication into clarity. This is the kind of transformation that has been of interest to Karunakar Grandhe an executive with over 20 years experience of hopping up and down the thin threads of technology and finance in the international business. Karunakar entered the world at the crossroad between the conventional ERP systems and the new analytics systems. He was a technologist and strategist as well as having knowledge of SAP S/4HANA, Wallstreet Suite in Treasury and cloud solutions, like AWS and Databricks. It was more than just another program installed to him but creation of ecosystems where the flow of information is not limited, automatic generation of insights and a leader can work with confidence. The strategist is the person in charge of various breakthrough projects in a major drug firm where he works as an Associate Director of Technical Product Management and which represent this philosophy. One such project was the VAT Data Analytics platform, which was the consolidation of the SAP and the third party tax data into a single source of truth. The project replaced years of manual and siloed reports with automated and smooth compliance checks. Similarly, he has transformed the Management Service Fee System that would have been challenging to automate before because of the complexity involved in the process of allocating fees and billing but now, he has centralized it by the HANA and Spotfire. These findings show how the actual world challenges can be addressed not through introducing the layers of technology, but by bringing together the resources available with caution. His writing on treasury solutions bears a very repetitive theme which is connectiveness to showcase broader viewpoints. The Treasury Cash Alignment project increased cash flow forecasting through the addition of invoice data to accounts receivable and payable, which sounds technical, but allowed the leadership to have a better understanding of financial data. It has developed its Bank Risk Management System on the cloud and data processing platforms that have dynamic dashboards to monitor the global exposures and risks easily. To realize more Treasury Insurance Dashboard consolidates the assets values of multiple SAP systems, and the financial teams may have a cohesive view that may result in the decisions that have the impact and are timely. Not only the deployment of technology but bringing together the stakeholders in both business and IT is the strength of the expert. His work as an IT head of FX Risk and analytics implies the constant cooperation, mentoring of teams, and product lifecycles with the focus to alignment and quality. His high credentials and awards testify to his willingness to continue learning and never-ending improvement, which is the spirit of sustainable change. Speaking about his career, he is inclined to mention the fact that the change should be realized not just with the help of technical knowledge: It is also about listening to all sides of the business and attempting to make their stories intertwined with facts and technologies. His SAP enhancements to global product ownership underscores a philosophy in which technology may be employed as a bridge. not barrier. With the enterprises looking into the future, such integrative leaders are becoming more necessary. The future of finance requires systems that are adaptive, connected and empowered, where insights based on data cause action to be taken without a bottleneck. It is a very interesting chapter in an overall story of how a leadership that is based on not only technical know-how, but also on strategic insight can turn the complicated into the uncomplicated, and points out the universal law that significant change is only made when the technology and people grow together.

Karunakar entered the world at the crossroad between the conventional ERP systems and the new analytics systems.&nbsp;

No templates, just transformation: The SAP lead who brought 3 finance worlds together

IndiGo's flight disruptions stretched into Thursday (Dec 11), with cancellations piling up across major airports for the 10th day. Across the nation, over 100 flights had been cancelled by 1 pm. The cancellations come as the DGCA steps up its scrutiny of the airline after days of delays and cancellations tied to planning failures linked to new pilot and crew duty-time norms. Here's all you need to know about today's IndiGo cancellations.<h2>Ahmedabad airport</h2>At Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, 18 flights — nine arrivals and nine departures — were cancelled by 8 am. Airport officials said terminal and airside operations were stable and that passenger support measures were in place.<h2>Bengaluru airport</h2>Bengaluru was among the worst affected. According to a Hindustan Times report, IndiGo cancelled 60 flights out of Kempegowda International Airport, split between 32 arrivals and 28 departures.<h2>Chennai airport</h2>In Chennai, IndiGo cancelled 36 flights, including 24 departures and 12 arrivals, according to an update posted by the airport on X. Posting a list of the cancelled flights, the AAI Chennai airport said, " Kindly take note of the list of flight cancellations at Chennai International Airport on 11.12.2025 as informed by @IndiGo6E". It also asked passengers "to check with their respective airlines for further updates."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FLIGHTUPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FLIGHTUPDATE</a> | Kindly take note of the list of flight cancellations at Chennai International Airport on 11.12.2025 as informed by <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a> Passengers are requested to check with their respective airlines for further updates.<a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/AAI_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AAI_Official</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Pib_MoCA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pib_MoCA</a> <a href="https://t.co/VCJJ4sX26t">pic.twitter.com/VCJJ4sX26t</a>&mdash; Chennai (MAA) Airport (@aaichnairport) <a href="https://twitter.com/aaichnairport/status/1998942743452856825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Chandigarh Airport</h2>Four IndiGo flights from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport on December 11 have also been cancelled. In an X post, the airport shared the details of the cancelled flights.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">Flight Update | 11 December 2025 Please note that the following IndiGo departures from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh (IXC) have been cancelled. We regret the inconvenience caused and request passengers to stay updated.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamCHIAL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamCHIAL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SBSIAirport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SBSIAirport</a>… <a href="https://t.co/LmbHb5HlpA">pic.twitter.com/LmbHb5HlpA</a>&mdash; Chandigarh International Airport (@ixcairport) <a href="https://twitter.com/ixcairport/status/1998768849177686399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Srinagar airport</h2>Srinagar also felt the strain, with at least four IndiGo flights to Amritsar, Kolkata, and Delhi grounded.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">Dear valued passengers, Please note that the following flights from SXR stand cancelled for today. You are requested to kindly reconfirm your flight status with the airline before heading to the airport. We regret the inconvenience caused. <a href="https://t.co/OMJFki71Ye">pic.twitter.com/OMJFki71Ye</a>&mdash; Srinagar Airport (@SrinagarAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/SrinagarAirport/status/1998946553843855837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>DGCA steps in</h2>Meanwhile, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers has been summoned by the DGCA and asked to submit a detailed report on the ongoing operational breakdown, including data on crew availability, rostering issues and steps being taken to stabilise operations. With passenger chaos growing, the DGCA has also deployed a dedicated oversight team inside IndiGo's corporate office in Gurugram. In an internal order issued Thursday, the regulator said the intervention was necessary "in view of passenger inconvenience caused due to large-scale disruptions in the operations of IndiGo Airlines at various airports across the country."The eight-member team will be headed by Capt Vikram Sharma, Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector (Airlines). Other members include Capt Kapil Mangalik, SFOI(A); Capt VP Singh, SFOI(A); Capt. Apoorva Agarwal, SFOI(A); Capt Swati Loomba, SFOI(A); Capt Aman Suhag, SFOI(A); Capt Nitya Jain, FOI(A); Capt NJ Singh, FOI(A). &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

IndiGo chaos hits Day 10: Over 100 flights cancelled by 1 pm as airports from Bengaluru to Chennai reel under fresh disruptions. Here’s what travellers need to know.

IndiGo's flight disruptions stretched into Thursday (Dec 11), with cancellations piling up across major airports for the 10th day. Across the nation, over 100 flights had been cancelled by 1 pm. The cancellations come as the DGCA steps up its scrutiny of the airline after days of delays and cancellations tied to planning failures linked to new pilot and crew duty-time norms. Here's all you need to know about today's IndiGo cancellations. Ahmedabad airport At Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, 18 flights — nine arrivals and nine departures — were cancelled by 8 am. Airport officials said terminal and airside operations were stable and that passenger support measures were in place. Bengaluru airport Bengaluru was among the worst affected. According to a Hindustan Times report, IndiGo cancelled 60 flights out of Kempegowda International Airport, split between 32 arrivals and 28 departures. Chennai airport In Chennai, IndiGo cancelled 36 flights, including 24 departures and 12 arrivals, according to an update posted by the airport on X. Posting a list of the cancelled flights, the AAI Chennai airport said, " Kindly take note of the list of flight cancellations at Chennai International Airport on 11.12.2025 as informed by @IndiGo6E". It also asked passengers "to check with their respective airlines for further updates."

IndiGo chaos hits Day 10: Over 100 flights cancelled by 1 pm as airports from Bengaluru to Chennai reel under fresh disruptions. Here’s what travellers need to know.

IndiGo chaos isn’t over: 100+ flights scrapped today. Is yours on the list?

After Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar speaking at a recently held ‘Islamabad Conclave’ said that a trilateral initiative involving Bangladesh, China, and &nbsp;Pakistan is being worked out, and that it may expand to include other countries beyond the region, Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain reacted by saying &nbsp;it was “strategically possible for Bangladesh to join a regional grouping with Pakistan excluding India”.&nbsp;However, he pointed out that for neighbouring countries like Nepal or Bhutan to form a grouping with Pakistan excluding India was not possible.&nbsp;“It is possible for us (Bangladesh) strategically … (but) it is not possible for Nepal or Bhutan to form a grouping with Pakistan excluding India,” said Hossain, as reported by state-owned Bang­ladesh Sangbad Sangstha.&nbsp;He also remained non-committal about such a move and said that Mr Dar “has said something, and perhaps at some point this could see some progress”. Hossain also clarified that there was nothing from Pakistani side yet on the new grouping and the information has reached him only through social media, so he has nothing much to say.&nbsp;Notably, a few months back, Bangladesh had denied talks about joining any alliance without India despite its officials reportedly attended a meeting on June 19 in Kunming, China.&nbsp;<h2>SAARC and Its Collapse</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, political analysts believe that a SAARC-like body without India would be difficult to form. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation or SAARCwas formed in &nbsp;in 1985 with seven South Asian countries — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka becoming its members. &nbsp;Afghanistan joined the grouping as the eighth member in 2007.The grouping, however, collapsed due to the India-Pakistan rivalry, which hit SAARC's functioning.&nbsp;

However,  Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain pointed out that for neighbouring countries like Nepal or Bhutan to form a grouping with Pakistan excluding India was not possible

After Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar speaking at a recently held ‘Islamabad Conclave’ said that a trilateral initiative involving Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan is being worked out, and that it may expand to include other countries beyond the region, Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain reacted by saying it was “strategically possible for Bangladesh to join a regional grouping with Pakistan excluding India”. However, he pointed out that for neighbouring countries like Nepal or Bhutan to form a grouping with Pakistan excluding India was not possible. “It is possible for us (Bangladesh) strategically … (but) it is not possible for Nepal or Bhutan to form a grouping with Pakistan excluding India,” said Hossain, as reported by state-owned Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha. He also remained non-committal about such a move and said that Mr Dar “has said something, and perhaps at some point this could see some progress”. Hossain also clarified that there was nothing from Pakistani side yet on the new grouping and the information has reached him only through social media, so he has nothing much to say. Notably, a few months back, Bangladesh had denied talks about joining any alliance without India despite its officials reportedly attended a meeting on June 19 in Kunming, China. SAARC and Its Collapse Meanwhile, political analysts believe that a SAARC-like body without India would be difficult to form. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation or SAARCwas formed in in 1985 with seven South Asian countries — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka becoming its members. Afghanistan joined the grouping as the eighth member in 2007. The grouping, however, collapsed due to the India-Pakistan rivalry, which hit SAARC's functioning.

However, &nbsp;Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain pointed out that for neighbouring countries like Nepal or Bhutan to form a grouping with Pakistan excluding India was not possible&nbsp;

Strategically possible for Bangladesh to form alliance with Pakistan, China, says Foreign Adviser

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), operated by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), has earned Level 5 accreditation under the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme — the highest global recognition for carbon management. 

With this recognition, CSMIA becomes one of just 30 airports worldwide — including seven in the Asia-Pacific region and four in India — to demonstrate the highest level of decarbonisation maturity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Airport Carbon Accreditation programme is the industry benchmark for evaluating airports’ carbon management efforts, with Level 5 representing its top tier. 

This certifies that CSMIA has achieved operational net-zero emissions (Scope 1 &amp; 2) and has a validated roadmap to reach net-zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050.

CSMIA say, the milestone underscores the airport’s consistent, data-led carbon strategy based on the principles of measuring, managing, reducing and transparently communicating emissions, backed by a robust ESG framework and cross-functional carbon management committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking on the achievement, MIAL Spokesperson said, “This accreditation places CSMIA among the world’s leading airports that is committed to ensuring sustainable aviation operations. CSMIA will continue its efforts to blend innovation with environmental responsibility, setting new benchmarks for the global aviation ecosystem. Sustainability is a long-term responsibility, and we are proud to be at the forefront of driving this shift within India’s aviation industry”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MIAL has rolled out a series of major sustainability upgrades since FY2022, following its ACA Level 4+ certification. Key initiatives include:

Switching to 100% renewable electricity from August 2022. Cutting energy intensity by over 40% between FY2022 and FY2025 through extensive efficiency upgrades — replacing belt-driven AHU fans with EC fans, moving entirely to LED lighting, and deploying advanced automation and high-efficiency inverter-based air-conditioning systems. Fully electrifying its airport vehicle fleet and phasing out high-GWP refrigerants, along with replacing CO₂-based fire systems with greener alternatives. Decarbonising all ground operations by converting every internal combustion engine vehicle to an electric one. Expanding the use of energy-efficient HVAC systems, LEDs and digital automation tools. Strengthening carbon governance through an updated ESG policy adopted in May 2025. 
 &nbsp;

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has earned Level 5 Airport Carbon Accreditation, confirming operational net-zero emissions and a roadmap for Scope 3 neutrality by 2050. 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), operated by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), has earned Level 5 accreditation under the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme — the highest global recognition for carbon management. With this recognition, CSMIA becomes one of just 30 airports worldwide — including seven in the Asia-Pacific region and four in India — to demonstrate the highest level of decarbonisation maturity. The Airport Carbon Accreditation programme is the industry benchmark for evaluating airports’ carbon management efforts, with Level 5 representing its top tier. This certifies that CSMIA has achieved operational net-zero emissions (Scope 1 & 2) and has a validated roadmap to reach net-zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050. CSMIA say, the milestone underscores the airport’s consistent, data-led carbon strategy based on the principles of measuring, managing, reducing and transparently communicating emissions, backed by a robust ESG framework and cross-functional carbon management committee. Speaking on the achievement, MIAL Spokesperson said, “This accreditation places CSMIA among the world’s leading airports that is committed to ensuring sustainable aviation operations. CSMIA will continue its efforts to blend innovation with environmental responsibility, setting new benchmarks for the global aviation ecosystem. Sustainability is a long-term responsibility, and we are proud to be at the forefront of driving this shift within India’s aviation industry”. MIAL has rolled out a series of major sustainability upgrades since FY2022, following its ACA Level 4+ certification. Key initiatives include: Switching to 100% renewable electricity from August 2022. Cutting energy intensity by over 40% between FY2022 and FY2025 through extensive efficiency upgrades — replacing belt-driven AHU fans with EC fans, moving entirely to LED lighting, and deploying advanced automation and high-efficiency inverter-based air-conditioning systems. Fully electrifying its airport vehicle fleet and phasing out high-GWP refrigerants, along with replacing CO₂-based fire systems with greener alternatives. Decarbonising all ground operations by converting every internal combustion engine vehicle to an electric one. Expanding the use of energy-efficient HVAC systems, LEDs and digital automation tools. Strengthening carbon governance through an updated ESG policy adopted in May 2025.

