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In a major operation, security forces neutralized 16 Maoists in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district. The intense encounter left two security personnel injured as forces engaged in a fierce gunfight. This marks a significant blow to Maoist insurgents in the region.

India: 16 Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh encounter, security forces injured

Bollywood actor Salman Khan was seen wearing a limited edition &lsquo;Ram Janmabhoomi&rsquo; watch during the promotion of his upcoming film Sikandar. &nbsp;
In a post on the social media platform Instagram by the actor, the watch was seen with a sleek gold dial with an orange strap.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sikandar-day-1-advance-booking-salman-khans-movie-beats-his-own-film-check-details-inside-8900901">Sikandar Day 1 advance booking: Salman Khan's movie beats his own film, check details inside</a>
The watch - Jacob &amp; Co. Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Titanium Edition 2 - costs 34 lakh ₹34 lakh ($39K).&nbsp;
The watch, which was created in partnership with Ethos Watches displays the Ram Janmabhoomi temple&rsquo;s architectural magnificence on both the dial and the bezel along with sacred inscriptions of Hindu Gods.
The actor has revealed that the watch was gifted to him by his mother Salma Khan. Avtor Abhishek Bachchan was previously seen wearing the same watch.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/salman-khans-superhit-eid-releases-ahead-of-sikandar-bodyguard-ek-tha-tiger-and-more-8897020">Salman Khan &amp; EID - A look at actor's previous festive hits ahead of Sikandar</a>
Only 49 pieces of the limited-edition watch are available worldwide, and one of them is owned by Salman.&nbsp;
<h2>Engraved 'Jai Shri Ram'&nbsp;</h2>
The watch has tiny but mindful details as it has the temple motif at 9 o'clock and a silhouette of Lord Ram with Lord Hanuman at 3 o'clock.
Just below the &nbsp;tourbillon at 6 o'clock, "JAI SHRI RAM" is engraved.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rs-3400000-salman-khan-flaunts-limited-edition-ram-janmabhoomi-watch-with-lord-ram-engraving-8895890">Rs 34,00,000! Salman Khan flaunts limited edition 'Ram Janmabhoomi' watch with Lord Ram engraving</a>
<h2>'Illegal and haram'&nbsp;</h2>
After Salman was seen wearing the watch, a Muslim cleric Shahabuddin Razvi slammed the actor and called the act as "illegal" and &ldquo;haram" - forbidden in Islam.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sikandar-exact-release-date-salman-khans-film-to-reportedly-release-on-this-day-before-eid-8868418">Not Friday? Salman Khan's Sikandar to reportedly release on this unusual weekday</a>
&ldquo;I have been asked about Shariat&rsquo;s ruling about Salman Khan. I tell you the Shariat&rsquo;s ruling about the work done by him, that he is wearing a Ram Edition watch made for the promotion of Ram Mandir. Wearing such a watch in hand being a Muslim is illegal and haram," Razvi told news agency PTI.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | India News | Entertainment | Bollywood actor Salma Khan was seen wearing a limited edition ‘Ram Janmabhoomi’ watch during the promotion of his upcoming film Sikandar.

Bollywood actor Salman Khan was seen wearing a limited edition ‘Ram Janmabhoomi’ watch during the promotion of his upcoming film Sikandar. In a post on the social media platform Instagram by the actor, the watch was seen with a sleek gold dial with an orange strap. Also read: Sikandar Day 1 advance booking: Salman Khan's movie beats his own film, check details inside The watch - Jacob & Co. Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Titanium Edition 2 - costs 34 lakh ₹34 lakh ($39K). The watch, which was created in partnership with Ethos Watches displays the Ram Janmabhoomi temple’s architectural magnificence on both the dial and the bezel along with sacred inscriptions of Hindu Gods. The actor has revealed that the watch was gifted to him by his mother Salma Khan. Avtor Abhishek Bachchan was previously seen wearing the same watch. Also read: Salman Khan & EID - A look at actor's previous festive hits ahead of Sikandar Only 49 pieces of the limited-edition watch are available worldwide, and one of them is owned by Salman. Engraved 'Jai Shri Ram' The watch has tiny but mindful details as it has the temple motif at 9 o'clock and a silhouette of Lord Ram with Lord Hanuman at 3 o'clock. Just below the tourbillon at 6 o'clock, "JAI SHRI RAM" is engraved. Also read: Rs 34,00,000! Salman Khan flaunts limited edition 'Ram Janmabhoomi' watch with Lord Ram engraving 'Illegal and haram' After Salman was seen wearing the watch, a Muslim cleric Shahabuddin Razvi slammed the actor and called the act as "illegal" and “haram" - forbidden in Islam. Also read: Not Friday? Salman Khan's Sikandar to reportedly release on this unusual weekday “I have been asked about Shariat’s ruling about Salman Khan. I tell you the Shariat’s ruling about the work done by him, that he is wearing a Ram Edition watch made for the promotion of Ram Mandir. Wearing such a watch in hand being a Muslim is illegal and haram," Razvi told news agency PTI. (With inputs from agencies)

All about Salman Khan’s 'Jai Shri Ram' engraved Ram Mandir edition watch worth $39K

If you are an unemployed person in India's BJP-led Madhya Pradesh, you will be called &ldquo;aspirational youth&rdquo; now as the state dropped the term "unemployed youth" saying it was creating a "negative image" of the situation. But the move did not go well with the youth and the people in the opposition as they alleged it was just an eyewash aimed at hiding the ongoing job crisis.&nbsp;
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The labour department has changed the term on the state government&rsquo;s employment portal as well as employment offices across Madhya Pradesh. &nbsp;
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The portal was created to provide &nbsp;a platform to youth to create their profiles to find jobs based on their qualifications.&nbsp;
So far, around 2.93 million "aspirational youth" &nbsp;are registered with 53 employment offices and the employment portal as per the official data.&nbsp;
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"There is a reason behind changing the term as many of the registered youth are employed or doing businesses but they are looking for upliftment through government jobs so they can&rsquo;t be called unemployed. The word &lsquo;Akankshi&rsquo; (aspirational) is a positive term to help the youth in getting jobs according to their qualification," state&rsquo;s labour minister Gautam Tetwal said adding that people should not do politics on the move.&nbsp;
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Many youngsters who are doing private jobs and running their family business have registered at the portal. They are not real unemployed youth but are those seeking better jobs or government jobs. But the numbers are definitely creating troubles and bringing infamy so the decision was taken to call them job seekers or aspirational youth,&rdquo; an official in the department said, HT reported.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

INDIA NEWS | But the move did not go well with the youth and the people in opposition as they alleged it was just an eyewash aimed at hiding the ongoing job crisis.

If you are an unemployed person in India's BJP-led Madhya Pradesh, you will be called “aspirational youth” now as the state dropped the term "unemployed youth" saying it was creating a "negative image" of the situation. But the move did not go well with the youth and the people in the opposition as they alleged it was just an eyewash aimed at hiding the ongoing job crisis. Also read: Delhi polls: Congress promises $98.64 monthly for educated unemployed youths under 'Yuva Udaan Yojana' The labour department has changed the term on the state government’s employment portal as well as employment offices across Madhya Pradesh. Also read: Indian man sneakily puts unemployed wife on payroll for over a decade, defrauds company of millions The portal was created to provide a platform to youth to create their profiles to find jobs based on their qualifications. So far, around 2.93 million "aspirational youth" are registered with 53 employment offices and the employment portal as per the official data. Also read: Unemployed people in UK may get weight loss jabs to return to work "There is a reason behind changing the term as many of the registered youth are employed or doing businesses but they are looking for upliftment through government jobs so they can’t be called unemployed. The word ‘Akankshi’ (aspirational) is a positive term to help the youth in getting jobs according to their qualification," state’s labour minister Gautam Tetwal said adding that people should not do politics on the move. Also read: ‘I’ll be unemployed’ - Rahul Dravid jokingly seeks job offers post T20 World Cup win | WATCH Many youngsters who are doing private jobs and running their family business have registered at the portal. They are not real unemployed youth but are those seeking better jobs or government jobs. But the numbers are definitely creating troubles and bringing infamy so the decision was taken to call them job seekers or aspirational youth,” an official in the department said, HT reported. (With inputs from agencies)

You're not unemployed but 'aspirational youth': India's MP changes term on employment portal

A man who sells eggs on the streets of Madhya Pradesh was left shocked when he received an income tax notice demanding transaction details for Rs 50 crore. Reports suggest that fraudsters used his documents to steal his identity and run a company in Delhi. ETV Bharat reported that the man, Prince Suman, lives in Pathariya&rsquo;s Ward 14 and knew nothing about a company being run in his name.
He got an Income Tax notice under Section 133 (6) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 on March 20. It said that he had carried out financial transactions worth Rs 49.24 crore during FY 2022-23 and should submit his ITR filings, bank statements, and purchase bills. He was told that he owed the government Rs 6 crore as Goods and Services Tax (GST).&nbsp;
The egg vendor panicked to see such a huge transaction carried out in his name and rushed to lawyers and government offices. An income tax lawyer told him that a company named &lsquo;Prince Enterprise&rsquo; had been registered in Delhi on December 7, 2022, using his PAN card and Aadhaar details. It dealt with leather, wood and iron trading.
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"I only sell eggs on a cart. I have never been to Delhi, let alone start a company there," the man said.&nbsp;
The company also got a GST number and carried out transactions worth crores. The fraudsters shut it down later. Prince is now running from pillar to post to get the issue resolved and clear his name in the matter. He has submitted complaints to the Pathariya police station, the Superintendent of Police in Damoh, Cyber Cell, GST Officer, and Income Tax Officers in Damoh and Narsinghpur.&nbsp;
<h2>Juice vendor gets Rs 7.5 crore GST notice</h2>
In a similar case, a juice vendor in Uttar Pradesh's Aligarh received an I-T notice of over Rs 7.5 crore. Md Rahees was shocked to see the notice and later found out that "bogus" transactions worth crores had been carried out in his name in 2020-21. He was told that he owed the government Rs 7,79,02,457 GST.
He approached the IT authorities who asked him if he had shared his personal details with anyone. Md Rahees told them that he had never given out his details to anyone. A preliminary probe found that Rahees's personal documents used for donating crores of rupees for the 2022 Punjab assembly elections.&nbsp;

The personal details of an egg vendor and a juice vendor were fraudulently used to carry out transactions worth crores without their knowledge. India News Trending

A man who sells eggs on the streets of Madhya Pradesh was left shocked when he received an income tax notice demanding transaction details for Rs 50 crore. Reports suggest that fraudsters used his documents to steal his identity and run a company in Delhi. ETV Bharat reported that the man, Prince Suman, lives in Pathariya’s Ward 14 and knew nothing about a company being run in his name. He got an Income Tax notice under Section 133 (6) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 on March 20. It said that he had carried out financial transactions worth Rs 49.24 crore during FY 2022-23 and should submit his ITR filings, bank statements, and purchase bills. He was told that he owed the government Rs 6 crore as Goods and Services Tax (GST). The egg vendor panicked to see such a huge transaction carried out in his name and rushed to lawyers and government offices. An income tax lawyer told him that a company named ‘Prince Enterprise’ had been registered in Delhi on December 7, 2022, using his PAN card and Aadhaar details. It dealt with leather, wood and iron trading. Also Read: ED raids Noida couple running adult webcam streaming, shooting adult videos for porn sites "I only sell eggs on a cart. I have never been to Delhi, let alone start a company there," the man said. The company also got a GST number and carried out transactions worth crores. The fraudsters shut it down later. Prince is now running from pillar to post to get the issue resolved and clear his name in the matter. He has submitted complaints to the Pathariya police station, the Superintendent of Police in Damoh, Cyber Cell, GST Officer, and Income Tax Officers in Damoh and Narsinghpur. Juice vendor gets Rs 7.5 crore GST notice In a similar case, a juice vendor in Uttar Pradesh's Aligarh received an I-T notice of over Rs 7.5 crore. Md Rahees was shocked to see the notice and later found out that "bogus" transactions worth crores had been carried out in his name in 2020-21. He was told that he owed the government Rs 7,79,02,457 GST. He approached the IT authorities who asked him if he had shared his personal details with anyone. Md Rahees told them that he had never given out his details to anyone. A preliminary probe found that Rahees's personal documents used for donating crores of rupees for the 2022 Punjab assembly elections.

