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<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Till date, India has completed three lunar missions in the Chandrayaan (moon vehicle) series. Now the Indian Space agency ISRO is working on Chandrayaan-4, a mission to land on the moon, collect lunar samples and bring them back to the home planet. Meanwhile, the Indian Government has also approved the Chandrayaan-5 mission, which will be jointly conducted by the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency(JAXA). This marks the first Indo-Japan collaborative effort in space exploration. Over the last few years, this Indo-Japan moon mission has been referred to as LUPEX - Lunar Polar Exploration Mission. However, the Indian government now refers to it as Chandrayaan-5.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">"After Chandrayaan-3's successful lunar soft-landing, the first near the south pole, all nations began believing in India's capability and Japan's JAXA wanted a collaborative mission. The launch of this Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX mission will be carried out by a Japanese rocket, ISRO will build the lunar lander, while Japan will build the rover. This mission will feature a 350kg lunar rover, which is 10 times heavier than the 25kg Indian 'Pragyan' rover that was deployed as part of Chandrayaan-3," ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan told WION's Sidharth.M.P.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">He added that the mission is meant to explore water and resource availability near the lunar south pole and quantify their availability. "Configuration studies for CHandrayaan-5/LUPEX have been completed, design teams are being formed and it'll be accomplished in three years."</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">H3- The rocket that will launch Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">According to JAXA, the H3 Launch Vehicle is Japan's new mainstay rocket. The three-stage vehicle stands 63meters tall and weighs 574tons. The rocket is powered by solid-fuels and cryogenic fuels (Liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen). The H3 is built to reduce launch price by utilizing commercial-off-the-shelf products of other domestic industries such as the automobile industry rather than products exclusive to space use. Instead of following the build-to-order production approach, the industries follow something similar to the line production system which is used for general industrial products.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The H3 rocket carrying the LUPEX mission will be launched from the Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC), the largest rocket-launch complex in Japan with a total area of about 9,700,000 square meters. The facility is located in the south of Kagoshima Prefecture, along the southeast coast of Tanegashima, it is widely regarded as the most beautiful rocket-launch complex in the world.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">LUPEX and its specifications</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">LUPEX&rsquo;s objective is to collect data on the quantity and quality of water resources and its concentration principles in order to determine the extent lunar water resources can be used for future sustainable space exploration activities. The overall LUPEX craft would weigh 6,500kg approximately, and this includes a 350kg&nbsp; rover that measures 2.0m long, 1.8 wide and 3.3 tall. The rover being developed by JAXA will drive on its own to search for areas where water is likely to be present and sample the soil by digging into the ground with a drill. The plan is to acquire data by analyzing the collected samples in detail with observation equipment mounted on the rover. The mission is expected to live a little over 100days after the lunar landing, and it could live for a maximum of one year, as per JAXA.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Why is there a lot of interest in water on the moon ?</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Water can be electrolyzed(split) to produce rocket fuel (oxygen and hydrogen). If there is enough water, it will be an important resource for future crewed space activities because it will eliminate the need to transport large quantities of fuel from the earth. For this reason, not only Japan but also space agencies around the world are now planning to investigate water (ice)resources in the polar regions of the Moon. LUPEX will land in an area where past remote sensing observations indicate the high possibility of existence of water (ice) . LUPEX rover will directly measure the water content by in-situ observation. In addition, by observing the distribution and existence of water resources and quantifying its amount, LUPEX will collect the basic data on the potential use of water resources and contribute to the Artemis Program, a proposed US-led effort to return astronauts to the moon and enable their long-term presence.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Scientific payloads that LUPEX will be carrying</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">According to JAXA, LUPEX will be carrying a total of 10 scientific payloads. These includes five payloads from JAXA, three payloads from ISRO, and one payloads each from the NASA and the European Space Agency.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The payloads are Resource Investigating Water Analyzer (REIWA), Lunar Thermogravimetric Analyzer (LTGA), Triple-reflection Reflectron (TRITON), Aquatic Detector using Optical Resonance (ADORE), International Symposium of Antennas and Propagation (ISAP), Advanced Lunar Imaging Spectrometer (ALIS), Neutron Spectrometer, Ground Penetrating Radar, Exospheric Mass Spectrometer for LUPEX (EMS-L), Mid-Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (MIR).&nbsp;</div>

India news: The H3 rocket carrying the LUPEX mission will be launched from the Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC), the largest rocket-launch complex in Japan with a total area of about 9,700,000 square meters.

Till date, India has completed three lunar missions in the Chandrayaan (moon vehicle) series. Now the Indian Space agency ISRO is working on Chandrayaan-4, a mission to land on the moon, collect lunar samples and bring them back to the home planet. Meanwhile, the Indian Government has also approved the Chandrayaan-5 mission, which will be jointly conducted by the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency(JAXA). This marks the first Indo-Japan collaborative effort in space exploration. Over the last few years, this Indo-Japan moon mission has been referred to as LUPEX - Lunar Polar Exploration Mission. However, the Indian government now refers to it as Chandrayaan-5. "After Chandrayaan-3's successful lunar soft-landing, the first near the south pole, all nations began believing in India's capability and Japan's JAXA wanted a collaborative mission. The launch of this Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX mission will be carried out by a Japanese rocket, ISRO will build the lunar lander, while Japan will build the rover. This mission will feature a 350kg lunar rover, which is 10 times heavier than the 25kg Indian 'Pragyan' rover that was deployed as part of Chandrayaan-3," ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan told WION's Sidharth.M.P. He added that the mission is meant to explore water and resource availability near the lunar south pole and quantify their availability. "Configuration studies for CHandrayaan-5/LUPEX have been completed, design teams are being formed and it'll be accomplished in three years." H3- The rocket that will launch Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX According to JAXA, the H3 Launch Vehicle is Japan's new mainstay rocket. The three-stage vehicle stands 63meters tall and weighs 574tons. The rocket is powered by solid-fuels and cryogenic fuels (Liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen). The H3 is built to reduce launch price by utilizing commercial-off-the-shelf products of other domestic industries such as the automobile industry rather than products exclusive to space use. Instead of following the build-to-order production approach, the industries follow something similar to the line production system which is used for general industrial products. The H3 rocket carrying the LUPEX mission will be launched from the Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC), the largest rocket-launch complex in Japan with a total area of about 9,700,000 square meters. The facility is located in the south of Kagoshima Prefecture, along the southeast coast of Tanegashima, it is widely regarded as the most beautiful rocket-launch complex in the world. LUPEX and its specifications LUPEX’s objective is to collect data on the quantity and quality of water resources and its concentration principles in order to determine the extent lunar water resources can be used for future sustainable space exploration activities. The overall LUPEX craft would weigh 6,500kg approximately, and this includes a 350kg rover that measures 2.0m long, 1.8 wide and 3.3 tall. The rover being developed by JAXA will drive on its own to search for areas where water is likely to be present and sample the soil by digging into the ground with a drill. The plan is to acquire data by analyzing the collected samples in detail with observation equipment mounted on the rover. The mission is expected to live a little over 100days after the lunar landing, and it could live for a maximum of one year, as per JAXA. Why is there a lot of interest in water on the moon ? Water can be electrolyzed(split) to produce rocket fuel (oxygen and hydrogen). If there is enough water, it will be an important resource for future crewed space activities because it will eliminate the need to transport large quantities of fuel from the earth. For this reason, not only Japan but also space agencies around the world are now planning to investigate water (ice)resources in the polar regions of the Moon. LUPEX will land in an area where past remote sensing observations indicate the high possibility of existence of water (ice) . LUPEX rover will directly measure the water content by in-situ observation. In addition, by observing the distribution and existence of water resources and quantifying its amount, LUPEX will collect the basic data on the potential use of water resources and contribute to the Artemis Program, a proposed US-led effort to return astronauts to the moon and enable their long-term presence. Scientific payloads that LUPEX will be carrying According to JAXA, LUPEX will be carrying a total of 10 scientific payloads. These includes five payloads from JAXA, three payloads from ISRO, and one payloads each from the NASA and the European Space Agency. The payloads are Resource Investigating Water Analyzer (REIWA), Lunar Thermogravimetric Analyzer (LTGA), Triple-reflection Reflectron (TRITON), Aquatic Detector using Optical Resonance (ADORE), International Symposium of Antennas and Propagation (ISAP), Advanced Lunar Imaging Spectrometer (ALIS), Neutron Spectrometer, Ground Penetrating Radar, Exospheric Mass Spectrometer for LUPEX (EMS-L), Mid-Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (MIR).

Explained: How India and Japan will execute Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX Moon mission

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming Sri Lanka visit, key focus will be on infrastructure development, with railway projects expected to be inaugurated in Anuradhapura, including track upgradation, signalling and launch of NTPC Sampur Solar Project. The solar power project in Sampur, located in the Trincomalee district of eastern Sri Lanka is a joint venture between India&rsquo;s National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB).
This initiative complements other renewable energy efforts in Sri Lanka, including India supporting a project to install rooftop solar systems across 5,000 religious institutions in Sri Lanka, spanning all nine provinces and 25 districts worth $17 million. The handover of solar panels and equipment to sites like a Buddhist temple in Hokandara, Sri Aanjaneyar Temple, St. Anthony&rsquo;s Church, and Mutwal Jumma Mosque occurred in October 2024, involving representatives from the Indian High Commission, Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), and Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority.
PM Modi is expected to be in Sri Lanka from 4th to 6th April, his 4th visit to the country since 2014. The Indian leader has been to Sri Lanka in 2015, 2017 and 2019. He is the first foreign head of the government to be hosted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. During the conversation, a key focus will be India's support to Sri Lanka's debt restructuring. In early 2023, India became the first country to officially back Sri Lanka&rsquo;s debt restructuring plan, conveying its support to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as Sri Lanka sought a $2.9 billion bailout. Between January and July 2022, New Delhi provided approximately $4 billion in rapid assistance, including credit lines, currency swaps, and deferred import payments, to help Sri Lanka cope with severe foreign exchange shortages and import essential goods. In June 2024, India, alongside France and Japan as part of the Official Creditors Committee (OCC), agreed to a broader debt restructuring deal covering $5.8 billion of Sri Lanka&rsquo;s bilateral debt.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-varma-cash-row-police-visit-delhi-hc-judges-residence-question-staffers-supreme-court-declines-urgent-hearing-on-plea-seeking-fir-8895690" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Justice Varma cash row: Police question staffers at Delhi HC judge's residence; SC declines urgent hearing on plea seeking FIR</a>
Another key focus during the visit will be on connectivity, with expected conversation on India, Sri Lanka power grid connectivity. The plan involves establishing a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission link between Madurai in southern India (Tamil Nadu) and Anuradhapura in central Sri Lanka. The project is being developed by the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) and the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and can help Sri Lanka save a lot of money, reduce reliance on expensive thermal power. Also on the anvil, plans to take forward the India Sri Lanka oil pipeline, in which UAE is playing an important role. The project is intended to transport various energy products, such as oil and possibly gas, to meet Sri Lanka's energy needs, with special focus on connectivity.&nbsp;
PM Modi travels to Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, on 6th April, in what is seen as a symbolic message on the closeness between the 2 countries. On 6th April, which is Ram Navmi, PM Modi will pray at the Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples. During Sri Lanka, the PM could travel to the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial in the country. The memorial is a war monument dedicated to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the peacekeeping mission in Sri Lanka between 1987 and 1990. Another key announcement also expected on capacity building of Sri Lankan civil servants.&nbsp;

This initiative complements other renewable energy efforts, including India supporting a project to install rooftop solar systems across 5,000 religious institutions in Sri Lanka | India News

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming Sri Lanka visit, key focus will be on infrastructure development, with railway projects expected to be inaugurated in Anuradhapura, including track upgradation, signalling and launch of NTPC Sampur Solar Project. The solar power project in Sampur, located in the Trincomalee district of eastern Sri Lanka is a joint venture between India’s National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and Sri Lanka’s Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). This initiative complements other renewable energy efforts in Sri Lanka, including India supporting a project to install rooftop solar systems across 5,000 religious institutions in Sri Lanka, spanning all nine provinces and 25 districts worth $17 million. The handover of solar panels and equipment to sites like a Buddhist temple in Hokandara, Sri Aanjaneyar Temple, St. Anthony’s Church, and Mutwal Jumma Mosque occurred in October 2024, involving representatives from the Indian High Commission, Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), and Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority. PM Modi is expected to be in Sri Lanka from 4th to 6th April, his 4th visit to the country since 2014. The Indian leader has been to Sri Lanka in 2015, 2017 and 2019. He is the first foreign head of the government to be hosted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. During the conversation, a key focus will be India's support to Sri Lanka's debt restructuring. In early 2023, India became the first country to officially back Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring plan, conveying its support to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as Sri Lanka sought a $2.9 billion bailout. Between January and July 2022, New Delhi provided approximately $4 billion in rapid assistance, including credit lines, currency swaps, and deferred import payments, to help Sri Lanka cope with severe foreign exchange shortages and import essential goods. In June 2024, India, alongside France and Japan as part of the Official Creditors Committee (OCC), agreed to a broader debt restructuring deal covering $5.8 billion of Sri Lanka’s bilateral debt. Also Read: Justice Varma cash row: Police question staffers at Delhi HC judge's residence; SC declines urgent hearing on plea seeking FIR Another key focus during the visit will be on connectivity, with expected conversation on India, Sri Lanka power grid connectivity. The plan involves establishing a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission link between Madurai in southern India (Tamil Nadu) and Anuradhapura in central Sri Lanka. The project is being developed by the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) and the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and can help Sri Lanka save a lot of money, reduce reliance on expensive thermal power. Also on the anvil, plans to take forward the India Sri Lanka oil pipeline, in which UAE is playing an important role. The project is intended to transport various energy products, such as oil and possibly gas, to meet Sri Lanka's energy needs, with special focus on connectivity. PM Modi travels to Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, on 6th April, in what is seen as a symbolic message on the closeness between the 2 countries. On 6th April, which is Ram Navmi, PM Modi will pray at the Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples. During Sri Lanka, the PM could travel to the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial in the country. The memorial is a war monument dedicated to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the peacekeeping mission in Sri Lanka between 1987 and 1990. Another key announcement also expected on capacity building of Sri Lankan civil servants.