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has earned Level 5 Airport Carbon Accreditation, confirming operational net-zero emissions and a roadmap for Scope 3 neutrality by 2050.&nbsp;

CSMIA earns level 5 carbon accreditation, marking major net-zero milestone

ICICI Bank was fined Rs 10 lakh, and Vodafone was fined Rs 5 lakh in a Gujarat SIM fraud case involving an Ahmedabad-based firm that lost more than Rs 1.19 crore due to unauthorised bank transactions. The judgment was delivered by Gujarat's Adjudicating Officer under the Information Technology Act.&nbsp;The case centres on the directors of Collective Trade Links Pvt. Ltd., a bearings trading company, who filed complaints against ICICI Bank, Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) and local police authorities. The case was filed under Sections 43 and 43A of the IT Act, 2000. The complaint explains how criminals executed a SIM-swap operation to bypass OTP authentication measures and siphon money from the overdraft account of the firm over a weekend in March 2023, as per the report in NDTV.&nbsp;The fraud began when Prakash Mehta, the company director, was travelling to Vietnam for business. On March 11, 2023, an unusual email, appearing to come from the firm, sought a SIM swap for Mehta's mobile number, which was linked to OTP verifications for banking transactions.<h3>Vodafone Idea activated the duplicate SIM</h3>Vodafone Idea approved the request and activated the duplicate SIM by 4:30 pm the same day, without carrying out proper verification, despite the number being active on international roaming. Later, when the office was closed on Sunday, scammers used the duplicate SIM to obtain OTPs and proceeded with 22 transactions totalling Rs 1,19,37,000 through RTGS and NEFT from the company's ICICI Bank account.&nbsp;Then, 10 new beneficiaries were registered, and amounts far beyond usual limits were transferred to unfamiliar accounts for newly added payees. Meanwhile, Director Bharatkumar Mehta was notified of delayed transaction alerts on his secondary number, until the damage was already done.&nbsp;The scam came to light the following day when the company’s accountants checked the account. The directors quickly alerted ICICI Bank and filed a police complaint, after which an FIR was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station under sections pertaining to cheating, criminal conspiracy and violations of the IT Act.&nbsp;In response to the incident, the Adjudicating Officer ordered the respondents to pay a total of Rs 15 lakh in penalties and compensation for their negligence that enabled the SIM-swap fraud. Of this, ICICI Bank was asked to pay Rs 10 lakh under Sections 43(g) and 43(j) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, while Vodafone Idea Limited was fined Rs 5 lakh under Section 43(g).&nbsp;The order also directs ICICI Bank to return the principal sum of ₹1.05 crore to the complainant in accordance with circular guidelines, with the refund to be completed within six weeks.

The fraud began when Prakash Mehta, the company director, was travelling to Vietnam for business. On March 11, 2023, an unusual email, appearing to come from the firm, sought a SIM swap for Mehta's mobile number, which was linked to OTP verifications for banking transactions.

ICICI Bank was fined Rs 10 lakh, and Vodafone was fined Rs 5 lakh in a Gujarat SIM fraud case involving an Ahmedabad-based firm that lost more than Rs 1.19 crore due to unauthorised bank transactions. The judgment was delivered by Gujarat's Adjudicating Officer under the Information Technology Act. The case centres on the directors of Collective Trade Links Pvt. Ltd., a bearings trading company, who filed complaints against ICICI Bank, Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) and local police authorities. The case was filed under Sections 43 and 43A of the IT Act, 2000. The complaint explains how criminals executed a SIM-swap operation to bypass OTP authentication measures and siphon money from the overdraft account of the firm over a weekend in March 2023, as per the report in NDTV. The fraud began when Prakash Mehta, the company director, was travelling to Vietnam for business. On March 11, 2023, an unusual email, appearing to come from the firm, sought a SIM swap for Mehta's mobile number, which was linked to OTP verifications for banking transactions. Vodafone Idea activated the duplicate SIM Vodafone Idea approved the request and activated the duplicate SIM by 4:30 pm the same day, without carrying out proper verification, despite the number being active on international roaming. Later, when the office was closed on Sunday, scammers used the duplicate SIM to obtain OTPs and proceeded with 22 transactions totalling Rs 1,19,37,000 through RTGS and NEFT from the company's ICICI Bank account. Then, 10 new beneficiaries were registered, and amounts far beyond usual limits were transferred to unfamiliar accounts for newly added payees. Meanwhile, Director Bharatkumar Mehta was notified of delayed transaction alerts on his secondary number, until the damage was already done. The scam came to light the following day when the company’s accountants checked the account. The directors quickly alerted ICICI Bank and filed a police complaint, after which an FIR was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station under sections pertaining to cheating, criminal conspiracy and violations of the IT Act. In response to the incident, the Adjudicating Officer ordered the respondents to pay a total of Rs 15 lakh in penalties and compensation for their negligence that enabled the SIM-swap fraud. Of this, ICICI Bank was asked to pay Rs 10 lakh under Sections 43(g) and 43(j) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, while Vodafone Idea Limited was fined Rs 5 lakh under Section 43(g). The order also directs ICICI Bank to return the principal sum of ₹1.05 crore to the complainant in accordance with circular guidelines, with the refund to be completed within six weeks.

The fraud began when Prakash Mehta, the company director, was travelling to Vietnam for business. On March 11, 2023, an unusual email, appearing to come from the firm, sought a SIM swap for Mehta's mobile number, which was linked to OTP verifications for banking transactions.

ICICI Bank, Vodafone fined Rs 15 lakh for lapses over Rs 1.19 crore Gujarat SIM-swap fraud

There has been a mild increase in COVID-19 cases at several points during 2025 in India, though there is no major nationwide resurgence. The most recent upticks have been modest and localised, not comparable to the large waves seen earlier in the pandemic.<h2>Covid cases in first half of 2025</h2>In the first half of 2025, India experienced a rise in active cases in May–June. Active cases increased from around 257 in mid-May to over 1,000 in late May, and then rose to approximately 4,000 in early June, reaching more than 7,000 by mid-June. These increases coincided with the detection of several Omicron descendant subvariants.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-visa-chaos-new-u-s-visa-rules-spark-confusion-chaos-over-social-media-checks-1765424017003/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-visa-chaos-new-u-s-visa-rules-spark-confusion-chaos-over-social-media-checks-1765424017003/embed</a><h2>Which are the new Covid subvariants in India?</h2>The new subvariants detected in India include JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG.&nbsp;JN.1 has been circulating throughout 2025 and is one of the more frequently identified subvariants of Omicron.&nbsp;NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 have been detected in smaller numbers in states such as Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. XFG has been reported across several states. All of these subvariants are classified as Variants Under Monitoring and none are considered Variants of Concern or high-risk.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-revenge-virologist-who-claimed-covid-was-developed-in-wuhan-says-beijing-is-using-her-family-to-lure-her-back-from-us-1765204872566">China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US</a><h2>Symptoms associated with the new Covid subvariants&nbsp;</h2>The symptoms of JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG remain similar to previous Omicron lineages. These typically include mild respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue.&nbsp;Most cases have been mild. Deaths that have occurred are largely reported among elderly or medically vulnerable patients. There is no evidence of unusually severe disease in healthier populations.COVID-19 vaccines and existing immunity continue to offer strong protection against severe illness and hospitalisation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccines-saved-lives-or-killed-babies-fda-launches-broad-review-into-deaths-possibly-tied-to-coronavirus-shots-1765340246839">COVID vaccines saved lives or killed babies? FDA launches broad review into deaths possibly tied to Coronavirus shots</a><h2>Covid in India in 2025: A snapshot</h2>During the mid-year rise, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi recorded some of the higher active caseloads compared with other states.There is no large COVID-19 wave underway in India as of late 2025, but health authorities continue genomic and epidemiological surveillance.As of the latest official reports, India’s active COVID-19 cases are low compared with earlier peaks. The World Health Organization is monitoring Omicron descendant subvariants globally, including in India. There is no indication that the currently circulating subvariants are causing increased severity or significant immune escape.

There were some mild, localised increases in COVID-19 in India in 2025.  These are mainly driven by Omicron subvariants. Symptoms are mostly mild. Here is what else you should know

There has been a mild increase in COVID-19 cases at several points during 2025 in India, though there is no major nationwide resurgence. The most recent upticks have been modest and localised, not comparable to the large waves seen earlier in the pandemic. Covid cases in first half of 2025 In the first half of 2025, India experienced a rise in active cases in May–June. Active cases increased from around 257 in mid-May to over 1,000 in late May, and then rose to approximately 4,000 in early June, reaching more than 7,000 by mid-June. These increases coincided with the detection of several Omicron descendant subvariants. https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-visa-chaos-new-u-s-visa-rules-spark-confusion-chaos-over-social-media-checks-1765424017003/embed Which are the new Covid subvariants in India? The new subvariants detected in India include JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG. JN.1 has been circulating throughout 2025 and is one of the more frequently identified subvariants of Omicron. NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 have been detected in smaller numbers in states such as Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. XFG has been reported across several states. All of these subvariants are classified as Variants Under Monitoring and none are considered Variants of Concern or high-risk. Also read: China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US Symptoms associated with the new Covid subvariants The symptoms of JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG remain similar to previous Omicron lineages. These typically include mild respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue. Most cases have been mild. Deaths that have occurred are largely reported among elderly or medically vulnerable patients. There is no evidence of unusually severe disease in healthier populations. COVID-19 vaccines and existing immunity continue to offer strong protection against severe illness and hospitalisation. Also read: COVID vaccines saved lives or killed babies? FDA launches broad review into deaths possibly tied to Coronavirus shots Covid in India in 2025: A snapshot During the mid-year rise, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi recorded some of the higher active caseloads compared with other states. There is no large COVID-19 wave underway in India as of late 2025, but health authorities continue genomic and epidemiological surveillance. As of the latest official reports, India’s active COVID-19 cases are low compared with earlier peaks. The World Health Organization is monitoring Omicron descendant subvariants globally, including in India. There is no indication that the currently circulating subvariants are causing increased severity or significant immune escape.

There were some mild, localised increases in COVID-19 in India in 2025. &nbsp;These are mainly driven by Omicron subvariants. Symptoms are mostly mild. Here is what else you should know

Is COVID back in India? What variants are circulating? What you should know

India continues to witness some of the most severe wealth inequality globally, with the richest 10 per cent controlling nearly 65 per cent of total wealth, while the bottom 50 per cent owns just 6.4 per cent, as per the latest World Inequality Report released on Wednesday.&nbsp;The report, compiled by economists Lucas Chancel, Ricardo Gómez-Carrera, Rowaida Moshrif, and Thomas Piketty, highlights that the top 1 per cent of Indians alone possess around 40 per cent of India's wealth. When it comes to income distribution, the report states that the top 10 per cent account for 58 per cent of the country’s total income.<h3>India is one of the fastest-growing major economies</h3>Meanwhile, US Representative Bill Huizenga underscored the expansion of economic and strategic dimensions of the India-US partnership. He also emphasised the need for deeper cooperation to uphold stability in the Indo-Pacific and the growing interest of American businesses, according to a report in ANI.&nbsp;Bill's remark came while he was at the House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee's hearing, 'The US-India Strategic Partnership: Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific'. Huizenga highlighted India's rapid economic growth as a key player in commercial engagement. "India is one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world... American companies are eager to enter the Indian market on a level playing field," he added.&nbsp;He further added that "a new trade deal with India under President Trump and Prime Minister Modi would further realise this goal and enhance the relationship," and noted that economic engagement will be central to strengthening bilateral ties.&nbsp;He also underscored the broader strategic significance of US–India cooperation, highlighting the weight of their collective economic and geopolitical power. "I look forward to hearing from our witnesses on how the world's largest economy and the soon-to-be third-largest economy can work together to counterbalance China and preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific," he said.

The report highlights that the top 1 per cent of Indians alone possess around 40 per cent of India's wealth. When it comes to income distribution, the report states that the top 10 per cent account for 58 per cent of the country’s total income.

India continues to witness some of the most severe wealth inequality globally, with the richest 10 per cent controlling nearly 65 per cent of total wealth, while the bottom 50 per cent owns just 6.4 per cent, as per the latest World Inequality Report released on Wednesday. The report, compiled by economists Lucas Chancel, Ricardo Gómez-Carrera, Rowaida Moshrif, and Thomas Piketty, highlights that the top 1 per cent of Indians alone possess around 40 per cent of India's wealth. When it comes to income distribution, the report states that the top 10 per cent account for 58 per cent of the country’s total income. India is one of the fastest-growing major economies Meanwhile, US Representative Bill Huizenga underscored the expansion of economic and strategic dimensions of the India-US partnership. He also emphasised the need for deeper cooperation to uphold stability in the Indo-Pacific and the growing interest of American businesses, according to a report in ANI. Bill's remark came while he was at the House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee's hearing, 'The US-India Strategic Partnership: Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific'. Huizenga highlighted India's rapid economic growth as a key player in commercial engagement. "India is one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world... American companies are eager to enter the Indian market on a level playing field," he added. He further added that "a new trade deal with India under President Trump and Prime Minister Modi would further realise this goal and enhance the relationship," and noted that economic engagement will be central to strengthening bilateral ties. He also underscored the broader strategic significance of US–India cooperation, highlighting the weight of their collective economic and geopolitical power. "I look forward to hearing from our witnesses on how the world's largest economy and the soon-to-be third-largest economy can work together to counterbalance China and preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific," he said.

The report highlights that the top 1 per cent of Indians alone possess around 40 per cent of India's wealth. When it comes to income distribution, the report states that the top 10 per cent account for 58 per cent of the country’s total income.

Who really owns two-thirds of India's wealth? New report reveals shocking facts

Luthra brothers, the two siblings linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people, have been apprehended in Thailand. The procedure to extradite them to India for trial has commenced. The brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra, had absconded to Thailand after the tragic fire at their Birch by Romeo Lane venue in Arpora, North Goa. This comes as the Goa Police revealed that their investigation into the recent fire incident found that the Luthra brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand just as emergency teams were struggling to contain the blaze and rescue those trapped inside.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-fire-political-blame-game-begins-akhilesh-yadav-claims-bjp-helped-accused-flee-1765275228834">Goa nightclub fire: Akhilesh Yadav claims 'BJP helped accused flee'</a><h2>Luthra brothers fled soon after fire</h2>Thai officials said that Indian investigative agencies, in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Bangkok, had alerted Thai immigration and law enforcement after tracking the absconding brothers' movements to Thailand. Subsequently, a joint operation was conducted, leading to the suspects being located and detained at a hotel in Bangkok.According to the Goa Police, the Luthra brothers made the booking on the MakeMyTrip (MMT) platform at 1:17 am on December 7, a time when both the Goa Police and the Goa Fire Services were engaged in firefighting operations at the site. "Even as the Goa Police and Goa Fire Services were battling to douse the fire and rescue the people trapped inside, the Luthra brothers were preparing to flee the country," said officials.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-inferno-cm-sawant-orders-demolition-of-luthra-s-romeo-lane-beach-shack-in-vagator-goa-nightclub-inferno-blaze-goa-nightlife-1765278156241">Goa CM Sawant orders demolition of Luthra's Romeo Lane beach shack in Vagator</a><h2>Passport of Luthra brothers</h2>The Ministry of External Affairs, meanwhile, is examining a request from the Goa Government to revoke the passports of Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra under the Passports Act of India, as per extant rules. This comes after a Non-Bailable Warrant (NBW) for them, the brothers submitted a plea for protection. The Luthra brothers told the Rohini Court via their counsel that they were not evading arrest. They argued that they travelled to Thailand for work-related reasons and now wished to return to India but fear custodial action. Their lawyer said that the brothers were seeking a brief transit protection to approach the competent court in Goa.