Egg vendor gets Rs 50 crore tax notice due to fraudulent use of PAN, Aadhar

India's Defence Ministry has signed its biggest-ever defence deal worth ₹62,000 crore with HAL to manufacture 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) 'Prachand'. The Indian Army will receive 90 helicopters, while the Indian Air Force will get 66. Designed for high-altitude operations, 'Prachand' enhances India's air combat capabilities. Watch this report for more details!

India seals historic ₹62,000 crore deal for 156 'Prachand' helicopters

In India's Mumbai, security has been beefed up after local police received a warning on social media that "Hindu-Muslim riots, arson and blasts," may happen during Eid celebrations on March 31 and April 1.
According to a PTI news agency report, the warning was issued for some areas, including "areas like Dongri".&nbsp;
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<h2>What did the warning say?</h2>
Tagging Navi Mumbai police's handle, the person warned that "some illegal Rohingya/Bangladeshi/Pakistani infiltrators" may undertake such illegal activities.
The warning was received on Thursday (Mar 28) morning. It warned the Mumbai police to stay alert "on March 31-April 1,2025, during Eid," as "some illegal Rohingya/Bangladeshi/Pakistani infiltrators, who stay in the areas like Dongri may incite Hindu-Muslim riots, arson, and bomb blasts".
Responding to the warning on X, Navi Mumbai police said: "Thank you for contacting Navi Mumbai Police, please send your mobile number for further information regarding your tweet."&nbsp;
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As per the Free Press Journal, a cyber cell investigation has been launched to trace the person behind the X posts.
<h2>Security heightened</h2>
Across the metropolis, security has been tightened by the Mumbai police in light of the alarming warning. Patrolling has been increased in areas like Dogri, reports PTI, citing an official. Nothing untoward or suspicious has been reported, yet it added.
"Apart from Mumbai police personnel, the Crime Branch, the Anti Terrorism Squad and Special Branch are also on heightened vigil," added the report, quoting the unnamed official.
<h2>Delhi also at risk?</h2>
As per a HT report, the same person who warned the Mumbai police has also sent out a message to police in the Indian national capital Delhi and its Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-rolls-out-saugat-e-modi-initiative-distributes-eid-kits-to-underprivileged-muslims-8892465">Bjp rolls out &lsquo;Saugat-e-Modi&rsquo; initiative, distributes Eid kits to underprivileged Muslims</a>
The anonymous person warned that during Eid on March 31&ndash;April 1 as "some illegal Rohingya/Bangladeshi/Pakistani Muslims may cause Hindu-Muslim riots or bomb blasts in Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Jahangirpuri".
(With inputs from agencies)

Security in Mumbai and Delhi is on high alert following a social media warning about possible Hindu-Muslim riots and bomb blasts during Eid on March and April

In India's Mumbai, security has been beefed up after local police received a warning on social media that "Hindu-Muslim riots, arson and blasts," may happen during Eid celebrations on March 31 and April 1. According to a PTI news agency report, the warning was issued for some areas, including "areas like Dongri". Also read | When is Eid-ul-Fitr 2025? Check Date, significance, best wishes, messages, and more What did the warning say? Tagging Navi Mumbai police's handle, the person warned that "some illegal Rohingya/Bangladeshi/Pakistani infiltrators" may undertake such illegal activities. The warning was received on Thursday (Mar 28) morning. It warned the Mumbai police to stay alert "on March 31-April 1,2025, during Eid," as "some illegal Rohingya/Bangladeshi/Pakistani infiltrators, who stay in the areas like Dongri may incite Hindu-Muslim riots, arson, and bomb blasts". Responding to the warning on X, Navi Mumbai police said: "Thank you for contacting Navi Mumbai Police, please send your mobile number for further information regarding your tweet." Also read | Salman Khan & EID - A look at actor's previous festive hits ahead of Sikandar As per the Free Press Journal, a cyber cell investigation has been launched to trace the person behind the X posts. Security heightened Across the metropolis, security has been tightened by the Mumbai police in light of the alarming warning. Patrolling has been increased in areas like Dogri, reports PTI, citing an official. Nothing untoward or suspicious has been reported, yet it added. "Apart from Mumbai police personnel, the Crime Branch, the Anti Terrorism Squad and Special Branch are also on heightened vigil," added the report, quoting the unnamed official. Delhi also at risk? As per a HT report, the same person who warned the Mumbai police has also sent out a message to police in the Indian national capital Delhi and its Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Also read | Bjp rolls out ‘Saugat-e-Modi’ initiative, distributes Eid kits to underprivileged Muslims The anonymous person warned that during Eid on March 31–April 1 as "some illegal Rohingya/Bangladeshi/Pakistani Muslims may cause Hindu-Muslim riots or bomb blasts in Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Jahangirpuri". (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai and Delhi brace for possible riots and bomb blasts during Eid following chilling warning on X

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday raided the residence of a couple running an adult webcam streaming studio in Noida city of India&rsquo;s northern state Uttar Pradesh. The couple allegedly ran an adult webcam streaming studio and shot adult videos of models at their residence, and supplied the videos to a Cyprus-based company&nbsp; They allegedly ran an adult webcam streaming studio from their residence for a Cyprus-based company, Technius Limited, which hosts international pornographic sites, said a PTI report, citing ED sources. Technius Limited runs the adult webcam website Stripchat and the porn website XHamster. The couple used to hire models through advertisements on social media platforms and &ldquo;retained&rdquo; about 75 per cent of the earnings generated by them. The ED seized ₹8 lakh in cash during their raids.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-are-muslims-in-india-wearing-black-armbands-during-alvida-namaz-8900835" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Why are Muslims in India wearing black armbands during Alvida namaz?</a> The raids were conducted by the ED under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). The agency is conducting an investigation against a company named Subdigi Ventures Private Limited, owned by the couple based in Noida.&nbsp; According to sources quoted by PTI, the couple received &ldquo;foreign remittance&rdquo; in bank accounts under the garb of providing advertising, market research, and public opinion polling services. &ldquo;These funds, however, were allegedly proceeds from adult content streamed on XHamster,&rdquo; the ED said. According to ED sources, this violated the FEMA, as the funds were received as payment for adult content services, which is illegal.
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The ED also uncovered illegal remittances totalling ₹15.66 crore in the bank accounts of the company and its directors. Besides, it identified an undisclosed bank account in the Netherlands in which Technius Limited allegedly transferred approximately Rs 7 crore that was withdrawn in cash in India by using international debit cards. Stripchat is an adult webcam website that charges tokens from the user to interact with models. The users pay the models in the form of these tokens. The ED sources told PTI that the officials in the search team have recorded the statement of some models found at the couple&rsquo;s residence during the raids.

India News: The couple used to hire models through advertisements on social media platforms and “retained” about 75 per cent of the earnings generated by them. The ED seized ₹8 lakh in cash during their raids.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday raided the residence of a couple running an adult webcam streaming studio in Noida city of India’s northern state Uttar Pradesh. The couple allegedly ran an adult webcam streaming studio and shot adult videos of models at their residence, and supplied the videos to a Cyprus-based company They allegedly ran an adult webcam streaming studio from their residence for a Cyprus-based company, Technius Limited, which hosts international pornographic sites, said a PTI report, citing ED sources. Technius Limited runs the adult webcam website Stripchat and the porn website XHamster. The couple used to hire models through advertisements on social media platforms and “retained” about 75 per cent of the earnings generated by them. The ED seized ₹8 lakh in cash during their raids. Also Read | Why are Muslims in India wearing black armbands during Alvida namaz? The raids were conducted by the ED under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). The agency is conducting an investigation against a company named Subdigi Ventures Private Limited, owned by the couple based in Noida. According to sources quoted by PTI, the couple received “foreign remittance” in bank accounts under the garb of providing advertising, market research, and public opinion polling services. “These funds, however, were allegedly proceeds from adult content streamed on XHamster,” the ED said. According to ED sources, this violated the FEMA, as the funds were received as payment for adult content services, which is illegal. Also Read | ‘Yeshu Yeshu pastor’ found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court The ED also uncovered illegal remittances totalling ₹15.66 crore in the bank accounts of the company and its directors. Besides, it identified an undisclosed bank account in the Netherlands in which Technius Limited allegedly transferred approximately Rs 7 crore that was withdrawn in cash in India by using international debit cards. Stripchat is an adult webcam website that charges tokens from the user to interact with models. The users pay the models in the form of these tokens. The ED sources told PTI that the officials in the search team have recorded the statement of some models found at the couple’s residence during the raids.

ED raids Noida couple running adult webcam streaming, shooting adult videos for porn sites

The Union government on Friday approved the transfer of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma to his parent Allahabad High Court in the cash haul case. The government notified the repatriation, acting on the March 24 recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium. Justice Varma has been directed to assume his position, but the Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court has been asked not to assign any judicial work to him for the time being as a judge there. After the government&rsquo;s notification, Chief Justice of India Sanjeev Khanna issued a mandate for the Allahabad high court chief justice not to assign any judicial work to Justice Varma, pending the inquiry. Additionally, the Centre also approved the repatriation of another Delhi High Court judge, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh, to the Allahabad High Court. The repatriation recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium had also been pending.
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In November 2024, the Supreme Court Collegium, led by CJI Sanjeev Khanna and also comprising Justices BR Gavai and Suryakant, had recommended Justice Singh&rsquo;s repatriation to his parent court.
Both, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh and Justice Yashwant Sharma had been transferred to the Delhi High Court in October 2021.
The Collegium had recommended Justice Varma&rsquo;s repatriation to the Allahabad High Court after the recovery of a cash pile from his residential premises during a fire incident on March 14. Following the incident, the Delhi High Court registry had also withdrawn all judicial work assigned to Justice Varma. The CJI has already constituted a three-member panel to conduct a detailed probe into the cash pile recovery that sent shockwaves in legal circles. The probe is expected to assess the allegations and determine whether Justice Varma&rsquo;s continuation as a judge is tenable.
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Justice Varma has dismissed the charges and claims that he is being defamed in the press.
However, the decision of his transfer by the Supreme Court Collegium was met with protests by the Allahabad Bar Association, which started an indefinite strike saying it would not tolerate judges facing corruption charges and urged the CJI to withdraw Justice Varma&rsquo;s transfer recommendation. The Allahabad Bar Association is demanding his impeachment instead.
Justice Varma landed in a controversy after firefighters responding to a fire at his Tughlak Road residence on March 14 found stacks of cash, some of which were allegedly charred. The incident led to widespread consternation and calls for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-heckled-during-oxford-university-speech-questioned-on-rg-rape-murder-case-8899764" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case</a>

India News: The Collegium had recommended Justice Varma’s repatriation to the Allahabad High Court after the recovery of a cash pile from his residential premises during a fire incident on March 14.

