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TMC leader Mahua Moitra has criticised the Ministry of Railways for allegedly asking social media platform X to remove videos related to the New Delhi Railway Station stampede. She asserted that there is no legal provision allowing the Railways to make such a demand. &nbsp;
Moitra wrote on X, &ldquo;There is NO, repeat NO legal provision by which @RailMinIndia can ask X to remove videos of ND stampede&mdash;totally illegal. Railway&rsquo;s fig leaf of &lsquo;may create unwarranted law and order situation&rsquo; is pure and utter BS.&rdquo; &nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
There is NO, repeat NO legal provision by which <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RailMinIndia</a> can ask X to remove videos of ND stampede-totally illegal. Railway&rsquo;s fig leaf of &ldquo;may create unwarranted law and order situation&rdquo; is pure &amp; utter BS.
&mdash; Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahuaMoitra/status/1893113006101328074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kejriwal-wants-to-tune-into-mann-ki-baat-iit-ks-question-to-make-exam-engaging-goes-viral-8745731">'Kejriwal wants to tune into Mann Ki Baat': IIT-K's question to make exam 'engaging' goes viral</a>
Reports indicate that the Railway Ministry sent a notice to X on February 17, requesting the removal of certain videos within 36 hours.&nbsp;
The ministry cited "ethical norms" and the platform&rsquo;s content policy as the basis for the request, arguing that such content could lead to law-and-order concerns. &nbsp;
<h2>Delhi High Court seeks Railways&rsquo; response &nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has taken up a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding the February 15 stampede, which claimed 18 lives. The petition alleges that administrative negligence and overcrowding caused by simultaneous train arrivals on the Delhi-Prayagraj route led to the tragedy. It argues that the incident violated Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-several-workers-feared-trapped-after-tunnel-roof-collapses-in-telangana-8746777">India | Several workers feared trapped after tunnel roof collapses in Telangana; CM Reddy reacts</a>
A bench comprising Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela has directed the Railway Board to examine the matter and submit a short affidavit outlining the steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The next hearing is scheduled for March 26. &nbsp;
<h2>Railways plan crowd management measures &nbsp;</h2>
In response to the incident, the Railways is planning to construct permanent holding areas at around 60 major stations nationwide to manage large crowds and reduce congestion risks. The ministry is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence and advanced monitoring systems to predict peak hours and regulate passenger movement in real-time. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | India News| She asserted that there is no legal provision allowing the Railways to make such a demand.

TMC leader Mahua Moitra has criticised the Ministry of Railways for allegedly asking social media platform X to remove videos related to the New Delhi Railway Station stampede. She asserted that there is no legal provision allowing the Railways to make such a demand. Moitra wrote on X, “There is NO, repeat NO legal provision by which @RailMinIndia can ask X to remove videos of ND stampede—totally illegal. Railway’s fig leaf of ‘may create unwarranted law and order situation’ is pure and utter BS.” There is NO, repeat NO legal provision by which @RailMinIndia can ask X to remove videos of ND stampede-totally illegal. Railway’s fig leaf of “may create unwarranted law and order situation” is pure & utter BS. — Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) February 22, 2025 Also Read | 'Kejriwal wants to tune into Mann Ki Baat': IIT-K's question to make exam 'engaging' goes viral Reports indicate that the Railway Ministry sent a notice to X on February 17, requesting the removal of certain videos within 36 hours. The ministry cited "ethical norms" and the platform’s content policy as the basis for the request, arguing that such content could lead to law-and-order concerns. Delhi High Court seeks Railways’ response Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has taken up a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding the February 15 stampede, which claimed 18 lives. The petition alleges that administrative negligence and overcrowding caused by simultaneous train arrivals on the Delhi-Prayagraj route led to the tragedy. It argues that the incident violated Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life. Also Read | India | Several workers feared trapped after tunnel roof collapses in Telangana; CM Reddy reacts A bench comprising Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela has directed the Railway Board to examine the matter and submit a short affidavit outlining the steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The next hearing is scheduled for March 26. Railways plan crowd management measures In response to the incident, the Railways is planning to construct permanent holding areas at around 60 major stations nationwide to manage large crowds and reduce congestion risks. The ministry is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence and advanced monitoring systems to predict peak hours and regulate passenger movement in real-time. (With inputs from agencies)

