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Good news for the Indian Air Force, in a major defence boost, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced its intention to extend the range of its Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to more than 200 kilometres. The move, as per reports, is aimed at strengthening India’s indigenous capabilities in beyond visual range (BVR) air combat and enhancing the striking power of its fighter jets in the aftermath of the recent India-Pakistan war.<h2>India to acquire 700 Mark 2 missiles</h2>Citing defence sources, ANI reports that the Defence Ministry is expected to soon discuss a proposal for the acquisition of around 700 Astra Mark 2 missiles. These will be integrated into the Sukhoi and Light Combat Aircraft fleets, giving Indian pilots the ability to engage adversaries from much longer distances than before.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kerala-s-brain-eating-amoeba-scare-deepens-3-year-old-latest-to-be-infected-death-toll-rises-to-23-1760341544268">Kerala’s ‘brain-eating amoeba’ scare deepens: 3-year-old latest to be infected, death toll rises to 23</a>Earlier plans had targeted a maximum range of roughly 160 kilometres, but the new development pushes that envelope significantly, making India one of the few countries in the region with such extended BVR capabilities.<h2>Astra Mark 2</h2>The Astra Mark 2 builds on the success of its predecessor, the Astra Mark 1, which already boasts a range exceeding 100 kilometres and features an advanced guidance and navigation system. The DRDO has collaborated with over 50 public and private organisations, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, to bring the missile from concept to deployment.Developing indigenous long-range air-to-air missiles has become a key priority for India, particularly as regional aerial threats evolve. During Operation Sindoor, for example, India demonstrated its ability to strike Pakistani airbases and terror camps from stand-off ranges, limiting the risk to its own pilots. Pakistani aircraft, including F-16s and Chinese-made fighters, were reportedly destroyed both in the air and on the ground, along with several unmanned aerial vehicles and reconnaissance planes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sam-altman-okays-ai-porn-on-chatgpt-says-current-version-less-enjoyable-to-users-with-no-mental-health-problems-1760493777871">Sam Altman okays AI porn on ChatGPT, says OpenAI chatbot's current version 'less enjoyable'</a>The Pakistan Air Force attempted counterattacks using PL-15 missiles, but they failed to impact Indian forces significantly. The experience highlighted the importance of long-range indigenous missile capabilities to ensure air superiority in the region.With the Astra Mark 2’s upgraded range, India aims to maintain a strategic edge in future aerial engagements, allowing pilots to engage threats beyond visual range while keeping Indian fighter jets safely out of reach.&nbsp;

India’s DRDO is set to extend the range of its Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to over 200 km, a major boost for the Indian Air Force. Here's all you need to know.

Good news for the Indian Air Force, in a major defence boost, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced its intention to extend the range of its Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to more than 200 kilometres. The move, as per reports, is aimed at strengthening India’s indigenous capabilities in beyond visual range (BVR) air combat and enhancing the striking power of its fighter jets in the aftermath of the recent India-Pakistan war. India to acquire 700 Mark 2 missiles Citing defence sources, ANI reports that the Defence Ministry is expected to soon discuss a proposal for the acquisition of around 700 Astra Mark 2 missiles. These will be integrated into the Sukhoi and Light Combat Aircraft fleets, giving Indian pilots the ability to engage adversaries from much longer distances than before. Also read | Kerala’s ‘brain-eating amoeba’ scare deepens: 3-year-old latest to be infected, death toll rises to 23 Earlier plans had targeted a maximum range of roughly 160 kilometres, but the new development pushes that envelope significantly, making India one of the few countries in the region with such extended BVR capabilities. Astra Mark 2 The Astra Mark 2 builds on the success of its predecessor, the Astra Mark 1, which already boasts a range exceeding 100 kilometres and features an advanced guidance and navigation system. The DRDO has collaborated with over 50 public and private organisations, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, to bring the missile from concept to deployment. Developing indigenous long-range air-to-air missiles has become a key priority for India, particularly as regional aerial threats evolve. During Operation Sindoor, for example, India demonstrated its ability to strike Pakistani airbases and terror camps from stand-off ranges, limiting the risk to its own pilots. Pakistani aircraft, including F-16s and Chinese-made fighters, were reportedly destroyed both in the air and on the ground, along with several unmanned aerial vehicles and reconnaissance planes. Also read | Sam Altman okays AI porn on ChatGPT, says OpenAI chatbot's current version 'less enjoyable' The Pakistan Air Force attempted counterattacks using PL-15 missiles, but they failed to impact Indian forces significantly. The experience highlighted the importance of long-range indigenous missile capabilities to ensure air superiority in the region. With the Astra Mark 2’s upgraded range, India aims to maintain a strategic edge in future aerial engagements, allowing pilots to engage threats beyond visual range while keeping Indian fighter jets safely out of reach.

India’s DRDO is set to extend the range of its Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to over 200 km, a major boost for the Indian Air Force. Here's all you need to know.

IAF pilots may soon engage enemies before they even see them — DRDO to extend Astra Mark 2 missile's range to 200 km

Ashley Tellis, a prominent US scholar on India who has long advised Washington on South Asia policy, has been charged with unlawfully retaining classified information and allegedly meeting with Chinese officials, US prosecutors said Tuesday. 64-year-old Tellis stands accused of keeping more than 1,000 pages of top-secret and secret documents at his home, according to a criminal affidavit. The Justice Department said he faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ex-journalist-pete-hegseth-mocks-press-as-us-media-revolts-against-pentagon-s-gag-order-press-no-longer-roams-free-1760402303105">Ex-journalist Pete Hegseth mocks press as US media revolts against Pentagon’s gag order: ‘Press no longer roams free’</a><h2>How was Tellis caught?</h2>As per a federal affidavit, investigators found over 1,000 pages of top-secret and secret material at Tellis’s home. According to an AFP report, citing prosecutors, Tellis, who was serving as an unpaid State Department adviser, was seen printing from a classified document on US Air Force techniques on September 25. He allegedly met several times with Chinese government officials at a restaurant in Fairfax, Virginia. During one such dinner with Chinese government officials, Tellis allegedly carried a manila envelope that he did not appear to leave with; at others, Chinese officials allegedly handed him gift bags.He was arrested Saturday (Oct 11), the same day he was scheduled to fly to Rome, officials said. The State Department confirmed his arrest but declined further comment. Lawyers for Tellis have not yet commented on the charges.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mi5-issues-chilling-warning-to-uk-mps-china-russia-iran-spies-trying-to-erode-the-foundations-of-our-sovereignty-1760406481007">MI5 issues chilling warning to UK MPs: China, Russia, Iran spies trying to 'erode the foundations of our sovereignty'</a><h2>Who is Ashley Tellis?</h2>Ashley Tellis, as per reports, is a naturalised US citizen from India. He is a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and previously helped negotiate the landmark US–India civil nuclear deal under President George W. Bush.In recent years, he has been a vocal critic of Washington’s approach to India, arguing that New Delhi’s strategic alignment was at odds with Washington. He warned that New Delhi often acts independently of US strategic goals, citing its ties with Russia and Iran. &nbsp;

US-based India expert Ashley Tellis has been charged with unlawfully keeping classified material and allegedly meeting Chinese officials. Here's all you need to know.

Ashley Tellis, a prominent US scholar on India who has long advised Washington on South Asia policy, has been charged with unlawfully retaining classified information and allegedly meeting with Chinese officials, US prosecutors said Tuesday. 64-year-old Tellis stands accused of keeping more than 1,000 pages of top-secret and secret documents at his home, according to a criminal affidavit. The Justice Department said he faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted. Also read | Ex-journalist Pete Hegseth mocks press as US media revolts against Pentagon’s gag order: ‘Press no longer roams free’ How was Tellis caught? As per a federal affidavit, investigators found over 1,000 pages of top-secret and secret material at Tellis’s home. According to an AFP report, citing prosecutors, Tellis, who was serving as an unpaid State Department adviser, was seen printing from a classified document on US Air Force techniques on September 25. He allegedly met several times with Chinese government officials at a restaurant in Fairfax, Virginia. During one such dinner with Chinese government officials, Tellis allegedly carried a manila envelope that he did not appear to leave with; at others, Chinese officials allegedly handed him gift bags. He was arrested Saturday (Oct 11), the same day he was scheduled to fly to Rome, officials said. The State Department confirmed his arrest but declined further comment. Lawyers for Tellis have not yet commented on the charges. Also read | MI5 issues chilling warning to UK MPs: China, Russia, Iran spies trying to 'erode the foundations of our sovereignty' Who is Ashley Tellis? Ashley Tellis, as per reports, is a naturalised US citizen from India. He is a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and previously helped negotiate the landmark US–India civil nuclear deal under President George W. Bush. In recent years, he has been a vocal critic of Washington’s approach to India, arguing that New Delhi’s strategic alignment was at odds with Washington. He warned that New Delhi often acts independently of US strategic goals, citing its ties with Russia and Iran.

US-based India expert Ashley Tellis has been charged with unlawfully keeping classified material and allegedly meeting Chinese officials. Here's all you need to know.

US arrests Indian-origin scholar Ashley Tellis for mishandling classified documents — and dining with Chinese officials

India, and Mongolia have planned to firm up defence ties, with Delhi sending a Defence attache to Ulaanbaatar, &amp; launching a new capacity-building program for Mongolia's border security forces. Both countries already have an annual exercise, Nomadic Elephant, that started in 2006, and the last edition took place in May of this year. The Indian side also gives defence equipment to Mongolia and, in the past, has been offering cybersecurity training to their armed forces.In a press statement, alongside Mongolia's President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, Indian PM Modi said, "our defence and security cooperation is steadily strengthening. We have launched several new initiatives, from training programs to the appointment of a Defense Attaché at the Embassy."The visiting Mongolian President met with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, a break from protocol given that a visiting leader rarely meets the defence minister for a bilateral conversation. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gifted a Khiching Stone Buddha to Mongolia President.Rajnath Singh has been to Mongolia in 2018, 2022 in various capacities, and also led the breaking ceremony of the Oil Refinery Project, the biggest foreign-assisted infrastructure project by India. India hopes the refinery will be completed by 2028. "It seems to be on track and we expect that by 2028, the refinery should be in operation. One of the main reasons why it is important for us to have this completed by 2028 is that the Mongolians attach a lot of importance to this project", P. Kumaran, Secretary (East), in MEA said.The country, which is landlocked between Russia and China, sees India as its 3rd neighbour and a neighbour with which it has a spiritual connection. India remains a spiritual hub for Mongolian Buddhists. PM Modi announces that next year, India will be sending the holy relics of two great disciples of Lord Buddha - Sariputra and Maudgalyayana.He also said that "we will send a Sanskrit teacher to Gandan Monastery to support in-depth study of Buddhist texts and continue the ancient tradition of knowledge" and will soon launch a "project to digitize one million ancient manuscripts". Gandan Monastery, officially Gandantegchinlen Monastery, is Mongolia's most significant Buddhist monastery, located in Ulaanbaatar. It serves as the spiritual and cultural heart of Mongolian Buddhism, preserving Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions linked to India.The visit comes at a time when both countries are celebrating 70 years of establishment of diplomatic relations and 10 years of strategic partnership. During the visit, Mongolia reiterated its support for India's permanent membership of the UN Security Council and also for India's candidature as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2028-29.

The visiting Mongolian President met with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, a break from protocol given that a visiting leader rarely meets the defence minister for a bilateral conversation. 

India, and Mongolia have planned to firm up defence ties, with Delhi sending a Defence attache to Ulaanbaatar, & launching a new capacity-building program for Mongolia's border security forces. Both countries already have an annual exercise, Nomadic Elephant, that started in 2006, and the last edition took place in May of this year. The Indian side also gives defence equipment to Mongolia and, in the past, has been offering cybersecurity training to their armed forces. In a press statement, alongside Mongolia's President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, Indian PM Modi said, "our defence and security cooperation is steadily strengthening. We have launched several new initiatives, from training programs to the appointment of a Defense Attaché at the Embassy." The visiting Mongolian President met with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, a break from protocol given that a visiting leader rarely meets the defence minister for a bilateral conversation. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gifted a Khiching Stone Buddha to Mongolia President. Rajnath Singh has been to Mongolia in 2018, 2022 in various capacities, and also led the breaking ceremony of the Oil Refinery Project, the biggest foreign-assisted infrastructure project by India. India hopes the refinery will be completed by 2028. "It seems to be on track and we expect that by 2028, the refinery should be in operation. One of the main reasons why it is important for us to have this completed by 2028 is that the Mongolians attach a lot of importance to this project", P. Kumaran, Secretary (East), in MEA said. The country, which is landlocked between Russia and China, sees India as its 3rd neighbour and a neighbour with which it has a spiritual connection. India remains a spiritual hub for Mongolian Buddhists. PM Modi announces that next year, India will be sending the holy relics of two great disciples of Lord Buddha - Sariputra and Maudgalyayana. He also said that "we will send a Sanskrit teacher to Gandan Monastery to support in-depth study of Buddhist texts and continue the ancient tradition of knowledge" and will soon launch a "project to digitize one million ancient manuscripts". Gandan Monastery, officially Gandantegchinlen Monastery, is Mongolia's most significant Buddhist monastery, located in Ulaanbaatar. It serves as the spiritual and cultural heart of Mongolian Buddhism, preserving Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions linked to India. The visit comes at a time when both countries are celebrating 70 years of establishment of diplomatic relations and 10 years of strategic partnership. During the visit, Mongolia reiterated its support for India's permanent membership of the UN Security Council and also for India's candidature as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2028-29.