The Union government on Friday approved the transfer of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma to his parent Allahabad High Court in the cash haul case. The government notified the repatriation, acting on the March 24 recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium. Justice Varma has been directed to assume his position, but the Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court has been asked not to assign any judicial work to him for the time being as a judge there. After the government’s notification, Chief Justice of India Sanjeev Khanna issued a mandate for the Allahabad high court chief justice not to assign any judicial work to Justice Varma, pending the inquiry. Additionally, the Centre also approved the repatriation of another Delhi High Court judge, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh, to the Allahabad High Court. The repatriation recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium had also been pending. Also Read | Why are Muslims in India wearing black armbands during Alvida namaz? In November 2024, the Supreme Court Collegium, led by CJI Sanjeev Khanna and also comprising Justices BR Gavai and Suryakant, had recommended Justice Singh’s repatriation to his parent court. Both, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh and Justice Yashwant Sharma had been transferred to the Delhi High Court in October 2021. The Collegium had recommended Justice Varma’s repatriation to the Allahabad High Court after the recovery of a cash pile from his residential premises during a fire incident on March 14. Following the incident, the Delhi High Court registry had also withdrawn all judicial work assigned to Justice Varma. The CJI has already constituted a three-member panel to conduct a detailed probe into the cash pile recovery that sent shockwaves in legal circles. The probe is expected to assess the allegations and determine whether Justice Varma’s continuation as a judge is tenable. Also Read | ‘Yeshu Yeshu pastor’ found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court Justice Varma has dismissed the charges and claims that he is being defamed in the press. However, the decision of his transfer by the Supreme Court Collegium was met with protests by the Allahabad Bar Association, which started an indefinite strike saying it would not tolerate judges facing corruption charges and urged the CJI to withdraw Justice Varma’s transfer recommendation. The Allahabad Bar Association is demanding his impeachment instead. Justice Varma landed in a controversy after firefighters responding to a fire at his Tughlak Road residence on March 14 found stacks of cash, some of which were allegedly charred. The incident led to widespread consternation and calls for a thorough investigation into the matter. Also read | Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case

Union govt clears Justice Varma’s transfer, HC told not to assign him judicial work

A 36-year-old tech professional in Bengaluru allegedly murdered his wife, packed her body in a suitcase, and fled to Pune, where he later attempted suicide. The incident occurred in Doddakannahalli, Bengaluru.
The victim has been identified as 32-year-old Gauri Anil Sambekar, while the accused, Rakesh Rajendra Khedekar, both originally from Maharashtra, had been residing in Bengaluru for the past year.
According to reports, the couple were having dinner on Wednesday night when an argument broke out. During the altercation, Gauri allegedly threw a knife at Rakesh, injuring him. In response, Rakesh reportedly attacked her with the same knife, fatally wounding her.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kunal-kamra-granted-interim-anticipatory-bail-by-madras-high-court-amid-controversy-8901229">Kunal Kamra granted interim anticipatory bail by Madras high court amid controversy</a>
The crime was discovered on Thursday when their landlord informed the police after finding Gauri&rsquo;s body inside a suitcase at their residence. Initial forensic analysis indicated that she had suffered multiple stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. Her body was then dismembered into several parts before being concealed.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South East) Sarah Fathima stated that the couple had moved to Bengaluru a year ago. Gauri had completed a bachelor's degree in Mass Media, while Rakesh worked at a private firm and was employed remotely.
Following the murder, Rakesh allegedly contacted Gauri&rsquo;s parents and confessed to the crime. The family immediately informed Maharashtra police, who then alerted authorities in Karnataka.
Bengaluru Commissioner of Police B Dayanand stated that initial findings suggest marital discord as the primary motive behind the incident.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-is-eid-ul-fitr-2025-date-significance-best-wishes-messages-and-more-8901403">When is Eid-ul-Fitr 2025? Check Date, significance, best wishes, messages, and more</a>
After committing the crime, Rakesh fled to Pune, where he was traced through call detail records and digital surveillance. He was found unconscious after consuming poison in an attempt to end his life and is currently hospitalised.
A team from Bengaluru police has travelled to Pune and will take Rakesh into custody once his condition stabilises. Further investigation into the case is ongoing. -&nbsp;

The crime was discovered on Thursday when their landlord informed the police after finding Gauri’s body inside a suitcase at their residence.

A 36-year-old tech professional in Bengaluru allegedly murdered his wife, packed her body in a suitcase, and fled to Pune, where he later attempted suicide. The incident occurred in Doddakannahalli, Bengaluru. The victim has been identified as 32-year-old Gauri Anil Sambekar, while the accused, Rakesh Rajendra Khedekar, both originally from Maharashtra, had been residing in Bengaluru for the past year. According to reports, the couple were having dinner on Wednesday night when an argument broke out. During the altercation, Gauri allegedly threw a knife at Rakesh, injuring him. In response, Rakesh reportedly attacked her with the same knife, fatally wounding her. Also read | Kunal Kamra granted interim anticipatory bail by Madras high court amid controversy The crime was discovered on Thursday when their landlord informed the police after finding Gauri’s body inside a suitcase at their residence. Initial forensic analysis indicated that she had suffered multiple stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. Her body was then dismembered into several parts before being concealed. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South East) Sarah Fathima stated that the couple had moved to Bengaluru a year ago. Gauri had completed a bachelor's degree in Mass Media, while Rakesh worked at a private firm and was employed remotely. Following the murder, Rakesh allegedly contacted Gauri’s parents and confessed to the crime. The family immediately informed Maharashtra police, who then alerted authorities in Karnataka. Bengaluru Commissioner of Police B Dayanand stated that initial findings suggest marital discord as the primary motive behind the incident. Also read | When is Eid-ul-Fitr 2025? Check Date, significance, best wishes, messages, and more After committing the crime, Rakesh fled to Pune, where he was traced through call detail records and digital surveillance. He was found unconscious after consuming poison in an attempt to end his life and is currently hospitalised. A team from Bengaluru police has travelled to Pune and will take Rakesh into custody once his condition stabilises. Further investigation into the case is ongoing. -

'Threw knife at each other': Bengaluru IT professional murders wife, then attempts suicide

Muslims in various cities across India wore black armbands while offering namaz on the occasion of &lsquo;Alvida Jumma&rsquo;, the last Friday of the holy month of Ramzan. Several people were seen wearing black armbands while offering prayers in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other cities. The donning of black armbands was in adherence to the call for a silent protest by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). The AIMPLB had urged Muslims across the nation to wear black armbands during the namaz on &lsquo;Alvida Jumma&rsquo;, also referred to as &lsquo;Alvida namaz&rsquo;, as a peaceful protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.&nbsp; In a post on X, AIMPLB said, &ldquo;It is the responsibility of every Muslim in the country to strongly oppose this bill (Waqf Amendment Bill 2025). The All India Muslim Personal Law Board appeals to all Muslims to wear a black armband while coming to the mosque on Jumu&rsquo;atul Wida as a silent and peaceful expression of grief and protest.&rdquo;&nbsp; The AIMPLB further said that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 was &ldquo;a sinister conspiracy aimed at depriving Muslims of their mosques, eidgahs, madrasas, dargahs, khanqahs, graveyards, and charitable institutions.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8sqrgeq-3k993a89-drykmyvk">
An Important Appeal to the Muslims of India Wear a Black Armband on Jumu&rsquo;atul Wida to Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAgainstWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RejectWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RejectWaqfBill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SayNoToWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SayNoToWaqfBill</a> <a href="https://t.co/auwKL9quxi">pic.twitter.com/auwKL9quxi</a>
&mdash; All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AIMPLB_Official/status/1905337312445432018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
 It further added, &ldquo;The strong protests by Muslims at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and Dharna Sthal in Patna have at least caused a stir among BJP&rsquo;s allied parties. Now, a massive protest is also scheduled to take place in Vijayawada on March 29, 2025.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yeshu-yeshu-pastor-found-guilty-in-2018-sexual-harassment-case-by-punjab-court-8900478">&lsquo;Yeshu Yeshu pastor&rsquo; found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court</a> &nbsp; AIMPLB general secretary Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi issued a video appeal via its X handle in which he urged people to wear a black armband on their right hand when they go for prayers.&nbsp; He urged Muslims to put a black armband on their right hand and share a video of it while also sending it to the online desk of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8sqs3dg-8x8ymyxy-gf1ddh17">
BIG ANNOUNCEMENT ⭕ वक्फ़ संशोधन बिल के खिलाफ मुस्लिम पर्सनल लॉ बोर्ड का बड़ा ऐलान! रमज़ान के इस आख़री जुमा, जुमातुल विदा को मुसलमान यह काम ज़रूर करें...👇🏻 This Ramazan's Jumma Tul Wida Let us Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill by this method 👇🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAgainstWaqfBill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/FPFC0XSZbk">pic.twitter.com/FPFC0XSZbk</a>
&mdash; All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AIMPLB_Official/status/1905207873795494016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
 The 1995 Waqf Act, which governs Waqf properties, has faced criticism regarding property mismanagement, corruption, and unauthorised occupations. The proposed amendments introduce a series of changes designed to modernise the Waqf system. Among the key provisions are stricter regulations governing the registration and monitoring of Waqf properties.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-heckled-during-oxford-university-speech-questioned-on-rg-rape-murder-case-8899764" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case</a>
In Hyderabad, AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi, who is also part of the JPC on the Waqf bill, joined in the symbolic protest wearing a black armband while offering prayers.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8sqsvv3-vpgv533q-uqtull0o">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Hyderabad | AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi wears 'black band' on his arm supporting the call given by All India Muslim Personal Law Board in protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill <a href="https://t.co/TKPXB4ZTaU">pic.twitter.com/TKPXB4ZTaU</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1905520237904065009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
 The AIMPLB&rsquo;s 31-member Action Committee has resolved to adopt all constitutional, legal, and democratic means to oppose the &ldquo;controversial, discriminatory, and damaging&rdquo; bill. The ruling BJP says that the legislation aims to benefit the disadvantaged Muslims while alleging that the 1995 Waqf Act brought by the then Congress government is repressive and regressive and discriminates against the disadvantaged sections of the Muslim community. The Waqf Amendment Bill will empower underprivileged sections of the Muslim community, it says.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/self-styled-punjab-pastor-bajinder-singh-assaults-woman-holding-baby-other-staffers-video-goes-viral-8882756" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral</a>
The Tamil Nadu Assembly adopted a resolution on Thursday opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. Chief Minister MK Stalin said in the assembly that the bill discriminates against Muslims. &ldquo;The central government is inserting schemes that are against state rights, culture, and tradition. In India, various cultures, traditions, and languages are present, but they are doing it with the intention of taking revenge on the states. The Waqf (Amendment) bill is against Muslims.&rdquo;&nbsp;

India News: Several people were seen wearing black armbands while offering prayers in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other cities in adherence to the call for a silent protest by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

Muslims in various cities across India wore black armbands while offering namaz on the occasion of ‘Alvida Jumma’, the last Friday of the holy month of Ramzan. Several people were seen wearing black armbands while offering prayers in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other cities. The donning of black armbands was in adherence to the call for a silent protest by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). The AIMPLB had urged Muslims across the nation to wear black armbands during the namaz on ‘Alvida Jumma’, also referred to as ‘Alvida namaz’, as a peaceful protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024. In a post on X, AIMPLB said, “It is the responsibility of every Muslim in the country to strongly oppose this bill (Waqf Amendment Bill 2025). The All India Muslim Personal Law Board appeals to all Muslims to wear a black armband while coming to the mosque on Jumu’atul Wida as a silent and peaceful expression of grief and protest.” The AIMPLB further said that the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 was “a sinister conspiracy aimed at depriving Muslims of their mosques, eidgahs, madrasas, dargahs, khanqahs, graveyards, and charitable institutions.” An Important Appeal to the Muslims of India Wear a Black Armband on Jumu’atul Wida to Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill#RejectWaqfBill #SayNoToWaqfBill pic.twitter.com/auwKL9quxi — All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) March 27, 2025 It further added, “The strong protests by Muslims at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and Dharna Sthal in Patna have at least caused a stir among BJP’s allied parties. Now, a massive protest is also scheduled to take place in Vijayawada on March 29, 2025.” Also Read | ‘Yeshu Yeshu pastor’ found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court AIMPLB general secretary Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi issued a video appeal via its X handle in which he urged people to wear a black armband on their right hand when they go for prayers. He urged Muslims to put a black armband on their right hand and share a video of it while also sending it to the online desk of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). BIG ANNOUNCEMENT ⭕ वक्फ़ संशोधन बिल के खिलाफ मुस्लिम पर्सनल लॉ बोर्ड का बड़ा ऐलान! रमज़ान के इस आख़री जुमा, जुमातुल विदा को मुसलमान यह काम ज़रूर करें...👇🏻 This Ramazan's Jumma Tul Wida Let us Protest against Waqf Amendment Bill by this method 👇🏻#IndiaAgainstWaqfBill… pic.twitter.com/FPFC0XSZbk — All India Muslim Personal Law Board (@AIMPLB_Official) March 27, 2025 The 1995 Waqf Act, which governs Waqf properties, has faced criticism regarding property mismanagement, corruption, and unauthorised occupations. The proposed amendments introduce a series of changes designed to modernise the Waqf system. Among the key provisions are stricter regulations governing the registration and monitoring of Waqf properties. Also read | Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case In Hyderabad, AIMIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi, who is also part of the JPC on the Waqf bill, joined in the symbolic protest wearing a black armband while offering prayers. #WATCH | Hyderabad | AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi wears 'black band' on his arm supporting the call given by All India Muslim Personal Law Board in protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill pic.twitter.com/TKPXB4ZTaU — ANI (@ANI) March 28, 2025 The AIMPLB’s 31-member Action Committee has resolved to adopt all constitutional, legal, and democratic means to oppose the “controversial, discriminatory, and damaging” bill. The ruling BJP says that the legislation aims to benefit the disadvantaged Muslims while alleging that the 1995 Waqf Act brought by the then Congress government is repressive and regressive and discriminates against the disadvantaged sections of the Muslim community. The Waqf Amendment Bill will empower underprivileged sections of the Muslim community, it says. Also Read | Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral The Tamil Nadu Assembly adopted a resolution on Thursday opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. Chief Minister MK Stalin said in the assembly that the bill discriminates against Muslims. “The central government is inserting schemes that are against state rights, culture, and tradition. In India, various cultures, traditions, and languages are present, but they are doing it with the intention of taking revenge on the states. The Waqf (Amendment) bill is against Muslims.”