'Totally illegal':  Mahua Moitra slams railways over X takedown request on stampede videos

Former Reserve Bank of India governor Shaktikanta Das was on Saturday appointed the second Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. P K Mishra, a retired IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, is currently serving as the Principal Secretary to the prime minister.According to an official order, the tenure of Das, a retired IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, will be "co-terminus" with the term of the prime minister or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
This is the first time that two persons will simultaneously serve as principal secretaries to the prime minister. Both Mishra and Das are from Odisha. "The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Shri Shaktikanta Das, IAS (Retired), as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister with effect from the date he assumes the office. His appointment will be co-terminus with the term of the Prime Minister or until further orders, whichever is earlier," the order said.
Sixty-eight-year old Das has been a career civil servant with over 44 years of distinguished service, primarily in the areas of finance, taxation, investment and infrastructure. He was the central government's revenue secretary. During his tenure as economic affairs secretary in 2016, the Modi government had announced the demonetisation. Das played a key role when multiple indirect taxes were merged into one GST, which came into effect on July 1, 2017. Post-retirement, he was appointed as a member of the 15th Finance Commission and G20 Sherpa of India.
Das became the 25th governor of the RBI in 2018 after Urjit Patel resigned. Initially appointed for three years, his tenure was extended for a further period of three years in 2021. He demitted office in December 2024 when Sanjay Malhotra was appointed as RBI governor.
Das was the second longest serving governor of the RBI in its 90-year history after Benegal Rama Rau, who had a seven-and-a-half-year tenure in the 1950s.&nbsp;Das, a 1980-batch IAS officer, holds a Master's degree in history from Delhi's St Stephen's College and a postgraduate degree in public administration from the University of Birmingham.
As the RBI governor, he focused on maintaining financial stability, curbing inflation and promoting economic growth. He took several measures to address the liquidity crunch in the non-banking financial sector and took steps to strengthen the regulatory framework for banks and non-banking financial companies. Das is credited with navigating the RBI's economic policies through the Covid pandemic. As a key economic policymaker, he faced challenging times in managing the disruptions caused by the lockdown. He chose to cut the policy repo rate to a historic low of 4 per cent, continuing with the low-interest rate regime for almost two years to help the economy hit badly by the lockdown.
During his tenure, the RBI handed over the highest-ever dividend of Rs 2.11 lakh crore to the Centre for 2023-24. He was also conferred with the 'Central Bank Governor of the Year' award by Central Banking, UK.
Das had also served as India's Alternate Governor in the World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), New Development Bank (NDB) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). He represented India in several international fora like the IMF, G20, BRICS and SAARC. Mishra, who was Union agriculture secretary, has been serving as Principal Secretary to the prime minister since September 2019. Prior to his current assignment, he had served as additional principal secretary to PM Modi during his first term.
<div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">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.</div>

Former RBI governor Shaktikanta Das, a retired IAS officer, appointed principal secretary-2 to prime minister