The visiting Mongolian President met with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, a break from protocol given that a visiting leader rarely meets the defence minister for a bilateral conversation.&nbsp;

India, Mongolia boost defense, Buddhist ties with relics, Sanskrit teacher plans

In a tragic incident, a private bus in Rajasthan caught fire on Tuesday (Oct 14), killing 19 people onboard. The bus was carrying 57 passengers and travelling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, the police said. Local authorities said that they swiftly began rescue and relief operations upon receiving the information regarding the incident.&nbsp;While travelling on the highway, smoke emerged from the rear portion of the bus, prompting the driver to stop it along the roadside. However, flames erupted within moments, trapping passengers inside.&nbsp;&nbsp;Locals and passers-by rushed to aid for providing assistance and rescue efforts, and informed the fire department and police. The injured were taken to Jawahar Hospital in Jaisalmer for treatment.&nbsp;Initial probe suggested that the fire broke out due to a short circuit in the bus, the police said. District Collector Pratap Singh directed officials to ensure immediate medical care for the injured. Helpline numbers were also issued. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma&nbsp;&nbsp;State leaders, including Governor Haribhau Bagade, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, and BJP state president Madan Rathore, expressed sorrow over the devastating incident.&nbsp;“The incident of a bus catching fire in Jaisalmer is extremely heart-wrenching. I express deep condolences to those affected by this tragic accident. Directions have been given to concerned officials for the proper treatment of the injured and to extend every possible help to the victims,” the chief minister posted on X.&nbsp;<h2>PM Modi announces ex-gratia</h2>&nbsp;Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh for the families of the victims.&nbsp;In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Distressed by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.”

Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh for the families of the victims.

In a tragic incident, a private bus in Rajasthan caught fire on Tuesday (Oct 14), killing 19 people onboard. The bus was carrying 57 passengers and travelling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, the police said. Local authorities said that they swiftly began rescue and relief operations upon receiving the information regarding the incident. While travelling on the highway, smoke emerged from the rear portion of the bus, prompting the driver to stop it along the roadside. However, flames erupted within moments, trapping passengers inside. Locals and passers-by rushed to aid for providing assistance and rescue efforts, and informed the fire department and police. The injured were taken to Jawahar Hospital in Jaisalmer for treatment. Initial probe suggested that the fire broke out due to a short circuit in the bus, the police said. District Collector Pratap Singh directed officials to ensure immediate medical care for the injured. Helpline numbers were also issued. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma State leaders, including Governor Haribhau Bagade, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, and BJP state president Madan Rathore, expressed sorrow over the devastating incident. “The incident of a bus catching fire in Jaisalmer is extremely heart-wrenching. I express deep condolences to those affected by this tragic accident. Directions have been given to concerned officials for the proper treatment of the injured and to extend every possible help to the victims,” the chief minister posted on X. PM Modi announces ex-gratia Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh for the families of the victims. In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Distressed by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.”

Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh for the families of the victims.

Rajasthan bus catches fire, killing 19, on Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Highway; PM announces ex-gratia

A 23-year-old classmate of the medical student who alleged she was gangraped near her college in Durgapur, West Bengal, was arrested on Tuesday evening (October 14). This development came shortly after Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary said that the incident did not appear to be a gangrape and confirmed that the classmate remained under suspicion.&nbsp;The accused, hailing from Malda district, had taken the survivor out for dinner on October 10, the night of the alleged assault. He was initially detained on October 11. Earlier, police had arrested five local villagers, but during his first media briefing on Tuesday, Commissioner Choudhary said that, based on medical evidence and the investigation so far, only one person seemed directly involved. “The investigation and medical reports point to the involvement of a single individual. The roles of others are still being scrutinised. The victim’s friend is not beyond suspicion,” Choudhary told reporters. He also confirmed that police had recreated the crime scene earlier in the day.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imf-forecasts-india-s-gdp-growth-to-6-6-for-2025-despite-us-tariff-concerns-1760451727341">IMF forecasts India’s GDP growth to 6.6% for 2025 despite US tariff concerns</a>&nbsp;According to Choudhary, the friend accompanied police to the scene along with the other suspects. His clothes from that night were seized for forensic testing. The survivor’s father had also named him as a suspect in his FIR filed on October 11. Police said he will be produced before a local court in Durgapur on Wednesday.&nbsp;CCTV footage retrieved from the college showed the woman and her friend leaving the campus at 7:54 pm. He returned alone at 8:42 pm, wandered around the premises, and did not alert anyone about her disappearance. He left again at 8:48 pm and re-entered the campus with the woman at 9:29 pm.&nbsp;The survivor, a native of Jaleshwar in Odisha and a student at IQ City Medical College, alleged that the assailants used her phone to call her friend after the assault. Both had told police they had gone out for dinner. The college informed police around 1 am and filed a formal complaint at 3:28 am. Of the five villagers arrested earlier, two — Sheikh Safiqul (30) and Sheikh Nasiruddin (23) — were remanded in nine days of police custody on Monday. The other three — Apu Bauri (21), Firdous Sheikh (23), and Sheikh Riazuddin (31) — were sent to 10-day custody on Sunday. All work as daily wage labourers in nearby villages.&nbsp;When asked if the suspects might have discovered the pair in a compromising situation — a possibility emerging during the probe — Choudhary said that angle was still being investigated. Police also recovered the survivor’s mobile phone from one of the suspects. As the accused had allegedly demanded ₹3,000 to return the device, charges of snatching were added to the case, along with Sections 70(1) (gangrape) and 3(5) (crime with common intention) under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Durgapur rape: Another twist in investigation as police arrest survivor’s friend; rule out gangrape

A 23-year-old classmate of the medical student who alleged she was gangraped near her college in Durgapur, West Bengal, was arrested on Tuesday evening (October 14). This development came shortly after Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary said that the incident did not appear to be a gangrape and confirmed that the classmate remained under suspicion. The accused, hailing from Malda district, had taken the survivor out for dinner on October 10, the night of the alleged assault. He was initially detained on October 11. Earlier, police had arrested five local villagers, but during his first media briefing on Tuesday, Commissioner Choudhary said that, based on medical evidence and the investigation so far, only one person seemed directly involved. “The investigation and medical reports point to the involvement of a single individual. The roles of others are still being scrutinised. The victim’s friend is not beyond suspicion,” Choudhary told reporters. He also confirmed that police had recreated the crime scene earlier in the day. Also Read: IMF forecasts India’s GDP growth to 6.6% for 2025 despite US tariff concerns According to Choudhary, the friend accompanied police to the scene along with the other suspects. His clothes from that night were seized for forensic testing. The survivor’s father had also named him as a suspect in his FIR filed on October 11. Police said he will be produced before a local court in Durgapur on Wednesday. CCTV footage retrieved from the college showed the woman and her friend leaving the campus at 7:54 pm. He returned alone at 8:42 pm, wandered around the premises, and did not alert anyone about her disappearance. He left again at 8:48 pm and re-entered the campus with the woman at 9:29 pm. The survivor, a native of Jaleshwar in Odisha and a student at IQ City Medical College, alleged that the assailants used her phone to call her friend after the assault. Both had told police they had gone out for dinner. The college informed police around 1 am and filed a formal complaint at 3:28 am. Of the five villagers arrested earlier, two — Sheikh Safiqul (30) and Sheikh Nasiruddin (23) — were remanded in nine days of police custody on Monday. The other three — Apu Bauri (21), Firdous Sheikh (23), and Sheikh Riazuddin (31) — were sent to 10-day custody on Sunday. All work as daily wage labourers in nearby villages. When asked if the suspects might have discovered the pair in a compromising situation — a possibility emerging during the probe — Choudhary said that angle was still being investigated. Police also recovered the survivor’s mobile phone from one of the suspects. As the accused had allegedly demanded ₹3,000 to return the device, charges of snatching were added to the case, along with Sections 70(1) (gangrape) and 3(5) (crime with common intention) under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Police have now arrested the survivor’s classmate in the Durgapur rape case. Investigation by police officials say evidence points to only one person being involved

General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of Western Command, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, on Tuesday called for "deadlier" Operation Sindoor 2.0, if Pakistan continues terror attacks in India. Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Lt Gen Katiyar said that India's response next time would be greater, compared to the number of airbases and military posts destroyed during Operation Sindoor. "Unless Pakistan's way of thinking changes, it will continue to take the actions it has taken. In Operation Sindoor, we have destroyed its airbases and posts, but it may attempt something again. Whatever action we take this time will be more than last time... Operation Sindoor 2.0 has to be more deadly," he said. Operation Sindoor was initiated on May 7, 2025, as a response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals. The Operation was conceived as a punitive and targeted campaign to dismantle the terror infrastructure across the Line of Control (LoC) and inside Pakistan. &nbsp;Multi-agency intelligence provided confirmation of nine major camps that were eventually targeted in the operation, a press release by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said. &nbsp;Earlier today, Lieutenant General Manoj Katiyar hailed Operation Sindoor, saying the Indian Army gave a befitting reply to Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack. &nbsp;Addressing the Ex-servicemen Rally to commemorate 60 years of the 1965 India-Pakistan War, Lt Gen Katiyar said that Operation Sindoor was successful due to the support from the administration, ex-servicemen and local people. He said, "Terrorists killed our innocent people in the Pahalgam attack. The Indian Army gave a befitting reply to Pakistan. Operation Sindoor was successful as we got the support from the administration, ex-servicemen and local people." He assured the public of the Indian Army's readiness to thwart future attacks by the neighbouring nation. &nbsp;"Pakistan will try to attack us again; they always try to do a Pahalgam-like attack, and we have to be alert. I assure you that the India Army is ready to thwart any nefarious designs of Pakistan," he said. Recounting the 1965 war, he said that the reason for Pakistan's defeat was that they underestimated the patriotism of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;"We won the trust of the people of the nation after defeating Pakistan in the 1965 war, and that trust is intact today. Pakistan had an aim to capture Jammu and Kashmir. About 10,000 Razakars trained by the Pakistani army infiltrated. But they made a mistake in measuring the patriotism of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. With the help of the public, the Indian Army chased them away," Lt Gen Manoj Katiyar said. The 60th anniversary of the ceasefire that ended the 1965 Indo-Pak War was observed on September 23, 2025.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Lt Gen Katiyar said that India's response next time would be greater, compared to the number of airbases and military posts destroyed during Operation Sindoor.

General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of Western Command, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, on Tuesday called for "deadlier" Operation Sindoor 2.0, if Pakistan continues terror attacks in India. Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Lt Gen Katiyar said that India's response next time would be greater, compared to the number of airbases and military posts destroyed during Operation Sindoor. "Unless Pakistan's way of thinking changes, it will continue to take the actions it has taken. In Operation Sindoor, we have destroyed its airbases and posts, but it may attempt something again. Whatever action we take this time will be more than last time... Operation Sindoor 2.0 has to be more deadly," he said. Operation Sindoor was initiated on May 7, 2025, as a response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals. The Operation was conceived as a punitive and targeted campaign to dismantle the terror infrastructure across the Line of Control (LoC) and inside Pakistan. Multi-agency intelligence provided confirmation of nine major camps that were eventually targeted in the operation, a press release by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said. Earlier today, Lieutenant General Manoj Katiyar hailed Operation Sindoor, saying the Indian Army gave a befitting reply to Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack. Addressing the Ex-servicemen Rally to commemorate 60 years of the 1965 India-Pakistan War, Lt Gen Katiyar said that Operation Sindoor was successful due to the support from the administration, ex-servicemen and local people. He said, "Terrorists killed our innocent people in the Pahalgam attack. The Indian Army gave a befitting reply to Pakistan. Operation Sindoor was successful as we got the support from the administration, ex-servicemen and local people." He assured the public of the Indian Army's readiness to thwart future attacks by the neighbouring nation. "Pakistan will try to attack us again; they always try to do a Pahalgam-like attack, and we have to be alert. I assure you that the India Army is ready to thwart any nefarious designs of Pakistan," he said. Recounting the 1965 war, he said that the reason for Pakistan's defeat was that they underestimated the patriotism of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. "We won the trust of the people of the nation after defeating Pakistan in the 1965 war, and that trust is intact today. Pakistan had an aim to capture Jammu and Kashmir. About 10,000 Razakars trained by the Pakistani army infiltrated. But they made a mistake in measuring the patriotism of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. With the help of the public, the Indian Army chased them away," Lt Gen Manoj Katiyar said. The 60th anniversary of the ceasefire that ended the 1965 Indo-Pak War was observed on September 23, 2025. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Lt Gen Katiyar said that India's response next time would be greater, compared to the number of airbases and military posts destroyed during Operation Sindoor.