Why are Muslims in India wearing black armbands during Alvida namaz?

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has recently faced sharp criticism in Parliament and beyond, over the delays in Tejas fighter production, the grounding of Dhruv helicopters, and perceived inefficiencies under scrutiny. Yet, this isn&rsquo;t a tale of defeat&mdash;it&rsquo;s a saga of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless drive to secure India&rsquo;s skies. HAL isn&rsquo;t faltering; it&rsquo;s rising through adversity, proving its mettle with every challenge overcome.
Globally, building a fighter aircraft and bringing it to market is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the Lockheed Martin F-16: conceptualised in the early 1970s, its first flight came in 1974, and it entered service in 1978&mdash;about seven years from idea to operational reality. The Dassault Rafale, France&rsquo;s pride, began development in 1978, flew in 1986, and joined service in 2001&mdash;a 23-year journey. Even the cutting-edge F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, launched in 1995, didn&rsquo;t become operational until 2015, taking 20 years despite the U.S.&rsquo;s vast resources. These timelines reflect the complexity of modern fighters&mdash;integrating avionics, engines, and weapons systems demands time, precision, and resilience.
The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, sanctioned in 1983, took 33 years to reach initial operational clearance in 2016. Critics highlight this as a delay, but context is key. Unlike its global peers, Tejas faced unique turmoil&mdash;U.S. sanctions in 1998 over India&rsquo;s nuclear tests disrupted access to critical technology, notably stalling the indigenous Kaveri engine. HAL pivoted, integrating the GE F404 engine, a move that kept the programme alive. This wasn&rsquo;t a setback; it was a masterstroke of adaptability, adding credibility to Tejas as a fighter born of necessity and ingenuity. Every extra year spent refining it&mdash;amid funding gaps and shifting IAF requirements&mdash;ensured a jet that&rsquo;s not just functional but exceptional.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/indias-secret-weapon-sfdr-missile-test-stokes-fears-in-pakistan-and-china-784002" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&nbsp;India's secret weapon? SFDR missile test stokes fears in Pakistan and China</a>
Recent flak over Tejas Mk1A delays misses the bigger picture. The contract revision from Rs 5,989.39 crore to Rs 6,542.20 crore, signed this week, reflects HAL&rsquo;s flexibility to meet evolving IAF needs. The first GE F404-IN20 engine&rsquo;s arrival marks a turning point&mdash;production is set to ramp up to 28 jets annually soon. This isn&rsquo;t tardiness; it&rsquo;s HAL aligning for a sprint after a gruelling marathon. The grounding of over 330 Dhruv helicopters since a January 5 crash isn&rsquo;t failure either&mdash;it&rsquo;s HAL prioritising safety, a hallmark of a mature aerospace player. Each check strengthens trust, ensuring Dhruvs return to the skies more reliable than ever.
Parliament&rsquo;s critique of prolonged timelines and cost overruns overlooks HAL&rsquo;s ambition. Tejas isn&rsquo;t a quick fix; it&rsquo;s a legacy&mdash;50% indigenous, aiming for 60%. Costs are investments in self-reliance, not waste. Strategic opportunities? HAL&rsquo;s seizing them, from AESA radar integration to export talks with Guyana. This is a company building a future, not missing chances. The IAF chief&rsquo;s &ldquo;not confident&rdquo; remark stings, but HAL&rsquo;s answering with action&mdash;Tejas Mk1A&rsquo;s advanced features like BVR missiles and EW suites are proof of capability. Confidence isn&rsquo;t lost; it&rsquo;s being forged, jet by jet.
The IAF needs 40 fighters yearly; HAL&rsquo;s closing in, with a Rs 2.5 lakh crore order book signaling faith in its trajectory. The call for proactive R&amp;D? HAL&rsquo;s already there&mdash;Tejas Mk1A&rsquo;s tech is cutting-edge, born from its labs. Procurement delays and cost overruns, flagged by the 2023 CAG report, are lessons, not failures. HAL&rsquo;s refining its game, outsourcing to private firms, and tightening finances. This is evolution, not stagnation&mdash;a company learning to soar.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-jammu-and-kashmir-3-cops-injured-in-encounter-in-kathua-2-terrorists-shot-dead-8898118" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&amp;K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead</a>
Critics demand rigorous planning and stakeholder ties. HAL&rsquo;s delivering&mdash;streamlining processes, deepening IAF collaboration, and integrating F404 engines with precision. Market research? Tejas exports are in play. Certifications? Engine delivery proves it&rsquo;s on track. HAL&rsquo;s not just aiming for leadership&mdash;it&rsquo;s earning it. India&rsquo;s defence modernisation rests on innovation and management, and HAL excels at both. Tejas and Dhruv are ingenuity incarnate; production bottlenecks are easing, accountability rising. Vision? HAL&rsquo;s eyes are on a modern IAF and a self-reliant India.
HAL&rsquo;s credibility shines brighter because of its trials. Sanctions forced ingenuity; delays honed precision. Every jet strengthens security; every fix solidifies its role as India&rsquo;s aerospace backbone. Tejas Mk1A isn&rsquo;t just a fighter&mdash;it&rsquo;s a symbol of HAL&rsquo;s defiance and promise. Globally, fighters take decades&mdash;Tejas, born amid turmoil, stands tall. Challenges are temporary; HAL&rsquo;s spirit is unbreakable.
As HAL weathers this storm, it&rsquo;s thriving. The IAF&rsquo;s fleet will grow, Dhruvs will fly again, and Tejas will dominate&mdash;not because of pressure, but because HAL&rsquo;s built for it. This isn&rsquo;t a company under fire; it&rsquo;s a force taking flight, securing India&rsquo;s future and etching its name globally. The best is yet to come, and HAL&rsquo;s crafting it, one wing at a time.
(The author, Girish Linganna, of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace &amp; Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com)
(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

India News: The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, sanctioned in 1983, took 33 years to reach initial operational clearance in 2016. Critics highlight this as a delay, but context is key.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has recently faced sharp criticism in Parliament and beyond, over the delays in Tejas fighter production, the grounding of Dhruv helicopters, and perceived inefficiencies under scrutiny. Yet, this isn’t a tale of defeat—it’s a saga of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless drive to secure India’s skies. HAL isn’t faltering; it’s rising through adversity, proving its mettle with every challenge overcome. Globally, building a fighter aircraft and bringing it to market is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the Lockheed Martin F-16: conceptualised in the early 1970s, its first flight came in 1974, and it entered service in 1978—about seven years from idea to operational reality. The Dassault Rafale, France’s pride, began development in 1978, flew in 1986, and joined service in 2001—a 23-year journey. Even the cutting-edge F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, launched in 1995, didn’t become operational until 2015, taking 20 years despite the U.S.’s vast resources. These timelines reflect the complexity of modern fighters—integrating avionics, engines, and weapons systems demands time, precision, and resilience. The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, sanctioned in 1983, took 33 years to reach initial operational clearance in 2016. Critics highlight this as a delay, but context is key. Unlike its global peers, Tejas faced unique turmoil—U.S. sanctions in 1998 over India’s nuclear tests disrupted access to critical technology, notably stalling the indigenous Kaveri engine. HAL pivoted, integrating the GE F404 engine, a move that kept the programme alive. This wasn’t a setback; it was a masterstroke of adaptability, adding credibility to Tejas as a fighter born of necessity and ingenuity. Every extra year spent refining it—amid funding gaps and shifting IAF requirements—ensured a jet that’s not just functional but exceptional. Also Read: India's secret weapon? SFDR missile test stokes fears in Pakistan and China Recent flak over Tejas Mk1A delays misses the bigger picture. The contract revision from Rs 5,989.39 crore to Rs 6,542.20 crore, signed this week, reflects HAL’s flexibility to meet evolving IAF needs. The first GE F404-IN20 engine’s arrival marks a turning point—production is set to ramp up to 28 jets annually soon. This isn’t tardiness; it’s HAL aligning for a sprint after a gruelling marathon. The grounding of over 330 Dhruv helicopters since a January 5 crash isn’t failure either—it’s HAL prioritising safety, a hallmark of a mature aerospace player. Each check strengthens trust, ensuring Dhruvs return to the skies more reliable than ever. Parliament’s critique of prolonged timelines and cost overruns overlooks HAL’s ambition. Tejas isn’t a quick fix; it’s a legacy—50% indigenous, aiming for 60%. Costs are investments in self-reliance, not waste. Strategic opportunities? HAL’s seizing them, from AESA radar integration to export talks with Guyana. This is a company building a future, not missing chances. The IAF chief’s “not confident” remark stings, but HAL’s answering with action—Tejas Mk1A’s advanced features like BVR missiles and EW suites are proof of capability. Confidence isn’t lost; it’s being forged, jet by jet. The IAF needs 40 fighters yearly; HAL’s closing in, with a Rs 2.5 lakh crore order book signaling faith in its trajectory. The call for proactive R&D? HAL’s already there—Tejas Mk1A’s tech is cutting-edge, born from its labs. Procurement delays and cost overruns, flagged by the 2023 CAG report, are lessons, not failures. HAL’s refining its game, outsourcing to private firms, and tightening finances. This is evolution, not stagnation—a company learning to soar. Also read | India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead Critics demand rigorous planning and stakeholder ties. HAL’s delivering—streamlining processes, deepening IAF collaboration, and integrating F404 engines with precision. Market research? Tejas exports are in play. Certifications? Engine delivery proves it’s on track. HAL’s not just aiming for leadership—it’s earning it. India’s defence modernisation rests on innovation and management, and HAL excels at both. Tejas and Dhruv are ingenuity incarnate; production bottlenecks are easing, accountability rising. Vision? HAL’s eyes are on a modern IAF and a self-reliant India. HAL’s credibility shines brighter because of its trials. Sanctions forced ingenuity; delays honed precision. Every jet strengthens security; every fix solidifies its role as India’s aerospace backbone. Tejas Mk1A isn’t just a fighter—it’s a symbol of HAL’s defiance and promise. Globally, fighters take decades—Tejas, born amid turmoil, stands tall. Challenges are temporary; HAL’s spirit is unbreakable. As HAL weathers this storm, it’s thriving. The IAF’s fleet will grow, Dhruvs will fly again, and Tejas will dominate—not because of pressure, but because HAL’s built for it. This isn’t a company under fire; it’s a force taking flight, securing India’s future and etching its name globally. The best is yet to come, and HAL’s crafting it, one wing at a time. (The author, Girish Linganna, of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

HAL and Tejas: Soaring through storms to supremacy

The controversial self-styled Christian pastor Bajinder Singh, famous as &lsquo;Yeshu Yeshu prophet&rsquo; due to videos of his sermons with &lsquo;Mera Yashu Yashu&rsquo; playing in the background, was on Friday found guilty in a 2018 sexual harassment case. A court in the northern Indian state of Punjab&rsquo;s Mohali held the pastor Bajinder Singh guilty of sexual misconduct while acquitting five others of similar charges. On March 19, six accused, including Bajinder Singh, had appeared in a court in Mohali for a hearing into allegations of sexual harassment levelled by a woman from Punjab&rsquo;s Zirakpur in 2018. The 42-year-old self-styled godman, who runs a church at Majri, was arrested from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on July 20, 2018 in connection to the same case in July 2018 while attempting to flee to London.
A woman from Punjab's Zirakpur had accused Singh of sexual harassment.&nbsp; On February 28, the self-styled pastor was booked for alleged sexual harassment on the basis of a complaint by a 22-year-old woman.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-heckled-during-oxford-university-speech-questioned-on-rg-rape-murder-case-8899764" rel="dofollow">Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case</a>
The woman alleged in her complaint that she had started visiting Singh&rsquo;s church in October 2017 with her parents and soon after the pastor took her phone number and started sending her text messages. She said she did not tell her parents about it as she was afraid of the pastor. From 2022, the pastor allegedly made her sit alone in a cabin in the church on Sundays, and he would hug her and touch her inappropriately. She also alleged that Singh threatened to get her and her family members killed if she lodged a complaint against him. This is not the first time when Bajinder Singh has got embroiled in a controversy. In 2022, he was accused of taking money from a family based in Delhi for treating their daughter who was &nbsp;ill, but could not be saved. In 2023, the income-tax department raided his premises.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/self-styled-punjab-pastor-bajinder-singh-assaults-woman-holding-baby-other-staffers-video-goes-viral-8882756">Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral</a>
Recently, another case of assault was filed against Singh after a video showing him thrashing a man and a woman holding a baby went viral. The video sparked an outrage after Bajinder Singh was seen throwing a phone and a book at two people in his office. The woman kater said she worked at Bajinder Singh&rsquo;s church for many years, but resigned after the incident. She also alleged that young women and girls who volunteered at the church were being stalked and harassed, and that Singh manhandles those who raise a voice. Bajinder Singh, 42, is the founder and the head of the Church of Glory and Wisdom, which has churches in Jalandhar and New Chandigarh.