Former Reserve Bank of India governor Shaktikanta Das was on Saturday appointed the second Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. P K Mishra, a retired IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, is currently serving as the Principal Secretary to the prime minister.According to an official order, the tenure of Das, a retired IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, will be "co-terminus" with the term of the prime minister or until further orders, whichever is earlier. This is the first time that two persons will simultaneously serve as principal secretaries to the prime minister. Both Mishra and Das are from Odisha. "The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Shri Shaktikanta Das, IAS (Retired), as Principal Secretary-2 to Prime Minister with effect from the date he assumes the office. His appointment will be co-terminus with the term of the Prime Minister or until further orders, whichever is earlier," the order said. Sixty-eight-year old Das has been a career civil servant with over 44 years of distinguished service, primarily in the areas of finance, taxation, investment and infrastructure. He was the central government's revenue secretary. During his tenure as economic affairs secretary in 2016, the Modi government had announced the demonetisation. Das played a key role when multiple indirect taxes were merged into one GST, which came into effect on July 1, 2017. Post-retirement, he was appointed as a member of the 15th Finance Commission and G20 Sherpa of India. Das became the 25th governor of the RBI in 2018 after Urjit Patel resigned. Initially appointed for three years, his tenure was extended for a further period of three years in 2021. He demitted office in December 2024 when Sanjay Malhotra was appointed as RBI governor. Das was the second longest serving governor of the RBI in its 90-year history after Benegal Rama Rau, who had a seven-and-a-half-year tenure in the 1950s. Das, a 1980-batch IAS officer, holds a Master's degree in history from Delhi's St Stephen's College and a postgraduate degree in public administration from the University of Birmingham. As the RBI governor, he focused on maintaining financial stability, curbing inflation and promoting economic growth. He took several measures to address the liquidity crunch in the non-banking financial sector and took steps to strengthen the regulatory framework for banks and non-banking financial companies. Das is credited with navigating the RBI's economic policies through the Covid pandemic. As a key economic policymaker, he faced challenging times in managing the disruptions caused by the lockdown. He chose to cut the policy repo rate to a historic low of 4 per cent, continuing with the low-interest rate regime for almost two years to help the economy hit badly by the lockdown. During his tenure, the RBI handed over the highest-ever dividend of Rs 2.11 lakh crore to the Centre for 2023-24. He was also conferred with the 'Central Bank Governor of the Year' award by Central Banking, UK. Das had also served as India's Alternate Governor in the World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), New Development Bank (NDB) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). He represented India in several international fora like the IMF, G20, BRICS and SAARC. Mishra, who was Union agriculture secretary, has been serving as Principal Secretary to the prime minister since September 2019. Prior to his current assignment, he had served as additional principal secretary to PM Modi during his first term. 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.

Shaktikanta Das, former RBI governor, appointed principal secretary to PM Modi

At least six workers have been feared trapped after a section of a roof collapsed in the under construction stretch of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) in Nagarkurnool district of India's southern state of Telangana on Saturday, police said.
A team of experts from the construction company has arrived at the site to conduct an assessment, verify the damage, and determine the next course of action.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eknath-shinde-warns-dont-take-me-lightly-amid-rift-talk-with-fadnavis-8746742">Eknath Shinde warns, &lsquo;Don&rsquo;t take me lightly&rsquo; amid rift talk with Fadnavis</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Six to eight workers feared trapped</h2>
According to a senior police official, six to eight workers are feared trapped as per information given by the company engaged in the work.
The police said, &ldquo;The incident occurred when some workers had gone inside as part of the work when the roof collapsed at 12-13 kms inside the tunnel.&rdquo;
Collector B Santosh said there has been no contact with those trapped and the internal communication mechanism has also failed. The air chamber and conveyor belt have both collapsed.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-meets-pm-modi-8746418">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta meets PM Modi</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">CM Revanth Reddy alerts officials</h2>
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed shock over the incident and while he mentioned several people were injured in the collapse, he did not share any exact figures.
"After receiving information about the tunnel collapse and several injuries, the Chief Minister immediately alerted the officials. He ordered the District Collector, SP, Fire Department, Hydra and Irrigation Department officials to immediately reach the spot and provide relief measures," Telangana CMO posted on X.
According to the post, Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar and other officials from his department have left for the accident site in a special helicopter.
Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy has sought an explanation for the tunnel accident and directed officials to prioritise the rescue of those trapped and provide medical attention to the injured.
Through a post on X, Reddy emphasised the need for swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: A roof collapse at the Srisailam Left Bank Canal site in Telangana's Nagarkurnool district leaves at least six workers feared trapped, say police on Saturday.