Infra, connectivity to be key focus during PM Modi's Sri Lanka visit

Four separatist groups from Jammu and Kashmir have severed their ties with the Hurriyat conference in the last one week. The Home Minister of India Amit Shah took to social media and shared that two groups have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in India.&nbsp;
Home Minister Amit Shah said, &ldquo;Another great news from Kashmir Valley. Two more groups affiliated with the Hurriyat, namely J&amp;K Tahreeqi Isteqlal and J&amp;K Tahreek-I-Istiqamat, have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in the new Bharat built by PM Shri @narendramodi Ji.&ldquo;
He also added that &ldquo;Under the Modi government, separatism is breathing its last, and the triumph of unity is echoing across Kashmir.&rdquo;
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>
Earlier this week, the Home Minister had shared that two more separatist groups associated with Hurriyat have announced to cut all their ties with Separatism.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Separatism has become history in Kashmir. The unifying policies of the Modi government have tossed separatism out of J&amp;K. Two organizations associated with the Hurriyat have announced the severing of all ties with separatism, &ldquo; said Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;
He added that &ldquo;I welcome this step towards strengthening Bharat's unity and urge all such groups to come forward and shed separatism once and for all. It is a big victory for PM Shri @narendramodi Ji's vision of building a developed, peaceful and unified Bharat.&rdquo;
Hurriyat Conference was banned by the Home Ministry along with Organisations like Jamaat Islami in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

India news | Earlier this week, the Home Minister had shared that two more separatist groups associated with Hurriyat have announced to cut all their ties with Separatism.

Four separatist groups from Jammu and Kashmir have severed their ties with the Hurriyat conference in the last one week. The Home Minister of India Amit Shah took to social media and shared that two groups have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in India. Home Minister Amit Shah said, “Another great news from Kashmir Valley. Two more groups affiliated with the Hurriyat, namely J&K Tahreeqi Isteqlal and J&K Tahreek-I-Istiqamat, have discarded separatism and reposed their trust in the new Bharat built by PM Shri @narendramodi Ji.“ He also added that “Under the Modi government, separatism is breathing its last, and the triumph of unity is echoing across Kashmir.” Also read | Encounter underway in Jammu division's Kathua: Security forces face off against foreign terrorists Earlier this week, the Home Minister had shared that two more separatist groups associated with Hurriyat have announced to cut all their ties with Separatism. “Separatism has become history in Kashmir. The unifying policies of the Modi government have tossed separatism out of J&K. Two organizations associated with the Hurriyat have announced the severing of all ties with separatism, “ said Home Minister Amit Shah. He added that “I welcome this step towards strengthening Bharat's unity and urge all such groups to come forward and shed separatism once and for all. It is a big victory for PM Shri @narendramodi Ji's vision of building a developed, peaceful and unified Bharat.” Hurriyat Conference was banned by the Home Ministry along with Organisations like Jamaat Islami in Jammu and Kashmir.

Four Separatist groups sever ties with Hurriyat Conference, says Home Minister Amit Shah

Jammu and Kashmir Police have carried out multiple raids across various districts of the Kashmir Valley in connection with the banned organisations. The raids were conducted in North Kashmir's Baramulla district and South Kashmir's Shopian district of the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;
Jammu and Kashmir Police said that in a continued effort to curb unlawful activities and maintain law and order in the district, Baramulla Police conducted a raid in Kanispora Baramulla, in connection with a case registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).&nbsp;
"A police team, led by DYSP along with SHO Baramulla carried out a search operation at the residence of Ab Rashid Gilkar son of Ghulam Rasool, a resident of Tawheed Colony, Kanispora. Gilkar is the District President of the banned organization JKDFP, and the search was conducted in connection with case FIR No. 13/2024 U/S 10, 13 UAPA at Police Station Baramulla," said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;
Another raid was carried out by the police in South Kashmir's Shopian district. The raids were conducted at the residences of members across the district. According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, raids were conducted at multiple locations, including the residences of former Hurriyat leaders, in connection with case FIR No. 9/2024 of PS Shopian under Sections 10 and 13 of the UAPA. Similar raids have been conducted at multiple locations in recent days as well.&nbsp;
Jammu and Kashmir Police also said that they remain committed to ensuring peace and security in the district. Stringent action will continue against unlawful elements to uphold law and order and safeguard the region's stability.&nbsp;

India News | J&K police said stringent action will continue against unlawful elements to uphold law and order and safeguard the region's stability

Jammu and Kashmir Police have carried out multiple raids across various districts of the Kashmir Valley in connection with the banned organisations. The raids were conducted in North Kashmir's Baramulla district and South Kashmir's Shopian district of the Kashmir Valley. Jammu and Kashmir Police said that in a continued effort to curb unlawful activities and maintain law and order in the district, Baramulla Police conducted a raid in Kanispora Baramulla, in connection with a case registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). "A police team, led by DYSP along with SHO Baramulla carried out a search operation at the residence of Ab Rashid Gilkar son of Ghulam Rasool, a resident of Tawheed Colony, Kanispora. Gilkar is the District President of the banned organization JKDFP, and the search was conducted in connection with case FIR No. 13/2024 U/S 10, 13 UAPA at Police Station Baramulla," said Jammu and Kashmir Police. Another raid was carried out by the police in South Kashmir's Shopian district. The raids were conducted at the residences of members across the district. According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, raids were conducted at multiple locations, including the residences of former Hurriyat leaders, in connection with case FIR No. 9/2024 of PS Shopian under Sections 10 and 13 of the UAPA. Similar raids have been conducted at multiple locations in recent days as well. Jammu and Kashmir Police also said that they remain committed to ensuring peace and security in the district. Stringent action will continue against unlawful elements to uphold law and order and safeguard the region's stability.

J&K police conduct multiple raids in various districts in connection with banned organisations

A police team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) on Wednesday (Mar 26) visited Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma's residence, where massive piles of cash were reportedly found after a fire.
There, the team, as per a PTI news agency report, questioned the staff and security personnel. This comes as the Supreme Court of India declined to give an out-of-turn hearing on a plea seeking orders for the Delhi police to register an FIR against the justice. &nbsp;
<h2>Police visit Justice Varma's house</h2>
A police team, comprising six members, &nbsp;including DCP (New Delhi) Devesh Mahla, an ACP and other officials reached Justice Varma's residence around 1:50 pm on Wednesday.&nbsp;
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The police team, accompanied by videographers, questioned staffers, security personnel and others who were present on the night of the fire to determine the sequence of events, reported PTI, citing sources. They also reviewed CCTV footage from cameras installed inside the residence.
The visit, which lasted two hours, was part of an in-house inquiry by the three-judge panel set up by the Chief Justice of India for a "deeper probe" into the allegations of corruption. Further questioning of fire personnel, is expected.&nbsp;
It comes after the discovery of "four to five semi-burnt sacks of Indian currency notes" in Varma's Lutyens home following a fire incident on March 14.
Earlier, on Tuesday, the team paid another visit to Varma's house and reportedly inspected the site where the cash was found.
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<h2>FIR on Justice Varma</h2>
Also on Wednesday, a Supreme court bench headed by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna refused urgent mentioning of a plea for Delhi police to lodge an FIR against Varma. Assuring petitioner advocate Mathews J Nedumpara, the bench said that the plea would be listed by the registry. &nbsp;
"The plea will come up accordingly," said the CJI when another petitioner in the case commented that if the case was against a common citizen, then probe agencies such as the CBI and ED would have gone against them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-varma-cash-row-delhi-hc-cjs-report-reveals-no-evidence-of-forced-entry-8881827">Justice Varma cash row: Delhi HC CJ&rsquo;s report reveals &lsquo;no evidence of forced entry&rsquo;</a>
Nedumpura, along with three others, moved the Supreme Court on March 23 seeking an FIR. They also challenged the 1991 K Veeraswami case judgement, in which the Indian top court ruled that no criminal proceedings could be initiated against a HC or SC judge without the prior permission from the Chief Justice of India.
(With inputs from agencies)

Discover the latest updates on the Justice Varma cash row as Delhi Police conduct a thorough investigation into the piles of cash found at the judge's residence.

A police team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) on Wednesday (Mar 26) visited Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma's residence, where massive piles of cash were reportedly found after a fire. There, the team, as per a PTI news agency report, questioned the staff and security personnel. This comes as the Supreme Court of India declined to give an out-of-turn hearing on a plea seeking orders for the Delhi police to register an FIR against the justice. Police visit Justice Varma's house A police team, comprising six members, including DCP (New Delhi) Devesh Mahla, an ACP and other officials reached Justice Varma's residence around 1:50 pm on Wednesday. Also read | Massive cash pile found in Delhi HC judge's house after fire breaks out, Justice Yashwant Varma transferred The police team, accompanied by videographers, questioned staffers, security personnel and others who were present on the night of the fire to determine the sequence of events, reported PTI, citing sources. They also reviewed CCTV footage from cameras installed inside the residence. The visit, which lasted two hours, was part of an in-house inquiry by the three-judge panel set up by the Chief Justice of India for a "deeper probe" into the allegations of corruption. Further questioning of fire personnel, is expected. It comes after the discovery of "four to five semi-burnt sacks of Indian currency notes" in Varma's Lutyens home following a fire incident on March 14. Earlier, on Tuesday, the team paid another visit to Varma's house and reportedly inspected the site where the cash was found. Also read | Justice Varma cash row: SC Collegium recommends transfer of judge to Allahabad High Court FIR on Justice Varma Also on Wednesday, a Supreme court bench headed by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna refused urgent mentioning of a plea for Delhi police to lodge an FIR against Varma. Assuring petitioner advocate Mathews J Nedumpara, the bench said that the plea would be listed by the registry. "The plea will come up accordingly," said the CJI when another petitioner in the case commented that if the case was against a common citizen, then probe agencies such as the CBI and ED would have gone against them. Also read | Justice Varma cash row: Delhi HC CJ’s report reveals ‘no evidence of forced entry’ Nedumpura, along with three others, moved the Supreme Court on March 23 seeking an FIR. They also challenged the 1991 K Veeraswami case judgement, in which the Indian top court ruled that no criminal proceedings could be initiated against a HC or SC judge without the prior permission from the Chief Justice of India. (With inputs from agencies)

Justice Varma cash row: Police question staffers at Delhi HC judge's residence; SC declines urgent hearing on plea seeking FIR

An encounter is underway between terrorists and security forces in the Juthana area of the Kathua district in the Jammu division. The Indian Army received an input about the presence of three to four foreign terrorists in the area, after which a cordon and search operation was launched by forces. Terrorists fired on the security forces, resulting in a gun battle.&nbsp;
The Initial reports suggest that two security personnel have been injured in the initial gunfight, however, it has not been confirmed by the forces yet. The injured personnel are said to have been taken to the nearby base hospital, and their condition was said to be stable. Sources also said that one terrorist was injured during the crossfire.&nbsp;
Earlier this week, security forces were involved in one more operation in the Hiranagar area of Kathua division, where they had received an input about the presence of terrorists in the area. There was a brief gunfight, and security forces managed to bust the terrorist hideout and recover arms and ammunition. However, the terrorists managed to flee from the operation site.&nbsp;
Security forces have brought in more deployments to the area to nab the terrorists at the operation site in Juthana. Forces have also used drones to look for the terrorists hiding in the area. The firing continues from both sides, and the operation is on.&nbsp;

Learn about the ongoing operation by Indian Army and security forces in Juthana, with reports of injuries and strategic efforts to secure the area from terrorist threats.