India News: A court in the northern Indian state of Punjab’s Mohali held the controversial self-styled Christian pastor Bajinder Singh guilty of sexual misconduct while acquitting five others of similar charges.

The controversial self-styled Christian pastor Bajinder Singh, famous as ‘Yeshu Yeshu prophet’ due to videos of his sermons with ‘Mera Yashu Yashu’ playing in the background, was on Friday found guilty in a 2018 sexual harassment case. A court in the northern Indian state of Punjab’s Mohali held the pastor Bajinder Singh guilty of sexual misconduct while acquitting five others of similar charges. On March 19, six accused, including Bajinder Singh, had appeared in a court in Mohali for a hearing into allegations of sexual harassment levelled by a woman from Punjab’s Zirakpur in 2018. The 42-year-old self-styled godman, who runs a church at Majri, was arrested from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on July 20, 2018 in connection to the same case in July 2018 while attempting to flee to London. A woman from Punjab's Zirakpur had accused Singh of sexual harassment. On February 28, the self-styled pastor was booked for alleged sexual harassment on the basis of a complaint by a 22-year-old woman. Also read | Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case The woman alleged in her complaint that she had started visiting Singh’s church in October 2017 with her parents and soon after the pastor took her phone number and started sending her text messages. She said she did not tell her parents about it as she was afraid of the pastor. From 2022, the pastor allegedly made her sit alone in a cabin in the church on Sundays, and he would hug her and touch her inappropriately. She also alleged that Singh threatened to get her and her family members killed if she lodged a complaint against him. This is not the first time when Bajinder Singh has got embroiled in a controversy. In 2022, he was accused of taking money from a family based in Delhi for treating their daughter who was ill, but could not be saved. In 2023, the income-tax department raided his premises. Also Read | Self-styled Punjab pastor Bajinder Singh assaults woman with baby, other staffers; video goes viral Recently, another case of assault was filed against Singh after a video showing him thrashing a man and a woman holding a baby went viral. The video sparked an outrage after Bajinder Singh was seen throwing a phone and a book at two people in his office. The woman kater said she worked at Bajinder Singh’s church for many years, but resigned after the incident. She also alleged that young women and girls who volunteered at the church were being stalked and harassed, and that Singh manhandles those who raise a voice. Bajinder Singh, 42, is the founder and the head of the Church of Glory and Wisdom, which has churches in Jalandhar and New Chandigarh.

‘Yeshu Yeshu pastor’ Bajinder Singh found guilty in 2018 sexual harassment case by Punjab court

The Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi hiked Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees by 2 per cent on Friday (March 28), according to the Economic Times report.
The announcement has increased Dearness Allowance from 53% to 55%, offering a salary boost to employees ahead of the anticipated 8th Pay Commission. The previous DA hike had happened in July 2024, when it was raised by 3 per cent to stand at 53 per cent.
Dearness Allowance (DA) is given to government employees to help them cope with rising inflation and ensure their salaries meet the rising expenses. Unlike basic salaries that are set by the Pay Commission every 10 years, DA is adjusted periodically keeping in mind the inflation trend. DA rate is based on the All India Consumer Price Index (Industrial Workers) reading for January and December.
<h2>Who benefit</h2>
The hike, which was earlier expected around the festival of colours Holi, will benefit about 48.66 lakh Central Government employees and 66.55 lakh pensioners and family pensioners. The hiked salary for the month of March along with arrears for January and February will be paid to the employees.
The hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief will together cost the central exchequer Rs. 6614.04 crore per annum, reported the media outlet.
<h2>Can Centre increase DA for state government employees?</h2>
The Union Cabinet &nbsp;has the powers to increase DA only for the central government employees. States largely follow the Centre but it is not biding on them. In fact they can increase the DA out of turn.

Unlike basic salaries that are set by the Pay Commission every 10 years, DA is adjusted periodically keeping in mind the inflation trend |India News

The Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi hiked Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees by 2 per cent on Friday (March 28), according to the Economic Times report. The announcement has increased Dearness Allowance from 53% to 55%, offering a salary boost to employees ahead of the anticipated 8th Pay Commission. The previous DA hike had happened in July 2024, when it was raised by 3 per cent to stand at 53 per cent. Dearness Allowance (DA) is given to government employees to help them cope with rising inflation and ensure their salaries meet the rising expenses. Unlike basic salaries that are set by the Pay Commission every 10 years, DA is adjusted periodically keeping in mind the inflation trend. DA rate is based on the All India Consumer Price Index (Industrial Workers) reading for January and December. Who benefit The hike, which was earlier expected around the festival of colours Holi, will benefit about 48.66 lakh Central Government employees and 66.55 lakh pensioners and family pensioners. The hiked salary for the month of March along with arrears for January and February will be paid to the employees. The hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief will together cost the central exchequer Rs. 6614.04 crore per annum, reported the media outlet. Can Centre increase DA for state government employees? The Union Cabinet has the powers to increase DA only for the central government employees. States largely follow the Centre but it is not biding on them. In fact they can increase the DA out of turn.

India hikes DA allowance for central government employees. Check details

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to hear the petition seeking an FIR against Justice Yashwant Varma to investigate cash recovery at his house and said there are plenty of options available after the in-house inquiry report is out.

Supreme Court refuses to examine plea for FIR against justice Yashwant Varma

Just days after the shocking Meerut murder case in India where a wife murdered her husband and stuffed pieces of his body in a drum, a man in Bengaluru allegedly murdered his wife and packed the dead body in a suitcase.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/scared-after-chilling-meerut-murder-up-man-gets-wife-married-to-lover-to-avoid-potential-harm-8898260">Scared after chilling Meerut murder, UP man gets wife married to lover &lsquo;to avoid potential harm&rsquo;</a>
The man identified as Rakesh Rajendra Khedekar and the wife Gouri Anil Sambre were originally from Maharashtra and had shifted in Bengaluru recently.&nbsp;
Police claimed that Rakesh fled the house after murdering his wife on Wednesday (March 26). He called one of his neighbours who used to reside in the same building and confessed the crime.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-upset-with-me-wont-fight-my-case-muskan-rastogi-demands-govt-defense-counsel-in-meerut-murder-case-8882402">'Family upset with me, won't fight my case': Muskan Rastogi demands govt defense counsel in Meerut murder case</a>
The neighbour informed about the alleged murder to the building owner who reported the crime to the Bengaluru Police.&nbsp;
When the police rushed to the house after getting the information, they found the apartment locked. When they entered the house, they fond Gouri dead. Her body had multiple injuries and was packed in a suitcase in the bathroom.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meerut-murder-case-post-mortem-report-reveals-horrifying-state-of-saurabh-rajput-8881927">Meerut murder case: Post-mortem report reveals HORRIFYING state of Saurabh Rajput</a>
The body was intact but it had severe wounds to the neck and stomach, the police reported. The body was sent for a post-morterm examination.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Rakesh and Gouri had been married for two years, and both hailed from Maharashtra. They had moved to Bengaluru last month for work. Rakesh worked as an IT Project Manager, while Gouri was a housewife and was searching for a job. The husband had fled after the crime, but we have arrested him," &nbsp;Sara Fatima, Deputy Commissioner of Police of of Bengaluru South-East Division said, News18 reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/not-a-murder-cbi-closes-sushant-singh-rajput-death-case-citing-no-evidence-for-foul-play-8881686">Not a murder! CBI closes Sushant Singh Rajput death case citing no evidence of foul play</a>
The motive and circumstances behind the murder is still unknown.&nbsp;
As per reports, the couple married two years ago and were living on the third floor of the building in which they moved in February.&nbsp;
Rakesh worked as a project manager in a reputed private firm. Meanwhile, Gouri was a homemaker.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

INDIA NEWS | The man identified as Rakesh Rajendra Khedekar and the wife Gouri Anil Sambre were originally from Maharashtra and had shifted in Bengaluru recently.

Just days after the shocking Meerut murder case in India where a wife murdered her husband and stuffed pieces of his body in a drum, a man in Bengaluru allegedly murdered his wife and packed the dead body in a suitcase. Also read: Scared after chilling Meerut murder, UP man gets wife married to lover ‘to avoid potential harm’ The man identified as Rakesh Rajendra Khedekar and the wife Gouri Anil Sambre were originally from Maharashtra and had shifted in Bengaluru recently. Police claimed that Rakesh fled the house after murdering his wife on Wednesday (March 26). He called one of his neighbours who used to reside in the same building and confessed the crime. Also read: 'Family upset with me, won't fight my case': Muskan Rastogi demands govt defense counsel in Meerut murder case The neighbour informed about the alleged murder to the building owner who reported the crime to the Bengaluru Police. When the police rushed to the house after getting the information, they found the apartment locked. When they entered the house, they fond Gouri dead. Her body had multiple injuries and was packed in a suitcase in the bathroom. Also read: Meerut murder case: Post-mortem report reveals HORRIFYING state of Saurabh Rajput The body was intact but it had severe wounds to the neck and stomach, the police reported. The body was sent for a post-morterm examination. “Rakesh and Gouri had been married for two years, and both hailed from Maharashtra. They had moved to Bengaluru last month for work. Rakesh worked as an IT Project Manager, while Gouri was a housewife and was searching for a job. The husband had fled after the crime, but we have arrested him," Sara Fatima, Deputy Commissioner of Police of of Bengaluru South-East Division said, News18 reported. Also read: Not a murder! CBI closes Sushant Singh Rajput death case citing no evidence of foul play The motive and circumstances behind the murder is still unknown. As per reports, the couple married two years ago and were living on the third floor of the building in which they moved in February. Rakesh worked as a project manager in a reputed private firm. Meanwhile, Gouri was a homemaker. (With inputs from agencies)