At least six workers have been feared trapped after a section of a roof collapsed in the under construction stretch of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) in Nagarkurnool district of India's southern state of Telangana on Saturday, police said. A team of experts from the construction company has arrived at the site to conduct an assessment, verify the damage, and determine the next course of action. Also read | Eknath Shinde warns, ‘Don’t take me lightly’ amid rift talk with Fadnavis Six to eight workers feared trapped According to a senior police official, six to eight workers are feared trapped as per information given by the company engaged in the work. The police said, “The incident occurred when some workers had gone inside as part of the work when the roof collapsed at 12-13 kms inside the tunnel.” Collector B Santosh said there has been no contact with those trapped and the internal communication mechanism has also failed. The air chamber and conveyor belt have both collapsed. Also read | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta meets PM Modi CM Revanth Reddy alerts officials Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed shock over the incident and while he mentioned several people were injured in the collapse, he did not share any exact figures. "After receiving information about the tunnel collapse and several injuries, the Chief Minister immediately alerted the officials. He ordered the District Collector, SP, Fire Department, Hydra and Irrigation Department officials to immediately reach the spot and provide relief measures," Telangana CMO posted on X. According to the post, Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar and other officials from his department have left for the accident site in a special helicopter. Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy has sought an explanation for the tunnel accident and directed officials to prioritise the rescue of those trapped and provide medical attention to the injured. Through a post on X, Reddy emphasised the need for swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected. (With inputs from agencies)

India | Several workers feared trapped after tunnel roof collapses in Telangana; CM Reddy reacts

Amid talk of a growing rift between him and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-wants-objectionable-content-about-chhatrapati-sambhaji-maharaj-removed-from-wikipedia-8734463">Maharashtra</a> deputy CM Eknath Shinde on Friday said nobody should take him lightly, and made a veiled reference to the toppling of the MVA government.
It was a warning for those who were capable of understanding, he said, talking to reporters in Nagpur, but at another event later, maintained that there was no "cold war" between him and Fadnavis.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-wants-objectionable-content-about-chhatrapati-sambhaji-maharaj-removed-from-wikipedia-8734463">'Will not tolerate': Maharashtra CM wants 'objectionable' content about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj removed from Wikipedia</a>
"In 2022, I toppled the cart of those who took me lightly, and we brought in a new government that stayed in the people's hearts," Shinde told reporters in Nagpur, apparently referring to the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government.
Shinde had then become chief minister by splitting the Thackeray-led Sena and forming an alliance with the BJP.
"The double engine government (headed by Shinde) ran at full speed, and I and Devendra Fadnavis said we would win over 200 seats. We won 232 seats (in the 2024 assembly polls)," he said.
"Do not take me lightly. The hint is enough for those who understand it. I will continue to do my work," he added.
While both Shinde and Fadnavis have denied that there is a discord, recent developments suggested there are simmering tensions.
After the elections, Shinde had to agree to a role reversal with Fadnavis, his deputy in the previous regime, becoming chief minister.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/marrying-off-son-becoming-difficult-maharashtra-family-cancels-wedding-due-to-grooms-low-credit-score-8704447">'Marrying off son becoming difficult': Maharashtra family cancels wedding due to groom's low credit score</a>
The appointment of NCP leader Aditi Tatkare and BJP leader Girish Mahajan as guardian ministers of Raigad and Nashik districts, respectively, brought tensions to the fore, with the Shiv Sena leaders expressing unhappiness. Both the appointments were revoked and Fadnavis is yet to take a fresh decision.
Both deputy CMs, Shinde and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, set up project monitoring cells to track the progress of projects in the districts of which they are guardian ministers, and those of departments handled by ministers of their respective parties. As the CM already has his "war room" for monitoring key projects, this was seen as both the BJP allies asserting themselves.
While the Chief Minister's relief fund -- from which needy patients can receive help -- already existed, Shinde set up his own medical aid cell.
Shinde has also stayed away from several meetings convened by Fadnavis, including the Nashik Regional Development Authority meeting to discuss preparations for the 2027 Kumbh Mela in the north Maharashtra city.
He held a separate meeting in Nashik where BJP minister Girish Mahajan was absent.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-alleges-maharashtra-poll-anomaly-cm-fadnavis-fires-back-8699332">Rahul Gandhi alleges irregularities in Maharashtra polls, CM Fadnavis fires back</a>
After Fadnavis held a review meeting of the Industries department, Shinde held another meeting recently. Industries department is headed by Shiv Sena minister Uday Samant.
The buzz about the relations being under growing strain became louder when the Home department, headed by Fadnavis, downgraded or took away the police security of 20 Shiv Sena MLAs. They had been given security cover after the Sena split in 2022.
Earlier this week, Shinde had said there was absolutely no "cold war" between him and Fadnavis.
Fadnavis too downplayed Shinde's decision to set up a medial cell. "There is nothing wrong, as its aim is to help people. When I was deputy chief minister, I had formed a similar cell," the BJP leader said.
Meanwhile, speaking at a party gathering at Deori in Gondia district later on Friday, Shinde said like Shiv Sena founder late Bal Thackeray, he would always stand by party workers.
Former Congress MLA Sahasram Korote and his supporters joined the Shinde-led Shiv Sena at the event.
There was no such thing as "cold war" between him, CM Fadnavis and deputy CM Ajit Pawar, he said, adding that all three were working as a team.
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&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