An encounter is underway between terrorists and security forces in the Juthana area of the Kathua district in the Jammu division. The Indian Army received an input about the presence of three to four foreign terrorists in the area, after which a cordon and search operation was launched by forces. Terrorists fired on the security forces, resulting in a gun battle. The Initial reports suggest that two security personnel have been injured in the initial gunfight, however, it has not been confirmed by the forces yet. The injured personnel are said to have been taken to the nearby base hospital, and their condition was said to be stable. Sources also said that one terrorist was injured during the crossfire. Earlier this week, security forces were involved in one more operation in the Hiranagar area of Kathua division, where they had received an input about the presence of terrorists in the area. There was a brief gunfight, and security forces managed to bust the terrorist hideout and recover arms and ammunition. However, the terrorists managed to flee from the operation site. Security forces have brought in more deployments to the area to nab the terrorists at the operation site in Juthana. Forces have also used drones to look for the terrorists hiding in the area. The firing continues from both sides, and the operation is on.

Encounter underway in Jammu division's Kathua: Security forces face off against foreign terrorists

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a letter to Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to Bangladesh's interim government, highlighting the significance of mutual sensitivity while referring to the Bangladesh Liberation War as a 'shared history'.
PM Modi wrote the letter to commemorate the Bangladesh National Day on Wednesday and reiterated India's commitment to advancing the partnership between the two countries.
"I extend my felicitations to you and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the National Day of Bangladesh," the Prime Minister wrote.
"This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices that have laid the foundation of our bilateral partnership. The spirit of the Liberation War of Bangladesh continues to remain a guiding light for our relationship, which has flourished across multiple domains, bringing tangible benefits to our peoples," he wrote.
"We remain committed to advancing this partnership, driven by our common aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity, and based on mutual sensitivity to each other's interests and concerns. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," the Prime Minister added.
President Droupadi Murmu also extended greetings to her Bangladesh counterpart, Mohammed Shahabuddin. She reiterated India's support for a democratic and progressive Bangladesh.
"On behalf of the government, the people of India and my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the friendly people of Bangladesh on the occasion of your National Day," President Murmu said.
The relations between the two countries have been tense after the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina was toppled, and she was forced to flee to India. The interim government that was formed after the change of guard is led by Nobel laureate and economist Muhammad Yunus. Since then, there have been attacks on minorities, especially Hindus. India has shared its concerns with Bangladesh on this.
External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar has said the Centre was engaged with the interim government at various levels and will continue to raise such issues.
As per reports, Muhammad Yunus, on the occasion of Bangladesh's Independence Day, recalled the sacrifices of 1971 and addressed the country's current challenges. He paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War and also the victims of the July 2024 agitation. Yunus condemned the atrocities committed by the Pakistani military on the night of March 25, 1971, and reiterated the importance of remembering history. During his address, he stressed the potential of a joint economy involving Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Prime Minister Modi's letter to Muhammad Yunus underscores the importance of mutual sensitivity in India-Bangladesh relations, highlighting shared history and aspirations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a letter to Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to Bangladesh's interim government, highlighting the significance of mutual sensitivity while referring to the Bangladesh Liberation War as a 'shared history'. PM Modi wrote the letter to commemorate the Bangladesh National Day on Wednesday and reiterated India's commitment to advancing the partnership between the two countries. "I extend my felicitations to you and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the National Day of Bangladesh," the Prime Minister wrote. "This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices that have laid the foundation of our bilateral partnership. The spirit of the Liberation War of Bangladesh continues to remain a guiding light for our relationship, which has flourished across multiple domains, bringing tangible benefits to our peoples," he wrote. "We remain committed to advancing this partnership, driven by our common aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity, and based on mutual sensitivity to each other's interests and concerns. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," the Prime Minister added. President Droupadi Murmu also extended greetings to her Bangladesh counterpart, Mohammed Shahabuddin. She reiterated India's support for a democratic and progressive Bangladesh. "On behalf of the government, the people of India and my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the friendly people of Bangladesh on the occasion of your National Day," President Murmu said. The relations between the two countries have been tense after the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina was toppled, and she was forced to flee to India. The interim government that was formed after the change of guard is led by Nobel laureate and economist Muhammad Yunus. Since then, there have been attacks on minorities, especially Hindus. India has shared its concerns with Bangladesh on this. External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar has said the Centre was engaged with the interim government at various levels and will continue to raise such issues. As per reports, Muhammad Yunus, on the occasion of Bangladesh's Independence Day, recalled the sacrifices of 1971 and addressed the country's current challenges. He paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War and also the victims of the July 2024 agitation. Yunus condemned the atrocities committed by the Pakistani military on the night of March 25, 1971, and reiterated the importance of remembering history. During his address, he stressed the potential of a joint economy involving Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi writes to Yunus, stresses 'mutual sensitivity' in strengthening India-Bangladesh ties

It's the onset of summer, and the mercury levels have not been sparing. With that, the Indian Met Department also already issued warnings of an unusually hot summer season; the forecast so far suggests a double heatwave.
IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy, while speaking to news agency ANI, explained, "We are expecting slightly above normal heatwave conditions, especially over West and Central India. Generally, Northwest India sees around 5 to 6 heatwave days. This year, we expect 10 to 12 days, which is double the normal."
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Clarifying, she added that not all the days may be exceptionally hot or see temperatures exceed the average estimate. Daily forecasts may help understand the situation better.
<h2>What is a double heatwave?</h2>
In comparison to the previous year's data, the heatwave days have doubled. The forecast suggests 10 to 12 days, which is twice as much as the data i.e. 5 to 6 days.
In a latest release, IMD mentions, "During the upcoming hot weather season (March to May), above-normal maximum temperatures are most likely over most parts of the country, except over southern parts of Peninsular India and isolated pockets of Northeast India where normal to below-normal maximum temperatures are likely."
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Further added, "Monthly maximum temperatures for March 2025 are likely to be above normal over most parts of India, except over some southernmost parts of Peninsular India, where below normal maximum temperatures are likely."
Residents of Delhi NCR have also spoken of the rising temperature. Kritika Jain, an engineer working in Delhi NCR, said, "Winters felt like a breeze this year. We rarely used the heaters, though I was bracing for a harsh season. But looks like the summer won't spare us."
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It's the onset of summer, and the mercury levels have not been sparing. With that, the Indian Met Dept issued warnings of an unusually hot summer season. India news

It's the onset of summer, and the mercury levels have not been sparing. With that, the Indian Met Department also already issued warnings of an unusually hot summer season; the forecast so far suggests a double heatwave. IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy, while speaking to news agency ANI, explained, "We are expecting slightly above normal heatwave conditions, especially over West and Central India. Generally, Northwest India sees around 5 to 6 heatwave days. This year, we expect 10 to 12 days, which is double the normal." Also read: Summer skincare routine: Sunscreen combined with THIS may be a risky combo Clarifying, she added that not all the days may be exceptionally hot or see temperatures exceed the average estimate. Daily forecasts may help understand the situation better. What is a double heatwave? In comparison to the previous year's data, the heatwave days have doubled. The forecast suggests 10 to 12 days, which is twice as much as the data i.e. 5 to 6 days. In a latest release, IMD mentions, "During the upcoming hot weather season (March to May), above-normal maximum temperatures are most likely over most parts of the country, except over southern parts of Peninsular India and isolated pockets of Northeast India where normal to below-normal maximum temperatures are likely." Also read: '100 million degree': China's artificial sun could generate unlimited energy in future Further added, "Monthly maximum temperatures for March 2025 are likely to be above normal over most parts of India, except over some southernmost parts of Peninsular India, where below normal maximum temperatures are likely." Residents of Delhi NCR have also spoken of the rising temperature. Kritika Jain, an engineer working in Delhi NCR, said, "Winters felt like a breeze this year. We rarely used the heaters, though I was bracing for a harsh season. But looks like the summer won't spare us."

India's Met Department warns of 'double heatwave'. What is it?

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called for the International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) to be designated as an entity of concern, and highlighted that the USCIRF 2025 Annual Report "once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments."
Responding to the media queries surrounding the 2025 Annual Report of USCIRF, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have seen the recently released 2025 Annual Report of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments."
"The USCIRF's persistent attempts to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast aspersions on India's vibrant multicultural society reflect a deliberate agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom," the MEA spokesperson said.
Jaiswal said that India is a country with a population of 1.4 billion people and they are adherents to all religions known to mankind.
He said that India has no expectation that USCIRF will "engage with the reality of India's pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities."
<h2>'Adherents to all religions known to mankind'</h2>
"India is home to 1.4 billion people who are adherents to all religions known to mankind. However, we have no expectation that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of India's pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities," Jaiswal said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8q8gub9-e14ckxy6-2soz9f1u">
MEA Official Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal says, "We have seen the recently released 2025 Annual Report of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments. The USCIRF's&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/8YwKk9yEtp">pic.twitter.com/8YwKk9yEtp</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1904846656438493434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Such efforts to undermine India's standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance will not succeed. In fact, it is the USCIRF that should be designated as an entity of concern," he added.
In the report, USCIRF urged the US government to designate India as a "country of particular concern" or CPC "for engaging in and tolerating systematic, ongoing, and egregious religious freedom violations", as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Jaiswal said that India has no expectation that USCIRF will "engage with the reality of India's pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities."

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called for the International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) to be designated as an entity of concern, and highlighted that the USCIRF 2025 Annual Report "once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments." Responding to the media queries surrounding the 2025 Annual Report of USCIRF, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have seen the recently released 2025 Annual Report of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments." "The USCIRF's persistent attempts to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast aspersions on India's vibrant multicultural society reflect a deliberate agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom," the MEA spokesperson said. Jaiswal said that India is a country with a population of 1.4 billion people and they are adherents to all religions known to mankind. He said that India has no expectation that USCIRF will "engage with the reality of India's pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities." 'Adherents to all religions known to mankind' "India is home to 1.4 billion people who are adherents to all religions known to mankind. However, we have no expectation that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of India's pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities," Jaiswal said. MEA Official Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal says, "We have seen the recently released 2025 Annual Report of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments. The USCIRF's… pic.twitter.com/8YwKk9yEtp — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2025 "Such efforts to undermine India's standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance will not succeed. In fact, it is the USCIRF that should be designated as an entity of concern," he added. In the report, USCIRF urged the US government to designate India as a "country of particular concern" or CPC "for engaging in and tolerating systematic, ongoing, and egregious religious freedom violations", as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). (With inputs from agencies)

India's MEA slams US panel's religious freedom report; 'USCIRF should be designated as entity of concern'

<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">In what is going to be a key message of PM Modi on regional connectivity, PM Modi will be traveling to Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram from Sri Lanka on 6th April. On that day, which is Ram Navmi, PM Modi will be praying at Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple &amp; inaugurate the new Pamban Bridge. The temple, which holds immense religious significance and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples and a key site in the Char Dham pilgrimage.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu have been increasingly linked with each other. A significant development in recent years is the resumption of ferry services between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. The passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai (KKS) near Jaffna in Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Northern Province was relaunched on October 14, 2023. Direct flights from Chennai to Jaffna resumed in December 2022 after being suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, cutting travel time to about 75 minutes.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">A more ambitious project under consideration is a land bridge across the Palk Strait between Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, spanning about 23 km. First proposed by Sri Lanka in 2002, this idea gained traction again in 2023 when both nations agreed to conduct a feasibility study during then Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe&rsquo;s visit to India.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">PM Modi will be in Sri Lanka from 4th to 6th April, during which he will be in Colombo and Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura has been Sri Lanka's capital in the past and has had a deep connection with India. &nbsp;In the 3rd century BCE, during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, Emperor Ashoka of India sent his son Mahinda (or Mahendra) to Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura became a major center for Theravada Buddhism, hosting philosophers like Buddhaghosa, who had ties to Indian Buddhist traditions.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">PM Modi is the first foreign leader that the new Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will be hosting.&nbsp; This will be PM Modi&rsquo;s fourth visit to Sri Lanka since taking office in 2014, with previous trips occurring in 2015, 2017, and 2019. The PM will be travelling to Sri Lanka from Thailand, where he will be attending the BIMSTEC summit.&nbsp;</div>

India news: A more ambitious project under consideration is a land bridge across the Palk Strait between Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, spanning about 23 km.