‘Operation Sindoor 2.0 to be more deadly’: Western Command Lt Gen Manoj Katiyar

Ahead of the assembly election in the Indian state of Bihar, Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor made a huge poll promise to revoke the alcohol ban in the dry state. Kishor's party announced that if it comes to power, it will lift the ban, which, Kishor claimed, could unlock substantial financial resources for the state. The party claimed that due to the liquor ban in Bihar, the state lost nearly ₹28,000 crore. Kishor's party said the money could be used to secure loans worth ₹5–6 lakh crore from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).&nbsp;Liquor ban in Bihar: When and why&nbsp;Nitish Kumar, the present chief minister of Bihar, banned the sale and consumption of alcohol in the state in April 2016. The CM linked the ban to women’s welfare, emphasising that alcohol abuse had the greatest negative impact on the women at home.&nbsp;Soon, the liquor ban became the centre of law-and-order politics in one of the most politically important states of India. The JDU leadership framed it as a demonstration of strict governance, highlighting raids, confiscations, and crackdowns on smuggling networks as proof of enforcing the “rule of law.”&nbsp;'Will revoke in just an hour'&nbsp;Making the bold promise, Kishor said he will revoke the liquor ban within an hour if his party forms the next government in Bihar.&nbsp;"The liquor ban will be lifted within an hour once we come to power. There is no real liquor ban in Bihar. There is a law in place that has shut down liquor shops and started home delivery,” said Kishor earlier.&nbsp;Meanwhile, other prominent politicians in the state gave their review on the matter, as the former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhi said that there should be a review of the policy, as it targets only the poor section of the society, while the wealthy smuggle alcohol.“Poor people, if caught consuming even 250 ml of alcohol, are prosecuted, whereas those involved in large-scale smuggling are let off," Manjhi said.&nbsp;Moreover, RJD's top leader Tejashwi Yadav said, “Any question that arises should be discussed with the people and government officials before a decision is taken."&nbsp;What do the data show?&nbsp;As per a study published in The Lancet Regional Health: Southeast Asia in May 2024, the liquor ban in Bihar led to a significant reduction in its consumption and around 2.4 million cases of daily and weekly drinking were eradicated.&nbsp;The ban also contributed to a decrease of around 2.1 million cases of intimate partner violence, including reductions in emotional and sexual abuse against women.&nbsp;What’s the bad side of the ban?&nbsp;Experts have raised that the liquor ban in the largely the most economically backward state of India had an economic impact.&nbsp;Also, the ban fueled the production and consumption of illicit alcohol, commonly referred to as “hooch". What are other Indian states doing?&nbsp;In Gujarat, there has been a strict alcohol ban since 1961. The policy restricts both sale and consumption. Apart from the government ban, some communities have developed their own way to deal with the matter on a local level. For instance, Khambela village imposes fines of ₹21,000 for alcohol consumption, among other bans, with fines up to ₹1 lakh.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in Mizoram, a full alcohol ban was imposed in 2018 to curb domestic violence and public disorder.

Kishor party said the money could be used to secure loans worth ₹5–6 lakh crore from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).



Ahead of the assembly election in the Indian state of Bihar, Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor made a huge poll promise to revoke the alcohol ban in the dry state. Kishor's party announced that if it comes to power, it will lift the ban, which, Kishor claimed, could unlock substantial financial resources for the state. The party claimed that due to the liquor ban in Bihar, the state lost nearly ₹28,000 crore. Kishor's party said the money could be used to secure loans worth ₹5–6 lakh crore from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Liquor ban in Bihar: When and why Nitish Kumar, the present chief minister of Bihar, banned the sale and consumption of alcohol in the state in April 2016. The CM linked the ban to women’s welfare, emphasising that alcohol abuse had the greatest negative impact on the women at home. Soon, the liquor ban became the centre of law-and-order politics in one of the most politically important states of India. The JDU leadership framed it as a demonstration of strict governance, highlighting raids, confiscations, and crackdowns on smuggling networks as proof of enforcing the “rule of law.” 'Will revoke in just an hour' Making the bold promise, Kishor said he will revoke the liquor ban within an hour if his party forms the next government in Bihar. "The liquor ban will be lifted within an hour once we come to power. There is no real liquor ban in Bihar. There is a law in place that has shut down liquor shops and started home delivery,” said Kishor earlier. Meanwhile, other prominent politicians in the state gave their review on the matter, as the former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhi said that there should be a review of the policy, as it targets only the poor section of the society, while the wealthy smuggle alcohol. “Poor people, if caught consuming even 250 ml of alcohol, are prosecuted, whereas those involved in large-scale smuggling are let off," Manjhi said. Moreover, RJD's top leader Tejashwi Yadav said, “Any question that arises should be discussed with the people and government officials before a decision is taken." What do the data show? As per a study published in The Lancet Regional Health: Southeast Asia in May 2024, the liquor ban in Bihar led to a significant reduction in its consumption and around 2.4 million cases of daily and weekly drinking were eradicated. The ban also contributed to a decrease of around 2.1 million cases of intimate partner violence, including reductions in emotional and sexual abuse against women. What’s the bad side of the ban? Experts have raised that the liquor ban in the largely the most economically backward state of India had an economic impact. Also, the ban fueled the production and consumption of illicit alcohol, commonly referred to as “hooch". What are other Indian states doing? In Gujarat, there has been a strict alcohol ban since 1961. The policy restricts both sale and consumption. Apart from the government ban, some communities have developed their own way to deal with the matter on a local level. For instance, Khambela village imposes fines of ₹21,000 for alcohol consumption, among other bans, with fines up to ₹1 lakh. Meanwhile, in Mizoram, a full alcohol ban was imposed in 2018 to curb domestic violence and public disorder.

Kishor's party said the money could be used to secure loans worth ₹5–6 lakh crore from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).&nbsp;

No more alcohol ban in Bihar? Prashant Kishor vows to revoke ban ‘in first hour' if he wins election. Politics behind liquor explained

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday (October 14) revised its GDP growth forecast for India, increasing the projection for 2025 to 6.6%, up from the earlier estimate of 6.4%. However, the organisation has slightly downgraded the 2026 growth outlook to 6.2%. The adjustment for 2025 stems from a strong performance in the first quarter, which offset the negative impact of the higher US tariff on Indian imports since July. Compared to the forecast made prior to the US tariff increase, the revised projections reflect a cumulative 0.2% reduction.&nbsp;For the global economy, the IMF has lowered its growth expectations for 2024 and 2025. It now anticipates a global growth rate of 3.2% for this year, followed by 3.1% in 2025, marking a 0.2% downgrade since its previous projections. The IMF warned that it’s too soon to determine if the recent surge in US tariffs has had no lasting effect on global growth. In its assessment, the IMF highlighted that advanced economies, including the US, are expected to grow at a sluggish pace of 1.5% in 2025-2026, while emerging markets like India will continue to show stronger growth, albeit at a slightly slower rate of around 4%.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nhai-to-give-rs-1000-for-reporting-dirty-toilets-rules-of-scheme-revealed-1760442787367">NHAI to give Rs 1000 for reporting dirty toilets | Rules of scheme revealed</a>&nbsp;IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed strong optimism about India’s economic trajectory, emphasizing the country's bold reforms. She praised India’s success in large-scale digital identity implementation and reforms in sectors such as taxation and digital payments, including the recent changes to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. According to Georgieva, these structural changes have reinforced India’s economic stability, and the country’s adaptability has allowed it to thrive despite challenges such as the tariff increases from the US.&nbsp;The IMF’s projections suggest that India, the world’s fastest-growing major economy, is on track to surpass Japan and become the fourth-largest economy by nominal GDP. In the long term, India is expected to overtake Germany and rise to third place globally, following the US and China. Despite challenges like the US’s tariff hikes, economists are confident that India's economic growth will remain resilient due to strong domestic fundamentals, particularly its robust corporate sector and favorable financial conditions.

IMF forecasts India’s GDP growth to 6.6% for 2025 despite US tariff concerns

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday (October 14) revised its GDP growth forecast for India, increasing the projection for 2025 to 6.6%, up from the earlier estimate of 6.4%. However, the organisation has slightly downgraded the 2026 growth outlook to 6.2%. The adjustment for 2025 stems from a strong performance in the first quarter, which offset the negative impact of the higher US tariff on Indian imports since July. Compared to the forecast made prior to the US tariff increase, the revised projections reflect a cumulative 0.2% reduction. For the global economy, the IMF has lowered its growth expectations for 2024 and 2025. It now anticipates a global growth rate of 3.2% for this year, followed by 3.1% in 2025, marking a 0.2% downgrade since its previous projections. The IMF warned that it’s too soon to determine if the recent surge in US tariffs has had no lasting effect on global growth. In its assessment, the IMF highlighted that advanced economies, including the US, are expected to grow at a sluggish pace of 1.5% in 2025-2026, while emerging markets like India will continue to show stronger growth, albeit at a slightly slower rate of around 4%. Also Read: NHAI to give Rs 1000 for reporting dirty toilets | Rules of scheme revealed IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed strong optimism about India’s economic trajectory, emphasizing the country's bold reforms. She praised India’s success in large-scale digital identity implementation and reforms in sectors such as taxation and digital payments, including the recent changes to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. According to Georgieva, these structural changes have reinforced India’s economic stability, and the country’s adaptability has allowed it to thrive despite challenges such as the tariff increases from the US. The IMF’s projections suggest that India, the world’s fastest-growing major economy, is on track to surpass Japan and become the fourth-largest economy by nominal GDP. In the long term, India is expected to overtake Germany and rise to third place globally, following the US and China. Despite challenges like the US’s tariff hikes, economists are confident that India's economic growth will remain resilient due to strong domestic fundamentals, particularly its robust corporate sector and favorable financial conditions.

IMF raises India's 2025 GDP growth forecast to 6.6%, citing strong reforms and digital initiatives, while lowering projections for 2026. India remains key global growth driver

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that the conditions are favourable for the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the entire country by Thursday (October 16). Typically active between June and September, the southwest monsoon brings in the vast majority of India's annual rainfall. Likewise, the Northeast monsoon which brings rains across parts of southern India is expected to set in around Thursday. Also known as the retreating monsoon, the Northeast monsoon is the second major rainfall season in India, and is crucial for large parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry.&nbsp;&nbsp;The two are related in such a way that the Northeast monsoon occurs when the southwest monsoon withdrawal, and the wind direction reverses. The Northeast monsoon sets in around mid-October and goes on till mid-December. The Northeast monsoon caters for about 50% or more of the annual rainfall in Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh. This season is known for cyclonic storms or weather systems that form in the Bay of Bengal, which can lead to very heavy rainfall and potential flooding in parts of Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh. These rains are also crucial for recharging the water table and the reservoirs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, there is an Upper Air Cyclonic Circulation over the Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining and Indian Equatorial Ocean up to 3.1 km above mean sea level. It is likely to move west-northwestwards towards Kanyakumari, the Indian mainland's southernmost tip. Under its influence, a Low Pressure Area is likely to form over Southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area off Kerala-south Karnataka coasts around 19th October. A low pressure area is associated with storm weather, rainfall, gusty winds.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the next four days, IMD has predicted heavy rains for several districts across Tamil Nadu. Owing to gusty winds during this period, fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing out along the southern Tamil Nadu coastal regions and the Kerala coastal regions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India: Southwest monsoon withdrawal, Northeast monsoon onset likely this week

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that the conditions are favourable for the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the entire country by Thursday (October 16). Typically active between June and September, the southwest monsoon brings in the vast majority of India's annual rainfall. Likewise, the Northeast monsoon which brings rains across parts of southern India is expected to set in around Thursday. Also known as the retreating monsoon, the Northeast monsoon is the second major rainfall season in India, and is crucial for large parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry. The two are related in such a way that the Northeast monsoon occurs when the southwest monsoon withdrawal, and the wind direction reverses. The Northeast monsoon sets in around mid-October and goes on till mid-December. The Northeast monsoon caters for about 50% or more of the annual rainfall in Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh. This season is known for cyclonic storms or weather systems that form in the Bay of Bengal, which can lead to very heavy rainfall and potential flooding in parts of Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh. These rains are also crucial for recharging the water table and the reservoirs. Meanwhile, there is an Upper Air Cyclonic Circulation over the Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining and Indian Equatorial Ocean up to 3.1 km above mean sea level. It is likely to move west-northwestwards towards Kanyakumari, the Indian mainland's southernmost tip. Under its influence, a Low Pressure Area is likely to form over Southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep area off Kerala-south Karnataka coasts around 19th October. A low pressure area is associated with storm weather, rainfall, gusty winds. For the next four days, IMD has predicted heavy rains for several districts across Tamil Nadu. Owing to gusty winds during this period, fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing out along the southern Tamil Nadu coastal regions and the Kerala coastal regions.