Man 'murders' wife, stuffs her body in suitcase in India's Bengaluru

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faced heckling in the United Kingdom while addressing audience at Oxford University's Kellogg College on Thursday (Mar 27).&nbsp;
The All India Trinamool Congress leader's speech was interrupted by a group of protesting students who sought answers on the RG Kar College rape case.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-mamata-banerjee-jogs-in-white-saree-slippers-at-londons-iconic-hyde-park-8889494">WATCH | Mamata Banerjee jogs in white saree, slippers at London&rsquo;s iconic Hyde Park</a>
<h2>What happened?</h2>
Bannerjee was invited to Oxford University's Kellogg College to speak on the social development of women, children and the marginalised sections of the society.
As the West Bengal CM delivered what was her maiden speech at the university, her speech was disrupted by students raising the issue of post-poll violence in the state and the RG Kar college murder-rape that shook the country last year.
In reply, Mamata Banerjee said that the case was "sub judice," and that a central agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was tasked with the investigation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-72-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-myanmar-tremors-felt-in-delhi-ncr-8899458">Massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR</a>
"The matter is not related to politics," she said.
"This case is with the central government and is sub judice. Do not do politics here," she added.
Watch what happened here:
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Protests were held during Mamata Banerjee's speech at Kellogg College, Oxford this evening, disrupting the event. <a href="https://t.co/uovvF08Xo1">pic.twitter.com/uovvF08Xo1</a>
&mdash; Naomi Canton (@naomi2009) <a href="https://twitter.com/naomi2009/status/1905433886709981193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Mamata's "lies"</h2>
Posting on X, Students' Federation of India - United Kingdom said that it "held a demonstration in Kellogg College, Oxford against Mamata Banerjee's speech."
"We opposed her blatant lies by asking her for evidence of the social development she claims to pioneer," it added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/myanmar-thailand-earthquake-india-stands-ready-to-offer-all-possible-assistance-says-pm-modi-8900046">Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi</a>
"Instead of allowing us to peacefully express our opinions, the police were called," claimed SFI-UK.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8sla1t6-yeehru5q-ke27vdko">
SFI-UK held a demonstration in Kellogg College, Oxford against Mamata Banerjee's speech. We opposed her blatant lies by asking her for evidence of the social development she claims to pioneer. Instead of allowing us to peacefully express our opinions, the police were called. <a href="https://t.co/pj0WRpvZUa">pic.twitter.com/pj0WRpvZUa</a>
&mdash; Students' Federation of India - United Kingdom (@sfi_uk) <a href="https://twitter.com/sfi_uk/status/1905344888956215500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | India News | Mamata Banerjee was heckled during her speech at Oxford University as students raised the RG Kar College rape-murder case, seeking accountability.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faced heckling in the United Kingdom while addressing audience at Oxford University's Kellogg College on Thursday (Mar 27). The All India Trinamool Congress leader's speech was interrupted by a group of protesting students who sought answers on the RG Kar College rape case. Also read | WATCH | Mamata Banerjee jogs in white saree, slippers at London’s iconic Hyde Park What happened? Bannerjee was invited to Oxford University's Kellogg College to speak on the social development of women, children and the marginalised sections of the society. As the West Bengal CM delivered what was her maiden speech at the university, her speech was disrupted by students raising the issue of post-poll violence in the state and the RG Kar college murder-rape that shook the country last year. In reply, Mamata Banerjee said that the case was "sub judice," and that a central agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was tasked with the investigation. Also read | Massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR "The matter is not related to politics," she said. "This case is with the central government and is sub judice. Do not do politics here," she added. Watch what happened here: Protests were held during Mamata Banerjee's speech at Kellogg College, Oxford this evening, disrupting the event. pic.twitter.com/uovvF08Xo1 — Naomi Canton (@naomi2009) March 28, 2025 Mamata's "lies" Posting on X, Students' Federation of India - United Kingdom said that it "held a demonstration in Kellogg College, Oxford against Mamata Banerjee's speech." "We opposed her blatant lies by asking her for evidence of the social development she claims to pioneer," it added. Also read | Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi "Instead of allowing us to peacefully express our opinions, the police were called," claimed SFI-UK. SFI-UK held a demonstration in Kellogg College, Oxford against Mamata Banerjee's speech. We opposed her blatant lies by asking her for evidence of the social development she claims to pioneer. Instead of allowing us to peacefully express our opinions, the police were called. pic.twitter.com/pj0WRpvZUa — Students' Federation of India - United Kingdom (@sfi_uk) March 27, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata Banerjee heckled during Oxford University speech, questioned on RG rape-murder case

After a massive earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale shook Myanmar and Neighbouring Thailand on Friday (Mar 28), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India was ready to offer all possible help to both the countries.
Taking to the micro-blogging site X PM Modi wrote, "Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand."
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Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch&hellip;
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1905534514505678980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
The quake hit central Myanmar at 12.50pm (local time) with the epicentre being 16km northwest of the city of Sagaing, at a depth of 10km, according to the United States Geological Survey.&nbsp;
There have been reports of casualties, but no tsunami warning has been issued.
Meanwhile, a video of an under-construction skyscraper in Bangkok's Chatuchak neighbourhood collapsing due to the quake has gone viral. It is feared that 43 workers have been trapped amid the debris, reported various media outlets.
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Breaking: Video shows the moment a skyscraper under construction collapsed due to earthquake in Bangkok. <a href="https://t.co/OIdxc4epKf">pic.twitter.com/OIdxc4epKf</a>
&mdash; PM Breaking News (@PMBreakingNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBreakingNews/status/1905514922546466959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
The Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has called an emergency meeting to assess the damaged caused by the massive quake.
While&nbsp;Myanmar junta in a rare move has sought help from foreign countries and has declared a state of emergency in affected regions.&nbsp;

The earthquake measuring 7.2 hit central Myanmar at 12.50pm (local time) with the epicentre being 16km northwest of the city of Sagaing | India News

After a massive earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale shook Myanmar and Neighbouring Thailand on Friday (Mar 28), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India was ready to offer all possible help to both the countries. Taking to the micro-blogging site X PM Modi wrote, "Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand." Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 28, 2025 The quake hit central Myanmar at 12.50pm (local time) with the epicentre being 16km northwest of the city of Sagaing, at a depth of 10km, according to the United States Geological Survey. There have been reports of casualties, but no tsunami warning has been issued. Meanwhile, a video of an under-construction skyscraper in Bangkok's Chatuchak neighbourhood collapsing due to the quake has gone viral. It is feared that 43 workers have been trapped amid the debris, reported various media outlets. Breaking: Video shows the moment a skyscraper under construction collapsed due to earthquake in Bangkok. pic.twitter.com/OIdxc4epKf — PM Breaking News (@PMBreakingNews) March 28, 2025 The Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has called an emergency meeting to assess the damaged caused by the massive quake. While Myanmar junta in a rare move has sought help from foreign countries and has declared a state of emergency in affected regions.

Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi

A massive earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 hit Myanmar on Friday (Mar 28), reported the National Center for Seismology (NCS).
The massive quake triggered tremors that were felt all the way in Delhi-NCR. The epicentre was located at Lat: 21.93 N, Long: 96.07 E at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres.
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EQ of M: 7.2, On: 28/03/2025 11:50:52 IST, Lat: 21.93 N, Long: 96.07 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Myanmar. For more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0">https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrJitendraSingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfDrJS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfDrJS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yu9tQjs9oI">pic.twitter.com/Yu9tQjs9oI</a>
&mdash; National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1905507779189813586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
As per the United States Geological Survey (USGS) the earthquake had the magnitude of 7.7 and it affected India, Bangladesh, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and China.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/myanmar-thailand-earthquake-india-stands-ready-to-offer-all-possible-assistance-says-pm-modi-8900046">Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi</a>
<h2>Bangkok Earthquake</h2>
The powerful earthquake, as per AP, also rocked Thailand's capital Bangkok, causing buildings to sway. The tremor's force caused water to slosh from pools, even those high up in high rise buildings, suggests reports.
While initial reports suggested no major damage, Bangkok police in a statement said that a high-rise building under construction collapsed in the earthquake.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangkok-earthquake-under-construction-high-rise-building-collapses-due-to-77-magnitude-earthquake-8899782">Bangkok earthquake: Under construction 30-storey building collapses due to 7.7 magnitude earthquake</a>
Talking to the press, Thai deputy prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that at least 81 people were believed to be trapped under the rubble and at least three have died. The number of casualties is expected to go up even as rescue efforts continue.
A state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok, announced Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
<h2>Manipur Earthquake&nbsp;</h2>
Tremors were also felt in India's Manipur, located merely 12 kilometres from Myanmar, the epicentre of the earthquake.
<h2>Earthquake Bangalore</h2>
Reports suggest that Bangalore, aka the Silicon Valley of India, also felt the tremors from this massive earthquake.
(With inputs from agencies)

A powerful magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with tremors reaching Delhi-NCR, causing widespread concern and highlighting seismic activity in the region.

A massive earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 hit Myanmar on Friday (Mar 28), reported the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The massive quake triggered tremors that were felt all the way in Delhi-NCR. The epicentre was located at Lat: 21.93 N, Long: 96.07 E at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres. EQ of M: 7.2, On: 28/03/2025 11:50:52 IST, Lat: 21.93 N, Long: 96.07 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Myanmar. For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/Yu9tQjs9oI — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) March 28, 2025 As per the United States Geological Survey (USGS) the earthquake had the magnitude of 7.7 and it affected India, Bangladesh, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and China. Also read | Myanmar, Thailand earthquake: 'India stands ready to offer all possible assistance', says PM Modi Bangkok Earthquake The powerful earthquake, as per AP, also rocked Thailand's capital Bangkok, causing buildings to sway. The tremor's force caused water to slosh from pools, even those high up in high rise buildings, suggests reports. While initial reports suggested no major damage, Bangkok police in a statement said that a high-rise building under construction collapsed in the earthquake. Also read | Bangkok earthquake: Under construction 30-storey building collapses due to 7.7 magnitude earthquake Talking to the press, Thai deputy prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai said that at least 81 people were believed to be trapped under the rubble and at least three have died. The number of casualties is expected to go up even as rescue efforts continue. A state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok, announced Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Manipur Earthquake Tremors were also felt in India's Manipur, located merely 12 kilometres from Myanmar, the epicentre of the earthquake. Earthquake Bangalore Reports suggest that Bangalore, aka the Silicon Valley of India, also felt the tremors from this massive earthquake. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Myanmar, Thailand; tremors felt in Delhi-NCR

A man in Kerala got a metal nut stuck to his genitals, which even doctors were unable to remove. They had to call in firefighters to help them remove the nut to relieve the man of the tremendous pain he was in for two days, Onmanorama reported.
The strange incident was reported from the city of Kanhangad in Kerala. A 46-year-old man got a one-and-a-half-inch metal nut stuck to his genitals and tried to remove it himself for two days. The foreign object led to swelling and pain, and he struggled to even urinate.
When all his efforts failed, he visited a hospital to get the ring removed. The doctors were stumped to see the ring stuck to his genitals.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-strips-naked-stabs-and-bites-people-at-texas-airport-8894979" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Naked woman stabs and bites people at Texas airport, identifies as Disney princesses</a>
But removing it proved to be a huge task even for the team of doctors at the district hospital. So they called in the fire and rescue team from the Kanhangad Fire Station.
<h2>The metal nut was cut through&nbsp;</h2>
Fire Officer K M Shiju led a team of rescue workers to remove the nut using a precision cutter. The team performed the detailed task with tremendous precaution as otherwise the process could prove dangerous to his life. They had to cut the metal to remove it, but that could also mean the man sustaining burn injuries.&nbsp;
The cutting generated a lot of heat, which could have also affected the man's genitals. So, the team poured water continuously on the area to keep it cool. They were finally able to cut the nut from both sides, freeing the man from agony.
The fire team said that it was one of the most challenging tasks they had ever performed.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the mystery of how the man got the nut on his genitals continued to amaze doctors and others. He claimed that after he passed out drunk, some people inserted the metal nut over his genitals.&nbsp;

A 46-year-old man got a metal nut stuck to his genitals and tried to remove it himself. He claims someone put it on when he passed out drunk. India News Trending

A man in Kerala got a metal nut stuck to his genitals, which even doctors were unable to remove. They had to call in firefighters to help them remove the nut to relieve the man of the tremendous pain he was in for two days, Onmanorama reported. The strange incident was reported from the city of Kanhangad in Kerala. A 46-year-old man got a one-and-a-half-inch metal nut stuck to his genitals and tried to remove it himself for two days. The foreign object led to swelling and pain, and he struggled to even urinate. When all his efforts failed, he visited a hospital to get the ring removed. The doctors were stumped to see the ring stuck to his genitals. Also Read: Naked woman stabs and bites people at Texas airport, identifies as Disney princesses But removing it proved to be a huge task even for the team of doctors at the district hospital. So they called in the fire and rescue team from the Kanhangad Fire Station. The metal nut was cut through Fire Officer K M Shiju led a team of rescue workers to remove the nut using a precision cutter. The team performed the detailed task with tremendous precaution as otherwise the process could prove dangerous to his life. They had to cut the metal to remove it, but that could also mean the man sustaining burn injuries. The cutting generated a lot of heat, which could have also affected the man's genitals. So, the team poured water continuously on the area to keep it cool. They were finally able to cut the nut from both sides, freeing the man from agony. The fire team said that it was one of the most challenging tasks they had ever performed. Meanwhile, the mystery of how the man got the nut on his genitals continued to amaze doctors and others. He claimed that after he passed out drunk, some people inserted the metal nut over his genitals.