The Luthra brothers, linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25, have been caught in Thailand. Goa Police say the duo booked tickets to flee while firefighters were still battling the blaze. India has begun extradition steps as their passports face cancellation.

Luthra brothers, the two siblings linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people, have been apprehended in Thailand. The procedure to extradite them to India for trial has commenced. The brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra, had absconded to Thailand after the tragic fire at their Birch by Romeo Lane venue in Arpora, North Goa. This comes as the Goa Police revealed that their investigation into the recent fire incident found that the Luthra brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand just as emergency teams were struggling to contain the blaze and rescue those trapped inside. Also read | Goa nightclub fire: Akhilesh Yadav claims 'BJP helped accused flee' Luthra brothers fled soon after fire Thai officials said that Indian investigative agencies, in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Bangkok, had alerted Thai immigration and law enforcement after tracking the absconding brothers' movements to Thailand. Subsequently, a joint operation was conducted, leading to the suspects being located and detained at a hotel in Bangkok. According to the Goa Police, the Luthra brothers made the booking on the MakeMyTrip (MMT) platform at 1:17 am on December 7, a time when both the Goa Police and the Goa Fire Services were engaged in firefighting operations at the site. "Even as the Goa Police and Goa Fire Services were battling to douse the fire and rescue the people trapped inside, the Luthra brothers were preparing to flee the country," said officials. Also read | Goa CM Sawant orders demolition of Luthra's Romeo Lane beach shack in Vagator Passport of Luthra brothers The Ministry of External Affairs, meanwhile, is examining a request from the Goa Government to revoke the passports of Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra under the Passports Act of India, as per extant rules. This comes after a Non-Bailable Warrant (NBW) for them, the brothers submitted a plea for protection. The Luthra brothers told the Rohini Court via their counsel that they were not evading arrest. They argued that they travelled to Thailand for work-related reasons and now wished to return to India but fear custodial action. Their lawyer said that the brothers were seeking a brief transit protection to approach the competent court in Goa.

The Luthra brothers, linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25, have been caught in Thailand. Goa Police say the duo booked tickets to flee while firefighters were still battling the blaze. India has begun extradition steps as their passports face cancellation.

Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers arrested in Thailand, extradition to India underway

After the ghee scam and the Parakamani theft cases the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) trust is again in news for a massive Rs 54 crore silk shawl scam, spanning a decade from 2015 to 2025. In the internal vigilance inquiry by the TTD it has come to light that that polyester shawls were allegedly passed off as silk at the revered Tirumala temple.&nbsp;Around Rs 54 crore was paid for over 10 years to a single vendor for supplying Pattu Sariga Duppattas (silk shawls) used to honour donors.<h2>Shawl fails quality test</h2>The samples of the shawls collected by the Vigilance Department from the Vaibhavotsava Mandapam in Tirumala were sent to the Central Silk Board (CSB) laboratories in Bengaluru and Dharmavaram for scientific analysis and quality checks, after which the &nbsp;revelation was made.Both the test centers confirmed that the fabric composition was polyester and not silk as claimed by the contractor and as as specified in the tender.&nbsp;Notably, a similar test done at the CSB office in Kancheepuram of the same consignment earlier was confirmed to be silk, while the samples tested at the Bengaluru and Dharmavaram CSB laboratories failed the quality test.&nbsp;The vigilance department sees some foul play in this as it argues that the sample sent by a TTD warehouse official may have been substituted. The vigilance report also hints at approval process at the Kancheepuram laboratory to be influenced.&nbsp;After the revelation, the TTD Board, which has requested the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for a detailed investigation into the alleged 'silk shawl scam'.&nbsp;Contract for the procurement of 15,000 Pattu Sariga Duppattas was given to the contractor at a rate of Rs 1,389.15 per piece. The &nbsp;pure mulberry silk shawls, were presented to major donors and used in temple rituals like the Vedasirvachanam.&nbsp;

The samples of the shawls collected by the Vigilance Department from the Vaibhavotsava Mandapam in Tirumala were sent to the Central Silk Board (CSB) laboratories in Bengaluru and Dharmavaram for scientific analysis and quality checks.

After the ghee scam and the Parakamani theft cases the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) trust is again in news for a massive Rs 54 crore silk shawl scam, spanning a decade from 2015 to 2025. In the internal vigilance inquiry by the TTD it has come to light that that polyester shawls were allegedly passed off as silk at the revered Tirumala temple. Around Rs 54 crore was paid for over 10 years to a single vendor for supplying Pattu Sariga Duppattas (silk shawls) used to honour donors. Shawl fails quality test The samples of the shawls collected by the Vigilance Department from the Vaibhavotsava Mandapam in Tirumala were sent to the Central Silk Board (CSB) laboratories in Bengaluru and Dharmavaram for scientific analysis and quality checks, after which the revelation was made. Both the test centers confirmed that the fabric composition was polyester and not silk as claimed by the contractor and as as specified in the tender. Notably, a similar test done at the CSB office in Kancheepuram of the same consignment earlier was confirmed to be silk, while the samples tested at the Bengaluru and Dharmavaram CSB laboratories failed the quality test. The vigilance department sees some foul play in this as it argues that the sample sent by a TTD warehouse official may have been substituted. The vigilance report also hints at approval process at the Kancheepuram laboratory to be influenced. After the revelation, the TTD Board, which has requested the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for a detailed investigation into the alleged 'silk shawl scam'. Contract for the procurement of 15,000 Pattu Sariga Duppattas was given to the contractor at a rate of Rs 1,389.15 per piece. The pure mulberry silk shawls, were presented to major donors and used in temple rituals like the Vedasirvachanam.

The samples of the shawls collected by the Vigilance Department from the Vaibhavotsava Mandapam in Tirumala were sent to the Central Silk Board (CSB) laboratories in Bengaluru and Dharmavaram for scientific analysis and quality checks.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam rocked by another 'scam',  polyester shawls sold as silk in temple

India has sharply criticised Pakistan at a United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, pointing out how Islamabad is subjecting the Afghan people to "trade and transit terrorism" through border closures and condemning recent airstrikes that killed civilians, including women, children and cricketers. Speaking about the situation in Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council, India's Permanent Representative Parvathaneni Harish echoed concerns raised by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) over Pakistani airstrikes."India echoes UNAMA’s concern over airstrikes and condemn the killing of innocent women, children and cricketers in Afghanistan," Mr Harish said. "We add our voice to calls for paying full respect to the United Nations Charter and international law with particular attention to protection of innocent civilians."Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have escalated in recent months, with repeated border clashes, airstrikes and trade disruptions. Pakistan has conducted several airstrikes inside Afghanistan, and attacks in border areas have killed many civilians. Ambassador Harish highlighted the economic fallout from Pakistan's closure of key border crossings, which has severely disrupted trade for landlocked Afghanistan."We also note with grave concern the practice of 'trade and transit terrorism' that the people of Afghanistan are being subjected to by the cynical closure of access for a landlocked country whose people are suffering numerous debilitating conditions since many years," he said. “These acts are in violation of WTO norms. Such open threats and acts of war against a fragile and vulnerable LLDC nation... constitute a blatant violation of the UN Charter and international law.”The UN report noted severe humanitarian and economic impacts from border clashes and closures, including displacement of families and losses for farmers during harvest season. On terrorism, the Indian Ambassador urged coordinated international efforts to prevent UN-designated groups, including Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, from using Afghan territory for cross-border attacks.He called for "pragmatic engagement" with the Taliban, warning that purely punitive measures would perpetuate a "business as usual" approach. Amid the criticism of Pakistan, India announced expanded humanitarian support, emphasising healthcare priorities."Healthcare is a particularly important need for the Afghan people right now," Mr Harish said. "In this regard, India has undertaken establishment of a Thalassemia Centre, a Modern Diagnostic Centre... Additionally, India will construct a 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, an Oncology Centre and a Trauma Centre in Kabul, and five Maternity Health Clinics."India has restored its technical mission in Kabul to full embassy status and continues over 500 development projects across Afghanistan. "As Afghanistan’s contiguous neighbour, India deeply values its civilizational relationship and centuries-old bonds of friendship," the envoy added.The UNSC meeting comes amid ongoing efforts to address Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, including the repatriation of millions of refugees, which has further strained resources.

"India echoes UNAMA’s concern over airstrikes and condemn the killing of innocent women, children and cricketers in Afghanistan," said India's Permanent Representative Parvathaneni Harish. 

India has sharply criticised Pakistan at a United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, pointing out how Islamabad is subjecting the Afghan people to "trade and transit terrorism" through border closures and condemning recent airstrikes that killed civilians, including women, children and cricketers. Speaking about the situation in Afghanistan at the United Nations Security Council, India's Permanent Representative Parvathaneni Harish echoed concerns raised by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) over Pakistani airstrikes. "India echoes UNAMA’s concern over airstrikes and condemn the killing of innocent women, children and cricketers in Afghanistan," Mr Harish said. "We add our voice to calls for paying full respect to the United Nations Charter and international law with particular attention to protection of innocent civilians." Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have escalated in recent months, with repeated border clashes, airstrikes and trade disruptions. Pakistan has conducted several airstrikes inside Afghanistan, and attacks in border areas have killed many civilians. Ambassador Harish highlighted the economic fallout from Pakistan's closure of key border crossings, which has severely disrupted trade for landlocked Afghanistan. "We also note with grave concern the practice of 'trade and transit terrorism' that the people of Afghanistan are being subjected to by the cynical closure of access for a landlocked country whose people are suffering numerous debilitating conditions since many years," he said. “These acts are in violation of WTO norms. Such open threats and acts of war against a fragile and vulnerable LLDC nation... constitute a blatant violation of the UN Charter and international law.” The UN report noted severe humanitarian and economic impacts from border clashes and closures, including displacement of families and losses for farmers during harvest season. On terrorism, the Indian Ambassador urged coordinated international efforts to prevent UN-designated groups, including Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, from using Afghan territory for cross-border attacks. He called for "pragmatic engagement" with the Taliban, warning that purely punitive measures would perpetuate a "business as usual" approach. Amid the criticism of Pakistan, India announced expanded humanitarian support, emphasising healthcare priorities. "Healthcare is a particularly important need for the Afghan people right now," Mr Harish said. "In this regard, India has undertaken establishment of a Thalassemia Centre, a Modern Diagnostic Centre... Additionally, India will construct a 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, an Oncology Centre and a Trauma Centre in Kabul, and five Maternity Health Clinics." India has restored its technical mission in Kabul to full embassy status and continues over 500 development projects across Afghanistan. "As Afghanistan’s contiguous neighbour, India deeply values its civilizational relationship and centuries-old bonds of friendship," the envoy added. The UNSC meeting comes amid ongoing efforts to address Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, including the repatriation of millions of refugees, which has further strained resources.

"India echoes UNAMA’s concern over airstrikes and condemn the killing of innocent women, children and cricketers in Afghanistan," said India's Permanent Representative Parvathaneni Harish.&nbsp;

Pakistan practising 'trade and transit terrorism' against Afghanistan, India tells UN

Taking serious note of large-scale passenger inconvenience faced by passengers due to widespread flight cancellations and delays by IndiGo Airlines in recent days, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has constituted a dedicated Oversight Team to be stationed at the airline's corporate office in Gurugram. In an internal order issued today, the aviation regulator stated that the move was necessitated "in view of passenger inconvenience caused due to large-scale disruptions in the operations of IndiGo Airlines at various airports across the country." The eight-member team is headed by Capt. Vikram Sharma, Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector (Airlines). Other members include Capt. Kapil Mangalik, SFOI(A); Capt VP Singh, SFOI(A); Capt. Apoorva Agarwal, SFOI(A); Capt. Swati Loomba, SFOI(A) , Capt. Aman Suhag, SFOI(A); Capt. Nitya Jain, FOI(A) ,Capt NJ Singh, FOI(A). Two members of this team will remain deployed on a daily rotational basis at IndiGo's Corporate Office at Emaar Capital Tower 2, Gurugram. They have been tasked to scrutinise critical operational parameters, including total fleet strength, average stage length, total number of pilots, network details, crew utilisation hours, deadheading, crew under training, split duties, unplanned leaves, daily flight-to-crew ratio, sectors affected due to crew shortage, and standby crew availability for both cockpit and cabin crew at each base. In addition, two DGCA officers -- Aishveer Singh, Deputy Director (AED), and Mani Bhushan, Senior Statistical Officer -- have also been deployed at the exact location to monitor: Daily cancellation status (domestic &amp; international), Refund processing by the airline and OTA platforms/travel agents, On-time performance, Passenger compensation as mandated under CAR Section 3 Series M Part IV, and baggage delivery status. According to the order, both teams are required to submit a consolidated daily report by 6 PM to the undersigned official as well as to Jai Prakash Pandey, Joint Director General, DGCA. The order has been issued with the Director General of Civil Aviation's approval.

In an internal order the aviation regulator stated that the move was necessitated "in view of passenger inconvenience caused because of large-scale disruptions in the operations of IndiGo Airlines at various airports across the country."
IndiGo Airlines

Taking serious note of large-scale passenger inconvenience faced by passengers due to widespread flight cancellations and delays by IndiGo Airlines in recent days, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has constituted a dedicated Oversight Team to be stationed at the airline's corporate office in Gurugram. In an internal order issued today, the aviation regulator stated that the move was necessitated "in view of passenger inconvenience caused due to large-scale disruptions in the operations of IndiGo Airlines at various airports across the country." The eight-member team is headed by Capt. Vikram Sharma, Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector (Airlines). Other members include Capt. Kapil Mangalik, SFOI(A); Capt VP Singh, SFOI(A); Capt. Apoorva Agarwal, SFOI(A); Capt. Swati Loomba, SFOI(A) , Capt. Aman Suhag, SFOI(A); Capt. Nitya Jain, FOI(A) ,Capt NJ Singh, FOI(A). Two members of this team will remain deployed on a daily rotational basis at IndiGo's Corporate Office at Emaar Capital Tower 2, Gurugram. They have been tasked to scrutinise critical operational parameters, including total fleet strength, average stage length, total number of pilots, network details, crew utilisation hours, deadheading, crew under training, split duties, unplanned leaves, daily flight-to-crew ratio, sectors affected due to crew shortage, and standby crew availability for both cockpit and cabin crew at each base. In addition, two DGCA officers -- Aishveer Singh, Deputy Director (AED), and Mani Bhushan, Senior Statistical Officer -- have also been deployed at the exact location to monitor: Daily cancellation status (domestic & international), Refund processing by the airline and OTA platforms/travel agents, On-time performance, Passenger compensation as mandated under CAR Section 3 Series M Part IV, and baggage delivery status. According to the order, both teams are required to submit a consolidated daily report by 6 PM to the undersigned official as well as to Jai Prakash Pandey, Joint Director General, DGCA. The order has been issued with the Director General of Civil Aviation's approval.