For the next four days, IMD has predicted heavy rains for several districts across Tamil Nadu. Owing to gusty winds during this period, fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing out along the southern Tamil Nadu coastal regions and Kerala coastal regions

In a dramatic turn in the ongoing probe into Haryana IPS officer Y Puran Kumar’s death, another officer investigating him died by suicide on Tuesday (October 14). Sandeep Kumar, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) posted in the Rohtak cyber cell department, was leading a corruption investigation against the IPS officer. Sandeep was found dead in a field in Rohtak after he shot himself with his service revolver. Before taking the extreme step, he left behind a detailed three-page suicide note and a video message, in which he claimed he was “ending down his life for the sake of truth.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-2025-bjp-announces-first-list-of-candidates-for-71-assembly-constituencies-1760436034376">Bihar Elections 2025: BJP announces first list of candidates for 71 assembly constituencies</a>&nbsp;In his note, Sandeep levelled serious charges against Y Puran Kumar, calling him a “deeply corrupt” officer who took his own life out of fear that his alleged wrongdoings were about to be exposed. He accused the IPS officer of trying to deflect attention by portraying the corruption allegations as a case of caste discrimination. Sandeep claimed he had caught the IPS officer’s gunman accepting a ₹2.5 lakh bribe from a liquor contractor, who had earlier approached the officer after being threatened by a gangster. Once the bribery claims surfaced, Sandeep alleged that Y Puran Kumar used caste as a shield to divert scrutiny and later died by suicide.<h2>Watch the video posted by Sandeep Kumar</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">ASI Sandeep Kumar, an officer posted in the Cyber Cell, has died by suicide after allegedly shooting himself. He left behind a three-page suicide note and a video message. In them, he made serious allegations against IPS officer Y. Puran Kumar, calling him a &quot;corrupt officer&quot;… <a href="https://t.co/Cb9twijPry">https://t.co/Cb9twijPry</a> <a href="https://t.co/vfzW5iD1j2">pic.twitter.com/vfzW5iD1j2</a>&mdash; Akashdeep Thind (@thind_akashdeep) <a href="https://twitter.com/thind_akashdeep/status/1978040514936258584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the video recorded before his death, Sandeep said that after Y Puran Kumar took charge in the Rohtak range, he systematically sidelined honest officers and brought in those willing to participate in corrupt practices. “They stalled files, summoned petitioners and extorted money. Women personnel were sexually exploited in return for transfers,” he alleged. He further urged authorities to investigate the assets of those linked to the officer. “This is not about caste. It’s about corruption. I am proud to stand for the truth,” Sandeep said, adding that his act was intended to “awaken the country.”&nbsp;He also praised Rohtak police chief Narendra Bijarnia — one of the 10 officers named in Y Puran Kumar’s suicide note — calling him an honest officer. Bijarnia has since been transferred. Meanwhile, SP Rohtak Surendra&nbsp;Singh&nbsp;Bhoria said, “This was a hardworking ASI of our police department, Sandeep. He was very honest and hardworking. His body has been found. A forensic team has been called here and an investigation is being carried out. He was posted in cyber cell.”

Rohtak ASI Sandeep Kumar, who was probing IPS officer Y Puran Kumar, died by suicide, accusing him of corruption and misuse of caste claims

In a dramatic turn in the ongoing probe into Haryana IPS officer Y Puran Kumar’s death, another officer investigating him died by suicide on Tuesday (October 14). Sandeep Kumar, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) posted in the Rohtak cyber cell department, was leading a corruption investigation against the IPS officer. Sandeep was found dead in a field in Rohtak after he shot himself with his service revolver. Before taking the extreme step, he left behind a detailed three-page suicide note and a video message, in which he claimed he was “ending down his life for the sake of truth.” Also Read: Bihar Elections 2025: BJP announces first list of candidates for 71 assembly constituencies In his note, Sandeep levelled serious charges against Y Puran Kumar, calling him a “deeply corrupt” officer who took his own life out of fear that his alleged wrongdoings were about to be exposed. He accused the IPS officer of trying to deflect attention by portraying the corruption allegations as a case of caste discrimination. Sandeep claimed he had caught the IPS officer’s gunman accepting a ₹2.5 lakh bribe from a liquor contractor, who had earlier approached the officer after being threatened by a gangster. Once the bribery claims surfaced, Sandeep alleged that Y Puran Kumar used caste as a shield to divert scrutiny and later died by suicide. Watch the video posted by Sandeep Kumar

Rohtak ASI Sandeep Kumar, who was probing IPS officer Y Puran Kumar, died by suicide, accusing him of corruption and misuse of caste claims

'Sacrificing my life for...': New twist in Haryana top cop death as officer probing him dies by suicide

On Tuesday (October 14), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. Among the prominent figures in this list are outgoing deputy chief ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, who will be contesting from Tarapur and Lakhisarai constituencies, respectively. The 243-seat Bihar Assembly is set to vote in two phases, on November 6 and 11, with results scheduled for November 14. Of the 101 seats the BJP will contest, candidates have been announced for 71 constituencies in the initial list.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which includes the BJP and Janata Dal-United (JD(U)), finalised its seat-sharing arrangement for the elections on Sunday. Both BJP and JD(U) will field candidates for 101 seats each, while Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) will contest 29 seats. Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) or HAM(S) will compete for six seats each.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/durgapur-gangrape-case-sister-helps-police-nab-main-accused-crime-scene-reconstruction-next-1760434583157">Durgapur gangrape case: Sister helps police nab main accused; crime scene reconstruction next</a>&nbsp;This final seat distribution saw a reduction in seats for Nitish Kumar’s JD(U), which had previously contested 115 seats in 2020. The BJP also cut down its seat count from 110 to 101 compared to the last election. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan took to social media to announce the conclusion of the seat-sharing talks, calling the process cordial and expressing confidence that the NDA would once again form the government in Bihar.&nbsp;The talks had been marked by tension over seat demands from Chirag Paswan's LJP and Manjhi’s HAM(S). Manjhi had been pushing for his party to be allotted at least 15 seats, arguing that winning eight would secure his party’s recognition from the Election Commission. Paswan’s LJP (RV) had also sought to contest around 45-54 seats, though the BJP was only willing to offer 20-25 seats. As of now, the opposition Mahagathbandhan alliance, which includes the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress, has yet to disclose its seat-sharing strategy.<h2>2020 election seat allocation</h2>In the 2020 Bihar elections, the BJP had contested 110 seats, while JD(U) fought on 115. The HAM(S) contested 7&nbsp;seats, and the VIP, then part of the NDA, contested 11. The LJP ran independently for 135 seats. This election marks a shift, as JD(U) will no longer contest more seats than the BJP.

Bihar Elections 2025: BJP announces first list of candidates for 71 assembly constituencies

On Tuesday (October 14), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its first list of candidates for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. Among the prominent figures in this list are outgoing deputy chief ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, who will be contesting from Tarapur and Lakhisarai constituencies, respectively. The 243-seat Bihar Assembly is set to vote in two phases, on November 6 and 11, with results scheduled for November 14. Of the 101 seats the BJP will contest, candidates have been announced for 71 constituencies in the initial list. Meanwhile, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which includes the BJP and Janata Dal-United (JD(U)), finalised its seat-sharing arrangement for the elections on Sunday. Both BJP and JD(U) will field candidates for 101 seats each, while Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) will contest 29 seats. Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) or HAM(S) will compete for six seats each. Also Read: Durgapur gangrape case: Sister helps police nab main accused; crime scene reconstruction next This final seat distribution saw a reduction in seats for Nitish Kumar’s JD(U), which had previously contested 115 seats in 2020. The BJP also cut down its seat count from 110 to 101 compared to the last election. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan took to social media to announce the conclusion of the seat-sharing talks, calling the process cordial and expressing confidence that the NDA would once again form the government in Bihar. The talks had been marked by tension over seat demands from Chirag Paswan's LJP and Manjhi’s HAM(S). Manjhi had been pushing for his party to be allotted at least 15 seats, arguing that winning eight would secure his party’s recognition from the Election Commission. Paswan’s LJP (RV) had also sought to contest around 45-54 seats, though the BJP was only willing to offer 20-25 seats. As of now, the opposition Mahagathbandhan alliance, which includes the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress, has yet to disclose its seat-sharing strategy. 2020 election seat allocation In the 2020 Bihar elections, the BJP had contested 110 seats, while JD(U) fought on 115. The HAM(S) contested 7 seats, and the VIP, then part of the NDA, contested 11. The LJP ran independently for 135 seats. This election marks a shift, as JD(U) will no longer contest more seats than the BJP.

BJP announced its first list of candidates for Bihar elections with 71 out of 101 seats, while finalising seat-sharing with NDA allies ahead of November polls

The alleged gangrape of a 23-year-old second-year medical student near a private medical college in Durgapur, West Bengal, has snowballed into a major controversy, fuelling public anger and a fierce political slugfest. As part of the ongoing investigation, police on Tuesday (October 14) moved to reconstruct the crime scene. All five suspects have now been arrested, including two nabbed on Monday (October 13) with the help of one accused’s sister. Rozina Sk, sister of Safiq Sk, reportedly tipped off police about his location under Andal bridge, saying she didn’t want her family to “bear the shame” of his actions. Safiq surrendered without resistance, while another accused, Sk Nasiruddin, believed to have provided the getaway motorcycle, was caught shortly after.&nbsp;The other three men — Riyazuddin (a former college security guard), Apu Barui, and Firdaus Sk — were picked up on Sunday and placed in 10-day police custody. The two arrested later have been remanded for nine days. In a rare move, the Durgapur Bar Association has decided not to defend the accused. Legal aid lawyer Pooja Kurmi submitted representation documents but refrained from filing for bail.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-looms-infiltration-attempts-surge-security-forces-tighten-vigil-along-loc-in-jammu-and-kashmir-1760427986064">Winter looms, infiltration attempts surge: Security forces tighten vigil along LOC in Jammu and Kashmir</a><h2>Reconstruction and evidence hunt</h2>Investigators plan to take the accused to the forest patch near Paranaganj Kali Bari cremation ground, the scene of the assault, to piece together the sequence of events. Police have already visited the homes of some accused to recover hidden evidence and will conduct medical examinations and DNA profiling of all suspects. A test identification parade is expected after the survivor records her statement.&nbsp;The assault took place between 8 pm and 8.45 pm on Friday night. The survivor, who hails from Balasore, Odisha, was walking with a male friend when a group of five men intercepted them near the cremation ground. They allegedly snatched her phone to prevent her from calling for help and took turns sexually assaulting her. Her companion fled and is currently under detention for questioning. The accused include a hospital employee, a former guard, a civic body contract worker, and an unemployed youth.<h2>Political fallout and public anger</h2>The brutality of the attack and the subsequent remarks by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have ignited a political storm. The survivor’s father expressed outrage, likening the state’s law and order to “Aurangzeb’s rule” and announcing his intention to bring his daughter back to Odisha. “She is also a woman. How can she say such things? Should women stop working and stay home?” he asked.&nbsp;Banerjee’s initial comment — urging private colleges to “take care” of women students and saying “they should not be allowed to go out at night” — was widely condemned as victim-blaming. Though she later claimed her words were “distorted,” the backlash was swift. Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida said the remarks had “insulted” women across Bengal, while TMC MP Saugata Roy defended the CM, saying late-night outings were unsafe as “police cannot be on every street.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-2025-jailed-activist-sharjeel-imam-seeks-bail-to-contest-state-polls-after-five-years-in-jail-1760366970315">Bihar Elections 2025: Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam seeks bail to contest state polls after five years in jail</a><h2>Governor’s visit and NCW intervention</h2>Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the survivor’s family on Monday (October 13), describing the incident as “deeply disturbing” and calling for a “second renaissance” to restore safety for women in Bengal. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued an 11-point set of recommendations to ensure the survivor’s education is not disrupted. These include transfer options to other colleges, special exams, improved CCTV surveillance, and a dedicated police outpost near campus. NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar stressed the need for speedy justice through a fast-track trial.<h2>TMC-BJP clash</h2>The BJP has launched a six-day sit-in at Durgapur’s City Centre, accusing the state government of political shielding and evidence tampering. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged that some accused have TMC links, calling the arrests “an eyewash.” TMC’s IT cell chief Debangshu Bhattacharya rejected the charge, stating that statistical probability alone explains some accused having political affiliations. Odisha’s State Commission for Women chairperson Sovana Mohanty also met the survivor and her family. Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary maintained that the investigation was on track and promised that “the culprits will not be spared.”