In what is going to be a key message of PM Modi on regional connectivity, PM Modi will be traveling to Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram from Sri Lanka on 6th April. On that day, which is Ram Navmi, PM Modi will be praying at Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple & inaugurate the new Pamban Bridge. The temple, which holds immense religious significance and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples and a key site in the Char Dham pilgrimage. Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu have been increasingly linked with each other. A significant development in recent years is the resumption of ferry services between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. The passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai (KKS) near Jaffna in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province was relaunched on October 14, 2023. Direct flights from Chennai to Jaffna resumed in December 2022 after being suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, cutting travel time to about 75 minutes. A more ambitious project under consideration is a land bridge across the Palk Strait between Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, spanning about 23 km. First proposed by Sri Lanka in 2002, this idea gained traction again in 2023 when both nations agreed to conduct a feasibility study during then Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to India. PM Modi will be in Sri Lanka from 4th to 6th April, during which he will be in Colombo and Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura has been Sri Lanka's capital in the past and has had a deep connection with India. In the 3rd century BCE, during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, Emperor Ashoka of India sent his son Mahinda (or Mahendra) to Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura became a major center for Theravada Buddhism, hosting philosophers like Buddhaghosa, who had ties to Indian Buddhist traditions. PM Modi is the first foreign leader that the new Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will be hosting. This will be PM Modi’s fourth visit to Sri Lanka since taking office in 2014, with previous trips occurring in 2015, 2017, and 2019. The PM will be travelling to Sri Lanka from Thailand, where he will be attending the BIMSTEC summit.

PM Modi to travel to Rameswaram from Sri Lanka

Allahabad HC&rsquo;s Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra&rsquo;s verdict grabbing breasts does not amount to a rape attempt has faced severe backlash, promting Supreme Court of India to step in.&nbsp;
On Wednesday (Mar 26), the top court stayed the order on the child abuse case, calling the March 17 ruling &ldquo;insensitive&rdquo; and &ldquo;inhuman&rdquo;. Allahabad HC had categorised the act as &ldquo;aggravated sexual assault&rdquo; under the POCSO Act, which would carry a lesser penalty for the accused.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-stays-allahabad-hcs-ruling-that-grabbing-breasts-and-pulling-pyjama-strings-not-rape-8892087">Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape</a>
<h2>Who is Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra?</h2>
Justice Mishra graduated in law in 1985 and completed his post-graduation in 1987. In 1990, he joined the UP Judicial Service as Munsif and was promoted to the Higher Judicial Service in 2005.
Over the years, he served in Baghpat and Aligarh and held positions including director of JTRI and district and sessions judge, Lucknow.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-takes-suo-motu-notice-of-allahbad-hc-ruling-grabbing-breasts-not-rape-attempt-8890256">Supreme Court takes suo motu notice of Allahabad HC &lsquo;grabbing breasts not rape attempt&rsquo; ruling</a>
In 2022, he took an oath as an additional judge in the Allahabad High Court and became a permanent judge on September 25, 2023.
<h2>Controversial ruling</h2>
The Allahabad High Court&rsquo;s order, delivered by Justice Mishra, had said that &ldquo;the allegation of holding the victim&rsquo;s breasts and breaking the waistband of the pyjama did not constitute a case of attempted rape against the accused.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Justice Mishra reasoned that while it was a case of assault on a woman&rsquo;s dignity, it can&rsquo;t be termed as an attempt to rape the 11-year-old girl. The controversial verdict drew massive criticism, sparking outrage across the nation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/grabbing-breasts-snapping-pyjama-string-not-rape-allahabad-hcs-controversial-ruling-sparks-debate-8873890">'Grabbing breasts, snapping pyjama string not rape': Allahabad HC's controversial ruling sparks debate</a>
<h2>What did Supreme Court say?</h2>
The top court said that it was pained to see the lack of sensitivity by the High Court judge who passed the order. It ordered, &ldquo;We are at pains to state that it shows total lack of sensitivity on part of the author of the judgment.&rdquo;
Condemning the judgment as a violation of legal standards, a bench of Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih directed the Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court to take appropriate action against Justice Mishra.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s very serious and exhibits complete lack of sensitivity on the part of the judge&hellip; We are sorry to use such harsh words against a constitutional court judge, but this is one of those cases.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-varma-cash-row-sc-collegium-recommends-transfer-of-judge-to-allahabad-high-court-8886740">Justice Varma cash row: SC Collegium recommends transfer of judge to Allahabad High Court</a>
The SC also noted that the judgment was delivered four months later, indicating that the judge had thoroughly considered it.
The Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of the case after the organisation &lsquo;We the Women of India&rsquo; appealed against the March 17 order.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | Justice Mishra reasoned that while it was a case of assault on a woman’s dignity, it can’t be termed as an attempt to rape the 11-year-old girl. The controversial verdict drew massive criticism, sparking outrage across the nation.

Allahabad HC’s Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra’s verdict grabbing breasts does not amount to a rape attempt has faced severe backlash, promting Supreme Court of India to step in. On Wednesday (Mar 26), the top court stayed the order on the child abuse case, calling the March 17 ruling “insensitive” and “inhuman”. Allahabad HC had categorised the act as “aggravated sexual assault” under the POCSO Act, which would carry a lesser penalty for the accused. Also read | Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape Who is Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra? Justice Mishra graduated in law in 1985 and completed his post-graduation in 1987. In 1990, he joined the UP Judicial Service as Munsif and was promoted to the Higher Judicial Service in 2005. Over the years, he served in Baghpat and Aligarh and held positions including director of JTRI and district and sessions judge, Lucknow. Also read | Supreme Court takes suo motu notice of Allahabad HC ‘grabbing breasts not rape attempt’ ruling In 2022, he took an oath as an additional judge in the Allahabad High Court and became a permanent judge on September 25, 2023. Controversial ruling The Allahabad High Court’s order, delivered by Justice Mishra, had said that “the allegation of holding the victim’s breasts and breaking the waistband of the pyjama did not constitute a case of attempted rape against the accused.” Justice Mishra reasoned that while it was a case of assault on a woman’s dignity, it can’t be termed as an attempt to rape the 11-year-old girl. The controversial verdict drew massive criticism, sparking outrage across the nation. Also read | 'Grabbing breasts, snapping pyjama string not rape': Allahabad HC's controversial ruling sparks debate What did Supreme Court say? The top court said that it was pained to see the lack of sensitivity by the High Court judge who passed the order. It ordered, “We are at pains to state that it shows total lack of sensitivity on part of the author of the judgment.” Condemning the judgment as a violation of legal standards, a bench of Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih directed the Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court to take appropriate action against Justice Mishra. “It’s very serious and exhibits complete lack of sensitivity on the part of the judge… We are sorry to use such harsh words against a constitutional court judge, but this is one of those cases.” Also read | Justice Varma cash row: SC Collegium recommends transfer of judge to Allahabad High Court The SC also noted that the judgment was delivered four months later, indicating that the judge had thoroughly considered it. The Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of the case after the organisation ‘We the Women of India’ appealed against the March 17 order. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, Allahabad HC judge who ruled ‘grabbing breasts not rape attempt’?

After repeated delays that spanned nearly two years, American firm General Electric Aerospace has resumed delivery of the GE-F404 engines that power India's indigenous fighter jet Tejas and its variants. On Wednesday, 26th March, the firm announced the delivery of the first of 99 engines ordered by the Indian Government-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL), the builder of the Tejas jet. "Excited to deliver the first of 99 F404-IN20 engines to our valued customer HAL for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A fight jet. It is an important milestone in our 40-year relationship with HAL," announced the firm.
This comes at a time when the Indian Air Force continues to grapple with a severe shortage of fighter jet squadrons. With 31 squadrons at present, the force is expected to decommission a few more aging squadrons of Soviet-era and European-origin aircraft in the coming years. These developments are really concerning, given that the force is required to have 42 squadrons of fighter jets to counter a two-front threat.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-confidence-in-hal-indian-air-force-chief-expresses-concern-over-delayed-deliveries-of-tejas-jet-8713489">&lsquo;No confidence in HAL&rsquo;: Indian Air Force chief expresses concern over delayed deliveries of Tejas jet</a>
India is now heavily relying on the rapid induction of the indigenously designed and developed Tejas aircraft variants to shore up the fleet numbers. However, various issues have caused delays in the induction of the Tejas series of fighter jets.
<h2>What led to the delay in jet engines?</h2>
Referring to the challenges in delivering the GEF04 engines for India, GE Aerospace said, by 2016 we fulfilled the commitment to HAL and delivered 65 F404-IN20 engines for the Tejas LCA. With no additional engine orders on the horizon, the production line for F404-IN20 was shut down. However, when HAL ordered an additional 99 engines in 2021 for the Tejas Mk1A LCA, our team began the complex task of restarting the F404-IN20 production line, which had been dormant for five years and re-engaging the engine&rsquo;s global supply chain.
"Restarting a jet engine production line is a challenging process. Restarting the F404-IN20 engine line during the COVID-19 pandemic was even more challenging. With a high focus on safety and quality and a remarkable commitment from our supply chain teams and our suppliers and partners, we have managed to restart the line. Today, we are working closely with our suppliers to ramp up production on parts and materials for the F404-IN20," read a statement from the firm.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-accuses-rjd-leader-tejashwi-yadav-of-stealing-sofa-sets-acs-upon-vacating-official-bungalow-765343">BJP accuses RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav of stealing sofa sets, ACs upon vacating official bungalow</a>
Earlier this year, the Indian Air Force Chief Air Marshal AP Singh had lashed out at the slow-paced roll out of Tejas jets by the Government-run plane maker. He highlighted that the Air Force had received only 36 of the 40 jets that were ordered back in 2009-10. These comments came around the time that there were speculative videos circulating about China's 6th generation fighter aircraft being tested. India does not possess 5th generation fighter jets yet and India's own 5th generation fighter plane is about a decade away from being inducted.&nbsp;

India news: The firm announced the delivery of the first of 99 engines ordered by the Indian Government-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL)

After repeated delays that spanned nearly two years, American firm General Electric Aerospace has resumed delivery of the GE-F404 engines that power India's indigenous fighter jet Tejas and its variants. On Wednesday, 26th March, the firm announced the delivery of the first of 99 engines ordered by the Indian Government-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL), the builder of the Tejas jet. "Excited to deliver the first of 99 F404-IN20 engines to our valued customer HAL for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A fight jet. It is an important milestone in our 40-year relationship with HAL," announced the firm. This comes at a time when the Indian Air Force continues to grapple with a severe shortage of fighter jet squadrons. With 31 squadrons at present, the force is expected to decommission a few more aging squadrons of Soviet-era and European-origin aircraft in the coming years. These developments are really concerning, given that the force is required to have 42 squadrons of fighter jets to counter a two-front threat. Also read: ‘No confidence in HAL’: Indian Air Force chief expresses concern over delayed deliveries of Tejas jet India is now heavily relying on the rapid induction of the indigenously designed and developed Tejas aircraft variants to shore up the fleet numbers. However, various issues have caused delays in the induction of the Tejas series of fighter jets. What led to the delay in jet engines? Referring to the challenges in delivering the GEF04 engines for India, GE Aerospace said, by 2016 we fulfilled the commitment to HAL and delivered 65 F404-IN20 engines for the Tejas LCA. With no additional engine orders on the horizon, the production line for F404-IN20 was shut down. However, when HAL ordered an additional 99 engines in 2021 for the Tejas Mk1A LCA, our team began the complex task of restarting the F404-IN20 production line, which had been dormant for five years and re-engaging the engine’s global supply chain. "Restarting a jet engine production line is a challenging process. Restarting the F404-IN20 engine line during the COVID-19 pandemic was even more challenging. With a high focus on safety and quality and a remarkable commitment from our supply chain teams and our suppliers and partners, we have managed to restart the line. Today, we are working closely with our suppliers to ramp up production on parts and materials for the F404-IN20," read a statement from the firm. Also read: BJP accuses RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav of stealing sofa sets, ACs upon vacating official bungalow Earlier this year, the Indian Air Force Chief Air Marshal AP Singh had lashed out at the slow-paced roll out of Tejas jets by the Government-run plane maker. He highlighted that the Air Force had received only 36 of the 40 jets that were ordered back in 2009-10. These comments came around the time that there were speculative videos circulating about China's 6th generation fighter aircraft being tested. India does not possess 5th generation fighter jets yet and India's own 5th generation fighter plane is about a decade away from being inducted.

After delays, GE resumes engine delivery for India's Tejas fighter jets

Suspecting that his wife was having an affair with their tenant, a Haryana resident buried the man alive in a seven-foot-deep pit. Watch this report for more details!

Haryana: Husband buries wife's lover alive in 7-foot pit

Actor Mohanlal's Sabarimala Puja for Mammootty has sparked a row. Netizens are saying, “His faith doesn’t permit worshipping any other God, but Allah.” Watch this report for more details!