In an internal order, the aviation regulator stated that the move was necessitated “in view of passenger inconvenience caused due to large-scale disruptions in the operations of IndiGo Airlines at various airports across the country.”

IndiGo chaos forces DGCA to move in — oversight team stationed at airline's Gurgaon HQ

IndiGo Chairman and Non-Executive Independent Director Vikram Singh Mehta publicly apologised on Wednesday for the flight disruptions and denied any intentional wrongdoing by the airline, saying the carrier is committed to cooperating fully with regulatory investigations and regaining trust. In his apology, Mehta refuted the allegations that the airline had engineered the crisis to circumvent new pilot rest rules. In the eight-minute video message shared on X, Mehta acknowledged that the airline “let customers down,” and said that the operations are “back to normal, earlier than expected.” Mehta said the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is examining the chain of events that led to thousands of passengers being stranded across the country.&nbsp;He also added that IndiGo will appoint external technical experts to work alongside management “to determine the root causes and ensure this level of disruption never occurs again.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Message from Vikram Singh Mehta, Chairman and Non-Executive Independent Director of IndiGo <a href="https://t.co/sySacxlFq0">pic.twitter.com/sySacxlFq0</a>&mdash; IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1998785842567872568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-orders-release-of-jeffrey-epstein-grand-jury-records-from-2019-sex-trafficking-case-1765388910452">US judge orders release of Jeffrey Epstein grand jury records from 2019 sex trafficking case</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“There are some allegations that are untrue,” he said. “That IndiGo engineered the crisis. That we tried to influence government rules. That we compromised safety. These claims are incorrect. We operated under the updated pilot fatigue rules throughout July and November and did not attempt to bypass them.”&nbsp;He described December 3-5 as days when an “unexpected chain of events” overwhelmed the airline’s systems, citing minor technical snags, winter-schedule adjustments, adverse weather, congestion across the aviation network, and the transition to updated crew rostering norms. “This is not an excuse. This is simply the truth,” he said, calling the episode a “blemish on the company’s pristine record.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dgca-orders-urgent-inspections-at-11-airports-to-ensure-smooth-operations-after-indigo-chaos-1765367066081">DGCA orders urgent inspections at 11 airports to ensure smooth operations after IndiGo chaos</a>&nbsp;IndiGo has resumed full operations, flying 1,900 services across 138 destinations with normal punctuality levels, he said.He admitted that regaining public confidence will take time, and said, “Our company has erred. It has to win back your trust. It will depend on actions, not words.”&nbsp;IndiGo also posted a public update on X, saying all 65,000 employees were working “with all hands on deck” to restore operations.“Please have faith in us. We are getting there,” the statement read.&nbsp;Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu had blamed the disruption on IndiGo’s lapses and promised strict action. The DGCA has decided to constitute an Oversight Team that will be deployed to the airline’s corporate office in Gurugram to look into several aspects, including total fleet, pilot numbers, crew utilisation and unplanned leaves.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-aviation-minister-says-will-fire-indigo-chief-if-needed-can-government-sack-the-ceo-of-private-business-what-the-law-actually-allows-1765350448545">Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Even as Indigo operations across the country have stabilised, we continue to closely oversee the operations through the Ministry’s Control Room. A regular vigil is being maintained for real-time resolution of passenger grievances and the Control Room team is making all efforts… <a href="https://t.co/EGC5O78ROH">pic.twitter.com/EGC5O78ROH</a>&mdash; Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu (@RamMNK) <a href="https://twitter.com/RamMNK/status/1998784519802073236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“Even as Indigo operations across the country have stabilised, we continue to closely oversee the operations through the Ministry’s Control Room,” Naidu said on X. “A regular vigil is being maintained for real-time resolution of passenger grievances and the Control Room team is making all efforts to further enhance response time for prompt and effective redressal of passenger concerns.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-how-could-other-airlines-be-permitted-to-take-advantage-delhi-hc-pulls-up-centre-on-indigo-crisis-unreasonable-fare-surge-1765363000024">‘How could other airlines be permitted to take advantage’: Delhi HC pulls up Centre on IndiGo crisis, ‘unreasonable’ fare surge</a>

The DGCA has decided to constitute an Oversight Team that will be deployed to the airline’s corporate office in Gurugram to look into several aspects, including total fleet, pilot numbers, crew utilisation and unplanned leaves.

IndiGo Chairman and Non-Executive Independent Director Vikram Singh Mehta publicly apologised on Wednesday for the flight disruptions and denied any intentional wrongdoing by the airline, saying the carrier is committed to cooperating fully with regulatory investigations and regaining trust. In his apology, Mehta refuted the allegations that the airline had engineered the crisis to circumvent new pilot rest rules. In the eight-minute video message shared on X, Mehta acknowledged that the airline “let customers down,” and said that the operations are “back to normal, earlier than expected.” Mehta said the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is examining the chain of events that led to thousands of passengers being stranded across the country. He also added that IndiGo will appoint external technical experts to work alongside management “to determine the root causes and ensure this level of disruption never occurs again.”

The DGCA has decided to constitute an Oversight Team that will be deployed to the airline’s corporate office in Gurugram to look into several aspects, including total fleet, pilot numbers, crew utilisation and unplanned leaves.

IndiGo chairman apologises for chaos, denies charges of ‘engineering’ crisis to circumvent rules

Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has expressed optimism for advancing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), highlighting an improved situation in Gaza as a key enabler for progress on the ambitious infrastructure project. During a visit to New Delhi, his second this year, Tajani met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described their discussions as "very positive". He emphasised the strategic importance of IMEC, a trade and infrastructure corridor linking India to Europe via the Gulf, Israel, Egypt and the Mediterranean. "The meeting with the PM was very positive. Talking on the super relations between India &amp; Italy. On IMEC, on cooperation," Tajani said. "IMEC is a very important infrastructure and trade corridor, from India to Italy through Israel, through gulf, Egypt, through mediterranean sea, through Port of Trieste. This is very very important." Tajani linked the project's revival to regional developments: "Yes, because we are working to stop the situation in Gaza. Now the situation is much better, so it is possible to work, to start. We will start early, we have to work hard with other countries. Italy and India are strongly engaged. Situation in the Middle East is much better. Possible to work in the right direction. India, Italy are on the frontline." He noted recent engagements, including his visits to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where partners expressed support for deeper cooperation, adding: "We are ready for joint ventures with Italy and India." The IMEC initiative, announced at the 2023 G20 summit in New Delhi, has faced delays due to the Gaza conflict and regional tensions. With a fragile ceasefire holding and reduced violence, momentum appears to be building. Earlier, Tajani held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who welcomed the frequent engagements. "This is your second visit this year, but the fact that you come so often is very welcome for us. It shows a very strong commitment," Jaishankar said. "It has led to a very good relationship between us personally, between our governments, and our partnership which is built on democratic values, respect for our civilizations, for culture, for heritage, and our commitment to a stable, secure and prosperous world." Jaishankar added: "We are really moving forward on the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-29, of which a big part of it was the economic collaboration... I am sure you will have very very good discussions" on areas including defence, maritime security, space and critical technologies. Tajani, speaking to reporters, said PM Georgia Meloni will visit India in 2026. On broader ties, Tajani expressed optimism for an early India-EU free trade agreement: "We have spoken on this. We will push for achieving agreement early, I am optimistic." The visit concludes in Mumbai with an Italy-India Business Forum co-chaired by Tajani and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

During Delhi visit, Italian FM Tajani expresses optimism for IMEC Corridor amid improved Gaza situation

Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has expressed optimism for advancing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), highlighting an improved situation in Gaza as a key enabler for progress on the ambitious infrastructure project. During a visit to New Delhi, his second this year, Tajani met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described their discussions as "very positive". He emphasised the strategic importance of IMEC, a trade and infrastructure corridor linking India to Europe via the Gulf, Israel, Egypt and the Mediterranean. "The meeting with the PM was very positive. Talking on the super relations between India & Italy. On IMEC, on cooperation," Tajani said. "IMEC is a very important infrastructure and trade corridor, from India to Italy through Israel, through gulf, Egypt, through mediterranean sea, through Port of Trieste. This is very very important." Tajani linked the project's revival to regional developments: "Yes, because we are working to stop the situation in Gaza. Now the situation is much better, so it is possible to work, to start. We will start early, we have to work hard with other countries. Italy and India are strongly engaged. Situation in the Middle East is much better. Possible to work in the right direction. India, Italy are on the frontline." He noted recent engagements, including his visits to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where partners expressed support for deeper cooperation, adding: "We are ready for joint ventures with Italy and India." The IMEC initiative, announced at the 2023 G20 summit in New Delhi, has faced delays due to the Gaza conflict and regional tensions. With a fragile ceasefire holding and reduced violence, momentum appears to be building. Earlier, Tajani held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who welcomed the frequent engagements. "This is your second visit this year, but the fact that you come so often is very welcome for us. It shows a very strong commitment," Jaishankar said. "It has led to a very good relationship between us personally, between our governments, and our partnership which is built on democratic values, respect for our civilizations, for culture, for heritage, and our commitment to a stable, secure and prosperous world." Jaishankar added: "We are really moving forward on the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-29, of which a big part of it was the economic collaboration... I am sure you will have very very good discussions" on areas including defence, maritime security, space and critical technologies. Tajani, speaking to reporters, said PM Georgia Meloni will visit India in 2026. On broader ties, Tajani expressed optimism for an early India-EU free trade agreement: "We have spoken on this. We will push for achieving agreement early, I am optimistic." The visit concludes in Mumbai with an Italy-India Business Forum co-chaired by Tajani and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

During a visit to New Delhi, his second this year, Tajani met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described their discussions as very positive

The Ministry of External Affairs has received a request from the Goa government seeking cancellation of the passports of Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, the proprietors of the Goa nightclub where a weekend fire claimed 25 lives, according to reports. Officials said the ministry is reviewing the proposal under the provisions of the Indian Passports Act. The Luthra brothers, who allegedly left India soon after the fire erupted at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora late on Saturday (December 6) night, are currently being traced by law-enforcement agencies. The incident exposed multiple safety lapses and unauthorised construction at the establishment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-rajiv-gandhi-brought-evms-sir-done-several-times-under-nehru-indira-also-shah-slams-opposition-1765377338762">‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira also’: Shah slams Opposition</a>&nbsp;Saurabh Luthra and his brother Gaurav, Delhi-based entrepreneurs who run Birch by Romeo Lane, the Goa nightclub where a devastating fire claimed 25 lives late on Saturday, have left India, Goa Police confirmed on Monday (December 8). According to police, the brothers boarded an IndiGo flight 6E 1073 from Delhi to Phuket at 5:30 am on December 7, just a few hours after the blaze. The emergency call about the fire reached authorities shortly after midnight on Sunday. When investigators visited the Luthra residence in Delhi on Monday, the two were missing. Later, police announced that they had already flown out of the country. On Instagram, Saurabh Luthra issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended support to the victims’ families “in every possible way.” The fire, which erupted at the Arpora nightclub in North Goa, is suspected to have been triggered by a gas-cylinder explosion in the kitchen area. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has ordered a magisterial inquiry with a four-member committee to determine the cause and identify those responsible. Among the victims were three sisters, Anita, Kamla, and Saroj Joshi, and Vinod Kumar, the husband of another sister. Their last rites were held in Delhi on Monday.

Goa nightclub fire: MEA reviewing request to revoke passports of absconding owners, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra

The Ministry of External Affairs has received a request from the Goa government seeking cancellation of the passports of Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, the proprietors of the Goa nightclub where a weekend fire claimed 25 lives, according to reports. Officials said the ministry is reviewing the proposal under the provisions of the Indian Passports Act. The Luthra brothers, who allegedly left India soon after the fire erupted at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora late on Saturday (December 6) night, are currently being traced by law-enforcement agencies. The incident exposed multiple safety lapses and unauthorised construction at the establishment. Also Read: ‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira also’: Shah slams Opposition Saurabh Luthra and his brother Gaurav, Delhi-based entrepreneurs who run Birch by Romeo Lane, the Goa nightclub where a devastating fire claimed 25 lives late on Saturday, have left India, Goa Police confirmed on Monday (December 8). According to police, the brothers boarded an IndiGo flight 6E 1073 from Delhi to Phuket at 5:30 am on December 7, just a few hours after the blaze. The emergency call about the fire reached authorities shortly after midnight on Sunday. When investigators visited the Luthra residence in Delhi on Monday, the two were missing. Later, police announced that they had already flown out of the country. On Instagram, Saurabh Luthra issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended support to the victims’ families “in every possible way.” The fire, which erupted at the Arpora nightclub in North Goa, is suspected to have been triggered by a gas-cylinder explosion in the kitchen area. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has ordered a magisterial inquiry with a four-member committee to determine the cause and identify those responsible. Among the victims were three sisters, Anita, Kamla, and Saroj Joshi, and Vinod Kumar, the husband of another sister. Their last rites were held in Delhi on Monday.

India’s foreign ministry is reviewing Goa’s request to revoke the Luthra brothers’ passports after they fled the country following a nightclub fire that killed 25 people