Durgapur gangrape case: Sister helps police nab main accused; crime scene reconstruction next

The alleged gangrape of a 23-year-old second-year medical student near a private medical college in Durgapur, West Bengal, has snowballed into a major controversy, fuelling public anger and a fierce political slugfest. As part of the ongoing investigation, police on Tuesday (October 14) moved to reconstruct the crime scene. All five suspects have now been arrested, including two nabbed on Monday (October 13) with the help of one accused’s sister. Rozina Sk, sister of Safiq Sk, reportedly tipped off police about his location under Andal bridge, saying she didn’t want her family to “bear the shame” of his actions. Safiq surrendered without resistance, while another accused, Sk Nasiruddin, believed to have provided the getaway motorcycle, was caught shortly after. The other three men — Riyazuddin (a former college security guard), Apu Barui, and Firdaus Sk — were picked up on Sunday and placed in 10-day police custody. The two arrested later have been remanded for nine days. In a rare move, the Durgapur Bar Association has decided not to defend the accused. Legal aid lawyer Pooja Kurmi submitted representation documents but refrained from filing for bail. Also Read: Winter looms, infiltration attempts surge: Security forces tighten vigil along LOC in Jammu and Kashmir Reconstruction and evidence hunt Investigators plan to take the accused to the forest patch near Paranaganj Kali Bari cremation ground, the scene of the assault, to piece together the sequence of events. Police have already visited the homes of some accused to recover hidden evidence and will conduct medical examinations and DNA profiling of all suspects. A test identification parade is expected after the survivor records her statement. The assault took place between 8 pm and 8.45 pm on Friday night. The survivor, who hails from Balasore, Odisha, was walking with a male friend when a group of five men intercepted them near the cremation ground. They allegedly snatched her phone to prevent her from calling for help and took turns sexually assaulting her. Her companion fled and is currently under detention for questioning. The accused include a hospital employee, a former guard, a civic body contract worker, and an unemployed youth. Political fallout and public anger The brutality of the attack and the subsequent remarks by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have ignited a political storm. The survivor’s father expressed outrage, likening the state’s law and order to “Aurangzeb’s rule” and announcing his intention to bring his daughter back to Odisha. “She is also a woman. How can she say such things? Should women stop working and stay home?” he asked. Banerjee’s initial comment — urging private colleges to “take care” of women students and saying “they should not be allowed to go out at night” — was widely condemned as victim-blaming. Though she later claimed her words were “distorted,” the backlash was swift. Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida said the remarks had “insulted” women across Bengal, while TMC MP Saugata Roy defended the CM, saying late-night outings were unsafe as “police cannot be on every street.” Also Read: Bihar Elections 2025: Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam seeks bail to contest state polls after five years in jail Governor’s visit and NCW intervention Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the survivor’s family on Monday (October 13), describing the incident as “deeply disturbing” and calling for a “second renaissance” to restore safety for women in Bengal. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued an 11-point set of recommendations to ensure the survivor’s education is not disrupted. These include transfer options to other colleges, special exams, improved CCTV surveillance, and a dedicated police outpost near campus. NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar stressed the need for speedy justice through a fast-track trial. TMC-BJP clash The BJP has launched a six-day sit-in at Durgapur’s City Centre, accusing the state government of political shielding and evidence tampering. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged that some accused have TMC links, calling the arrests “an eyewash.” TMC’s IT cell chief Debangshu Bhattacharya rejected the charge, stating that statistical probability alone explains some accused having political affiliations. Odisha’s State Commission for Women chairperson Sovana Mohanty also met the survivor and her family. Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary maintained that the investigation was on track and promised that “the culprits will not be spared.”

Outrage grows after the gangrape of a medical student in Durgapur. All five accused have been arrested; West Bengal's CM’s remarks spark political row as NCW and governor intervene

As winter approaches, the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a sharp escalation in tensions, marked by a significant rise in infiltration attempts and intensified cross-border activities. The region's volatile border is heating up, with increased terrorist movements and security challenges, underscoring the growing complexities of maintaining stability in this strategically critical area.As heavy snowfall blankets the higher ranges beyond November, terrorist infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir becomes increasingly challenging due to snow-covered passes. This seasonal barrier prompts a surge in infiltration attempts in the pre-winter period. In response, security forces have significantly heightened vigilance and bolstered defences along the LoC to thwart these threats and maintain robust border security.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-killed-along-loc-during-an-infiltration-bid-1760411803921">Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed along LoC during an infiltration bid</a>''The information that we keep getting about the terror launchpads being made by our neighbouring country, to send across terrorists into our territory. Along with the Indian Army, the BSF is making sure to secure the borders. We usually see before the arrival of winters, there is an increase in the infiltration bids, and keeping that in mind, the security on the border has been beefed up, ' said Satish S Khandare, ADG BSF.Security forces have received intelligence indicating that over 120 terrorists are stationed at launchpads across the border, poised to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir and disrupt the region's peace. To counter this imminent threat, the forces have significantly reinforced the border security grid, enhancing surveillance and fortifying defences along the Line of Control to prevent any incursions and maintain stability.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-fires-warning-shots-after-suspicious-movement-detected-along-loc-1760377359249">Indian Army fires warning shots after suspicious movement detected along LoC</a>''Terrorist launch pads remain operational, with approximately 100-120 foreign terrorists positioned and eager to infiltrate. However, our robust anti-infiltration measures are highly vigilant, effectively preventing any unauthorised entry into our territory. With two months until the onset of winter, our forces remain on high alert to ensure no infiltrations occur, '' said Ashok Yadav, IG BSF Kashmir.On Tuesday, the Indian Army, along with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, conducted a successful anti-infiltration operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil Sector of Kupwara district, North Kashmir. The operation resulted in the neutralization of two terrorists, thwarting their attempt to breach the border and disrupt peace in the region.''OP AMAR, Kupwara. Based on specific intelligence input by JKP &amp; corroborated by sources and agencies, regarding likely infiltration attempt, a joint operation was launched by # IndianArmy and Jammu and Kashmir Police in Machhal Sector, Kupwara on 13 Oct 2025. Alert troops spotted suspicious activity and challenged, which resulted in terrorists opening indiscriminate fire. Troops responded with effective fire, neutralising two terrorists. Large quantity of weapons and equipment was recovered. Operation is in progress, '' said Indian Army.Intelligence sources reveal that the terrorist groups are orchestrating a new strategy to escalate terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, with multiple covert meetings held across the border.

Tensions are spiking along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir as winter nears, with intelligence warning that over 120 terrorists are waiting across the border to infiltrate before snow blocks routes.

As winter approaches, the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a sharp escalation in tensions, marked by a significant rise in infiltration attempts and intensified cross-border activities. The region's volatile border is heating up, with increased terrorist movements and security challenges, underscoring the growing complexities of maintaining stability in this strategically critical area. As heavy snowfall blankets the higher ranges beyond November, terrorist infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir becomes increasingly challenging due to snow-covered passes. This seasonal barrier prompts a surge in infiltration attempts in the pre-winter period. In response, security forces have significantly heightened vigilance and bolstered defences along the LoC to thwart these threats and maintain robust border security. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed along LoC during an infiltration bid ''The information that we keep getting about the terror launchpads being made by our neighbouring country, to send across terrorists into our territory. Along with the Indian Army, the BSF is making sure to secure the borders. We usually see before the arrival of winters, there is an increase in the infiltration bids, and keeping that in mind, the security on the border has been beefed up, ' said Satish S Khandare, ADG BSF. Security forces have received intelligence indicating that over 120 terrorists are stationed at launchpads across the border, poised to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir and disrupt the region's peace. To counter this imminent threat, the forces have significantly reinforced the border security grid, enhancing surveillance and fortifying defences along the Line of Control to prevent any incursions and maintain stability. Also read | Indian Army fires warning shots after suspicious movement detected along LoC ''Terrorist launch pads remain operational, with approximately 100-120 foreign terrorists positioned and eager to infiltrate. However, our robust anti-infiltration measures are highly vigilant, effectively preventing any unauthorised entry into our territory. With two months until the onset of winter, our forces remain on high alert to ensure no infiltrations occur, '' said Ashok Yadav, IG BSF Kashmir. On Tuesday, the Indian Army, along with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, conducted a successful anti-infiltration operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil Sector of Kupwara district, North Kashmir. The operation resulted in the neutralization of two terrorists, thwarting their attempt to breach the border and disrupt peace in the region. ''OP AMAR, Kupwara. Based on specific intelligence input by JKP & corroborated by sources and agencies, regarding likely infiltration attempt, a joint operation was launched by # IndianArmy and Jammu and Kashmir Police in Machhal Sector, Kupwara on 13 Oct 2025. Alert troops spotted suspicious activity and challenged, which resulted in terrorists opening indiscriminate fire. Troops responded with effective fire, neutralising two terrorists. Large quantity of weapons and equipment was recovered. Operation is in progress, '' said Indian Army. Intelligence sources reveal that the terrorist groups are orchestrating a new strategy to escalate terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, with multiple covert meetings held across the border.

Tensions are spiking along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir as winter nears, with intelligence warning that over 120 terrorists are waiting across the border to infiltrate before snow blocks routes.

Winter looms, infiltration attempts surge: Security forces tighten vigil along LOC in Jammu and Kashmir

After the withdrawal of the monsoon and ahead of the onset of winter, Air pollution in Delhi is again rising, breaching the ‘poor’ category on Tuesday with a reading of 201. In addition, the Centre’s Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) predicted that the Air Quality Index will remain in the “poor” category till this week.&nbsp;This marks the first instance where the air quality of the national capital has crossed the “poor” quality since June 11, when Delhi last recorded an AQI of 245. “Delhi’s air quality is very likely to be in the ‘poor’ category from October 14 till October 16. The outlook for the subsequent six days shows the air quality is likely to be between the ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ categories,” EWS projections released on Monday said.&nbsp;The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said Delhi's AQI stood at 169 at 9 am on Monday, rising to a 24-hour average of 189 by 4 pm. This was a 22-point increase from Sunday's AQI of 167.<h3>Why does air quality drop to the ‘poor’ category?</h3>The air quality in Delhi typically deteriorates in October, following the retreat of the southwest monsoon, which brings lower temperatures and reduced wind speeds. This season shift also coincides with stubble burning in nearby states, festive firecracker use, and stagnant air conditions that trap pollutants near the surface.&nbsp;Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet meteorology, told HT that wind speeds dropped to between 6-10 km/hr on Monday, slowing the dispersion of pollutants. “Wind direction is westerly to northwesterly, and there will be marginal stubble intrusion. We don’t expect a significant change in terms of weather, with similar wind direction and low wind speed to persist,” Palawat said.&nbsp;However, stubble burning is not yet a major contributor to the current spike. Data from the Decision Support System (DSS), which tracks the sources of Delhi’s PM2.5 pollution, indicated that farm fires contributed only 0.62 per cent to the city’s PM2.5 levels on Monday, a slight rise from 0.24 per cent the day before.

Air quality in Delhi breached the ‘poor’ category on Tuesday with a reading of 201, and Delhi's AQI stood at 169 at 9 am on Monday, rising to a 24-hour average of 189 by 4 pm, which was a 22-point increase from Sunday's AQI of 167.

After the withdrawal of the monsoon and ahead of the onset of winter, Air pollution in Delhi is again rising, breaching the ‘poor’ category on Tuesday with a reading of 201. In addition, the Centre’s Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) predicted that the Air Quality Index will remain in the “poor” category till this week. This marks the first instance where the air quality of the national capital has crossed the “poor” quality since June 11, when Delhi last recorded an AQI of 245. “Delhi’s air quality is very likely to be in the ‘poor’ category from October 14 till October 16. The outlook for the subsequent six days shows the air quality is likely to be between the ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ categories,” EWS projections released on Monday said. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said Delhi's AQI stood at 169 at 9 am on Monday, rising to a 24-hour average of 189 by 4 pm. This was a 22-point increase from Sunday's AQI of 167. Why does air quality drop to the ‘poor’ category? The air quality in Delhi typically deteriorates in October, following the retreat of the southwest monsoon, which brings lower temperatures and reduced wind speeds. This season shift also coincides with stubble burning in nearby states, festive firecracker use, and stagnant air conditions that trap pollutants near the surface. Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet meteorology, told HT that wind speeds dropped to between 6-10 km/hr on Monday, slowing the dispersion of pollutants. “Wind direction is westerly to northwesterly, and there will be marginal stubble intrusion. We don’t expect a significant change in terms of weather, with similar wind direction and low wind speed to persist,” Palawat said. However, stubble burning is not yet a major contributor to the current spike. Data from the Decision Support System (DSS), which tracks the sources of Delhi’s PM2.5 pollution, indicated that farm fires contributed only 0.62 per cent to the city’s PM2.5 levels on Monday, a slight rise from 0.24 per cent the day before.