India news: "In 2022, I toppled the cart of those who took me lightly, and we brought in a new government that stayed in the people's hearts," Shinde told reporters in Nagpur.

Amid talk of a growing rift between him and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde on Friday said nobody should take him lightly, and made a veiled reference to the toppling of the MVA government. It was a warning for those who were capable of understanding, he said, talking to reporters in Nagpur, but at another event later, maintained that there was no "cold war" between him and Fadnavis. Also read: 'Will not tolerate': Maharashtra CM wants 'objectionable' content about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj removed from Wikipedia "In 2022, I toppled the cart of those who took me lightly, and we brought in a new government that stayed in the people's hearts," Shinde told reporters in Nagpur, apparently referring to the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government. Shinde had then become chief minister by splitting the Thackeray-led Sena and forming an alliance with the BJP. "The double engine government (headed by Shinde) ran at full speed, and I and Devendra Fadnavis said we would win over 200 seats. We won 232 seats (in the 2024 assembly polls)," he said. "Do not take me lightly. The hint is enough for those who understand it. I will continue to do my work," he added. While both Shinde and Fadnavis have denied that there is a discord, recent developments suggested there are simmering tensions. After the elections, Shinde had to agree to a role reversal with Fadnavis, his deputy in the previous regime, becoming chief minister. Also read: 'Marrying off son becoming difficult': Maharashtra family cancels wedding due to groom's low credit score The appointment of NCP leader Aditi Tatkare and BJP leader Girish Mahajan as guardian ministers of Raigad and Nashik districts, respectively, brought tensions to the fore, with the Shiv Sena leaders expressing unhappiness. Both the appointments were revoked and Fadnavis is yet to take a fresh decision. Both deputy CMs, Shinde and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, set up project monitoring cells to track the progress of projects in the districts of which they are guardian ministers, and those of departments handled by ministers of their respective parties. As the CM already has his "war room" for monitoring key projects, this was seen as both the BJP allies asserting themselves. While the Chief Minister's relief fund -- from which needy patients can receive help -- already existed, Shinde set up his own medical aid cell. Shinde has also stayed away from several meetings convened by Fadnavis, including the Nashik Regional Development Authority meeting to discuss preparations for the 2027 Kumbh Mela in the north Maharashtra city. He held a separate meeting in Nashik where BJP minister Girish Mahajan was absent. Also read: Rahul Gandhi alleges irregularities in Maharashtra polls, CM Fadnavis fires back After Fadnavis held a review meeting of the Industries department, Shinde held another meeting recently. Industries department is headed by Shiv Sena minister Uday Samant. The buzz about the relations being under growing strain became louder when the Home department, headed by Fadnavis, downgraded or took away the police security of 20 Shiv Sena MLAs. They had been given security cover after the Sena split in 2022. Earlier this week, Shinde had said there was absolutely no "cold war" between him and Fadnavis. Fadnavis too downplayed Shinde's decision to set up a medial cell. "There is nothing wrong, as its aim is to help people. When I was deputy chief minister, I had formed a similar cell," the BJP leader said. Meanwhile, speaking at a party gathering at Deori in Gondia district later on Friday, Shinde said like Shiv Sena founder late Bal Thackeray, he would always stand by party workers. Former Congress MLA Sahasram Korote and his supporters joined the Shinde-led Shiv Sena at the event. There was no such thing as "cold war" between him, CM Fadnavis and deputy CM Ajit Pawar, he said, adding that all three were working as a team. 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.