Mohanlal's Sabrimala puja for Mammootty sparks row

Tihar Jail, the largest prison complex in South Asia, to be relocated. As Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presented the 2025-26 budget, she allocated $1.2 million to shift the jail complex and other expenses around it. The prison, which houses dreaded criminals, will be moved to the outskirts of the national capital.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/viksit-delhi-budget-2025-26-key-highlights-from-cm-rekha-guptas-maiden-budget-8888113">'Viksit Delhi Budget' 2025-26: Key Highlights from CM Rekha Gupta's maiden budget</a>
"In order to decongest the existing Tihar Jail Complex for the welfare of prisoners, a new scheme for the development of a new jail complex by shifting the existing complex to some other location has been formulated," the Delhi CM highlighted in the budget she presented in the assembly.
Tihar Jail was commissioned in 1958; despite being located in West Delhi, it was run by the state of Punjab. In 1966, the control was transferred to Delhi. It has been a while since the jail complex has been facing overcrowding issues, inmates have been cramped in small cells. The structure spreads across more than 400 acres of land and was designed to house 10,026 inmates, it is currently accommodating 19,500 instead.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-goals-in-100-days-heres-what-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-vows-to-achieve-in-her-tenure-8739929">Also read: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what</a>
A source from Tihar Jail was quoted by news agency PTI, "We had also asked for space in Baprola, but due to encroachment, we couldn't get that. However, we have written to the Delhi government to provide 100 acres of land somewhere else. Jail Numbers 1 to 9 are designed to house approximately 5,000 inmates, but these accommodate over 12,000 prisoners at present, the source said."
"Jail Number 10 to 16 are designed to house approximately 3,700 inmates, but currently accommodate over 3,900 inmates. Jail Number 4 in Tihar and 12 in Mandoli Jail are known as 'Mulaija Jail' which means first-time offenders. We have a large number of inmates in these two jails,&rdquo; the source added.

Tihar Jail, the largest prison complex in South Asia, to be relocated. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta allocates $1.2 million to shift the jail complex. India news

Tihar Jail, the largest prison complex in South Asia, to be relocated. As Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presented the 2025-26 budget, she allocated $1.2 million to shift the jail complex and other expenses around it. The prison, which houses dreaded criminals, will be moved to the outskirts of the national capital. Also read: 'Viksit Delhi Budget' 2025-26: Key Highlights from CM Rekha Gupta's maiden budget "In order to decongest the existing Tihar Jail Complex for the welfare of prisoners, a new scheme for the development of a new jail complex by shifting the existing complex to some other location has been formulated," the Delhi CM highlighted in the budget she presented in the assembly. Tihar Jail was commissioned in 1958; despite being located in West Delhi, it was run by the state of Punjab. In 1966, the control was transferred to Delhi. It has been a while since the jail complex has been facing overcrowding issues, inmates have been cramped in small cells. The structure spreads across more than 400 acres of land and was designed to house 10,026 inmates, it is currently accommodating 19,500 instead. Also read: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what A source from Tihar Jail was quoted by news agency PTI, "We had also asked for space in Baprola, but due to encroachment, we couldn't get that. However, we have written to the Delhi government to provide 100 acres of land somewhere else. Jail Numbers 1 to 9 are designed to house approximately 5,000 inmates, but these accommodate over 12,000 prisoners at present, the source said." "Jail Number 10 to 16 are designed to house approximately 3,700 inmates, but currently accommodate over 3,900 inmates. Jail Number 4 in Tihar and 12 in Mandoli Jail are known as 'Mulaija Jail' which means first-time offenders. We have a large number of inmates in these two jails,” the source added.

Tihar Jail - South Asia's largest prison complex is shifting. Here's what we know

In a move aimed at economically weaker Muslim families, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched the &lsquo;Saugat-e-Modi&rsquo; initiative on Tuesday. The campaign, which began in Delhi&rsquo;s Nizamuddin area, seeks to reach 32 lakh beneficiaries across the country, offering them special Eid kits. &nbsp;
<h2>What&rsquo;s inside the Eid Kits? &nbsp;</h2>
Each kit contains essentials for Eid celebrations, including vermicelli, dates, dry fruits and sugar. For women, the kits include fabric for suits, while men receive kurta-pyjamas. The estimated cost per kit is between ₹500 and ₹600 as reported by ANI.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | BJP Minority Morcha distributes 'Saugat-e-Modi' kits to poor Muslims. National President of BJP Minority Morcha, Jamal Siddiqui says, "PM Narendra Modi participates in the celebrations of every festival and in the happiness of everyone. We are making efforts to&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/aTZKUJquAp">pic.twitter.com/aTZKUJquAp</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1904505916239532427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-stays-allahabad-hcs-ruling-that-grabbing-breasts-and-pulling-pyjama-strings-not-rape-8892087" aria-label="Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape">Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape</a>
<h2>Political undertones ahead of Bihar elections&nbsp;</h2>
With the Bihar Assembly elections approaching, the initiative is seen as part of the BJP&rsquo;s outreach efforts. Bihar, which has 243 assembly seats, is currently governed by the NDA, comprising the BJP and Janata Dal (United). &nbsp;In the 2020 election, the NDA secured 125 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan won 110.&nbsp;
<h2>&nbsp;BJP&rsquo;s minority outreach strategy &nbsp;</h2>
The initiative is led by BJP Minority Morcha national president Jamal Siddiqui, who stated that similar distribution drives would be organised for other minority communities during their respective festivals. &nbsp;
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"Prime Minister Narendra Modi always says that he is the guardian of 140 crore Indians and he takes part in all festivals. He participates in Christmas, Easter, Baisakhi and sends 'chadar' for offering at Nizamuddin Dargah and Ajmer Sharif," Siddiqui said. &nbsp;
A total of 32,000 BJP workers will be involved in delivering the kits, targeting 32,000 mosques as part of the distribution plan. District-level Eid Milan events are also on the agenda. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | India News| Each kit contains essentials for Eid celebrations, including vermicelli, dates, dry fruits and sugar. For women, the kits include fabric for suits, while men receive kurta-pyjamas. The estimated cost per kit is between ₹500 and ₹600.

In a move aimed at economically weaker Muslim families, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched the ‘Saugat-e-Modi’ initiative on Tuesday. The campaign, which began in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area, seeks to reach 32 lakh beneficiaries across the country, offering them special Eid kits. What’s inside the Eid Kits? Each kit contains essentials for Eid celebrations, including vermicelli, dates, dry fruits and sugar. For women, the kits include fabric for suits, while men receive kurta-pyjamas. The estimated cost per kit is between ₹500 and ₹600 as reported by ANI. #WATCH | Delhi | BJP Minority Morcha distributes 'Saugat-e-Modi' kits to poor Muslims. National President of BJP Minority Morcha, Jamal Siddiqui says, "PM Narendra Modi participates in the celebrations of every festival and in the happiness of everyone. We are making efforts to… pic.twitter.com/aTZKUJquAp — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2025 Also Read | Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape Political undertones ahead of Bihar elections With the Bihar Assembly elections approaching, the initiative is seen as part of the BJP’s outreach efforts. Bihar, which has 243 assembly seats, is currently governed by the NDA, comprising the BJP and Janata Dal (United). In the 2020 election, the NDA secured 125 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan won 110. BJP’s minority outreach strategy The initiative is led by BJP Minority Morcha national president Jamal Siddiqui, who stated that similar distribution drives would be organised for other minority communities during their respective festivals. Also Read | Tyres from UK being burnt in Indian furnaces for steel and oil, causing health scare: Report "Prime Minister Narendra Modi always says that he is the guardian of 140 crore Indians and he takes part in all festivals. He participates in Christmas, Easter, Baisakhi and sends 'chadar' for offering at Nizamuddin Dargah and Ajmer Sharif," Siddiqui said. A total of 32,000 BJP workers will be involved in delivering the kits, targeting 32,000 mosques as part of the distribution plan. District-level Eid Milan events are also on the agenda. (With inputs from agencies)

Bjp rolls out ‘Saugat-e-Modi’  initiative, distributes Eid kits to underprivileged Muslims

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday (Mar 26) stayed the Allahabad High Court order in a case about child abuse as the judge had observed that the grabbing of breast and pulling the string of a pyjama don't amount to a rape attempt. Instead, the High Court had categorised the act as "aggravated sexual assault" under the POCSO Act, which carries a lesser penalty.&nbsp;
The Supreme Court said that it was pained to see the lack of sensitivity by the High Court judge who passed the order. It ordered, "We are at pains to state that it shows total lack of sensitivity on part of the author of the judgment."&nbsp;
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"It (the order by High Court) was not even at the spur of the moment and was delivered four months after reserving the same. Thus, there was application of mind. We are usually hesitant to grant stay at this stage. But since observations in paragraphs 21, 24 and 26 is unknown to cannons of law and shows inhuman approach, we stay the observations in said paras," it added.&nbsp;
A bench of Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra of the Allahabad HC, in its decision, altered the charges against the two accused, who were originally summoned by the trial court for the commission of offences under Section 376 IPC (rape) and Section 18 (punishment for attempt to commit an offence) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.&nbsp;
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The Supreme Court on Tuesday had registered a suo moto (on its own motion) case in the backdrop of the Allahabad HC judgment. A bench of Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih heard the suo moto case.&nbsp;
Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta said there are enough reasons to stay the order. "Some judgments contains reasons for staying them. It has the same. Para 21,24,26," he said.
"It is a serious matter. Total insensitiveness on part of the judge. This was at the stage of issuing summons! We are sorry to use such harsh words against the judge," Justice Gavai stated.&nbsp;
"Yes, I agree very serious. The way it was dealt with and said that it was mere preparation etc. The Chief justice of High Court as the master of roster should take some steps," the SG weighed in.&nbsp;
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<h2>Allahabad High Court's order</h2>
Two accused, namely Pawan and Akash, grabbed the breasts of the victim and one of them broke the string of her pyjama and tried to drag her beneath the culvert. When passersby interfered, the accused fled away from the spot leaving the victim behind.&nbsp;
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The Allahabad High Court said, &ldquo;There is no allegation that accused tried to commit penetrative sexual assault against the victim. The allegations levelled against the accused Pawan and Akash and facts of the case hardly constitute an offence of attempt to rape in the case."&nbsp;
It said that prima facie a charge of attempt to rape was not made out against the accused.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | The High Court judge had categorised the act as 'aggravated sexual assault' under the POCSO Act, which carries a lesser penalty

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday (Mar 26) stayed the Allahabad High Court order in a case about child abuse as the judge had observed that the grabbing of breast and pulling the string of a pyjama don't amount to a rape attempt. Instead, the High Court had categorised the act as "aggravated sexual assault" under the POCSO Act, which carries a lesser penalty. The Supreme Court said that it was pained to see the lack of sensitivity by the High Court judge who passed the order. It ordered, "We are at pains to state that it shows total lack of sensitivity on part of the author of the judgment." Also read: VIDEO: It's Palestinians vs Hamas in Gaza as people protest against militant group: 'Where is press', 'We want peace' "It (the order by High Court) was not even at the spur of the moment and was delivered four months after reserving the same. Thus, there was application of mind. We are usually hesitant to grant stay at this stage. But since observations in paragraphs 21, 24 and 26 is unknown to cannons of law and shows inhuman approach, we stay the observations in said paras," it added. A bench of Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra of the Allahabad HC, in its decision, altered the charges against the two accused, who were originally summoned by the trial court for the commission of offences under Section 376 IPC (rape) and Section 18 (punishment for attempt to commit an offence) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Also read: Trump Yemen war plan leak scandal: US defence secy Pete Hegseth, others sued over leak of Signal chats to journalist The Supreme Court on Tuesday had registered a suo moto (on its own motion) case in the backdrop of the Allahabad HC judgment. A bench of Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih heard the suo moto case. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta said there are enough reasons to stay the order. "Some judgments contains reasons for staying them. It has the same. Para 21,24,26," he said. "It is a serious matter. Total insensitiveness on part of the judge. This was at the stage of issuing summons! We are sorry to use such harsh words against the judge," Justice Gavai stated. "Yes, I agree very serious. The way it was dealt with and said that it was mere preparation etc. The Chief justice of High Court as the master of roster should take some steps," the SG weighed in. Also read: Eknath Shinde row: Kunal Kamra hits back with another video, sings 'Hum Honge Kangal Ek Din' Allahabad High Court's order Two accused, namely Pawan and Akash, grabbed the breasts of the victim and one of them broke the string of her pyjama and tried to drag her beneath the culvert. When passersby interfered, the accused fled away from the spot leaving the victim behind. Also read: Kim Kardashian to testify in 2016 Paris robbery case against suspects The Allahabad High Court said, “There is no allegation that accused tried to commit penetrative sexual assault against the victim. The allegations levelled against the accused Pawan and Akash and facts of the case hardly constitute an offence of attempt to rape in the case." It said that prima facie a charge of attempt to rape was not made out against the accused. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court stays Allahabad HC's ruling that 'grabbing breasts and pulling pyjama strings' not rape