Air quality in Delhi breached the ‘poor’ category on Tuesday with a reading of 201, and Delhi's AQI stood at 169 at 9 am on Monday, rising to a 24-hour average of 189 by 4 pm, which was a 22-point increase from Sunday's AQI of 167.

Delhi's air quality falls to ‘poor’ levels ahead of Diwali — Here’s why

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global health advisory after three contaminated cough syrups manufactured in India were linked to the deaths of several children in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district. The WHO in its advisory identified the syrups as specific batches of Coldrif (Sresan Pharmaceutical), Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharmaceuticals), and ReLife (Shape Pharma). The global health body's advisory comes as India widens its investigation into the deaths. Reports suggest that the state Police have informed a sessions court that Dr Praveen Soni, a government paediatrician in Chhindwara, who was arrested in the case, allegedly received a 10 per cent commission from Sresan Pharmaceutical for prescribing the adulterated Coldrif syrup.<h2>WHO warning on Indian cough syrups</h2>The WHO in its health advisory said that the three cough syrups contained toxic levels of diethylene glycol — nearly 500 times the permissible limit — and warned that the products posed significant, potentially life-threatening risks.<h2>Were the contaminated cough syrups exported to the US?</h2>No, India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) had earlier informed the WHO that the affected syrups were reportedly consumed by children under the age of five who later died in Chhindwara. The regulator added that there was no evidence of the products being exported or shipped illegally abroad. The US Food and Drug Administration also confirmed that none of the toxic syrups had entered the American market.<h2>Did Dr Praveen Soni receive a commission for prescribing dangerous cough syrups?</h2>Police, as per reports, told a session court that Dr Praveen Soni received a 10 per cent commission from Sresan Pharmaceutical for prescribing the adulterated Coldrif syrup. Earlier, on Oct 8, the court had denied Soni's bail plea saying that he “knowingly prescribed and allowed administration of a dangerous adulterated drug that could cause child deaths” even after a December 2023 government directive prohibited the use of certain fixed-dose combinations for children under four. The probe report submitted by the police alleges that 15 children have died under his treatment.Soni has denied the allegations, saying he merely prescribed the medication in good faith and had no knowledge of its contamination. His lawyer argued that testing drug quality was the responsibility of the Drug Controller Department.

The WHO has issued a global alert after three India-made cough syrups — Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife — were linked to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global health advisory after three contaminated cough syrups manufactured in India were linked to the deaths of several children in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district. The WHO in its advisory identified the syrups as specific batches of Coldrif (Sresan Pharmaceutical), Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharmaceuticals), and ReLife (Shape Pharma). The global health body's advisory comes as India widens its investigation into the deaths. Reports suggest that the state Police have informed a sessions court that Dr Praveen Soni, a government paediatrician in Chhindwara, who was arrested in the case, allegedly received a 10 per cent commission from Sresan Pharmaceutical for prescribing the adulterated Coldrif syrup. WHO warning on Indian cough syrups The WHO in its health advisory said that the three cough syrups contained toxic levels of diethylene glycol — nearly 500 times the permissible limit — and warned that the products posed significant, potentially life-threatening risks. Were the contaminated cough syrups exported to the US? No, India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) had earlier informed the WHO that the affected syrups were reportedly consumed by children under the age of five who later died in Chhindwara. The regulator added that there was no evidence of the products being exported or shipped illegally abroad. The US Food and Drug Administration also confirmed that none of the toxic syrups had entered the American market. Did Dr Praveen Soni receive a commission for prescribing dangerous cough syrups? Police, as per reports, told a session court that Dr Praveen Soni received a 10 per cent commission from Sresan Pharmaceutical for prescribing the adulterated Coldrif syrup. Earlier, on Oct 8, the court had denied Soni's bail plea saying that he “knowingly prescribed and allowed administration of a dangerous adulterated drug that could cause child deaths” even after a December 2023 government directive prohibited the use of certain fixed-dose combinations for children under four. The probe report submitted by the police alleges that 15 children have died under his treatment. Soni has denied the allegations, saying he merely prescribed the medication in good faith and had no knowledge of its contamination. His lawyer argued that testing drug quality was the responsibility of the Drug Controller Department.

The WHO has issued a global alert after three India-made cough syrups — Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife — were linked to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh.

WHO issues alert after toxic Indian cough syrups linked to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh

The Election Commission of India has made pre-certification of all political ads mandatory on electronic media, including social media. All national and state political parties and candidates must declare an authentic social media account. They should approach the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMCs) at the district and state level for the pre-approval of any political content intended for public dissemination. According to the statement, MCMC has been formed at the district and state level, and it maintains a persistent vigil.&nbsp;According to the commission order dated October 14, 2025, the directive will apply ahead of the Bihar assembly polls and bypolls in eight assembly constituencies across six states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The political parties and candidates are directed to submit a report of the expenditure made for any such campaign and other operational expenditure during the period of the election within 75 days of the completion of the assembly elections, under section 77(1) of the Representation of the People Act 1951.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Political Parties to get advertisements pre-certified by Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC); Candidates to inform the Commission of their authentic social media accounts, says the Election Commission of India. <a href="https://t.co/AfuQGAf71u">pic.twitter.com/AfuQGAf71u</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1977955398977241383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Backdoor to censorship&nbsp;</h2>The Election Commission of India, during the General Assembly election, allowed the ruling BJP to blatantly violate the Model Code of Conduct. It said no political advertisements were allowed one day before poll day, but most of the newspapers displayed full-page religious messaging of the BJP. &nbsp;The rule only applied to opposition when Dordarshan censored opposition on the pretence of MCC. The AIR and Doordarshan asked CPIM general secretary Sitaram Yechury and All India Forward Bloc leader G Devarajan to omit phrases like “communal authoritarian regime”, “Muslim”, and “draconian laws” before the General Assembly election in 2024. However, a report by Newslaundry shows that Prime Minister Modi went on to use words like “Muslims”, “vote jihad” and “Ram temple”.&nbsp;He also blatantly spread misinformation, such as: In Karnataka, ”all Muslims have been turned into OBCs overnight”, and in Kolkata, opposition would redistribute wealth to those who do “vote jihad”, to name only a few.Even though the &nbsp;EC mandate of pre-certification of all political ads is intended to increase transparency and stop the spreading of inflammatory content and fake news, it may also be used for preemptive, partisan censorship. While ostensibly neutral, it could disproportionately affect dissenting voices and opposing political parties if the commission leans towards the ruling party, which has been the case till now.&nbsp;

EC mandates pre-certification of all political ads; even though meant to counter fake news, the partisan history of the EC hints at suppressing opposition voices ahead of the Bihar assembly elections.

The Election Commission of India has made pre-certification of all political ads mandatory on electronic media, including social media. All national and state political parties and candidates must declare an authentic social media account. They should approach the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMCs) at the district and state level for the pre-approval of any political content intended for public dissemination. According to the statement, MCMC has been formed at the district and state level, and it maintains a persistent vigil. According to the commission order dated October 14, 2025, the directive will apply ahead of the Bihar assembly polls and bypolls in eight assembly constituencies across six states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The political parties and candidates are directed to submit a report of the expenditure made for any such campaign and other operational expenditure during the period of the election within 75 days of the completion of the assembly elections, under section 77(1) of the Representation of the People Act 1951.

EC mandates pre-certification of all political ads; even though meant to counter fake news, the partisan history of the EC hints at suppressing opposition voices ahead of the Bihar assembly elections.

EC mandates pre-certification for political ads on social media, backdoor to censorship?

In an anti-infiltration operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil Sector of Kupwara district, North Kashmir, Indian security forces eliminated two terrorists. On Monday evening, alert Indian Army troops stationed along the LoC detected suspicious movement near the border and fired warning shots to deter potential infiltrators. The intruders responded with gunfire, triggering a fierce exchange of fire with the security forces.''OP AMAR, Kupwara. Based on specific intelligence input by JKP &amp; corroborated by sources and agencies, regarding likely infiltration attempt, a joint operation was launched by # IndianArmy and Jammu and Kashmir Police in Machhal Sector, Kupwara on 13 Oct 2025. Alert troops spotted suspicious activity and challenged, which resulted in terrorists opening indiscriminate fire. Troops responded with effective fire, neutralising two terrorists. Large quantity of weapons and equipment was recovered. Operation is in progress.During the intense firefight, the security forces successfully neutralised two terrorists. Their bodies have been recovered, and efforts are underway to ascertain their identities. The operation in the rugged terrain of the Machil Sector continues as security forces maintain heightened vigilance to ensure the area is secure and to thwart any further infiltration attempts.Security forces have also recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from the operation site. A massive search operation is being carried out by the forces in the area as they believe there could be more terrorists hiding in the area. Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police are carrying out a joint search operation near the LoC.

Indian security forces killed two terrorists in a fierce gunfight along the LoC in Kupwara’s Machil Sector on Monday evening. The intruders fired first, prompting a swift response. Operation is underway. 

In an anti-infiltration operation along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil Sector of Kupwara district, North Kashmir, Indian security forces eliminated two terrorists. On Monday evening, alert Indian Army troops stationed along the LoC detected suspicious movement near the border and fired warning shots to deter potential infiltrators. The intruders responded with gunfire, triggering a fierce exchange of fire with the security forces. ''OP AMAR, Kupwara. Based on specific intelligence input by JKP & corroborated by sources and agencies, regarding likely infiltration attempt, a joint operation was launched by # IndianArmy and Jammu and Kashmir Police in Machhal Sector, Kupwara on 13 Oct 2025. Alert troops spotted suspicious activity and challenged, which resulted in terrorists opening indiscriminate fire. Troops responded with effective fire, neutralising two terrorists. Large quantity of weapons and equipment was recovered. Operation is in progress. During the intense firefight, the security forces successfully neutralised two terrorists. Their bodies have been recovered, and efforts are underway to ascertain their identities. The operation in the rugged terrain of the Machil Sector continues as security forces maintain heightened vigilance to ensure the area is secure and to thwart any further infiltration attempts. Security forces have also recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from the operation site. A massive search operation is being carried out by the forces in the area as they believe there could be more terrorists hiding in the area. Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police are carrying out a joint search operation near the LoC.

Indian security forces killed two terrorists in a fierce gunfight along the LoC in Kupwara’s Machil Sector on Monday evening. The intruders fired first, prompting a swift response. Operation is underway.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed along LoC during an infiltration bid

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has invited Indian investors to invest in the country's mining and infrastructure sectors, including roads, aviation, and cited how the security situation has vastly improved in the country. Speaking to business leaders at the industry chamber FICCI, Muttaqi said, "Afghan currency has strengthened versus the dollar, property valuation has increased.." and no major security incident has been reported since the establishment of the Islamic Emirate in August 2021. The Afghan Foreign Minister emphasised that bilateral trade has already reached $ 1 billion. Both sides are working on cargo plane air connectivity between Delhi-Kabul, Amritsar-Kabul, and Amritsar-Kandahar that will help in the transfer of fresh fruits from Afghanistan to India. Asked about the Chabahar port project's role in connectivity, he said, "it is advantageous for us," and restrictions imposed by "America should be removed". &nbsp;&nbsp;India has been developing Iran's Chabahar Port as a strategic gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan, but in September 2025, the US revoked the 2018 sanctions waiver under Trump's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran. Several Indian companies have already resumed their operations in various projects, but Indian Industry representatives highlighted that the visa remains a severe bottleneck and needs to be resolved immediately for smoother movement of businessmen. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Afghan FM hoped that the Indian side would issue more visas to Afghans and said, "visa issuance from the Indian side should be made easy", terming it as "easy work". The Indian investors pledged more investments in the landlocked country, also known as the "heart of Asia".&nbsp;The Afghan foreign minister is on his first-ever visit to India in his current capacity. On Friday, FM Muttaqi and EAM Jaishankar held talks. After the meeting, India announced the upgrading of its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy, new humanitarian projects, and enhanced connectivity via flights and visas.