Eknath Shinde warns, ‘Don’t take me lightly’ amid rift rumours with Fadnavis

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence on Saturday even as her Cabinet ministers hit the road and started reviewing repairs of potholed roads and reviewed pending projects across the city.
During the meeting with PM Modi, CM Gupta thanked him for giving a "daughter of Delhi" a chance to serve the people as Chief Minister, said one of her aides.&nbsp;Before leaving for the PM's residence, CM Gupta greeted her well-wishers from the first floor balcony of her home in Shalimar Bagh in the morning.
Using a public address system, CM Gupta announced that on meeting PM Modi she would convey, on behalf of all women and daughters of the city, gratitude for selecting a &ldquo;Daughter of Delhi" to serve the city.
&ldquo;On the first day in office, we approved the Ayushman Bharat scheme of PM Modi in the first Cabinet meeting,&rdquo; she said, promising not to waste even a single day and continue serving the people.
&ldquo;Our mission is to achieve Viksit Delhi as mandated by PM Modi,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;Viksit Delhi's journey has to be covered by all of us together,&rdquo; she said, ending her public address with chants of &ldquo;Jai Shri Ram&rdquo; and &ldquo;Bharat Mata ki Jai&rdquo;.
Later, the Chief Minister held a meeting with the officials of the PWD department for improving infrastructure and discussed issues related to the dug-up roads, damaged roads and traffic in Delhi and gave directions for improvement.
PWD Minister Parvesh Verma inspected the Barapullah Phase-3 project and assured speedy payment and environment clearance that have alleged delayed progress in work.
Speaking to mediapersons near Sarai Kale Khan in South East Delhi, Verma said he had also issued strict instructions for removal of encroachment across Delhi roads. &ldquo;We want road contractors to guarantee 10-year life for roads so that they do not need frequent recarpeting,&rdquo; he said.
During another field visit at Khajuri Khas crossing in North East Delhi, Law and Labour Minister Kapil Mishra said, "Arvind Kejriwal's govt made the condition of roads in Delhi worse. Everywhere, the roads are either broken or dusty, there are potholes and waterlogging and under the new work culture all Cabinet ministers and officials will have to work 24 hours and repair the roads immediately.&rdquo;
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INDIA NEWS | During the meeting with PM Modi, CM Gupta thanked him for giving a "daughter of Delhi" a chance to serve the people as Chief Minister, said one of her aides.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence on Saturday even as her Cabinet ministers hit the road and started reviewing repairs of potholed roads and reviewed pending projects across the city. During the meeting with PM Modi, CM Gupta thanked him for giving a "daughter of Delhi" a chance to serve the people as Chief Minister, said one of her aides. Before leaving for the PM's residence, CM Gupta greeted her well-wishers from the first floor balcony of her home in Shalimar Bagh in the morning. Using a public address system, CM Gupta announced that on meeting PM Modi she would convey, on behalf of all women and daughters of the city, gratitude for selecting a “Daughter of Delhi" to serve the city. “On the first day in office, we approved the Ayushman Bharat scheme of PM Modi in the first Cabinet meeting,” she said, promising not to waste even a single day and continue serving the people. “Our mission is to achieve Viksit Delhi as mandated by PM Modi,” she said. “Viksit Delhi's journey has to be covered by all of us together,” she said, ending her public address with chants of “Jai Shri Ram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai”. Later, the Chief Minister held a meeting with the officials of the PWD department for improving infrastructure and discussed issues related to the dug-up roads, damaged roads and traffic in Delhi and gave directions for improvement. PWD Minister Parvesh Verma inspected the Barapullah Phase-3 project and assured speedy payment and environment clearance that have alleged delayed progress in work. Speaking to mediapersons near Sarai Kale Khan in South East Delhi, Verma said he had also issued strict instructions for removal of encroachment across Delhi roads. “We want road contractors to guarantee 10-year life for roads so that they do not need frequent recarpeting,” he said. During another field visit at Khajuri Khas crossing in North East Delhi, Law and Labour Minister Kapil Mishra said, "Arvind Kejriwal's govt made the condition of roads in Delhi worse. Everywhere, the roads are either broken or dusty, there are potholes and waterlogging and under the new work culture all Cabinet ministers and officials will have to work 24 hours and repair the roads immediately.” 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.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta meets PM Modi