In India, another gruesome murder has come to light. In Haryana&rsquo;s Rohtak, a man allegedly buried his tenant alive after discovering that the man was having an affair with his wife.
As per the police, the man, identified only by his first name Hardeep, took the help of his friends to kidnap and bury the tenant alive in a 7-foot deep pit.
<h2>Gruesome details emerge</h2>
The murder happened in December 2024, in Pantavas village of Charkhi Dadri but the body was recovered recently on Monday (Mar 24). As per reports, the victim, only identified as Jagdeep, was a yoga teacher at the Baba Mastnath University in Rohtak, and was renting a portion of Hardeep&rsquo;s house.&nbsp;
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Allegedly, Jagdeep was having an affair with his landlord&rsquo;s wife. When Hardeep found out about the affair, he reportedly paid some people to dig a 7-foot deep pit under the pretext of a borewell. This pit was later used to carry out his nefarious, murderous intent.
On 24 December 2024, Hardeep, along with his friend,s kidnapped Jagdeep. Taping the victim&rsquo;s mouth so he couldn&rsquo;t raise an&nbsp; alarm, they then threw Jagdeep into the deep pit, before proceeding to bury him alive.
Exactly three months after the murder, Jagdeep&rsquo;s body was recovered on 24 March 2025.
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<h2>Police investigation</h2>
Ten days after the murder, on 3 January 2025, a missing person&rsquo;s complaint was filed at the Shivaji Colony Police station.&nbsp;
Investigation saw police access Hardeep&rsquo;s call records, which revealed enough evidence for the murderous home owner&rsquo;s arrest.&nbsp;
Talking to the press, Crime Investigation Agency unit in charge Kuldeep Singh said that beside Hardeep, &ldquo;there are other accused in the case, who will be arrested soon&rdquo;.
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>
&ldquo;The post-mortem has been conducted and we are waiting for the report,&rdquo; he added.
The gruesome murder comes on the heels of the murder of Saurabh Rajput, a merchant navy officer in Uttar Pradesh.
Rajput was killed by his wife Muskan Rastogi, and her lover, Sahil Shukla, who chopped his body into pieces and sealed them in a drum filled with cement.
(With inputs from agencies)

Discover the chilling story of a Haryana man's deadly revenge after uncovering his tenant's alleged affair with his wife, leading to a horrifying burial alive.

In India, another gruesome murder has come to light. In Haryana’s Rohtak, a man allegedly buried his tenant alive after discovering that the man was having an affair with his wife. As per the police, the man, identified only by his first name Hardeep, took the help of his friends to kidnap and bury the tenant alive in a 7-foot deep pit. Gruesome details emerge The murder happened in December 2024, in Pantavas village of Charkhi Dadri but the body was recovered recently on Monday (Mar 24). As per reports, the victim, only identified as Jagdeep, was a yoga teacher at the Baba Mastnath University in Rohtak, and was renting a portion of Hardeep’s house. Also read | Trump signs executive order to tighten voter registration, demands stricter proof of citizenship Allegedly, Jagdeep was having an affair with his landlord’s wife. When Hardeep found out about the affair, he reportedly paid some people to dig a 7-foot deep pit under the pretext of a borewell. This pit was later used to carry out his nefarious, murderous intent. On 24 December 2024, Hardeep, along with his friend,s kidnapped Jagdeep. Taping the victim’s mouth so he couldn’t raise an alarm, they then threw Jagdeep into the deep pit, before proceeding to bury him alive. Exactly three months after the murder, Jagdeep’s body was recovered on 24 March 2025. Also read | Uttar Pradesh: Merchant Navy officer killed by wife, her lover; dismembered body found stuffed in cement filled drum Police investigation Ten days after the murder, on 3 January 2025, a missing person’s complaint was filed at the Shivaji Colony Police station. Investigation saw police access Hardeep’s call records, which revealed enough evidence for the murderous home owner’s arrest. Talking to the press, Crime Investigation Agency unit in charge Kuldeep Singh said that beside Hardeep, “there are other accused in the case, who will be arrested soon”. Also read | 'Family upset with me, won't fight my case': Muskan Rastogi demands govt defense counsel in Meerut murder case “The post-mortem has been conducted and we are waiting for the report,” he added. The gruesome murder comes on the heels of the murder of Saurabh Rajput, a merchant navy officer in Uttar Pradesh. Rajput was killed by his wife Muskan Rastogi, and her lover, Sahil Shukla, who chopped his body into pieces and sealed them in a drum filled with cement. (With inputs from agencies)

Haryana man kills tenant over alleged affair with wife, buries him alive in 7 foot pit

The 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) was held in Beijing today.
During the meeting, the officials of the two nations reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas and agreed on the early resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including on trans-border rivers and Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release, both nations explored various measures and proposals to implement the decisions taken during the meeting of the Special Representatives on the India--China boundary question in Beijing in December 2024 and advance effective border management. The two sides agreed to maintain and strengthen diplomatic and military mechanisms.
In a press release, the MEA stated, "Held in a positive and constructive atmosphere, the meeting comprehensively reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas. Peace and tranquility on the border are critical for the smooth development of overall bilateral relations."
"The two sides explored various measures and proposals to give effect to the decisions taken during the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives on the India-China boundary question in Beijing in December 2024 and to advance effective border management. The two sides agreed to maintain and strengthen relevant diplomatic and military mechanisms towards this end. They also exchanged views on early resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including on trans-border rivers and Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra," it added.
According to the MEA statement, Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), led the Indian delegation to the meeting, and Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Chinese delegation.
The two sides agreed to work together to substantially prepare for the next meeting of the Special Representatives (SR), which will be held in India later this year. The Indian delegation leader paid a courtesy call on China's Assistant Foreign Minister, Hong Lei. Earlier, on March 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about India's relationship with China, emphasizing the importance of learning from each other and understanding one another.
PM Modi acknowledged the ancient cultural and civilizational ties between the two nations, noting that there's no real history of conflict between them. He said that the two nations are now working to restore conditions to how they were before 2020, with PM Modi emphasizing the importance of rebuilding trust, enthusiasm, and energy. Speaking in a podcast with AI researcher Lex Fridman, PM Modi also advocated for healthy competition between the two nations, emphasising that competition should never turn into conflict.
"Look, the relationship between India and China isn't something new. Both nations have ancient cultures and civilizations. Even in the modern world, they play a significant role. If you look at historical records, for centuries, India and China have learned from each other. Together, they have always contributed to the global good in some way," he said.
PM Modi acknowledged a return to normalcy at the border. He said, "It is true that there have been ongoing border disputes between us. And in 2020, the incidents along the border created significant tensions between our countries. However, after my recent meeting with China's President Xi Jinping, we have seen a return to normalcy at the border. We are now working to restore conditions to how they were before 2020. Slowly but surely, trust, enthusiasm, and energy will return. But of course, it will take some time since there's been a five-year gap."
PM Modi expressed optimism about improving relations with China following a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. In October last year, PM Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the margins of the BRICS Summit held in Russia's Kazan.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

India news: According to the MEA statement, Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), led the Indian delegation to the meeting, and Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Chinese delegation.

The 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) was held in Beijing today. During the meeting, the officials of the two nations reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas and agreed on the early resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including on trans-border rivers and Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release, both nations explored various measures and proposals to implement the decisions taken during the meeting of the Special Representatives on the India--China boundary question in Beijing in December 2024 and advance effective border management. The two sides agreed to maintain and strengthen diplomatic and military mechanisms. In a press release, the MEA stated, "Held in a positive and constructive atmosphere, the meeting comprehensively reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas. Peace and tranquility on the border are critical for the smooth development of overall bilateral relations." "The two sides explored various measures and proposals to give effect to the decisions taken during the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives on the India-China boundary question in Beijing in December 2024 and to advance effective border management. The two sides agreed to maintain and strengthen relevant diplomatic and military mechanisms towards this end. They also exchanged views on early resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including on trans-border rivers and Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra," it added. According to the MEA statement, Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), led the Indian delegation to the meeting, and Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Chinese delegation. The two sides agreed to work together to substantially prepare for the next meeting of the Special Representatives (SR), which will be held in India later this year. The Indian delegation leader paid a courtesy call on China's Assistant Foreign Minister, Hong Lei. Earlier, on March 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about India's relationship with China, emphasizing the importance of learning from each other and understanding one another. PM Modi acknowledged the ancient cultural and civilizational ties between the two nations, noting that there's no real history of conflict between them. He said that the two nations are now working to restore conditions to how they were before 2020, with PM Modi emphasizing the importance of rebuilding trust, enthusiasm, and energy. Speaking in a podcast with AI researcher Lex Fridman, PM Modi also advocated for healthy competition between the two nations, emphasising that competition should never turn into conflict. "Look, the relationship between India and China isn't something new. Both nations have ancient cultures and civilizations. Even in the modern world, they play a significant role. If you look at historical records, for centuries, India and China have learned from each other. Together, they have always contributed to the global good in some way," he said. PM Modi acknowledged a return to normalcy at the border. He said, "It is true that there have been ongoing border disputes between us. And in 2020, the incidents along the border created significant tensions between our countries. However, after my recent meeting with China's President Xi Jinping, we have seen a return to normalcy at the border. We are now working to restore conditions to how they were before 2020. Slowly but surely, trust, enthusiasm, and energy will return. But of course, it will take some time since there's been a five-year gap." PM Modi expressed optimism about improving relations with China following a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. In October last year, PM Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the margins of the BRICS Summit held in Russia's Kazan. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India, China review situation along LAC, agree on early resumption of cross-border cooperation

An Indian-origin man was found dead in Princeton, Texas, on Sunday (Mar 23). While local authorities initially suspect suicide, the incident remains under investigation pending further examination.
A day earlier, 30-year-old Abhishek Kolli, from Gudivada in Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district, was reported missing, which led to a search operation involving law enforcement and community members, according to news agency PTI reports.
His body was found the next day, which left his family and loved ones devastated.
Kolli, who had been married for only a year, previously resided in Phoenix, Texas, with his wife before he relocated to Princeton.
According to his twin brother, Aravind Kolli, Abhishek had been facing significant financial challenges, having been unemployed for the past six months.
"His sudden passing is an unbearable loss for us," Aravind shared. "We want to honour his memory with dignity, without the shadow of financial worry hanging over us." To cover funeral expenses and transport his body back to India, Aravind launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has already raised over USD 59,000 in less than 24 hours.
The Telugu community in the US has come together to support Abhishek's family, providing both financial and emotional support during this difficult time. Additionally, local organizations have offered assistance with the necessary arrangements.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Kolli, who had been married for only a year, previously resided in Phoenix, Texas, with his wife before he relocated to Princeton.