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hit out at the opposition’s walkout on Wednesday with the ‘ghuspaithiya’ (illegal immigrant) jibe, saying that they walked out only when he started speaking about removing all illegal immigrants. “They walked out because of ‘ghuspaithiya’ because our policy is ‘detect, delete, and deport’. Their policy is to normalise infiltration, register them and then put them in voters’ list to normalise,” Shah said in Lok Sabha. He said he had also criticised Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi in the speech but the Opposition chose to walk out only when he spoke about illegal immigrants and infiltrators. Shah said the Opposition walkout would make no difference on the government’s policy and approach and asserted that “not a single infiltrator will be allowed to vote.”&nbsp;Shah attacked the opposition parties saying they only want to safeguard illegal immigrants and infiltrators. “The main concern of these parties is that they want to keep illegal residents and intruders on the voter list,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dgca-orders-urgent-inspections-at-11-airports-to-ensure-smooth-operations-after-indigo-chaos-1765367066081">DGCA orders urgent inspections at 11 airports to ensure smooth operations after IndiGo chaos</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, why is Congress opposing them,’ asks Shah</h2>&nbsp;Shah questioned why the opposition was opposing the Electronic Voting Machine that was introduced in 1989 under the Rajiv Gandhi government. He also recalled the 2004 and 2009 Lok Sabha elections, and asked why the Congress did not have a problem with EVM then.He also questioned why the Congress and other parties did not attend the EVM hackathon organised by the Election Commission and why they do not approach court with complaints over polls.&nbsp;<h2>‘SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira Gandhi also’</h2>&nbsp;Shah said the first SIR was conducted under first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952, and added that several SIRs were later held under the Congress governments, including that of Nehru and Indira Gandhi, in 1957, 1961, 1965-66, 1983-84.“Until 2004, no political party opposed the SIR. The process is essential for maintaining clean electoral rolls and a healthy democracy. If the electoral rolls—the foundation of elections—are not accurate and up-to-date, we cannot expect the election process to be transparent and fair. Therefore, periodic SIRs of electoral rolls are necessary,” said Shah.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-how-could-other-airlines-be-permitted-to-take-advantage-delhi-hc-pulls-up-centre-on-indigo-crisis-unreasonable-fare-surge-1765363000024">‘How could other airlines be permitted to take advantage’: Delhi HC pulls up Centre on IndiGo crisis, ‘unreasonable’ fare surge</a><h2>‘When you win, EC is great. When you lose, EC works at BJP’s behest?’</h2>&nbsp;“In his press conference, the LoP levelled allegations that the voter list is not corrected and needs to be rectified. So, what is SIR? It is the procedure to sanitise the voter list. He is opposing even when we are undertaking the process,” said Shah.“Double standards won’t work in a democracy. When you win, EC is great. When you lose, EC is useless and works at BJP’s behest,” he remarked.&nbsp;<h2>‘NDA won 3 Lok Sabha polls, 41 state polls since 2014, Cong also won 30’: Shah</h2>&nbsp;Union Home Minister lashed out at the Congress, saying the NDA won 3 Lok Sabha polls since 2014, along with 41 state polls. He added that the Congress also won 30 state polls during the last 11 years, and asked how would it have won if the elections were rigged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-aviation-minister-says-will-fire-indigo-chief-if-needed-can-government-sack-the-ceo-of-private-business-what-the-law-actually-allows-1765350448545">Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows</a>&nbsp;“Reason for electoral loss is your leadership, not EVM or electoral rolls. Opposition is worried because they can no longer run away with ballot boxes and win elections by corrupt practices,” Shah said.&nbsp;After the walkout, Rahul Gandhi said, “You should have seen the response of Home Minister, it was totally a defensive response, and what points we raised, he did not answer... I had said two-three things, I had asked for transparent voter list, he did not say a word, I had asked for sharing EVM architecture, he did not say a word... The CEC has been given full immunity...”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the first SIR was conducted under first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952 and added that several SIRs were later held under the Congress governments, including that of Nehru and Indira Gandhi, in 1957, 1961, 1965-66, 1983-84.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hit out at the opposition’s walkout on Wednesday with the ‘ghuspaithiya’ (illegal immigrant) jibe, saying that they walked out only when he started speaking about removing all illegal immigrants. “They walked out because of ‘ghuspaithiya’ because our policy is ‘detect, delete, and deport’. Their policy is to normalise infiltration, register them and then put them in voters’ list to normalise,” Shah said in Lok Sabha. He said he had also criticised Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi in the speech but the Opposition chose to walk out only when he spoke about illegal immigrants and infiltrators. Shah said the Opposition walkout would make no difference on the government’s policy and approach and asserted that “not a single infiltrator will be allowed to vote.” Shah attacked the opposition parties saying they only want to safeguard illegal immigrants and infiltrators. “The main concern of these parties is that they want to keep illegal residents and intruders on the voter list,” he added. Also Read: DGCA orders urgent inspections at 11 airports to ensure smooth operations after IndiGo chaos ‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, why is Congress opposing them,’ asks Shah Shah questioned why the opposition was opposing the Electronic Voting Machine that was introduced in 1989 under the Rajiv Gandhi government. He also recalled the 2004 and 2009 Lok Sabha elections, and asked why the Congress did not have a problem with EVM then. He also questioned why the Congress and other parties did not attend the EVM hackathon organised by the Election Commission and why they do not approach court with complaints over polls. ‘SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira Gandhi also’ Shah said the first SIR was conducted under first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952, and added that several SIRs were later held under the Congress governments, including that of Nehru and Indira Gandhi, in 1957, 1961, 1965-66, 1983-84. “Until 2004, no political party opposed the SIR. The process is essential for maintaining clean electoral rolls and a healthy democracy. If the electoral rolls—the foundation of elections—are not accurate and up-to-date, we cannot expect the election process to be transparent and fair. Therefore, periodic SIRs of electoral rolls are necessary,” said Shah. Also Read: ‘How could other airlines be permitted to take advantage’: Delhi HC pulls up Centre on IndiGo crisis, ‘unreasonable’ fare surge ‘When you win, EC is great. When you lose, EC works at BJP’s behest?’ “In his press conference, the LoP levelled allegations that the voter list is not corrected and needs to be rectified. So, what is SIR? It is the procedure to sanitise the voter list. He is opposing even when we are undertaking the process,” said Shah. “Double standards won’t work in a democracy. When you win, EC is great. When you lose, EC is useless and works at BJP’s behest,” he remarked. ‘NDA won 3 Lok Sabha polls, 41 state polls since 2014, Cong also won 30’: Shah Union Home Minister lashed out at the Congress, saying the NDA won 3 Lok Sabha polls since 2014, along with 41 state polls. He added that the Congress also won 30 state polls during the last 11 years, and asked how would it have won if the elections were rigged. Also Read: Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows “Reason for electoral loss is your leadership, not EVM or electoral rolls. Opposition is worried because they can no longer run away with ballot boxes and win elections by corrupt practices,” Shah said. After the walkout, Rahul Gandhi said, “You should have seen the response of Home Minister, it was totally a defensive response, and what points we raised, he did not answer... I had said two-three things, I had asked for transparent voter list, he did not say a word, I had asked for sharing EVM architecture, he did not say a word... The CEC has been given full immunity...”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the first SIR was conducted under first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952 and added that several SIRs were later held under the Congress governments, including that of Nehru and Indira Gandhi, in 1957, 1961, 1965-66, 1983-84.

‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira also’: Shah slams Opposition

US trade representative Jamieson Greer said on Wednesday (December 10) that India continues to be a challenging partner in trade talks, even as Washington receives some of the most promising offers New Delhi has ever presented. His comments came during a discussion on expanding US export destinations, especially in the agricultural sector.&nbsp;Greer noted that a US team is currently in New Delhi negotiating key market-access issues. “Our negotiators are on the ground right now. India still shows reluctance regarding certain row crops, meats, and other agricultural items,” he was quoted as saying, describing the Indian market as historically difficult to penetrate.&nbsp;Despite these obstacles, Greer acknowledged a shift in India’s approach. “They’ve been surprisingly proactive. The proposals we’re hearing are stronger than anything we’ve previously seen,” he said, calling India an increasingly attractive market as the US looks to broaden its export portfolio. He also highlighted that several countries, such as Cambodia, have already eased barriers for US goods, and rising global demand for biofuels, including soybean-based products, is opening new avenues for exporters. Greer stressed that Washington aims to diversify by engaging with “every country and every opportunity.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-alarm-sparks-urgent-nationwide-push-for-cervical-cancer-prevention-ck-birla-hospitals-sets-5-000-hpv-vaccinations-goal-1765368656485">Parliament alarm sparks urgent nationwide push for cervical cancer prevention; CK Birla Hospitals sets 5,000 HPV vaccinations goal</a>&nbsp;At the same time, he underscored the continued importance of trade with China, saying, “There’s mutual need, they rely on our products, and we want continued access to their market.” Meanwhile, US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker met Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to advance the strategic and economic agenda outlined by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their February meeting. Hooker, on a five-day visit to India, said the discussion focused on turning that shared vision into “practical steps that strengthen U.S. security, economic competitiveness, and support India’s long-term priorities.”

US officials say India remains difficult in trade talks but is offering its strongest proposals yet, as both sides push forward on a potential bilateral trade deal

US trade representative Jamieson Greer said on Wednesday (December 10) that India continues to be a challenging partner in trade talks, even as Washington receives some of the most promising offers New Delhi has ever presented. His comments came during a discussion on expanding US export destinations, especially in the agricultural sector. Greer noted that a US team is currently in New Delhi negotiating key market-access issues. “Our negotiators are on the ground right now. India still shows reluctance regarding certain row crops, meats, and other agricultural items,” he was quoted as saying, describing the Indian market as historically difficult to penetrate. Despite these obstacles, Greer acknowledged a shift in India’s approach. “They’ve been surprisingly proactive. The proposals we’re hearing are stronger than anything we’ve previously seen,” he said, calling India an increasingly attractive market as the US looks to broaden its export portfolio. He also highlighted that several countries, such as Cambodia, have already eased barriers for US goods, and rising global demand for biofuels, including soybean-based products, is opening new avenues for exporters. Greer stressed that Washington aims to diversify by engaging with “every country and every opportunity.” Also Read: Parliament alarm sparks urgent nationwide push for cervical cancer prevention; CK Birla Hospitals sets 5,000 HPV vaccinations goal At the same time, he underscored the continued importance of trade with China, saying, “There’s mutual need, they rely on our products, and we want continued access to their market.” Meanwhile, US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker met Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to advance the strategic and economic agenda outlined by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their February meeting. Hooker, on a five-day visit to India, said the discussion focused on turning that shared vision into “practical steps that strengthen U.S. security, economic competitiveness, and support India’s long-term priorities.”

US officials say India remains difficult in trade talks but is offering its strongest proposals yet, as both sides push forward on a potential bilateral trade deal

'Best offer ever': Despite challenges, India puts forward strongest trade terms yet, says US trade representative Jamieson Greer

Days after the Rajya Sabha highlighted the alarming toll of cervical cancer in India, claiming more than 75,000 women's lives every year, lawmakers and clinicians have now demanded urgent national action to scale HPV vaccination. With India holding one of the highest global cervical cancer burdens, the conversation around prevention has never been more relevant.&nbsp;Amid this critical moment, CK Birla Hospitals has launched one of the region’s most ambitious cervical cancer prevention initiatives, aiming to administer the first 5,000 HPV vaccinations across Jaipur and Kolkata. Following the Rajya Sabha's statement on cervical cancer deaths among Indian women, doctors and Senior Consultants shared their mixed perspectives on the urgency of timely vaccination and preventive measures.&nbsp;1. Why is HPV vaccination demand expected to rise sharply after the Rajya Sabha statement?&nbsp;Dr. C. P. Dadhich, Director – Obstetrics &amp; Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, said the remarks in Parliament have created a shift in public perception as "families begin to recognise HPV vaccination as essential, not optional".&nbsp;“The Rajya Sabha’s acknowledgment of India losing more than 75,000 women to cervical cancer every year has brought national attention to an issue we clinicians have been raising for years. When policymakers highlight the urgency, families begin to recognise HPV vaccination as essential, not optional. We expect a significant rise in demand because parents now understand that timely vaccination is the most effective way to protect young girls from preventable cancer. At CK Birla Hospitals, we are already experiencing increased community engagement through our cervical cancer prevention drive, where our goal is to vaccinate the first 5,000 girls across Jaipur and Kolkata," Dadhich said.&nbsp;2. How can India prevent nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases with timely vaccination?&nbsp;Dr. Parnamita Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant – Gynaecologist &amp; Obstetrician, CMRI Kolkata, underscored that early vaccination offers near-total protection against the most dangerous HPV strains. Bhattacharya added that preventing cancer before it begins is far more effective than detecting it at the early stages.&nbsp;“More than 80% of cervical cancer cases in India are linked to high-risk HPV types 16 and 18. The HPV vaccine directly protects against these strains, which is why global data shows up to a 90% reduction in cervical cancer when vaccination coverage is high. The key is timing—vaccinating girls before exposure, ideally between 9–14 years. Through our ongoing HPV vaccination initiative at CK Birla Hospitals and CMRI Kolkata, we are trying to bridge this preventive gap by ensuring young girls receive protection at the right age. Preventing cancer before it begins is far more effective than detecting it early," Dr. Parnamita Bhattacharya said.&nbsp;3. What myths continue to delay vaccination among girls and parents?&nbsp;Dr. C. P. Dadhich warned that misinformation remains one of the biggest barriers, as misconceptions persist among parents resulting in contributing to delays in vaccination despite medical evidence.&nbsp;“One of the biggest hurdles is misinformation—many parents still believe the vaccine affects fertility, when in reality it has no adverse impact on reproductive health. Another misconception is that vaccination is only needed if girls are sexually active, which is incorrect. The vaccine is most effective when given at a younger age. Some families also fear side effects, although the HPV vaccine has been globally proven to be extremely safe," Dr. C. P. Dadhich added.&nbsp;4. Why does India still lose 9 women every hour to a preventable cancer?&nbsp;Dr. Parnamita Bhattacharya added that gaps in awareness, stigma around testing and lack of routine screening contribute to the high mortality rate. “The tragedy of cervical cancer in India is that the disease is preventable, yet awareness, screening, and vaccination are still far from universal. Many women delay Pap or HPV testing due to stigma, lack of symptoms, or limited access to preventive care. A huge gap exists between knowing and acting. This is why cervical cancer continues to claim 9 lives every hour. At CMRI Kolkata, our clinical teams are working through schools, local communities, and outreach programmes to educate families about timely vaccination and screening—because prevention only works when it reaches every household.”&nbsp;5. How can large-scale hospital-led drives like CK Birla Hospitals’ model accelerate prevention?&nbsp;Arpit Jain, Vice President – CK Birla Hospitals, stated that a large hospital network can play a transformative role in expanding access. “Hospital-led vaccination models can fast-track prevention because they combine clinical expertise with on-ground community outreach. Our cervical cancer prevention drive across Jaipur and Kolkata is designed to make vaccination accessible, trusted, and convenient. By setting up free HPV vaccination clinics, organising school sessions, and engaging parents directly, we are creating an ecosystem where awareness translates into action. With the target of vaccinating 5,000 girls in the first phase, we hope to demonstrate how multi-city, hospital-driven initiatives can support India’s long-term goal of eliminating cervical cancer," the Vice President said.&nbsp;With national attention now on cervical cancer prevention, this is a timely moment to highlight how hospitals, policy and public awareness can come together to reduce India’s future cancer burden.

Following the Rajya Sabha's statement on cervical cancer deaths among Indian women, doctors and Senior Consultants shared their mixed perspectives on the urgency of timely vaccination and preventive measures.