Firefighters cut through metal nut stuck to man's genitals after doctors couldn't help

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an ongoing anti-terrorist operation claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven other security personnel were injured. Three terrorists have also been killed in the operation that was resumed on Friday (Mar 28) morning.
As per reports, three jawans of the special operations group (SOG) of J&amp;K Police died in Ghati Heights of Sufiyan Jakhole village of Kathua district.
Deputy SP border Dheeraj Katoch and an army para commando were among the seven security personnel wounded during the operation. The injured have been transferred to a hospital in Jammu City, while the Deputy SP is being treated at the government medical college (GMC) hospital in Kathua.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-jammu-and-kashmir-3-cops-injured-in-encounter-in-kathua-2-terrorists-shot-dead-8898118">India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&amp;K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead</a>
<h2>Operation resumes</h2>
On Friday morning, the operation against the foreign terrorists started with the first light.&nbsp;
Two terrorists, as per an IANS report, are still believed to be hiding in Ghati Heights of Safiyan Jakhole village. Given the number of terrorists seen in Sanyal village on Sunday (Mar 23), these two terrorists could belong to the same group. The report suggests that they might have escaped Sanyal village, and were now trying to cross over to Billawar in Kathua district through Ghati Heights.
"Terrorists are believed to be part of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit. They appeared to be well-trained. The gunfight triggered intense firing and explosions, with the army using rocket launchers to eliminate the terrorists, who fired heavily with M4 Carbines and other sophisticated weapons and also used grenades. Local youth were seen assisting the security forces in carrying heavy weapons and ammunition deep inside a gorge. Senior police officers are camping at the spot, supervising the operation," said officials.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-underway-in-jammu-divisions-kathua-security-forces-face-off-against-foreign-terrorists-8895566">Encounter underway in Jammu division's Kathua: Security forces face off against foreign terrorists</a>
"The possibility is that there could be two more terrorists. Special army para commandos were airdropped in the evening yesterday to further strengthen the cordon around the area. The bodies of three terrorists were noticed by drones and would be retrieved on Friday morning," they added..
<h2>Terrorists believed to be from Pakistan</h2>
Reportedly, civilians observed the movement of terrorists at the village Safiyan Jakhole Ghati heights at 7 am on Thursday and alerted the police.
"Teams of local police and the SOG headed by SDPO Border, Dheeraj Katoch, rushed to the spot and engaged terrorists in the gun battle, who were well-equipped with sophisticated weapons like M4 Carbines. Later, army personnel, including para commandos, were air dropped, and reinforcements of police and paramilitary personnel reached the spot to join the operation," said officials, as quoted by IANS.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-kathua-search-operation-intensifies-huge-recoveries-made-in-poonch-hideout-bust-8884021">Jammu and Kashmir: Kathua search operation intensifies, huge recoveries made in Poonch hideout bust</a>
"Three SOG personnel who were part of the first team to reach the spot were martyred in the operation. One para commando and six policemen, including the Dy SP, sustained injuries. Three terrorists have been neutralised till last evening. Their bodies are lying on a hill and will be brought down once the operation is over. The body of one of the terrorists has been burnt. All of them are believed to be Pakistanis."
Three selection-grade constables of the J&amp;K Police, Tariq Ahmad (son of Kabir Hussain of Reasi), Jaswant Singh (son of Angrez Singh of Londi, Hiranagar), and Balwinder Singh (son of Prem Singh of Kana Chak, Kathua), have been identified as the policemen killed in this operation.
(With inputs from agencies)

In a tense anti-terror operation in J&K's Kathua, three police officers were killed, and seven security personnel injured, as forces engage with foreign terrorists.

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, an ongoing anti-terrorist operation claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven other security personnel were injured. Three terrorists have also been killed in the operation that was resumed on Friday (Mar 28) morning. As per reports, three jawans of the special operations group (SOG) of J&K Police died in Ghati Heights of Sufiyan Jakhole village of Kathua district. Deputy SP border Dheeraj Katoch and an army para commando were among the seven security personnel wounded during the operation. The injured have been transferred to a hospital in Jammu City, while the Deputy SP is being treated at the government medical college (GMC) hospital in Kathua. Also read | India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead Operation resumes On Friday morning, the operation against the foreign terrorists started with the first light. Two terrorists, as per an IANS report, are still believed to be hiding in Ghati Heights of Safiyan Jakhole village. Given the number of terrorists seen in Sanyal village on Sunday (Mar 23), these two terrorists could belong to the same group. The report suggests that they might have escaped Sanyal village, and were now trying to cross over to Billawar in Kathua district through Ghati Heights. "Terrorists are believed to be part of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit. They appeared to be well-trained. The gunfight triggered intense firing and explosions, with the army using rocket launchers to eliminate the terrorists, who fired heavily with M4 Carbines and other sophisticated weapons and also used grenades. Local youth were seen assisting the security forces in carrying heavy weapons and ammunition deep inside a gorge. Senior police officers are camping at the spot, supervising the operation," said officials. Also read | Encounter underway in Jammu division's Kathua: Security forces face off against foreign terrorists "The possibility is that there could be two more terrorists. Special army para commandos were airdropped in the evening yesterday to further strengthen the cordon around the area. The bodies of three terrorists were noticed by drones and would be retrieved on Friday morning," they added.. Terrorists believed to be from Pakistan Reportedly, civilians observed the movement of terrorists at the village Safiyan Jakhole Ghati heights at 7 am on Thursday and alerted the police. "Teams of local police and the SOG headed by SDPO Border, Dheeraj Katoch, rushed to the spot and engaged terrorists in the gun battle, who were well-equipped with sophisticated weapons like M4 Carbines. Later, army personnel, including para commandos, were air dropped, and reinforcements of police and paramilitary personnel reached the spot to join the operation," said officials, as quoted by IANS. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Kathua search operation intensifies, huge recoveries made in Poonch hideout bust "Three SOG personnel who were part of the first team to reach the spot were martyred in the operation. One para commando and six policemen, including the Dy SP, sustained injuries. Three terrorists have been neutralised till last evening. Their bodies are lying on a hill and will be brought down once the operation is over. The body of one of the terrorists has been burnt. All of them are believed to be Pakistanis." Three selection-grade constables of the J&K Police, Tariq Ahmad (son of Kabir Hussain of Reasi), Jaswant Singh (son of Angrez Singh of Londi, Hiranagar), and Balwinder Singh (son of Prem Singh of Kana Chak, Kathua), have been identified as the policemen killed in this operation. (With inputs from agencies)

Three police officers killed, seven injured in ongoing anti-terror operation in J&K's Kathua

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra unleashed a scathing attack on mainstream media on Thursday (Mar 27), accusing it of acting as a mouthpiece for the ruling party.&nbsp;
He labeled the media "vultures" that report on insignificant issues, diverting attention from pressing concerns.&nbsp;
"To all those hounding for a quote - "The mainstream media at this point is nothing but a miscommunication arm of the ruling party. They are vultures who report on issues that don't matter to the people of this country. If they all shut shop from tomorrow till eternity, they will be doing a favour to the country, its people, &amp; their own children," Kamra posted on X.
Kamra recently courted controversy when he made jokes about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, labelling him a "traitor" and performing a parody about him.&nbsp;
<h2>'Not against law to poke fun at our leaders'&nbsp;</h2>
Kamra strongly denounced the demolition of Mumbai's Habitat Comedy Club, where his recent performance sparked protests from Shinde's supporters.
In a post on X, Kamra said that the entertainment venue is "merely a platform" and that the studio was not responsible for his comedy.
"An entertainment venue is merely a platform. A space for all sorts of shows. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor does it have any power or control over what I say or do. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue for a comedian's words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes, because you didn't like the butter chicken you were served," Kamra said.
He then said that the right to freedom of speech was "not only to be used to fawn over the powerful and rich, even though today's media would have us believe otherwise".&nbsp;
"Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at our leaders and the circus that is our political system," the comedian said.
Kamra said that he was ready to cooperate with the police and the courts for any lawful action against him, emphasizing that the law "be fairly and equally deployed" against those who "decided that vandalism is the appropriate response to being offended by a joke."
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Kamra recently courted controversy when he made jokes about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, labelling him a "traitor" and performing a parody about him.

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra unleashed a scathing attack on mainstream media on Thursday (Mar 27), accusing it of acting as a mouthpiece for the ruling party. He labeled the media "vultures" that report on insignificant issues, diverting attention from pressing concerns. "To all those hounding for a quote - "The mainstream media at this point is nothing but a miscommunication arm of the ruling party. They are vultures who report on issues that don't matter to the people of this country. If they all shut shop from tomorrow till eternity, they will be doing a favour to the country, its people, & their own children," Kamra posted on X. Kamra recently courted controversy when he made jokes about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, labelling him a "traitor" and performing a parody about him. 'Not against law to poke fun at our leaders' Kamra strongly denounced the demolition of Mumbai's Habitat Comedy Club, where his recent performance sparked protests from Shinde's supporters. In a post on X, Kamra said that the entertainment venue is "merely a platform" and that the studio was not responsible for his comedy. "An entertainment venue is merely a platform. A space for all sorts of shows. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor does it have any power or control over what I say or do. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue for a comedian's words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes, because you didn't like the butter chicken you were served," Kamra said. He then said that the right to freedom of speech was "not only to be used to fawn over the powerful and rich, even though today's media would have us believe otherwise". "Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at our leaders and the circus that is our political system," the comedian said. Kamra said that he was ready to cooperate with the police and the courts for any lawful action against him, emphasizing that the law "be fairly and equally deployed" against those who "decided that vandalism is the appropriate response to being offended by a joke." (With inputs from agencies)

'Miscommunication arm of ruling party': Kunal Kamra unleashes scathing attack on mainstream media

Following recent incidents of a woman and her lover killing husbands, a man from Uttar Pradesh got his wife married to her lover.
This comes days after the chilling murder of a man by his wife and her lover, who chopped up his body and dumped it in a cement-lined drum in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut. In another similar incident, a couple hired a contract killer in Auraiya to kill a man. Scared after these incidents, Bablu, from Katar Jot Village in Sant Kabir Nagar, got his wife wedded to her lover of 18 months and even witnessed the marriage to avoid any such incident.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-upset-with-me-wont-fight-my-case-muskan-rastogi-demands-govt-defense-counsel-in-meerut-murder-case-8882402">'Family upset with me, won't fight my case': Muskan Rastogi demands govt defense counsel in Meerut murder case</a>
Bablu married Radhika, who is from Gorakhpur district, in 2017. The couple have two children together. Bablu, who works in another state as a labourer, discovered her wife&rsquo;s nearly a year-long affair with Vikas, who lives in his village, reported NDTV.&nbsp;
Following this, he returned to the village without her knowledge and began tracking her to confirm the affair.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meerut-murder-case-post-mortem-report-reveals-horrifying-state-of-saurabh-rajput-8881927">Meerut murder case: Post-mortem report reveals HORRIFYING state of Saurabh Rajput</a>
According to the villagers, when his suspicions were confirmed, he did not berate or argue with her. Instead, he informed the village elders of the affair and decided that she should marry her lover.&nbsp;
The two married as per Hindu customs at a Shiva temple and also became witness to the legal process of their marriage and notified it in court. He said he would raise their children alone and took custody of them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-muskan-and-sahil-did-during-their-trip-to-shimla-cab-driver-reveals-details-in-meerut-murder-8879512">What Muskan and Sahil did during their trip to Shimla? Cab driver reveals details in Meerut murder</a>
<h2>&lsquo;To avoid potential harm&rsquo;</h2>
According to the news agency PTI, when asked about the unusual step, he said, &ldquo;I decided to arrange their marriage to avoid potential harm to myself. In recent days, we have seen that husbands have been killed by their wives... After seeing what happened in Meerut, I decided to get my wife married to her lover so that we can both live peacefully.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/satanic-graffiti-and-black-magic-occult-angle-in-meerut-murder-case-as-accuseds-room-reveals-chilling-secrets-8877943">&lsquo;Satanic graffiti, black magic&rsquo;: Occult angle in Meerut murder case as accused&rsquo;s room reveals chilling secrets</a>
On the legality of the marriage since he did not get divorced from Radhika, he said that it was legal as it happened in front of villagers and no family member objected to it.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | According to the villagers, when his suspicions were confirmed, he did not berate or argue with her. Instead, he informed the village elders of the affair and decided that she should marry her lover.