An Indian-origin man was found dead in Princeton, Texas, on Sunday (Mar 23). While local authorities initially suspect suicide, the incident remains under investigation pending further examination. A day earlier, 30-year-old Abhishek Kolli, from Gudivada in Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district, was reported missing, which led to a search operation involving law enforcement and community members, according to news agency PTI reports. His body was found the next day, which left his family and loved ones devastated. Kolli, who had been married for only a year, previously resided in Phoenix, Texas, with his wife before he relocated to Princeton. According to his twin brother, Aravind Kolli, Abhishek had been facing significant financial challenges, having been unemployed for the past six months. "His sudden passing is an unbearable loss for us," Aravind shared. "We want to honour his memory with dignity, without the shadow of financial worry hanging over us." To cover funeral expenses and transport his body back to India, Aravind launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has already raised over USD 59,000 in less than 24 hours. The Telugu community in the US has come together to support Abhishek's family, providing both financial and emotional support during this difficult time. Additionally, local organizations have offered assistance with the necessary arrangements. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian origin man found dead in US after being reported missing

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath slammed comedian Kunal Kamra, stating that some people have treated freedom of speech as their "birthright" to divide the country further.
"The freedom of expression cannot be used to attack. It is unfortunate that some people considered the freedom of speech as their birthright to divide the country and further deepen divisions," Adityanath said in an interview with ANI.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8osngsh-wy2thzpo-tag7f6p4">
EP-276 with Yogi Adityanath premieres tomorrow on YouTube at 10 AM IST "People have treated freedom of speech as a birthright to divide the country further." &mdash; U.P CM Yogi Adityanath on the Kunal Kamra controversy "DK Shivakumar is saying exactly what he has inherited from&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/XHUyYg7sc2">pic.twitter.com/XHUyYg7sc2</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1904433017365406024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
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.
<h2>'Not against law to poke fun at our leaders,' Kunal Kamra</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.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8osnues-b0c4hvs0-dz12gwuz">
My Statement - <a href="https://t.co/QZ6NchIcsM">pic.twitter.com/QZ6NchIcsM</a>
&mdash; Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) <a href="https://twitter.com/kunalkamra88/status/1904222690803876139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
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.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath slammed comedian Kunal Kamra, stating that some people have treated freedom of speech as their "birthright" to divide the country further. "The freedom of expression cannot be used to attack. It is unfortunate that some people considered the freedom of speech as their birthright to divide the country and further deepen divisions," Adityanath said in an interview with ANI. EP-276 with Yogi Adityanath premieres tomorrow on YouTube at 10 AM IST "People have treated freedom of speech as a birthright to divide the country further." — U.P CM Yogi Adityanath on the Kunal Kamra controversy "DK Shivakumar is saying exactly what he has inherited from… pic.twitter.com/XHUyYg7sc2 — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2025 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,' Kunal Kamra 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. My Statement - pic.twitter.com/QZ6NchIcsM — Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 24, 2025 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)

'People treat freedom of speech as birthright to divide country' Yogi slams Kunal Kamra over Shinde joke row

The Belgium foreign ministry has said that it is aware of the Mehul Choksi case and "attaches great importance and attention to it". This is the first ever comment by Belgium government on the Choksi who is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, and had left Antigua and Barbuda.&nbsp;
In response to a WION question, Belgium Foreign ministry spokesperson David Jordens on Mehul Choksi said, "we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice. The FPS Foreign Affairs continues to closely follow the developments in this important case."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-businessman-mehul-choksi-accused-of-defrauding-pnb-bank-living-in-belgium-report-8881635">Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report</a>
Mehul Choksi is a fugitive businessman, born in India and wanted in connection with a ₹13,500-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. According to Caribbean media reports, he has been residing there with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian citizen, after obtaining an "F Residency Card". Indian authorities have initiated contact with Belgian counterparts to pursue his extradition to India, where he faces charges of criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud alongside his nephew, Nirav Modi.
Choksi fled India in January 2018, just before the scam came to light, and has since evaded Indian authorities. He obtained citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 through their Citizenship by Investment Program and lived there after leaving India. He has been wanted by Indian judicial authorities for charges including cheating, corruption, and money laundering.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-major-asset-recovery-nirmala-sitharaman-praises-eds-efforts-784910">Sitharaman lauds ED&rsquo;s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi</a>
Last week, speaking to WION, Antigua and Barbuda foreign minister Chet Greene said that his country will assist India in the legal process regarding Choksi. He said, "'we are country of laws, his citizenship is challenged by Indian govt. It is legal process. It is country laws. We will not interfere . Will assist in ensuring legal process continues".
The ED has attached assets worth ₹2,565.90 crore linked to Choksi, including properties in Mumbai, jewelry, and stakes in offshore firms. A Mumbai PMLA court&rsquo;s December 2024 ruling gave a go ahead to their sale, with proceeds earmarked for PNB and ICICI Bank, which suffered losses of ₹872 crore from Choksi&rsquo;s firms.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kunal-kamra-chose-satire-to-respond-to-agitated-shiv-sena-workers-eknath-shinde-8890512">Kunal Kamra shares another song in response to Shiv Sena workers' vandalism - WATCH</a>

World: This is the first ever comment by Belgium government on the Choksi who is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, and had left Antigua and Barbuda. India news

The Belgium foreign ministry has said that it is aware of the Mehul Choksi case and "attaches great importance and attention to it". This is the first ever comment by Belgium government on the Choksi who is reportedly living in Antwerp, Belgium, and had left Antigua and Barbuda. In response to a WION question, Belgium Foreign ministry spokesperson David Jordens on Mehul Choksi said, "we do not comment on individual cases. Furthermore, this case falls under the competence of the Federal Public Service Justice. The FPS Foreign Affairs continues to closely follow the developments in this important case." Also read: Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi living in Belgium, India demands extradition: Report Mehul Choksi is a fugitive businessman, born in India and wanted in connection with a ₹13,500-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. According to Caribbean media reports, he has been residing there with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a Belgian citizen, after obtaining an "F Residency Card". Indian authorities have initiated contact with Belgian counterparts to pursue his extradition to India, where he faces charges of criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud alongside his nephew, Nirav Modi. Choksi fled India in January 2018, just before the scam came to light, and has since evaded Indian authorities. He obtained citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 through their Citizenship by Investment Program and lived there after leaving India. He has been wanted by Indian judicial authorities for charges including cheating, corruption, and money laundering. Also read: Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi Last week, speaking to WION, Antigua and Barbuda foreign minister Chet Greene said that his country will assist India in the legal process regarding Choksi. He said, "'we are country of laws, his citizenship is challenged by Indian govt. It is legal process. It is country laws. We will not interfere . Will assist in ensuring legal process continues". The ED has attached assets worth ₹2,565.90 crore linked to Choksi, including properties in Mumbai, jewelry, and stakes in offshore firms. A Mumbai PMLA court’s December 2024 ruling gave a go ahead to their sale, with proceeds earmarked for PNB and ICICI Bank, which suffered losses of ₹872 crore from Choksi’s firms. Also read: Kunal Kamra shares another song in response to Shiv Sena workers' vandalism - WATCH

Aware of the case: Belgium on fugitive Mehul Choksi

A set by comic Kunal Kamra has drawn him into a still-brewing controversy. Kamra, while exercising his freedom of speech, used satire to express his views on the current government. Now, in his response to the entire situation, he posted a video on X, he tweaked the lyrics of 'Hum Honge Kamiyaab', a patriotic song that most children studying in India taught in school. His parody version says 'Hum Honge Kangaal', which loosely translates to we will be broke.
After the vandalism, Kamra tweeted, "I will not apologise."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8os1ea8-6sdo7wnj-bmmi70is">
👀👀👀 <a href="https://t.co/C5Bnn81p5E">pic.twitter.com/C5Bnn81p5E</a>
&mdash; Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) <a href="https://twitter.com/kunalkamra88/status/1904466272450199742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What led to the controversy:</h2>
Hell broke loose when Kamra made remarks on Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This irked the Shiv Sena party workers, who took to violence and decided to bring down the venue where the comic had performed. 'Traitor' was the word that did not go down well with the supporters of Shinde; quick to react, they vandalised the property.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/not-against-law-to-poke-fun-at-our-leaders-kunal-kamra-breaks-silence-over-eknath-shinde-joke-row-8886915">'Not against law to poke fun at our leaders', Kunal Kamra breaks silence over Eknath Shinde joke row</a>
In his statement posted on X, he wrote, "However, I am willing to cooperate with the police and courts for any lawful action taken against me. But will the law be fairly and equally deployed against those who have decided that vandalism is the appropriate response to being offended by a joke? And against the unelected members of the BMC, who have arrived today at Habitat, without prior notice, and tore the place down with hammers?"
He added, "Perhaps for my next venue, I will opt for Elphinstone Bridge or any other structure in Mumbai that's in need of speedy demolition." With this, he hinted at the upkeep of infrastructure in the city to be taken up by BMC, the authority in charge. Mumbai's Elphinstone Bridge needed mending but remained untouched until it finally collapsed, causing damage.
He clarified, "I don't fear this mob, and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down."

A set by comic Kunal Kamra has drawn him into a still-brewing controversy. Kamra, while exercising his freedom of speech, used satire to express his views on the current government. India news

A set by comic Kunal Kamra has drawn him into a still-brewing controversy. Kamra, while exercising his freedom of speech, used satire to express his views on the current government. Now, in his response to the entire situation, he posted a video on X, he tweaked the lyrics of 'Hum Honge Kamiyaab', a patriotic song that most children studying in India taught in school. His parody version says 'Hum Honge Kangaal', which loosely translates to we will be broke. After the vandalism, Kamra tweeted, "I will not apologise." 👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/C5Bnn81p5E — Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) March 25, 2025 What led to the controversy: Hell broke loose when Kamra made remarks on Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This irked the Shiv Sena party workers, who took to violence and decided to bring down the venue where the comic had performed. 'Traitor' was the word that did not go down well with the supporters of Shinde; quick to react, they vandalised the property. Also read: 'Not against law to poke fun at our leaders', Kunal Kamra breaks silence over Eknath Shinde joke row In his statement posted on X, he wrote, "However, I am willing to cooperate with the police and courts for any lawful action taken against me. But will the law be fairly and equally deployed against those who have decided that vandalism is the appropriate response to being offended by a joke? And against the unelected members of the BMC, who have arrived today at Habitat, without prior notice, and tore the place down with hammers?" He added, "Perhaps for my next venue, I will opt for Elphinstone Bridge or any other structure in Mumbai that's in need of speedy demolition." With this, he hinted at the upkeep of infrastructure in the city to be taken up by BMC, the authority in charge. Mumbai's Elphinstone Bridge needed mending but remained untouched until it finally collapsed, causing damage. He clarified, "I don't fear this mob, and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down."

Kunal Kamra shares another song in response to Shiv Sena workers' vandalism - WATCH

The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday (Mar 15) has taken suo motu cognizance of a controversial rulling by the Allahabad High Court, which said that grabbing breasts and breaking pyjama strings did not amount to rape or attempt to rape. The court&rsquo;s verdict came on March 17 in a case involving an 11-year-old girl, sparking outrage from legal experts, political leaders and activists.
The matter will be heard in the Supreme Court by the bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih on Wednesday (Mar 26).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-rapes-infant-indian-court-reduces-life-sentence-to-10-years-says-original-punishment-was-harsh-and-excessive-8887575">Man rapes infant, Indian court reduces life sentence to 10 years, says original punishment was 'harsh and excessive'</a>
<h2>Controversial verdict</h2>
The Allahabad High Court ruling came as it was hearing a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case of alleged rape of a minor girl.
The accused, identified as Pawan and Akash, allegedly grabbed the breasts of a minor girl and broke her pyjama string. They also attempted to drag her beneath a culvert but fled the scene after a passer-by came to the girl&rsquo;s aid. The incident took place in Uttar Pradesh's Kasganj.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-rapes-mentally-challenged-minor-indian-court-reduces-sentence-because-hes-family-man-with-4-kids-8885258">Man rapes mentally challenged minor, Indian court reduces sentence because he's 'family man with 4 kids'</a>
In its order, the Allahabad High Court had said that &ldquo;the allegation of holding the victim&rsquo;s breasts and breaking the waistband of the pyjama did not constitute a case of attempted rape against the accused.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Defending the ruling, Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, who gave the order on March 17, said that while it was a case of assault on a woman&rsquo;s dignity, but it can&rsquo;t be termed as an attempt to rape the 11-year-old girl.
<h2>HC order draws criticism</h2>
The verdict drew massive criticism, sparking outrage across the nation. Legal experts noted that such statements diminish the confidence of the public in the judiciary.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/grabbing-breasts-snapping-pyjama-string-not-rape-allahabad-hcs-controversial-ruling-sparks-debate-8873890">'Grabbing breasts, snapping pyjama string not rape': Allahabad HC's controversial ruling sparks debate</a>
Senior advocate and Supreme Court Bar Association President Kapil Sibal said, &ldquo;God save this country with such judges adorning the bench! The Supreme Court has been too soft in dealing with errant judges (sic).&rdquo;
Earlier on Monday (Mar 24), the Supreme Court denied to hear a petition regarding the HC&rsquo;s ruling.&nbsp;
The petition called for the top court to issue an order to remove controversial sections of the judgment. The plea also demanded SC issue guidelines to prevent judges from making such remarks in the future.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ghaziabad-man-rapes-murders-7-year-old-daughter-frames-neighbour-8868874">India: Ghaziabad man rapes, murders 7-Year-Old daughter; frames neighbour</a>
Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi told PTI, &ldquo;I am completely against this decision, and the Supreme Court should take serious note of it. Such a ruling has no place in a civilised society.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | The HC’s verdict came on March 17 in a case involving an 11-year-old girl, sparking outrage from legal experts, political leaders and activists.