Days after the Rajya Sabha highlighted the alarming toll of cervical cancer in India, claiming more than 75,000 women's lives every year, lawmakers and clinicians have now demanded urgent national action to scale HPV vaccination. With India holding one of the highest global cervical cancer burdens, the conversation around prevention has never been more relevant. Amid this critical moment, CK Birla Hospitals has launched one of the region’s most ambitious cervical cancer prevention initiatives, aiming to administer the first 5,000 HPV vaccinations across Jaipur and Kolkata. Following the Rajya Sabha's statement on cervical cancer deaths among Indian women, doctors and Senior Consultants shared their mixed perspectives on the urgency of timely vaccination and preventive measures. 1. Why is HPV vaccination demand expected to rise sharply after the Rajya Sabha statement? Dr. C. P. Dadhich, Director – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, said the remarks in Parliament have created a shift in public perception as "families begin to recognise HPV vaccination as essential, not optional". “The Rajya Sabha’s acknowledgment of India losing more than 75,000 women to cervical cancer every year has brought national attention to an issue we clinicians have been raising for years. When policymakers highlight the urgency, families begin to recognise HPV vaccination as essential, not optional. We expect a significant rise in demand because parents now understand that timely vaccination is the most effective way to protect young girls from preventable cancer. At CK Birla Hospitals, we are already experiencing increased community engagement through our cervical cancer prevention drive, where our goal is to vaccinate the first 5,000 girls across Jaipur and Kolkata," Dadhich said. 2. How can India prevent nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases with timely vaccination? Dr. Parnamita Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant – Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, CMRI Kolkata, underscored that early vaccination offers near-total protection against the most dangerous HPV strains. Bhattacharya added that preventing cancer before it begins is far more effective than detecting it at the early stages. “More than 80% of cervical cancer cases in India are linked to high-risk HPV types 16 and 18. The HPV vaccine directly protects against these strains, which is why global data shows up to a 90% reduction in cervical cancer when vaccination coverage is high. The key is timing—vaccinating girls before exposure, ideally between 9–14 years. Through our ongoing HPV vaccination initiative at CK Birla Hospitals and CMRI Kolkata, we are trying to bridge this preventive gap by ensuring young girls receive protection at the right age. Preventing cancer before it begins is far more effective than detecting it early," Dr. Parnamita Bhattacharya said. 3. What myths continue to delay vaccination among girls and parents? Dr. C. P. Dadhich warned that misinformation remains one of the biggest barriers, as misconceptions persist among parents resulting in contributing to delays in vaccination despite medical evidence. “One of the biggest hurdles is misinformation—many parents still believe the vaccine affects fertility, when in reality it has no adverse impact on reproductive health. Another misconception is that vaccination is only needed if girls are sexually active, which is incorrect. The vaccine is most effective when given at a younger age. Some families also fear side effects, although the HPV vaccine has been globally proven to be extremely safe," Dr. C. P. Dadhich added. 4. Why does India still lose 9 women every hour to a preventable cancer? Dr. Parnamita Bhattacharya added that gaps in awareness, stigma around testing and lack of routine screening contribute to the high mortality rate. “The tragedy of cervical cancer in India is that the disease is preventable, yet awareness, screening, and vaccination are still far from universal. Many women delay Pap or HPV testing due to stigma, lack of symptoms, or limited access to preventive care. A huge gap exists between knowing and acting. This is why cervical cancer continues to claim 9 lives every hour. At CMRI Kolkata, our clinical teams are working through schools, local communities, and outreach programmes to educate families about timely vaccination and screening—because prevention only works when it reaches every household.” 5. How can large-scale hospital-led drives like CK Birla Hospitals’ model accelerate prevention? Arpit Jain, Vice President – CK Birla Hospitals, stated that a large hospital network can play a transformative role in expanding access. “Hospital-led vaccination models can fast-track prevention because they combine clinical expertise with on-ground community outreach. Our cervical cancer prevention drive across Jaipur and Kolkata is designed to make vaccination accessible, trusted, and convenient. By setting up free HPV vaccination clinics, organising school sessions, and engaging parents directly, we are creating an ecosystem where awareness translates into action. With the target of vaccinating 5,000 girls in the first phase, we hope to demonstrate how multi-city, hospital-driven initiatives can support India’s long-term goal of eliminating cervical cancer," the Vice President said. With national attention now on cervical cancer prevention, this is a timely moment to highlight how hospitals, policy and public awareness can come together to reduce India’s future cancer burden.

Following the Rajya Sabha's statement on cervical cancer deaths among Indian women, doctors and Senior Consultants shared their mixed perspectives on the urgency of timely vaccination and preventive measures.

Parliament alarm sparks urgent nationwide push for cervical cancer prevention; CK Birla Hospitals sets 5,000 HPV vaccinations goal

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered immediate on-site inspections at 11 major airports across the country after massive flight disruptions in IndiGo’s operations caused immense inconvenience and losses to passengers. The aviation regulator directed its officers to visit 11 airports at Jaipur, Lucknow, Amritsar, Tirupati, Shirdi, Nagpur, Bhopal, Surat, Vijayawada, Cochin, and Dehradun within two to three days and submit a comprehensive report within 24 hours of completing their inspection.As per the order, the inspections aim to assess safety preparedness, operational readiness, the quality of passenger facilitation, and the airline’s responsiveness during the ongoing disruption.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-how-could-other-airlines-be-permitted-to-take-advantage-delhi-hc-pulls-up-centre-on-indigo-crisis-unreasonable-fare-surge-1765363000024">‘How could other airlines be permitted to take advantage’: Delhi HC pulls up Centre on IndiGo crisis, ‘unreasonable’ fare surge</a>&nbsp;The inspecting DGCA officers will also closely examine the status of flight delays and cancellations, congestion at terminal areas, management of queues at check-in counters, security points, and boarding gates, and if adequate operational manpower is deployed by both IndiGo and the airport.&nbsp;The officials have also been directed to look at whether airline help desks are being manned round the clock, the quality and timeliness of information being communicated to passengers about delays and cancellations, and the availability of essential amenities such as drinking water.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-aviation-minister-says-will-fire-indigo-chief-if-needed-can-government-sack-the-ceo-of-private-business-what-the-law-actually-allows-1765350448545">Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows</a>&nbsp;The DGCA has also instructed the officials to check the assistance provided to senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and passengers with reduced mobility.&nbsp;The officials will also review seating arrangements in holding areas, the presence of senior airline management, and the hygiene and cleanliness of toilets and other terminal facilities, besides the deployment of housekeeping staff.They will also examine the status of pending baggage deliveries and any backlog and interact directly with passengers for feedback on the support they have received.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aviation-regulator-dgca-issues-show-cause-notice-to-indigo-ceo-over-crisis-1765040272497">‘You failed in your duty’: Aviation regulator DGCA issues show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO over crisis</a>&nbsp;The DGCA has also asked officers to check whether dedicated help desks run by IndiGo are functioning effectively, whether the airline and airport operator have established operational control rooms, and whether grievance handling mechanisms are working as intended. The order also states that the timeliness of SMS, WhatsApp, and email notifications being sent to passengers regarding delays and cancellations will be scrutinised.&nbsp;The order also instructs all the officers to coordinate with airport directors, airline station heads, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and airport operators to ensure a complete assessment.

The DGCA officers will also closely examine the status of flight delays and cancellations, congestion at terminal areas, management of queues at check-in counters, security points, and boarding gates, and if adequate operational manpower is deployed by both IndiGo and the airport.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered immediate on-site inspections at 11 major airports across the country after massive flight disruptions in IndiGo’s operations caused immense inconvenience and losses to passengers. The aviation regulator directed its officers to visit 11 airports at Jaipur, Lucknow, Amritsar, Tirupati, Shirdi, Nagpur, Bhopal, Surat, Vijayawada, Cochin, and Dehradun within two to three days and submit a comprehensive report within 24 hours of completing their inspection. As per the order, the inspections aim to assess safety preparedness, operational readiness, the quality of passenger facilitation, and the airline’s responsiveness during the ongoing disruption. Also Read: ‘How could other airlines be permitted to take advantage’: Delhi HC pulls up Centre on IndiGo crisis, ‘unreasonable’ fare surge The inspecting DGCA officers will also closely examine the status of flight delays and cancellations, congestion at terminal areas, management of queues at check-in counters, security points, and boarding gates, and if adequate operational manpower is deployed by both IndiGo and the airport. The officials have also been directed to look at whether airline help desks are being manned round the clock, the quality and timeliness of information being communicated to passengers about delays and cancellations, and the availability of essential amenities such as drinking water. Also Read: Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows The DGCA has also instructed the officials to check the assistance provided to senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and passengers with reduced mobility. The officials will also review seating arrangements in holding areas, the presence of senior airline management, and the hygiene and cleanliness of toilets and other terminal facilities, besides the deployment of housekeeping staff. They will also examine the status of pending baggage deliveries and any backlog and interact directly with passengers for feedback on the support they have received. Also Read: ‘You failed in your duty’: Aviation regulator DGCA issues show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO over crisis The DGCA has also asked officers to check whether dedicated help desks run by IndiGo are functioning effectively, whether the airline and airport operator have established operational control rooms, and whether grievance handling mechanisms are working as intended. The order also states that the timeliness of SMS, WhatsApp, and email notifications being sent to passengers regarding delays and cancellations will be scrutinised. The order also instructs all the officers to coordinate with airport directors, airline station heads, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and airport operators to ensure a complete assessment.

The DGCA officers will also closely examine the status of flight delays and cancellations, congestion at terminal areas, management of queues at check-in counters, security points, and boarding gates, and if adequate operational manpower is deployed by both IndiGo and the airport.

DGCA orders urgent inspections at 11 airports to ensure smooth operations after IndiGo chaos

Oman’s ambassador to India has highlighted growing investment, trade, and defence cooperation with India, as the two countries prepare for an imminent Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Ambassador Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal said, "The announcement of the Indian government that the negotiation has concluded. So hopefully...some positive news in the near future."&nbsp;He noted increased Indian investments in Oman, with businessmen viewing it as a key destination, while Omani investors eye opportunities in India's vast economy. The Oman embassy on Wednesday hosted the Suhar investment forum that saw attendance of business leaders and top Delhi-based diplomats of West Asia.&nbsp;&nbsp;On defence, Alshibani described ties as deep-rooted, citing Oman's supply of spare parts for India's Jaguar jets. "Jaguar spare parts are one way of showing the depth of this defence relationship." Oman pioneered joint exercises with all three Indian armed forces branches. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to visit Oman next week amid 70 years of diplomatic relations, the ambassador praised mutual stability and shared Indian Ocean interests, expecting further growth in bilateral links.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How do you characterize the relationship?Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: I think the relationship nobody doubts is deeply rooted. It has been historic, going back thousands of years; the interaction between either government or people-to-people has been progressing. This year, we celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, but the relationship goes way further than that. In this relationship, we had seen high-level engagements. His Majesty visited India in 2023, and the Indian Prime Minister is expected to visit Oman by the middle of this month.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: So in terms of the investment relationship, in terms of the trading relationship, how do you see the relationship going forward? We had the Suhar investment forum in India.&nbsp;Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: So we have seen increased interest in terms of investments coming from India. Many businessmen see Oman as a destination for their investment. Of course, there have been ongoing discussions with regard to a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, a CEPA agreement. The CEPA agreement will provide a platform to ease and make a business interaction more transparent and more straightforward. It is mentioned within the joint vision documents, during His Majesty's visit. That we are looking into the initiation of the negotiation and completing those negotiations in a very speedy time. So negotiation has been going on after His Majesty's visit and the announcement of the Indian government that the negotiation has concluded. So hopefully the outcome of that will be some positive news in the near future.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: And your view on the diaspora connect?Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: So according to statistics, there are around 700,000 Indians who are living in Oman. They feel that Oman is a second home to them, and to commemorate the old historic relationship, it is within the joint vision diplomat where the Indian side has decided to build a stitch ship that will sail from Mandvi to Oman, that is where it shows the depth of this relationship between the two countries.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: So in terms of connectivity, what are we looking at between the two sides?Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: So in terms of air, we have more than 11 flights per day going from different airports in India. In terms of sea is where there has been so much development, in terms of Oman ports. We have now three strategic ports in Oman, where Indian investors see those as a potential ports for them, for trade. Oman has been strategically located, and people and investors in India understand. In terms of the infrastructure of most of the ports, there have been so much developments, and there is always a plan for expansion and development of these ports.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: We spoke about Indian investment to Oman. If you can give us a broader picture of Omani investment in India.Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: India is one of the largest economies in Asia. Omani investors as well, they see India as a very potential investment place. We have seen an interest. Whenever there is a business delegation for Oman, there is a huge interest from Omanis as well to come and explore. I think you know what we are going to see is that in future, we will see much huge interest from the Omani investors as well to come in India and look into opportunities to invest.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Defense relationship, it has been growing. They have been training together by the Omani side and the Indian side. So if you can talk about the military relationship, and there have been reports of Omani side giving spare parts for Jaguar fighter jets as well, perhaps, if you'd like to talk about that, as well.Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani:&nbsp;Jaguar spare parts is one way of showing the depth of this defense relationship. Oman was the first country to establish joint exercises on the three forces, and it has been continuing for the last many years. And I think the benefit from both sides is where we have seen it mutual. There has been a huge appreciation of the opportunity for those joint exercises and and I think that is going again to grow. We share the Indian Ocean, and I think that is a very important point with regards to the military collaboration that we have seen. India is looking into enhance its defence industry.&nbsp;Sidhant sibal: Will it be right to say that Oman is India's closest partner in West Asia, given the historical relationship, the cultural relationship, the connectivity..Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: I think that is demonstrated very well. During the His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, we have seen some of his initial visits coming to India, and within a very short time. Now expections on PM Modi's visit. That shows, really, the scope of the relationship, how this relationship is strong. I think both countries are very stable in terms of economy and governance, and where we have seen that both countries have an approach of extending the notion of dialog and stability within the region. I agree with you that the relationship is strong. The relationship is historic, and the people to people connection has been there and is growing year after year.

Oman pioneered joint exercises with all three Indian armed forces branches. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to visit Oman next week amid 70 years of relations, the ambassador praised mutual stability and shared Indian Ocean interests, expecting further growth in bilateral ties.

Oman’s ambassador to India has highlighted growing investment, trade, and defence cooperation with India, as the two countries prepare for an imminent Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Ambassador Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal said, "The announcement of the Indian government that the negotiation has concluded. So hopefully...some positive news in the near future." He noted increased Indian investments in Oman, with businessmen viewing it as a key destination, while Omani investors eye opportunities in India's vast economy. The Oman embassy on Wednesday hosted the Suhar investment forum that saw attendance of business leaders and top Delhi-based diplomats of West Asia. On defence, Alshibani described ties as deep-rooted, citing Oman's supply of spare parts for India's Jaguar jets. "Jaguar spare parts are one way of showing the depth of this defence relationship." Oman pioneered joint exercises with all three Indian armed forces branches. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to visit Oman next week amid 70 years of diplomatic relations, the ambassador praised mutual stability and shared Indian Ocean interests, expecting further growth in bilateral links. Sidhant Sibal: How do you characterize the relationship? Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: I think the relationship nobody doubts is deeply rooted. It has been historic, going back thousands of years; the interaction between either government or people-to-people has been progressing. This year, we celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, but the relationship goes way further than that. In this relationship, we had seen high-level engagements. His Majesty visited India in 2023, and the Indian Prime Minister is expected to visit Oman by the middle of this month. Sidhant Sibal: So in terms of the investment relationship, in terms of the trading relationship, how do you see the relationship going forward? We had the Suhar investment forum in India. Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: So we have seen increased interest in terms of investments coming from India. Many businessmen see Oman as a destination for their investment. Of course, there have been ongoing discussions with regard to a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, a CEPA agreement. The CEPA agreement will provide a platform to ease and make a business interaction more transparent and more straightforward. It is mentioned within the joint vision documents, during His Majesty's visit. That we are looking into the initiation of the negotiation and completing those negotiations in a very speedy time. So negotiation has been going on after His Majesty's visit and the announcement of the Indian government that the negotiation has concluded. So hopefully the outcome of that will be some positive news in the near future. Sidhant Sibal: And your view on the diaspora connect? Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: So according to statistics, there are around 700,000 Indians who are living in Oman. They feel that Oman is a second home to them, and to commemorate the old historic relationship, it is within the joint vision diplomat where the Indian side has decided to build a stitch ship that will sail from Mandvi to Oman, that is where it shows the depth of this relationship between the two countries. Sidhant Sibal: So in terms of connectivity, what are we looking at between the two sides? Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: So in terms of air, we have more than 11 flights per day going from different airports in India. In terms of sea is where there has been so much development, in terms of Oman ports. We have now three strategic ports in Oman, where Indian investors see those as a potential ports for them, for trade. Oman has been strategically located, and people and investors in India understand. In terms of the infrastructure of most of the ports, there have been so much developments, and there is always a plan for expansion and development of these ports. Sidhant Sibal: We spoke about Indian investment to Oman. If you can give us a broader picture of Omani investment in India. Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: India is one of the largest economies in Asia. Omani investors as well, they see India as a very potential investment place. We have seen an interest. Whenever there is a business delegation for Oman, there is a huge interest from Omanis as well to come and explore. I think you know what we are going to see is that in future, we will see much huge interest from the Omani investors as well to come in India and look into opportunities to invest. Sidhant Sibal: Defense relationship, it has been growing. They have been training together by the Omani side and the Indian side. So if you can talk about the military relationship, and there have been reports of Omani side giving spare parts for Jaguar fighter jets as well, perhaps, if you'd like to talk about that, as well. Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: Jaguar spare parts is one way of showing the depth of this defense relationship. Oman was the first country to establish joint exercises on the three forces, and it has been continuing for the last many years. And I think the benefit from both sides is where we have seen it mutual. There has been a huge appreciation of the opportunity for those joint exercises and and I think that is going again to grow. We share the Indian Ocean, and I think that is a very important point with regards to the military collaboration that we have seen. India is looking into enhance its defence industry. Sidhant sibal: Will it be right to say that Oman is India's closest partner in West Asia, given the historical relationship, the cultural relationship, the connectivity.. Amb Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani: I think that is demonstrated very well. During the His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, we have seen some of his initial visits coming to India, and within a very short time. Now expections on PM Modi's visit. That shows, really, the scope of the relationship, how this relationship is strong. I think both countries are very stable in terms of economy and governance, and where we have seen that both countries have an approach of extending the notion of dialog and stability within the region. I agree with you that the relationship is strong. The relationship is historic, and the people to people connection has been there and is growing year after year.