Following recent incidents of a woman and her lover killing husbands, a man from Uttar Pradesh got his wife married to her lover. This comes days after the chilling murder of a man by his wife and her lover, who chopped up his body and dumped it in a cement-lined drum in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut. In another similar incident, a couple hired a contract killer in Auraiya to kill a man. Scared after these incidents, Bablu, from Katar Jot Village in Sant Kabir Nagar, got his wife wedded to her lover of 18 months and even witnessed the marriage to avoid any such incident. Also read | 'Family upset with me, won't fight my case': Muskan Rastogi demands govt defense counsel in Meerut murder case Bablu married Radhika, who is from Gorakhpur district, in 2017. The couple have two children together. Bablu, who works in another state as a labourer, discovered her wife’s nearly a year-long affair with Vikas, who lives in his village, reported NDTV. Following this, he returned to the village without her knowledge and began tracking her to confirm the affair. Also read | Meerut murder case: Post-mortem report reveals HORRIFYING state of Saurabh Rajput According to the villagers, when his suspicions were confirmed, he did not berate or argue with her. Instead, he informed the village elders of the affair and decided that she should marry her lover. The two married as per Hindu customs at a Shiva temple and also became witness to the legal process of their marriage and notified it in court. He said he would raise their children alone and took custody of them. Also read | What Muskan and Sahil did during their trip to Shimla? Cab driver reveals details in Meerut murder ‘To avoid potential harm’ According to the news agency PTI, when asked about the unusual step, he said, “I decided to arrange their marriage to avoid potential harm to myself. In recent days, we have seen that husbands have been killed by their wives... After seeing what happened in Meerut, I decided to get my wife married to her lover so that we can both live peacefully.” Also read | ‘Satanic graffiti, black magic’: Occult angle in Meerut murder case as accused’s room reveals chilling secrets On the legality of the marriage since he did not get divorced from Radhika, he said that it was legal as it happened in front of villagers and no family member objected to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Scared after chilling Meerut murder, UP man gets wife married to lover ‘to avoid potential harm’

From the next financial year, which begins on April 1, the tax authorities of India can access your account on communication platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and emails under the provisions of the Income Tax Bill, 2025.
<h2>Why has government brought the bill?</h2>
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (Mar 27) explained why the new Income Tax Bill, 2025, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on February 13.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kunal-kamra-responds-to-second-summons-with-nirmala-sitharaman-parody-song-8893516">Kunal Kamra responds to second summons with Nirmala Sitharaman parody song</a>
The bill, which would replace the Income Tax Act of 1961, would allow the government to detect unaccounted money and illegal activities. While it retains most of the original provisions, it aims to simplify the language and remove redundant sections.
Sitharaman said that the new bill would help keep tax enforcement up to date with new technology and ensure that virtual assets like cryptocurrencies are not overlooked. The evidence from digital accounts would provide the officials with evidence to prove tax evasion in court and calculate the exact amount of tax evaded.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-announces-57mn-corpus-for-manipur-8846060">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announces $57mn corpus for Manipur</a>
&ldquo;Encrypted messages on mobile phones led to unearthing Rs 250 crore unaccounted money. Evidence from WhatsApp messages of crypto assets has been detected. WhatsApp communication helped unearth ₹200 crore unaccounted money,&rdquo; the finance minister said.
Sitharaman also highlighted that Google Maps history helped identify locations frequently visited to hide cash. She added that Instagram accounts were analysed to determine &lsquo;benami&rsquo; property ownership.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prasad-given-at-religious-places-exempt-from-gst-says-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-8889590">&lsquo;Prasad&rsquo; served at religious places exempt from GST, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman</a>
<h2>What can officials access under new bill?</h2>
The finance minister detailed that the new bill would grant officials the right to access digital communication platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and emails. In addition, business software and servers used to hide financial transactions would also be accessible by the government.
The bill would cover virtual digital assets within the definition of undisclosed income. It would include digital tokens, cryptocurrencies, and other cryptographic representations of value.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-indian-fms-focus-on-bihar-sparks-meme-fest-online-nitish-kumar-narendra-modi-8681960">Union Budget 2025: Nirmala Sitharaman's focus on Bihar sparks meme fest online</a>
It also grants income tax authorities permission to access virtual digital spaces during search and seizure operations. This covers email servers, social media accounts, online investment and trading platforms, and websites that store asset ownership details. It also grants authorities the power to override access codes for inspection of digital environments as part of tax investigations.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (Mar 27) explained why the new Income Tax Bill, 2025, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on February 13.

From the next financial year, which begins on April 1, the tax authorities of India can access your account on communication platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and emails under the provisions of the Income Tax Bill, 2025. Why has government brought the bill? Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (Mar 27) explained why the new Income Tax Bill, 2025, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on February 13. Also read | Kunal Kamra responds to second summons with Nirmala Sitharaman parody song The bill, which would replace the Income Tax Act of 1961, would allow the government to detect unaccounted money and illegal activities. While it retains most of the original provisions, it aims to simplify the language and remove redundant sections. Sitharaman said that the new bill would help keep tax enforcement up to date with new technology and ensure that virtual assets like cryptocurrencies are not overlooked. The evidence from digital accounts would provide the officials with evidence to prove tax evasion in court and calculate the exact amount of tax evaded. Also read | Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announces $57mn corpus for Manipur “Encrypted messages on mobile phones led to unearthing Rs 250 crore unaccounted money. Evidence from WhatsApp messages of crypto assets has been detected. WhatsApp communication helped unearth ₹200 crore unaccounted money,” the finance minister said. Sitharaman also highlighted that Google Maps history helped identify locations frequently visited to hide cash. She added that Instagram accounts were analysed to determine ‘benami’ property ownership. Also read | ‘Prasad’ served at religious places exempt from GST, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman What can officials access under new bill? The finance minister detailed that the new bill would grant officials the right to access digital communication platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and emails. In addition, business software and servers used to hide financial transactions would also be accessible by the government. The bill would cover virtual digital assets within the definition of undisclosed income. It would include digital tokens, cryptocurrencies, and other cryptographic representations of value. Also read | Union Budget 2025: Nirmala Sitharaman's focus on Bihar sparks meme fest online It also grants income tax authorities permission to access virtual digital spaces during search and seizure operations. This covers email servers, social media accounts, online investment and trading platforms, and websites that store asset ownership details. It also grants authorities the power to override access codes for inspection of digital environments as part of tax investigations. (With inputs from agencies)

From April 1, Indian govt can see your WhatsApp messages, emails. Here's what you need to know

Two security personnel, including an officer has been killed in a fresh gunfight that erupted between security forces and terrorists in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday (March 27), according to media reports. Two terrorists have also been gunned down in the anti-terror operation, which is now in its fourth day.
Joint teams from the Army, the Border Security Force, Police, the National Security Guard, the Special Operations Group, and the Central Reserve Police Force have been carrying out searches in the densely forested area in Juthana.
(This is a developing news...more to follow)

Two security personnel, including an officer has been injured in a fresh gunfight that erupted between security forces and terrorists in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir | India news

Two security personnel, including an officer has been killed in a fresh gunfight that erupted between security forces and terrorists in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday (March 27), according to media reports. Two terrorists have also been gunned down in the anti-terror operation, which is now in its fourth day. Joint teams from the Army, the Border Security Force, Police, the National Security Guard, the Special Operations Group, and the Central Reserve Police Force have been carrying out searches in the densely forested area in Juthana. (This is a developing news...more to follow)

India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead

The United States have responded to concerns regarding the treatment of Indians deported from the US in three military flights last month, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh told Rajya Sabha on Thursday (Mar 27).
After the three flights carrying hundreds of illegal immigrants from India, reports claimed that Sikh deportees were asked to remove their turbans, while women and children were shackled on the flight. Following this, the central government condemned such claims and raised concerns with the US authorities for clarification.
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&ldquo;The Ministry has strongly registered its concerns with the US authorities on the treatment meted out to deportees on the flight that landed on February 5th, particularly with respect to use of shackles, especially on women. The US side has confirmed that no women or children were restrained on the deportation flights that landed in India on February 15th and 16th, respectively,&rdquo; Singh told the house.
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The minister added that US authorities have clarified New Delhi&rsquo;s concerns, saying that no deportee was asked to remove religious head coverings, adding that only accommodation requested during the flight was vegetarian food.&nbsp;
&ldquo;In response, the US authorities have conveyed that deportees on the three chartered flights that arrived on 5th, 15th and 16th February 2025 respectively were not instructed to remove any religious head coverings and that the deportees did not request any religious accommodation during the flights, aside from requesting for vegetarian meals,&rdquo; she said.
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The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also said that some of the detainees had &ldquo;arrived at the US border without turbans&rdquo;.
<h2>Indians deported in three military flights</h2>
After US President Donald Trump assumed office on January 20, his administration has been on an immigration crackdown. The US has deported hundreds of illegal immigrants from India along with those from other nations since then.
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The Indian illegal migrants were deported in three separate military flights that landed in Punjab's Amritsar last month. Some deportees had accused the Trump administration of mistreatment, raising concerns.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | After the three flights carrying hundreds of illegal immigrants from India, reports claimed that Sikh deportees were asked to remove their turbans, while women and children were shackled on the flight.

The United States have responded to concerns regarding the treatment of Indians deported from the US in three military flights last month, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh told Rajya Sabha on Thursday (Mar 27). After the three flights carrying hundreds of illegal immigrants from India, reports claimed that Sikh deportees were asked to remove their turbans, while women and children were shackled on the flight. Following this, the central government condemned such claims and raised concerns with the US authorities for clarification. Also read | Plane carrying second batch of 119 Indian immigrants from US arrives at Amritsar Airport “The Ministry has strongly registered its concerns with the US authorities on the treatment meted out to deportees on the flight that landed on February 5th, particularly with respect to use of shackles, especially on women. The US side has confirmed that no women or children were restrained on the deportation flights that landed in India on February 15th and 16th, respectively,” Singh told the house. Also read | 'Worse than hell': Indian immigrants claim they were handcuffed, tied with chains while being deported from US The minister added that US authorities have clarified New Delhi’s concerns, saying that no deportee was asked to remove religious head coverings, adding that only accommodation requested during the flight was vegetarian food. “In response, the US authorities have conveyed that deportees on the three chartered flights that arrived on 5th, 15th and 16th February 2025 respectively were not instructed to remove any religious head coverings and that the deportees did not request any religious accommodation during the flights, aside from requesting for vegetarian meals,” she said. Also read | US military aircraft carrying over 100 illegal Indian immigrants lands at Amritsar airport The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also said that some of the detainees had “arrived at the US border without turbans”. Indians deported in three military flights After US President Donald Trump assumed office on January 20, his administration has been on an immigration crackdown. The US has deported hundreds of illegal immigrants from India along with those from other nations since then. Also read | US deports fourth batch of 12 illegal Indian immigrants via Panama, aircraft lands in Delhi The Indian illegal migrants were deported in three separate military flights that landed in Punjab's Amritsar last month. Some deportees had accused the Trump administration of mistreatment, raising concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

‘No women, children restrained’: US responds to India’s concerns of mistreatment of deportees

Indian Armed Forces conducted a tri-service integrated multi-domain exercise, from March 25 to 27, in Arunachal Pradesh. Watch in for more details!

Indian army holds tri-services exercise in Arunachal Pradesh

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