 Both sides are working on cargo plane air connectivity between Delhi-Kabul, Amritsar-Kabul, and Amritsar-Kandahar that will help in the transfer of fresh fruits from Afghanistan to India.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has invited Indian investors to invest in the country's mining and infrastructure sectors, including roads, aviation, and cited how the security situation has vastly improved in the country. Speaking to business leaders at the industry chamber FICCI, Muttaqi said, "Afghan currency has strengthened versus the dollar, property valuation has increased.." and no major security incident has been reported since the establishment of the Islamic Emirate in August 2021. The Afghan Foreign Minister emphasised that bilateral trade has already reached $ 1 billion. Both sides are working on cargo plane air connectivity between Delhi-Kabul, Amritsar-Kabul, and Amritsar-Kandahar that will help in the transfer of fresh fruits from Afghanistan to India. Asked about the Chabahar port project's role in connectivity, he said, "it is advantageous for us," and restrictions imposed by "America should be removed". India has been developing Iran's Chabahar Port as a strategic gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan, but in September 2025, the US revoked the 2018 sanctions waiver under Trump's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran. Several Indian companies have already resumed their operations in various projects, but Indian Industry representatives highlighted that the visa remains a severe bottleneck and needs to be resolved immediately for smoother movement of businessmen. The Afghan FM hoped that the Indian side would issue more visas to Afghans and said, "visa issuance from the Indian side should be made easy", terming it as "easy work". The Indian investors pledged more investments in the landlocked country, also known as the "heart of Asia". The Afghan foreign minister is on his first-ever visit to India in his current capacity. On Friday, FM Muttaqi and EAM Jaishankar held talks. After the meeting, India announced the upgrading of its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy, new humanitarian projects, and enhanced connectivity via flights and visas.

&nbsp;Both sides are working on cargo plane air connectivity between Delhi-Kabul, Amritsar-Kabul, and Amritsar-Kandahar that will help in the transfer of fresh fruits from Afghanistan to India.

Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi invites Indian investors to invest in Afghanistan

US President Donald Trump, in his address at the Gaza peace summit in Egypt on Monday (Oct 13), once again mentioned India and Pakistan, saying both neighbouring countries are going to stay very nicely together. He also praised Islamabad’s military leadership and called for regional harmony while looking at Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who also gave a speech at the gathering of world leaders.&nbsp;The high-level summit came following the hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas after the ceasefire came into effect in Gaza last week, brokered by the US president. The summit, during which world leaders signed the Gaza deal, was hosted by the US president and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.&nbsp;“India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top and he has done a fantastic job. I think that Pakistan and India are going to live very nicely together...,” Trump said at the summit.

The high-level summit came following the hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas after the ceasefire came into effect in Gaza last week, brokered by the US president.

US President Donald Trump, in his address at the Gaza peace summit in Egypt on Monday (Oct 13), once again mentioned India and Pakistan, saying both neighbouring countries are going to stay very nicely together. He also praised Islamabad’s military leadership and called for regional harmony while looking at Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who also gave a speech at the gathering of world leaders. The high-level summit came following the hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas after the ceasefire came into effect in Gaza last week, brokered by the US president. The summit, during which world leaders signed the Gaza deal, was hosted by the US president and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. “India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top and he has done a fantastic job. I think that Pakistan and India are going to live very nicely together...,” Trump said at the summit.

The high-level summit came following the hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas after the ceasefire came into effect in Gaza last week, brokered by the US president.&nbsp;

‘Pakistan, India going to live very nicely together’: Trump says at Gaza peace summit in Egypt

Indian Army troops stationed along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kumkadie area of Machil sector, Kupwara district, north Kashmir, fired warning shots late on Monday (October 13) evening after observing suspicious movement near the border. According to sources, the troops detected activity that suggested a potential infiltration attempt, prompting them to fire a few rounds as a precautionary measure. Additional forces have been deployed to the area, and a comprehensive search operation is underway to ensure no infiltration has occurred. Further details are awaited as the situation develops.

Indian Army fires warning shots after suspicious movement detected along LoC

Indian Army troops stationed along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kumkadie area of Machil sector, Kupwara district, north Kashmir, fired warning shots late on Monday (October 13) evening after observing suspicious movement near the border. According to sources, the troops detected activity that suggested a potential infiltration attempt, prompting them to fire a few rounds as a precautionary measure. Additional forces have been deployed to the area, and a comprehensive search operation is underway to ensure no infiltration has occurred. Further details are awaited as the situation develops.

Additional forces have been deployed to the area, and a comprehensive search operation is underway to ensure no infiltration has occurred

Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam, currently incarcerated in Delhi’s Tihar Jail in connection with the Delhi riots case, has approached a Delhi court seeking temporary bail to participate in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. Imam, who has been in jailed for over five years, intends to run as an independent candidate from the Bahadurganj constituency in Kishanganj district.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cough-syrup-deaths-tamil-nadu-government-cracks-down-on-sresan-pharma-after-toxic-syrup-kills-22-children-1760347735585">Cough syrup deaths: Tamil Nadu government cracks down on Sresan Pharma after 'toxic' syrup kills 22 children</a>&nbsp;The Bihar elections are set to be held in two stages, on November 6 and November 11, with the results to be announced on November 14. Imam has requested bail from October 15 to October 29, as Bahadurganj will vote on November 11. Imam's petition is being heard by Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai, who is overseeing the Delhi riots conspiracy trial at Karkardooma court. The Bahadurganj seat is currently held by Mohammad Anzar Nayeemi, who won in 2020 on an AIMIM ticket but later switched allegiance to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoor-questions-india-s-strategic-distance-after-pm-modi-skips-gaza-peace-summit-1760360375259">Shashi Tharoor questions India’s ‘strategic distance’ after PM Modi skips Gaza peace summit</a>&nbsp;Imam, who was arrested in January 2020 for his anti-CAA protests, has spent more than five years in pre-trial detention. His appeal for bail is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, following the Delhi High Court’s refusal to grant bail in the conspiracy case linked to the February 2020 riots. Imam's lawyers argue that the delays in his trial are not his fault, and his prolonged incarceration is due to systemic issues. This request follows similar attempts by other accused in the Delhi riots case, including Shifa-ur Rehman and Tahir Hussain, who contested elections in Delhi earlier this year under the AIMIM banner.&nbsp;In the 2020 Bihar state elections, the BJP-JDU alliance narrowly defeated the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan. The BJP-JDU coalition secured 125 seats (with BJP winning 74, JDU 42, and others 9), while the RJD took 75, Congress 19, and other parties claimed 16 seats. Despite JDU being the smaller partner with fewer seats, Nitish Kumar of JDU was appointed as Chief Minister, marking his seventh term in office. However, midway through his tenure, Kumar did what many anticipated—he switched sides and rejoined the Mahagathbandhan in 2022, taking oath as Chief Minister for an eighth term. This time, he played a key role in establishing the INDIA alliance, a new anti-BJP coalition. Yet, in 2024, he once again made a dramatic U-turn, re-aligning with the BJP and taking oath as chief minister for his ninth term.

Bihar Elections 2025: Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam seeks bail to contest state polls after five years in jail

Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam, currently incarcerated in Delhi’s Tihar Jail in connection with the Delhi riots case, has approached a Delhi court seeking temporary bail to participate in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. Imam, who has been in jailed for over five years, intends to run as an independent candidate from the Bahadurganj constituency in Kishanganj district. Also Read: Cough syrup deaths: Tamil Nadu government cracks down on Sresan Pharma after 'toxic' syrup kills 22 children The Bihar elections are set to be held in two stages, on November 6 and November 11, with the results to be announced on November 14. Imam has requested bail from October 15 to October 29, as Bahadurganj will vote on November 11. Imam's petition is being heard by Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai, who is overseeing the Delhi riots conspiracy trial at Karkardooma court. The Bahadurganj seat is currently held by Mohammad Anzar Nayeemi, who won in 2020 on an AIMIM ticket but later switched allegiance to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Also Read: Shashi Tharoor questions India’s ‘strategic distance’ after PM Modi skips Gaza peace summit Imam, who was arrested in January 2020 for his anti-CAA protests, has spent more than five years in pre-trial detention. His appeal for bail is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, following the Delhi High Court’s refusal to grant bail in the conspiracy case linked to the February 2020 riots. Imam's lawyers argue that the delays in his trial are not his fault, and his prolonged incarceration is due to systemic issues. This request follows similar attempts by other accused in the Delhi riots case, including Shifa-ur Rehman and Tahir Hussain, who contested elections in Delhi earlier this year under the AIMIM banner. In the 2020 Bihar state elections, the BJP-JDU alliance narrowly defeated the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan. The BJP-JDU coalition secured 125 seats (with BJP winning 74, JDU 42, and others 9), while the RJD took 75, Congress 19, and other parties claimed 16 seats. Despite JDU being the smaller partner with fewer seats, Nitish Kumar of JDU was appointed as Chief Minister, marking his seventh term in office. However, midway through his tenure, Kumar did what many anticipated—he switched sides and rejoined the Mahagathbandhan in 2022, taking oath as Chief Minister for an eighth term. This time, he played a key role in establishing the INDIA alliance, a new anti-BJP coalition. Yet, in 2024, he once again made a dramatic U-turn, re-aligning with the BJP and taking oath as chief minister for his ninth term.

Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam seeks temporary bail to contest upcoming Bihar elections, citing prolonged detention due to trial delays, after being jailed for over five years in the Delhi riots case

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday (October 13) voiced his concerns regarding India's decision to send Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, in place of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Tharoor questioned whether this move signaled a preference for "strategic restraint," especially given that world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, were present at the summit.&nbsp;While Tharoor clarified that his comments were not a reflection on the competence of Minister Singh, he noted that India’s representation at a lower level could be perceived as a missed opportunity, particularly in such a significant event. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Tharoor posted that the presence of such high-profile leaders might make India’s voice less influential in the crucial discussions surrounding the future of Gaza and regional stability.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-tears-and-joy-erupt-in-israel-as-all-20-surviving-gaza-hostages-return-home-1760358724099">In Pics | Tears and joy erupt in Israel as all 20 surviving Gaza hostages return home</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India’s presence at the Sharm el-Sheikh Gaza peace summit, at the level of a Minister of State, stands in stark contrast to the heads of state gathered there. Strategic restraint or missed opportunity? This is no reflection on Kirti Vardhan Singh, whose competence is not in…&mdash; Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1977699009704894972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

India’s absence at the summit was particularly puzzling, Tharoor said, as the country could have played a more active role in the ongoing reshaping of the region. With the peace talks poised to focus on reconstruction and long-term peace in Gaza, Tharoor warned that India's position at the event could lack the weight it might have carried if represented by a head of state.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Arrived in the historic city of Cairo as special representative of Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to attend the Gaza Peace Summit at Sharm el-Sheikh. <a href="https://t.co/DnN0yGJcEs">pic.twitter.com/DnN0yGJcEs</a>&mdash; Kirti Vardhan Singh (@KVSinghMPGonda) <a href="https://twitter.com/KVSinghMPGonda/status/1977425049671065731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The summit, which is being co-chaired by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Donald Trump, brings together prominent world leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, all of whom are expected to discuss the path to a lasting resolution in Gaza and the broader Middle East. Tharoor’s comments come after Hamas released the remaining Israeli hostages on Monday, signaling a possible pause in the violence that has ravaged Gaza for nearly two years since the initial offensive by Israel.

Shashi Tharoor questions India’s ‘strategic distance’ after PM Modi skips Gaza peace summit

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday (October 13) voiced his concerns regarding India's decision to send Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, in place of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Tharoor questioned whether this move signaled a preference for "strategic restraint," especially given that world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, were present at the summit. While Tharoor clarified that his comments were not a reflection on the competence of Minister Singh, he noted that India’s representation at a lower level could be perceived as a missed opportunity, particularly in such a significant event. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Tharoor posted that the presence of such high-profile leaders might make India’s voice less influential in the crucial discussions surrounding the future of Gaza and regional stability. Also Read: In Pics | Tears and joy erupt in Israel as all 20 surviving Gaza hostages return home

Shashi Tharoor has questioned India’s absence at the Gaza Peace Summit, suggesting the low-level representation weakens its influence on key regional issues

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah accused the BJP of resorting to ‘horse-trading’ to secure even a single seat, alleging the party lacks the ability to win independently. He said that the BJP holds 28 MLAs but requires 30 votes to secure a fourth seat. Abdullah further alleged that any additional victories would rely on ‘money, muscle, or agencies’, warning that such tactics would validate public suspicions about the BJP's role in manipulating the Bihar elections.&nbsp;Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the upcoming elections will expose which MLAs align with the BJP and which genuinely oppose it. He warned that any MLA who abstains from voting or supports the BJP will face public scrutiny. Abdullah said, “Over the past year, only the 18 BJP MLAs have backed the party. These elections will be a litmus test, revealing which political parties and MLAs stand with the BJP and which remain true to the opposition.”&nbsp;The National Conference initially allocated one Rajya Sabha seat to its ally, the Congress, but with Congress opting not to contest, the National Conference now stands as the frontrunner to secure the fourth seat. Omar Abdullah announced that the National Conference will independently contest all four upcoming Rajya Sabha seats, as Congress, its alliance partner, has chosen not to field a candidate.&nbsp;Addressing claims that his father, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, was denied a mandate for the Rajya Sabha seat, Omar dismissed them, asserting that no one could deny Dr. Farooq a mandate. He described Dr. Farooq as a towering leader, not only in Jammu and Kashmir but across India, who voluntarily stepped back due to health reasons.