Oman pioneered joint exercises with all three Indian armed forces branches. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to visit Oman next week amid 70 years of relations, the ambassador praised mutual stability and shared Indian Ocean interests, expecting further growth in bilateral ties.

Oman ambassador Issa Saleh Abdullah hails deepening trade, investment, and defence ties with India

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday rapped the Centre over the massive IndiGo flight disruptions, which saw hundreds of cancellations causing inconvenience to people, and questioned its failure to prevent airlines from increasing their fares to nearly Rs 40,000 after the crisis precipitated. While questioning the unreasonable surge in airfares following the mass cancellation of IndiGo flights, the bench, headed by the Delhi High Court Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya, further asked if any steps have been taken to compensate passengers and to ensure IndiGo employees are behaving responsibly amid the crisis. “Question is why did such a situation precipitate? Who is responsible? It is not a question of an individual, passengers are stranded at airports. Question is loss to the economy,” said Chief Justice Upadhyaya, as quoted by LiveLaw.&nbsp;“If there were a crisis, how could other airlines be permitted to take advantage? How can it go to 35,000 to 39,000? How could other airlines start charging? How can it happen,” asked Justice Tushar Rao Gedela.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-aviation-minister-says-will-fire-indigo-chief-if-needed-can-government-sack-the-ceo-of-private-business-what-the-law-actually-allows-1765350448545">Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows</a>&nbsp;The sudden rush and demand spike amid the IndiGo chaos led to the doubling and tripling of flight prices, as stranded passengers struggled to book flights of other airlines. Flights to several foreign cities cost less than many busy domestic routes. A one-way ticket fare between Mumbai and Delhi soared to Rs 35,000 in the economy category.&nbsp;When the additional solicitor general (ASG) read out the list of measures taken by the Centre, the HC said, “They are all taken by you once the crisis erupted. The question is not this. Why at all the situation arise? And what have you been doing?”&nbsp;The ASG told the court that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had sent a show-cause notice to IndiGo which responded with a ‘profuse apology’. To this, the court said, “We have said we appreciate your efforts. However, what bothers us is how such a situation was allowed to precipitate, leaving lakhs of passengers unattended at the airports.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-airline-has-not-demonstrated-ability-to-operate-dgca-orders-5-cut-in-indigo-flights-1765267204683">‘Airline has not demonstrated ability to operate...’: DGCA orders 5% cut in IndiGo flights</a>&nbsp;The HC agreed to hear a plea on the matter after Supreme Court also acknowledged the gravity of the situation, calling it a “serious matter,” even as it declined an urgent hearing. “It is a serious matter. Lakhs of people are stranded at the airports. We know that the government of India has taken timely action and cognisance of the issue,” CJI Surya Kant had said.&nbsp;The Centre started its crackdown against IndiGo for the chaos at airports, with the DGCA slashing the airline’s winter schedule, reducing the number of flights by 5 per cent. IndiGo operates about 2,200 domestic and international flights daily, which means a reduction of 110 flights daily. The slots freed due to this action would be given to other airlines, the government said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aviation-regulator-dgca-issues-show-cause-notice-to-indigo-ceo-over-crisis-1765040272497">‘You failed in your duty’: Aviation regulator DGCA issues show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO over crisis</a>&nbsp;Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu recently told the Parliament that no airline will be permitted to cause hardship to passengers, adding that safety is “non-negotiable”.&nbsp;

The spike in demand led to the doubling and tripling of flight prices, as stranded passengers struggled to book tickets. Flights to several foreign cities cost less than many busy domestic routes. A one-way ticket fare between Mumbai and Delhi soared to Rs 35,000 in the economy category.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday rapped the Centre over the massive IndiGo flight disruptions, which saw hundreds of cancellations causing inconvenience to people, and questioned its failure to prevent airlines from increasing their fares to nearly Rs 40,000 after the crisis precipitated. While questioning the unreasonable surge in airfares following the mass cancellation of IndiGo flights, the bench, headed by the Delhi High Court Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya, further asked if any steps have been taken to compensate passengers and to ensure IndiGo employees are behaving responsibly amid the crisis. “Question is why did such a situation precipitate? Who is responsible? It is not a question of an individual, passengers are stranded at airports. Question is loss to the economy,” said Chief Justice Upadhyaya, as quoted by LiveLaw. “If there were a crisis, how could other airlines be permitted to take advantage? How can it go to 35,000 to 39,000? How could other airlines start charging? How can it happen,” asked Justice Tushar Rao Gedela. Also Read: Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows The sudden rush and demand spike amid the IndiGo chaos led to the doubling and tripling of flight prices, as stranded passengers struggled to book flights of other airlines. Flights to several foreign cities cost less than many busy domestic routes. A one-way ticket fare between Mumbai and Delhi soared to Rs 35,000 in the economy category. When the additional solicitor general (ASG) read out the list of measures taken by the Centre, the HC said, “They are all taken by you once the crisis erupted. The question is not this. Why at all the situation arise? And what have you been doing?” The ASG told the court that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had sent a show-cause notice to IndiGo which responded with a ‘profuse apology’. To this, the court said, “We have said we appreciate your efforts. However, what bothers us is how such a situation was allowed to precipitate, leaving lakhs of passengers unattended at the airports.” Also Read: ‘Airline has not demonstrated ability to operate...’: DGCA orders 5% cut in IndiGo flights The HC agreed to hear a plea on the matter after Supreme Court also acknowledged the gravity of the situation, calling it a “serious matter,” even as it declined an urgent hearing. “It is a serious matter. Lakhs of people are stranded at the airports. We know that the government of India has taken timely action and cognisance of the issue,” CJI Surya Kant had said. The Centre started its crackdown against IndiGo for the chaos at airports, with the DGCA slashing the airline’s winter schedule, reducing the number of flights by 5 per cent. IndiGo operates about 2,200 domestic and international flights daily, which means a reduction of 110 flights daily. The slots freed due to this action would be given to other airlines, the government said. Also Read: ‘You failed in your duty’: Aviation regulator DGCA issues show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO over crisis Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu recently told the Parliament that no airline will be permitted to cause hardship to passengers, adding that safety is “non-negotiable”.

The spike in demand led to the doubling and tripling of flight prices, as stranded passengers struggled to book tickets. Flights to several foreign cities cost less than many busy domestic routes. A one-way ticket fare between Mumbai and Delhi soared to Rs 35,000 in the economy category.

‘How could other airlines be permitted to take advantage’: Delhi HC pulls up Centre on IndiGo crisis, ‘unreasonable’ fare surge

Delhi’s Rohini Court has denied immediate interim relief to Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of Goa’s ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub where a fire killed at least 25 people.

The court has sought the prosecution’s reply to their anticipatory bail pleas. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday (December 11). 

The matter was heard on Wednesday (December 10), by Additional Sessions Judge Vandana of Rohini Courts. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra along with Advocate Tanvir Ahmed Mir appeared for the Luthra's.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Senior advocate Abhinav Mukerji appeared for the State, along with Surjendu Sankar Das, Standing Counsel for Goa.

Mukherji pointed out that the bail pleas were served only this morning and sought that the matter be taken up on Friday, saying the prosecution would file a status report by then. He argued the applicants were fugitives and their pleas not maintainable.

Luthra countered that the sole relief he sought was to return to India and move the proper courts in Goa.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He acknowledged the incident was tragic and had claimed lives, but said his concern was the “witch-hunting” of the accused. 

He pointed out that Saurabh Luthra, 40, suffers from medical conditions including hypertension and epilepsy, and argued that the Luthras were merely licensees, not owners of the nightclub.

Noting that LOCs have been issued against them, the senior counsel said: “I just want to return and pursue my legal remedies. My learned friend for the State cannot possibly oppose that.”

He argued that once the prosecution has been served, it cannot seek extra time to file a status report. Luthra said the State may file its response, but the court still retains the power to grant interim anticipatory bail. “Sitting in Delhi, can I be said to have known what was happening that evening in Goa?” he asked.&nbsp;

Supporting the submissions, Mir added that the Luthra's cannot—“by any stretch of imagination”—be held liable, even vicariously.

Mir argued that the Luthra brothers did not own the nightclub , they were not the owners. 

It was run by operational managers who are already in custody and that other Luthra ventures had been “bulldozed” without notice. 

He said the Luthra's would cooperate with the investigation and sought limited protection to return and face the law. He stressed that criminal intent cannot automatically extend to corporate management.
&nbsp;
The court questioned the maintainability of transit anticipatory bail as the Luthra's were in Thailand, to which Mir replied they are Delhi residents and willing to stay under court jurisdiction until the State files a status report. 

Mukherji opposed interim protection, citing non-bailable warrants from Goa. The court refused to grant interim relief, listing the matter for tomorrow.

The matter was heard on Wednesday (December 10), by Additional Sessions Judge Vandana of Rohini Courts. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra along with Advocate Tanvir Ahmed Mir appeared for the Luthra's

Delhi’s Rohini Court has denied immediate interim relief to Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of Goa’s ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub where a fire killed at least 25 people. The court has sought the prosecution’s reply to their anticipatory bail pleas. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday (December 11). The matter was heard on Wednesday (December 10), by Additional Sessions Judge Vandana of Rohini Courts. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra along with Advocate Tanvir Ahmed Mir appeared for the Luthra's. Senior advocate Abhinav Mukerji appeared for the State, along with Surjendu Sankar Das, Standing Counsel for Goa. Mukherji pointed out that the bail pleas were served only this morning and sought that the matter be taken up on Friday, saying the prosecution would file a status report by then. He argued the applicants were fugitives and their pleas not maintainable. Luthra countered that the sole relief he sought was to return to India and move the proper courts in Goa. He acknowledged the incident was tragic and had claimed lives, but said his concern was the “witch-hunting” of the accused. He pointed out that Saurabh Luthra, 40, suffers from medical conditions including hypertension and epilepsy, and argued that the Luthras were merely licensees, not owners of the nightclub. Noting that LOCs have been issued against them, the senior counsel said: “I just want to return and pursue my legal remedies. My learned friend for the State cannot possibly oppose that.” He argued that once the prosecution has been served, it cannot seek extra time to file a status report. Luthra said the State may file its response, but the court still retains the power to grant interim anticipatory bail. “Sitting in Delhi, can I be said to have known what was happening that evening in Goa?” he asked. Supporting the submissions, Mir added that the Luthra's cannot—“by any stretch of imagination”—be held liable, even vicariously. Mir argued that the Luthra brothers did not own the nightclub , they were not the owners. It was run by operational managers who are already in custody and that other Luthra ventures had been “bulldozed” without notice. He said the Luthra's would cooperate with the investigation and sought limited protection to return and face the law. He stressed that criminal intent cannot automatically extend to corporate management. The court questioned the maintainability of transit anticipatory bail as the Luthra's were in Thailand, to which Mir replied they are Delhi residents and willing to stay under court jurisdiction until the State files a status report. Mukherji opposed interim protection, citing non-bailable warrants from Goa. The court refused to grant interim relief, listing the matter for tomorrow.

The matter was heard on Wednesday (December 10), by Additional Sessions Judge Vandana of Rohini Courts. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra along with Advocate Tanvir Ahmed Mir appeared for the Luthra's

Goa nightclub fire: 'We are not responsible', says Luthra brothers to Delhi HC

Amazon announced on Tuesday (December 9) that it will invest more than $35 billion in India by 2030, expanding its long-term commitment to the country's digital economy, AI innovation and job creation. This new funding adds to the nearly $40 billion Amazon has invested in India over the last 15 years. The announcement was made on December 10 at the sixth Amazon Smbhav Summit in New Delhi, where consulting firm Keystone Strategy also released an economic impact study.&nbsp;According to the report, Amazon’s cumulative investments, including infrastructure spending and employee-related costs, have made it India’s largest foreign investor, a key driver of e-commerce exports, and one of the biggest contributors to employment nationwide. Amazon said its next phase of growth will focus on AI-led digitisation, expansion of exports, and large-scale job creation, aligning with India’s digital development goals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-tensions-escalate-russia-joins-chinese-jets-south-korea-lodges-protest-what-s-happening-now-1765348684746">China-Japan tensions escalate: Russia joins Chinese jets, South Korea lodges protest - What's happening now</a>&nbsp;Over the years, the company has built extensive physical and digital infrastructure across the country, ranging from fulfilment centres and logistics networks to data centres, payment solutions and tech platforms. The Keystone report highlighted that Amazon has already digitised more than 12 million small businesses, generated $20 billion in cumulative e-commerce exports, and supported around 2.8 million jobs across technology, logistics, operations and customer support in 2024. These jobs come with benefits such as competitive wages, healthcare access and structured skills training.&nbsp;Beyond direct employment, Amazon’s presence has boosted work opportunities in packaging, transport, manufacturing and tech services, while helping countless small sellers grow their reach within India and beyond.<h2>Target: One million more jobs by 2030</h2>By the end of the decade, Amazon aims to create another one million jobs, direct, indirect, seasonal and induced, through expanding its operations, increasing capacity in its fulfilment and delivery network and generating ripple effects across related sectors. Amit Agarwal, Senior Vice President for Emerging Markets at Amazon, said the company’s trajectory in India has mirrored the country’s digital aspirations.&nbsp;He noted that Amazon’s 15-year journey in India reflects the vision of an Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) and Viksit (developed) Bharat, supported by heavy investments in infrastructure for small businesses, job creation and global promotion of Made-in-India products.<h2>Major push for AI, exports and digital inclusion</h2>As part of its long-term roadmap, Amazon plans to expand access to AI tools for businesses, consumers and students across India. By 2030, it hopes to bring AI benefits to 15 million small businesses. Sellers are already using Amazon’s AI-driven tools such as Seller Assistant and next-generation selling features.&nbsp;Users can also expect enhanced shopping experiences through tools including Lens AI for visual search, Rufus for conversational shopping and multilingual features designed to overcome literacy challenges. Amazon additionally pledged to support AI education for 4 million students in government schools, offering structured curriculum support, teacher training, hands-on learning and exposure to tech careers, aligned with India’s National Education Policy 2020.On the export front, Amazon aims to quadruple India-led e-commerce exports to $80 billion by 2030, up from the current $20 billion. Agarwal said the company is committed to driving India’s growth by democratizing AI, generating one million new jobs and accelerating exports.