The Indian Supreme Court on Tuesday (Mar 15) has taken suo motu cognizance of a controversial rulling by the Allahabad High Court, which said that grabbing breasts and breaking pyjama strings did not amount to rape or attempt to rape. The court’s verdict came on March 17 in a case involving an 11-year-old girl, sparking outrage from legal experts, political leaders and activists. The matter will be heard in the Supreme Court by the bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih on Wednesday (Mar 26). Also read | Man rapes infant, Indian court reduces life sentence to 10 years, says original punishment was 'harsh and excessive' Controversial verdict The Allahabad High Court ruling came as it was hearing a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case of alleged rape of a minor girl. The accused, identified as Pawan and Akash, allegedly grabbed the breasts of a minor girl and broke her pyjama string. They also attempted to drag her beneath a culvert but fled the scene after a passer-by came to the girl’s aid. The incident took place in Uttar Pradesh's Kasganj. Also read | Man rapes mentally challenged minor, Indian court reduces sentence because he's 'family man with 4 kids' In its order, the Allahabad High Court had said that “the allegation of holding the victim’s breasts and breaking the waistband of the pyjama did not constitute a case of attempted rape against the accused.” Defending the ruling, Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, who gave the order on March 17, said that while it was a case of assault on a woman’s dignity, but it can’t be termed as an attempt to rape the 11-year-old girl. HC order draws criticism The verdict drew massive criticism, sparking outrage across the nation. Legal experts noted that such statements diminish the confidence of the public in the judiciary. Also read | 'Grabbing breasts, snapping pyjama string not rape': Allahabad HC's controversial ruling sparks debate Senior advocate and Supreme Court Bar Association President Kapil Sibal said, “God save this country with such judges adorning the bench! The Supreme Court has been too soft in dealing with errant judges (sic).” Earlier on Monday (Mar 24), the Supreme Court denied to hear a petition regarding the HC’s ruling. The petition called for the top court to issue an order to remove controversial sections of the judgment. The plea also demanded SC issue guidelines to prevent judges from making such remarks in the future. Also read | India: Ghaziabad man rapes, murders 7-Year-Old daughter; frames neighbour Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi told PTI, “I am completely against this decision, and the Supreme Court should take serious note of it. Such a ruling has no place in a civilised society.” (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court takes suo motu notice of Allahabad HC ‘grabbing breasts not rape attempt’ ruling

Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee on Tuesday accused Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of acting as a "dalal (broker) for the rich" as he slammed the Union government over pending central funds for West Bengal.
The BJP immediately hit back with Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary demanding an apology from the West Bengal MP for using "derogatory" language against Chouhan.
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Banerjee alleged that central funds for West Bengal under schemes such as MGNREGA and PMAYG were pending for the past three years. He accused the Centre of discriminating against the state as the BJP had failed to form a government there.
"Shivraj Chouhan is a 'dalal' (broker) for the rich... He doesn't work for the poor and that's why he was removed from the post of Madhya Pradesh chief minister," the MP from West Bengal's Serampore alleged.
The Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member repeated his "dalal" jibe several times.
During Question Hour in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, DMK and Trinamool Congress MPs protested against the alleged delay in payment to some states for the rural employment scheme MGNREGA, prompting the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings till 12 noon
"They have not given us funds for the last three years. They are saying there are some discrepancies... (that) there are 25 lakh fake job cards (under MGNREGA)... We have told them to carry forward criminal proceedings against the fake cards, but they can't deprive 10 crore people of West Bengal of the funds," Banerjee told reporters.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-scream-like-that-ill-choke-you-bjp-worker-threatens-local-women-after-facing-questions-8879056">'Don't scream like that, I'll choke you': BJP worker threatens local women after facing questions</a>
Banerjee alleged that the funds were not released to West Bengal as the BJP has failed to win the state in the 2021 assembly polls.
"Shivraj Chouhan and PM Narendra Modi are against Bengal. They want to form a government there and are failing. They will never come to power there. BJP leaders say don't give funds to Bengal," he claimed.
Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Chaudhary, however, dismissed the allegations and said Banerjee should apologise for using unparliamentary language.
"This is not a good thing, such language by a senior MP does not suit him. PM Modi is working on the principle of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. There is no discrimination against any state and everyone is getting their share," Chaudhary told PTI.
"Unfortunately, the West Bengal government changes the names of central schemes and indulges in corruption. Using such language against a minister is not right. Banerjee should apologise," he said.
In the Lok Sabha, the government asserted that it has never discriminated against any state in the release of MGNREGA funds.
"Be it Tamil Nadu or West Bengal, the Modi government has never discriminated against any state. The pending MGNREGA dues, including material costs, will be released soon," Chouhan said.
"Under UPA, from 2006-07 to 2013-14, only Rs 111 crore was allocated for person-days in West Bengal, while under the NDA, we have created 239 crore person-days and allocated Rs 54,515 crore," the Union agriculture minister said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news | The BJP immediately hit back with Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary demanding an apology from the West Bengal MP for using "derogatory" language against Chouhan.

Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee on Tuesday accused Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of acting as a "dalal (broker) for the rich" as he slammed the Union government over pending central funds for West Bengal. The BJP immediately hit back with Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary demanding an apology from the West Bengal MP for using "derogatory" language against Chouhan. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Banerjee alleged that central funds for West Bengal under schemes such as MGNREGA and PMAYG were pending for the past three years. He accused the Centre of discriminating against the state as the BJP had failed to form a government there. "Shivraj Chouhan is a 'dalal' (broker) for the rich... He doesn't work for the poor and that's why he was removed from the post of Madhya Pradesh chief minister," the MP from West Bengal's Serampore alleged. The Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member repeated his "dalal" jibe several times. During Question Hour in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, DMK and Trinamool Congress MPs protested against the alleged delay in payment to some states for the rural employment scheme MGNREGA, prompting the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings till 12 noon "They have not given us funds for the last three years. They are saying there are some discrepancies... (that) there are 25 lakh fake job cards (under MGNREGA)... We have told them to carry forward criminal proceedings against the fake cards, but they can't deprive 10 crore people of West Bengal of the funds," Banerjee told reporters. Also read | 'Don't scream like that, I'll choke you': BJP worker threatens local women after facing questions Banerjee alleged that the funds were not released to West Bengal as the BJP has failed to win the state in the 2021 assembly polls. "Shivraj Chouhan and PM Narendra Modi are against Bengal. They want to form a government there and are failing. They will never come to power there. BJP leaders say don't give funds to Bengal," he claimed. Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Chaudhary, however, dismissed the allegations and said Banerjee should apologise for using unparliamentary language. "This is not a good thing, such language by a senior MP does not suit him. PM Modi is working on the principle of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. There is no discrimination against any state and everyone is getting their share," Chaudhary told PTI. "Unfortunately, the West Bengal government changes the names of central schemes and indulges in corruption. Using such language against a minister is not right. Banerjee should apologise," he said. In the Lok Sabha, the government asserted that it has never discriminated against any state in the release of MGNREGA funds. "Be it Tamil Nadu or West Bengal, the Modi government has never discriminated against any state. The pending MGNREGA dues, including material costs, will be released soon," Chouhan said. "Under UPA, from 2006-07 to 2013-14, only Rs 111 crore was allocated for person-days in West Bengal, while under the NDA, we have created 239 crore person-days and allocated Rs 54,515 crore," the Union agriculture minister said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

BJP slams TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee for calling Union Minister Shivraj Chouhan ‘Dalal for rich’

Srinagar: While youngsters across the world are following the trend of getting tattoos on their bodies, it&rsquo;s the opposite in Kashmir Valley. Basit Bashir, a tattoo removal artist in Srinagar, has removed over 100,000 tattoos of boys and girls. And interestingly, most of the tattoos removed by the artist were of AK-47 rifles.
Valley Care Tattoo removal &lsquo;clinic&rsquo;&mdash;as Bashir likes to call his centre&mdash;in Srinagar has become a hit among youngsters these days. Hundreds of youngsters are flocking to Bashir every day to get their tattoos removed. And the tattoo removing artist says that most of these youngsters are either scared of having rifle tattoos or are not wanting to hurt religious sentiments.
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Some said that having tattoos of arms and ammunition brings them on the radar of security forces, and that is one reason for getting them removed. The artist says that failed love relations as well as religion also play a major role in the increase of youths coming for tattoo removal. &ldquo;Kashmir had a trend of youngsters as well as the old getting tattoos, but now the trend is in the opposite direction with people coming in huge numbers to get the tattoos removed. I started this campaign to remove tattoos for free of cost as I knew these youngsters would not be able to pay for it. After I got a huge rush of people, I kept a minimal charge of 100 rupees. The youngsters who get these tattoos realise it much later that it&rsquo;s not permitted in our religion. Since the time I started, I have removed tattoos of over one lakh people. You saw it yourself how many people have come even now for tattoo removal,&rdquo; said Bashir.&nbsp; Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-indian-origin-students-of-south-africa-critically-injured-in-an-alleged-racist-incident-8692535" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Three Indian origin students of South Africa critically injured in an alleged racist incident</a> &ldquo;Tattoos are of various designs, some people get flowers or snakes or names or AK-47 rifles made. Some were cases of failed love affairs, or some after turning adults realised that it was a mistake. Some tattoos were vulgar also. I don&rsquo;t have an exact number, but I must have removed maximum tattoos of AK-47. Most of these youngsters want to join the army,&rdquo; he added.
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In Kashmir, getting tattoos is considered taboo, and that is one of the reasons that not one person coming to get tattoos removed wants to speak on camera. Mudasir got a tattoo last year, but later realised that it was against the religion.
&ldquo;I got a tattoo a year ago and now I have decided to remove it. It&rsquo;s not allowed in Islam and that&rsquo;s why I have come here to get it removed,&rdquo; said Mudasir.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-legacy-justin-trudeau-jeered-and-booed-as-he-leaves-parliament-for-last-time-as-canada-pm-watch-video-8852731" rel="noopener" target="_blank">'No Legacy': Justin Trudeau jeered and booed as he leaves parliament for last time as Canada PM | Watch video</a>
Islamic scholars and imams have categorically said that tattoos are prohibited in Islam. They keep giving sermons in the mosque against tattoos. &ldquo;Getting tattoos made is not only against the religion but also leads to so many health issues. People with tattoos cannot pray in mosques as well. All Muslims should stay away from these things,&rdquo; said Altaf Hussain, an imam.

India News: I don’t have an exact number, but I must have removed maximum tattoos of the AK-47. Most of these youngsters want to join the army, said Basit Bashir.

Srinagar: While youngsters across the world are following the trend of getting tattoos on their bodies, it’s the opposite in Kashmir Valley. Basit Bashir, a tattoo removal artist in Srinagar, has removed over 100,000 tattoos of boys and girls. And interestingly, most of the tattoos removed by the artist were of AK-47 rifles. Valley Care Tattoo removal ‘clinic’—as Bashir likes to call his centre—in Srinagar has become a hit among youngsters these days. Hundreds of youngsters are flocking to Bashir every day to get their tattoos removed. And the tattoo removing artist says that most of these youngsters are either scared of having rifle tattoos or are not wanting to hurt religious sentiments. Also Read | ‘Prasad’ served at religious places exempt from GST, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman Some said that having tattoos of arms and ammunition brings them on the radar of security forces, and that is one reason for getting them removed. The artist says that failed love relations as well as religion also play a major role in the increase of youths coming for tattoo removal. “Kashmir had a trend of youngsters as well as the old getting tattoos, but now the trend is in the opposite direction with people coming in huge numbers to get the tattoos removed. I started this campaign to remove tattoos for free of cost as I knew these youngsters would not be able to pay for it. After I got a huge rush of people, I kept a minimal charge of 100 rupees. The youngsters who get these tattoos realise it much later that it’s not permitted in our religion. Since the time I started, I have removed tattoos of over one lakh people. You saw it yourself how many people have come even now for tattoo removal,” said Bashir. Also read | Three Indian origin students of South Africa critically injured in an alleged racist incident “Tattoos are of various designs, some people get flowers or snakes or names or AK-47 rifles made. Some were cases of failed love affairs, or some after turning adults realised that it was a mistake. Some tattoos were vulgar also. I don’t have an exact number, but I must have removed maximum tattoos of AK-47. Most of these youngsters want to join the army,” he added. lso read | 'Viksit Delhi Budget' 2025-26: Key Highlights from CM Rekha Gupta's maiden budget In Kashmir, getting tattoos is considered taboo, and that is one of the reasons that not one person coming to get tattoos removed wants to speak on camera. Mudasir got a tattoo last year, but later realised that it was against the religion. “I got a tattoo a year ago and now I have decided to remove it. It’s not allowed in Islam and that’s why I have come here to get it removed,” said Mudasir. Also read | 'No Legacy': Justin Trudeau jeered and booed as he leaves parliament for last time as Canada PM | Watch video Islamic scholars and imams have categorically said that tattoos are prohibited in Islam. They keep giving sermons in the mosque against tattoos. “Getting tattoos made is not only against the religion but also leads to so many health issues. People with tattoos cannot pray in mosques as well. All Muslims should stay away from these things,” said Altaf Hussain, an imam.

Kashmir Valley’s lone tattoo removal artist’s ‘clinic’ a hit among youngsters

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