Omar Abdullah alleges BJP banking on 'money, muscle and agencies' to win Rajya Sabha seats in upcoming polls

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah accused the BJP of resorting to ‘horse-trading’ to secure even a single seat, alleging the party lacks the ability to win independently. He said that the BJP holds 28 MLAs but requires 30 votes to secure a fourth seat. Abdullah further alleged that any additional victories would rely on ‘money, muscle, or agencies’, warning that such tactics would validate public suspicions about the BJP's role in manipulating the Bihar elections. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the upcoming elections will expose which MLAs align with the BJP and which genuinely oppose it. He warned that any MLA who abstains from voting or supports the BJP will face public scrutiny. Abdullah said, “Over the past year, only the 18 BJP MLAs have backed the party. These elections will be a litmus test, revealing which political parties and MLAs stand with the BJP and which remain true to the opposition.” The National Conference initially allocated one Rajya Sabha seat to its ally, the Congress, but with Congress opting not to contest, the National Conference now stands as the frontrunner to secure the fourth seat. Omar Abdullah announced that the National Conference will independently contest all four upcoming Rajya Sabha seats, as Congress, its alliance partner, has chosen not to field a candidate. Addressing claims that his father, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, was denied a mandate for the Rajya Sabha seat, Omar dismissed them, asserting that no one could deny Dr. Farooq a mandate. He described Dr. Farooq as a towering leader, not only in Jammu and Kashmir but across India, who voluntarily stepped back due to health reasons.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the upcoming elections will expose which MLAs align with the BJP and which genuinely oppose it

In a decisive move to curb separatist activities, Srinagar Police conducted a series of coordinated search operations on Monday targeting individuals allegedly linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and Hurriyat Conference. The raids, part of an ongoing campaign to dismantle terror and separatist networks in the Kashmir Valley, were carried out at multiple locations across the city.&nbsp;The residences of four individuals were searched as part of the operation: Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, also known as Goga Shahib or Mushtaqul Islam, son of Gh. Qadir Bhat, from Kashi Mohalla, Batamaloo. Ashraf Sehrai, son of Mohd. Shumasdin, from Baghat. Mehraj ud din Kalwal, also known as Raj Kalwal, son of Mohammad Amin Kalwal, from Rainawari Kalwal Mohalla, currently residing in Hamza Colony, Kenihama, and in NIA custody. Zameer Ahmad Sheikh, son of Ghulam Nabi Sheikh, from Gulshan Nagar, Nowgam.&nbsp;According to police sources, the searches were conducted in strict adherence to legal protocols. During the raids, authorities seized various materials, including literature and photographs allegedly tied to the banned separatist organisations. The operation is seen as a critical step in disrupting the support structures and networks of proscribed groups in the region.&nbsp;Srinagar Police emphasised that the raids are part of a broader strategy to dismantle the "terror and separatist ecosystem" in the Valley. The force reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and public order, vowing to take firm action against individuals or groups involved in unlawful or anti-national activities.&nbsp;This latest operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to counter separatist elements and ensure stability in Jammu and Kashmir. Further investigations are underway, with authorities indicating that additional actions may follow as part of their sustained campaign against banned organisations. &nbsp;

The searches were conducted in strict adherence to legal protocols. During the raids, authorities seized various materials, including literature and photographs allegedly tied to the banned separatist organisations. 

In a decisive move to curb separatist activities, Srinagar Police conducted a series of coordinated search operations on Monday targeting individuals allegedly linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and Hurriyat Conference. The raids, part of an ongoing campaign to dismantle terror and separatist networks in the Kashmir Valley, were carried out at multiple locations across the city. The residences of four individuals were searched as part of the operation: Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, also known as Goga Shahib or Mushtaqul Islam, son of Gh. Qadir Bhat, from Kashi Mohalla, Batamaloo. Ashraf Sehrai, son of Mohd. Shumasdin, from Baghat. Mehraj ud din Kalwal, also known as Raj Kalwal, son of Mohammad Amin Kalwal, from Rainawari Kalwal Mohalla, currently residing in Hamza Colony, Kenihama, and in NIA custody. Zameer Ahmad Sheikh, son of Ghulam Nabi Sheikh, from Gulshan Nagar, Nowgam. According to police sources, the searches were conducted in strict adherence to legal protocols. During the raids, authorities seized various materials, including literature and photographs allegedly tied to the banned separatist organisations. The operation is seen as a critical step in disrupting the support structures and networks of proscribed groups in the region. Srinagar Police emphasised that the raids are part of a broader strategy to dismantle the "terror and separatist ecosystem" in the Valley. The force reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and public order, vowing to take firm action against individuals or groups involved in unlawful or anti-national activities. This latest operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to counter separatist elements and ensure stability in Jammu and Kashmir. Further investigations are underway, with authorities indicating that additional actions may follow as part of their sustained campaign against banned organisations.

The searches were conducted in strict adherence to legal protocols. During the raids, authorities seized various materials, including literature and photographs allegedly tied to the banned separatist organisations.&nbsp;

Srinagar police launch raids on suspected JeI, Hurriyat associates in crackdown on separatist networks

On Monday (October 13), the Tamil Nadu government revoked the manufacturing license of Sresan Pharmaceuticals for producing the contaminated cough syrup Coldrif, which has been linked to the deaths of 22 children in Madhya Pradesh. The state’s health department announced that the company’s license was fully revoked, and its operations were shut down.&nbsp;G Ranganathan, the owner of Sresan Pharma, based in Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu, was arrested by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) from Madhya Pradesh last week at his Chennai residence. Tamil Nadu’s health officials also suspended local drug inspectors in Kancheepuram for failing to conduct inspections at the facility since 2022. The investigation was triggered after Madhya Pradesh’s drug authorities alerted Tamil Nadu on October 1. Testing of samples from the same batch of Coldrif revealed contamination, with the syrup containing dangerously high levels of Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol—substances that are toxic to the kidneys. DEG was found to be present at 48.6%, a staggering 486 times the permissible limit.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-income-has-stopped-suddenly-this-union-minister-says-he-wants-to-quit-politics-return-to-acting-career-1760340939054">'Income has stopped suddenly': THIS Union Minister says he wants to quit politics, return to acting career</a>&nbsp;In response, the Tamil Nadu government immediately halted the syrup’s sale and informed authorities in Madhya Pradesh, the Union Ministry of Health, and other affected states like Odisha and Puducherry. The state also stopped procuring Coldrif syrup for government clinics and hospitals through the Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation (TNMSC).&nbsp;On October 3, the Tamil Nadu government issued a stop-production order to Sresan Pharma. By October 5, it had sent a formal notice to the company, demanding an explanation as to why its drug license should not be revoked entirely, with a response deadline of 10 days. The authorities also issued show-cause notices to Ranganathan and the analytical chemist, K Maheswari, on October 7.

Tamil Nadu government has revoked Pharma’s license after its Coldrif syrup, contaminated with toxic chemicals, caused the deaths of 22 children in Madhya Pradesh

On Monday (October 13), the Tamil Nadu government revoked the manufacturing license of Sresan Pharmaceuticals for producing the contaminated cough syrup Coldrif, which has been linked to the deaths of 22 children in Madhya Pradesh. The state’s health department announced that the company’s license was fully revoked, and its operations were shut down. G Ranganathan, the owner of Sresan Pharma, based in Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu, was arrested by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) from Madhya Pradesh last week at his Chennai residence. Tamil Nadu’s health officials also suspended local drug inspectors in Kancheepuram for failing to conduct inspections at the facility since 2022. The investigation was triggered after Madhya Pradesh’s drug authorities alerted Tamil Nadu on October 1. Testing of samples from the same batch of Coldrif revealed contamination, with the syrup containing dangerously high levels of Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol—substances that are toxic to the kidneys. DEG was found to be present at 48.6%, a staggering 486 times the permissible limit. Also Read: 'Income has stopped suddenly': THIS Union Minister says he wants to quit politics, return to acting career In response, the Tamil Nadu government immediately halted the syrup’s sale and informed authorities in Madhya Pradesh, the Union Ministry of Health, and other affected states like Odisha and Puducherry. The state also stopped procuring Coldrif syrup for government clinics and hospitals through the Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation (TNMSC). On October 3, the Tamil Nadu government issued a stop-production order to Sresan Pharma. By October 5, it had sent a formal notice to the company, demanding an explanation as to why its drug license should not be revoked entirely, with a response deadline of 10 days. The authorities also issued show-cause notices to Ranganathan and the analytical chemist, K Maheswari, on October 7.

Tamil Nadu government has revoked Pharma’s license after its Coldrif syrup, contaminated with toxic chemicals, caused the deaths of 22 children in Madhya Pradesh

Cough syrup deaths: Tamil Nadu government cracks down on Sresan Pharma after 'toxic' syrup kills 22 children

Following the financial crunch, Union Minister Suresh Gopi has expressed his deep desire to leave politics and return to his acting and film career. While addressing an event in Kannur, Kerala, the Thrissur MP and actor-turned-politician stated that his income has decreased ever since he took the role of minister.&nbsp;"I really want to continue acting. I need to earn more; my income has now stopped completely," he said, news agency ANI reported. Suresh Gopi said that he is the youngest member in his party. Meanwhile, he suggested appointing Rajya Sabha MP C. Sadanandan Master in his place as Union Minister.&nbsp;"I have never prayed to become a minister. A day before the elections, I told reporters that I do not want to become a minister, I want to continue with my cinema. I took membership of the party in October 2008 ... it was the first MP chosen by people and the party felt they needed to make me the minister," said the Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Minister of Tourism.<h3>Suresh Gopi says his remarks were often twisted</h3>Earlier this year, President Droupadi Murmu nominated the BJP veteran Sadanandan Master from Kannur to the Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, speaking at the event in Kannur, Suresh Gopi said that his remarks were often twisted and misinterpreted by people. He noted that his use of the term “praja” to describe the people of his Thrissur constituency had drawn criticism.&nbsp;Citing an example, Gopi said that just as manual scavengers are now respectfully called sanitation engineers, his use of words like “praja” and “prajatantra” had been deliberately misinterpreted by his critics. "What is wrong with using the word praja?" Gopi said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-slams-horrific-rampant-sexual-abuse-in-rss-camps-demands-probe-into-kerala-techie-s-suicide-1760333264492">Priyanka Gandhi slams horrific 'rampant sexual abuse' in RSS camps, demands probe into Kerala techie's suicide</a>

While addressing an event in Kerala's Kannur, the Thrissur MP and actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi stated that his income has decreased ever since he took the role of minister.

Following the financial crunch, Union Minister Suresh Gopi has expressed his deep desire to leave politics and return to his acting and film career. While addressing an event in Kannur, Kerala, the Thrissur MP and actor-turned-politician stated that his income has decreased ever since he took the role of minister. "I really want to continue acting. I need to earn more; my income has now stopped completely," he said, news agency ANI reported. Suresh Gopi said that he is the youngest member in his party. Meanwhile, he suggested appointing Rajya Sabha MP C. Sadanandan Master in his place as Union Minister. "I have never prayed to become a minister. A day before the elections, I told reporters that I do not want to become a minister, I want to continue with my cinema. I took membership of the party in October 2008 ... it was the first MP chosen by people and the party felt they needed to make me the minister," said the Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Minister of Tourism. Suresh Gopi says his remarks were often twisted Earlier this year, President Droupadi Murmu nominated the BJP veteran Sadanandan Master from Kannur to the Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, speaking at the event in Kannur, Suresh Gopi said that his remarks were often twisted and misinterpreted by people. He noted that his use of the term “praja” to describe the people of his Thrissur constituency had drawn criticism. Citing an example, Gopi said that just as manual scavengers are now respectfully called sanitation engineers, his use of words like “praja” and “prajatantra” had been deliberately misinterpreted by his critics. "What is wrong with using the word praja?" Gopi said. Also read: Priyanka Gandhi slams horrific 'rampant sexual abuse' in RSS camps, demands probe into Kerala techie's suicide

While addressing an event in Kerala's Kannur, the Thrissur MP and actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi stated that his income has decreased ever since he took the role of minister.

'Income has stopped suddenly': THIS Union Minister says he wants to quit politics, return to acting career

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Union Minister Suresh Gopi says he wants to quit politics, return to acting