After Microsoft, Amazon announces $35 billion investment to boost India’s digital future

Amazon announced on Tuesday (December 9) that it will invest more than $35 billion in India by 2030, expanding its long-term commitment to the country's digital economy, AI innovation and job creation. This new funding adds to the nearly $40 billion Amazon has invested in India over the last 15 years. The announcement was made on December 10 at the sixth Amazon Smbhav Summit in New Delhi, where consulting firm Keystone Strategy also released an economic impact study. According to the report, Amazon’s cumulative investments, including infrastructure spending and employee-related costs, have made it India’s largest foreign investor, a key driver of e-commerce exports, and one of the biggest contributors to employment nationwide. Amazon said its next phase of growth will focus on AI-led digitisation, expansion of exports, and large-scale job creation, aligning with India’s digital development goals. Also Read: China-Japan tensions escalate: Russia joins Chinese jets, South Korea lodges protest - What's happening now Over the years, the company has built extensive physical and digital infrastructure across the country, ranging from fulfilment centres and logistics networks to data centres, payment solutions and tech platforms. The Keystone report highlighted that Amazon has already digitised more than 12 million small businesses, generated $20 billion in cumulative e-commerce exports, and supported around 2.8 million jobs across technology, logistics, operations and customer support in 2024. These jobs come with benefits such as competitive wages, healthcare access and structured skills training. Beyond direct employment, Amazon’s presence has boosted work opportunities in packaging, transport, manufacturing and tech services, while helping countless small sellers grow their reach within India and beyond. Target: One million more jobs by 2030 By the end of the decade, Amazon aims to create another one million jobs, direct, indirect, seasonal and induced, through expanding its operations, increasing capacity in its fulfilment and delivery network and generating ripple effects across related sectors. Amit Agarwal, Senior Vice President for Emerging Markets at Amazon, said the company’s trajectory in India has mirrored the country’s digital aspirations. He noted that Amazon’s 15-year journey in India reflects the vision of an Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) and Viksit (developed) Bharat, supported by heavy investments in infrastructure for small businesses, job creation and global promotion of Made-in-India products. Major push for AI, exports and digital inclusion As part of its long-term roadmap, Amazon plans to expand access to AI tools for businesses, consumers and students across India. By 2030, it hopes to bring AI benefits to 15 million small businesses. Sellers are already using Amazon’s AI-driven tools such as Seller Assistant and next-generation selling features. Users can also expect enhanced shopping experiences through tools including Lens AI for visual search, Rufus for conversational shopping and multilingual features designed to overcome literacy challenges. Amazon additionally pledged to support AI education for 4 million students in government schools, offering structured curriculum support, teacher training, hands-on learning and exposure to tech careers, aligned with India’s National Education Policy 2020. On the export front, Amazon aims to quadruple India-led e-commerce exports to $80 billion by 2030, up from the current $20 billion. Agarwal said the company is committed to driving India’s growth by democratizing AI, generating one million new jobs and accelerating exports.

Amazon will invest $35 billion in India by 2030, boosting AI access, exports and infrastructure while creating one million new jobs and expanding digital inclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed UNESCO's decision to add Diwali to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made amid the ongoing UNESCO committee session in New Delhi on Wednesday. PM Modi labelled the move by UNESCO as a recognition of pride for India.&nbsp;Following the announcement, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on his social media platform X that "people in India and around the world are thrilled”. “For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness,” he said. Modi added that the recognition by UNESCO would further enhance the global visibility of Diwali. “May the ideals of Prabhu Shri Ram keep guiding us for eternity,” he further added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">People in India and around the world are thrilled. For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness. The addition of Deepavali to the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List will… <a href="https://t.co/JxKEDsv8fT">https://t.co/JxKEDsv8fT</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1998642499200643262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Representatives are examining several nominations</h3>The annual session of the Intergovernmental Committee of UNESCO for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage is taking place in Delhi from Tuesday to Thursday. Representatives from 78 nations are examining several nominations aimed at preserving and promoting living cultural traditions worldwide. UNESCO notes that the list helps highlight cultural diversity and protects heritage for future generations.&nbsp;To commemorate the event, the Delhi government has organised several activities, including special lighting at prominent landmarks, themed decorations across major roads, and a large lamp-lighting ceremony.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in a post on social media platform on X, the Ministry of External Affairs hailed the inscription “a joyous moment”, adding that Deepavali’s global celebration and its themes of renewal and hope made it an important addition to the heritage list of UNESCO.&nbsp;The Festival of Lights, Diwali, is a major Indian festival that signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists with diyas (lamps), fireworks, feasts, and gifts. This festival commemorates different legends, like Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya (Hinduism) or Lord Mahavira's nirvana (Jainism), and often marks the Hindu New Year, featuring family gatherings, home decorations (rangoli), and prayers for prosperity.

The announcement was made amid the ongoing UNESCO committee session in New Delhi on Wednesday. PM Narendra Modi labelled the move by UNESCO as a recognition of pride for India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed UNESCO's decision to add Diwali to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made amid the ongoing UNESCO committee session in New Delhi on Wednesday. PM Modi labelled the move by UNESCO as a recognition of pride for India. Following the announcement, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on his social media platform X that "people in India and around the world are thrilled”. “For us, Deepavali is very closely linked to our culture and ethos. It is the soul of our civilisation. It personifies illumination and righteousness,” he said. Modi added that the recognition by UNESCO would further enhance the global visibility of Diwali. “May the ideals of Prabhu Shri Ram keep guiding us for eternity,” he further added.

The announcement was made amid the ongoing UNESCO committee session in New Delhi on Wednesday. PM Narendra Modi labelled the move by UNESCO as a recognition of pride for India.

'People in India, around the world are thrilled': PM Modi hails UNESCO’s inclusion of Diwali in global heritage list

Indian civil aviation minister K Ram Mohan Naidu, in an interview, has vowed that, if required, the Government of India will fire IndiGo Airlines CEO Pieter Elbers over the flight chaos that left thousands of flyers stranded in recent days. Speaking to the Times of India, Naidu apologised for the inconvenience borne by passengers and said that "if it comes to that," he will "definitely" sack the company's CEO. But, how can that be? Can the GOI sack IndiGo, a private company's CEO? Here's all you need to know. &nbsp;<h2>What did Naidu say?</h2>During the interview, aviation minister Naidu was asked if he was going to sack the IndiGo CEO for the recent chaos. "If it comes to that, definitely I will do it. I will charge them with all the penalties that are there. Definitely, I will look into all of those aspects...", he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-flight-crisis-not-urgent-cji-declines-immediate-hearing-on-pil-says-1765177884996">IndiGo flight crisis 'not urgent'? CJI declines immediate hearing on PIL, says...</a><h2>But, can the Indian government sack a private company's CEO?</h2>Yes and No. While the Government cannot directly sack the CEO of a private company, in its regulatory role, it can demand the removal. However, this can only be done in cases involving significant legal or regulatory violations, such as fraud, embezzlement, or some other serious misconduct.<h2>Has the GOI ever used its power to fire the CEO of a private company?</h2>Yes, the Government of India, in the past, has intervened in major corporate crises and has forced the removal of existing management, including the CEO.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-america-safe-again-us-state-department-touts-achievement-85-000-visas-revoked-since-trump-returned-to-white-house-indians-students-affected-1765332063561">Trump cancelled 85,000 visas since January. The reasons may surprise you</a>In 2018, after a major debt default by IL&amp;FS (Infrastructure Leasing &amp; Financial Services), amid fears of "contagion effect" on the wider financial system, the GOI asked the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to take control of IL&amp;FS. The NCLT then dissolved the company's board of directors and management. In their place, a new government-nominated super-board led by Uday Kotak was appointed to manage the resolution and process of recovering excess remuneration paid to former directors.Before that, in 2009, the government intervened in the massive accounting fraud surrounding Ramalinga Raju, the founder and chairman of Satyam Computer Services. The government then dissolved the existing board and appointed its own board in its place. The company was later sold to Tech Mahindra.

Can the government really fire IndiGo’s CEO? After flight chaos, Aviation Minister Naidu says he will sack Pieter Elbers if needed. But can the GOI remove a private company boss? Here's all you need to know. 

Indian civil aviation minister K Ram Mohan Naidu, in an interview, has vowed that, if required, the Government of India will fire IndiGo Airlines CEO Pieter Elbers over the flight chaos that left thousands of flyers stranded in recent days. Speaking to the Times of India, Naidu apologised for the inconvenience borne by passengers and said that "if it comes to that," he will "definitely" sack the company's CEO. But, how can that be? Can the GOI sack IndiGo, a private company's CEO? Here's all you need to know. What did Naidu say? During the interview, aviation minister Naidu was asked if he was going to sack the IndiGo CEO for the recent chaos. "If it comes to that, definitely I will do it. I will charge them with all the penalties that are there. Definitely, I will look into all of those aspects...", he said. Also read | IndiGo flight crisis 'not urgent'? CJI declines immediate hearing on PIL, says... But, can the Indian government sack a private company's CEO? Yes and No. While the Government cannot directly sack the CEO of a private company, in its regulatory role, it can demand the removal. However, this can only be done in cases involving significant legal or regulatory violations, such as fraud, embezzlement, or some other serious misconduct. Has the GOI ever used its power to fire the CEO of a private company? Yes, the Government of India, in the past, has intervened in major corporate crises and has forced the removal of existing management, including the CEO. Also read | Trump cancelled 85,000 visas since January. The reasons may surprise you In 2018, after a major debt default by IL&FS (Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services), amid fears of "contagion effect" on the wider financial system, the GOI asked the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to take control of IL&FS. The NCLT then dissolved the company's board of directors and management. In their place, a new government-nominated super-board led by Uday Kotak was appointed to manage the resolution and process of recovering excess remuneration paid to former directors. Before that, in 2009, the government intervened in the massive accounting fraud surrounding Ramalinga Raju, the founder and chairman of Satyam Computer Services. The government then dissolved the existing board and appointed its own board in its place. The company was later sold to Tech Mahindra.

Can the government really fire IndiGo’s CEO? After flight chaos, Aviation Minister Naidu says he will sack Pieter Elbers if needed. But can the GOI remove a private company boss? Here's all you need to know.&nbsp;

Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows

The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday (Dec 9) passed a resolution calling for a ban on Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), branding them "anti-state". The motion was adopted amid sharp political tensions and an escalating confrontation between the military, the ruling coalition and the opposition.<h2>Imran Khan's "anti-army" rhetoric</h2>The move comes days after the military’s media wing chief, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, accused Khan of promoting what he described as "anti-army" narratives. The ISPR chief said such rhetoric had crossed the line from politics and now posed a national security threat.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-taliban-gunmen-storm-pakistan-checkpoint-near-afghan-border-six-soldiers-killed-1765268753648">Pakistani Taliban gunmen storm Pakistan checkpoint near Afghan border, six soldiers killed</a>Since that press briefing, leaders from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and PTI have traded barbs. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Imran Khan had used similarly harsh language against political opponents in the past and argued the PTI had no grounds to object to criticism from the military. PTI leaders, however, dismissed the allegations as "ridiculous," insisting the former prime minister was "not a security threat".<h2>PTI, Imran Khan, banned for insulting institutions that countered "enemy" like India</h2>The resolution was introduced by PML-N lawmaker Tahir Pervaiz and passed by the treasury benches after PTI lawmakers boycotted the proceedings. While the text stopped short of naming PTI or Imran Khan directly, its intent was clear.The resolution, as per a DAWN report, praised state institutions, saying they had successfully defended Pakistan against far larger adversaries, including India. "The institutions that safeguard Pakistan on every front and have successfully countered an enemy five times larger, such as India, are vital to the country’s integrity and stability".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fake-news-alert-pakistani-propoganda-accounts-try-to-use-ai-to-smear-army-chief-and-drag-wion-into-it-1764316925034">Fake news alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts try to use AI to smear Indian Army Chief and drag WION into it</a>It also accused a political party and its founder of "acting as a tool of the enemy state...making statements against the country and spreading chaos". It called for a ban on both and urged legal action against any individual, political or otherwise, found guilty under the law, with "appropriate punishment" to follow. The Assembly also paid tribute to the leadership and personnel of institutions tasked with safeguarding Pakistan's security.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and his PTI party have been banned in Pakistan's Punjab. A fresh resolution brands Khan and PTI “anti-state”, accuses them of echoing enemy narratives and backs legal action. What triggered it, and how the army fits in, scroll down.

The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday (Dec 9) passed a resolution calling for a ban on Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), branding them "anti-state". The motion was adopted amid sharp political tensions and an escalating confrontation between the military, the ruling coalition and the opposition. Imran Khan's "anti-army" rhetoric The move comes days after the military’s media wing chief, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, accused Khan of promoting what he described as "anti-army" narratives. The ISPR chief said such rhetoric had crossed the line from politics and now posed a national security threat. Also read | Pakistani Taliban gunmen storm Pakistan checkpoint near Afghan border, six soldiers killed Since that press briefing, leaders from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and PTI have traded barbs. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Imran Khan had used similarly harsh language against political opponents in the past and argued the PTI had no grounds to object to criticism from the military. PTI leaders, however, dismissed the allegations as "ridiculous," insisting the former prime minister was "not a security threat". PTI, Imran Khan, banned for insulting institutions that countered "enemy" like India The resolution was introduced by PML-N lawmaker Tahir Pervaiz and passed by the treasury benches after PTI lawmakers boycotted the proceedings. While the text stopped short of naming PTI or Imran Khan directly, its intent was clear. The resolution, as per a DAWN report, praised state institutions, saying they had successfully defended Pakistan against far larger adversaries, including India. "The institutions that safeguard Pakistan on every front and have successfully countered an enemy five times larger, such as India, are vital to the country’s integrity and stability". Also read | Fake news alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts try to use AI to smear Indian Army Chief and drag WION into it It also accused a political party and its founder of "acting as a tool of the enemy state...making statements against the country and spreading chaos". It called for a ban on both and urged legal action against any individual, political or otherwise, found guilty under the law, with "appropriate punishment" to follow. The Assembly also paid tribute to the leadership and personnel of institutions tasked with safeguarding Pakistan's security.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and his PTI party have been banned in Pakistan's Punjab. A fresh resolution brands Khan and PTI “anti-state”, accuses them of echoing enemy narratives and backs legal action. What triggered it, and how the army fits in, scroll down.

Pakistan: Punjab Assembly bans Imran Khan, PTI, drags 'enemy' India into rhetoric while slamming ex-PM

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Pak Punjab bans Imran Khan, PTI, drags India into rhetoric while slamming ex-PM