A minister from the Indian state of Punjab has been found running a department that never existed for 20 months. The scam came to light after a gazette notification was issued by the chief secretary of the state saying that the department allotted to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal was "not in existence".&nbsp;
&ldquo;In partial modification of the previous Punjab govt notification regarding the allocation of portfolios, among ministers, the department of administrative reforms earlier allotted to Dhaliwal is not in existence as of date," the notification read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-are-they-to-question-us-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-and-aap-leader-atishi-bicker-over-election-promises-8742908">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises'</a>
It further stated that Dhaliwal's portfolio has been amended and now he will only hold the portfolio of NRI affairs in the Punjab cabinet. The amendment was done on 7 February on the order of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwat Mann.&nbsp;
Dhaliwal used to lead the agriculture and farmers welfare department earlier - but his portfolio was changed in May 2023 during a Cabinet reshuffle. He was then assigned to the administrative reforms department.
In September 2024, another Cabinet reshuffle took place, but Dhaliwal remained in his position for the department that only existed on paper for nearly 20 months. No staff was hired for the department and no meetings were held.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-earthquake-aaps-arvind-kejriwal-atishi-pray-for-peoples-safety-police-release-helpline-number-8727438">Delhi NCR earthquake: AAP&rsquo;s Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi pray for people&rsquo;s safety; Police release helpline number</a>
<h2>'Crisis in Punjab'</h2>
As the notification of the bizarre mess-up came, the opposition Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) slammed the Punjab government. Taking to the social media platform X, BJP leader Amit Malviya said, &ldquo;You can imagine the crisis in Punjab government if it took nearly 20 months to realise that a department assigned to one of its prominent ministers never actually existed. Arvind Kejriwal is a charlatan who must be banished from public life.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fwcft6-qs9ojevt-sj0xhwfg">
You can imagine the crisis in Punjab government if it took nearly 20 months to realise that a department assigned to one of its prominent ministers never actually existed. Arvind Kejriwal is a charlatan who must be banished from public life. <a href="https://t.co/DbP0XlWbNx">https://t.co/DbP0XlWbNx</a>
&mdash; Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1893166088201887822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-cm-bhagwant-mann-rejects-rumours-of-dissent-in-aap-switching-sides-is-congress-culture-8711256">Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann rejects rumours of dissent in AAP; 'switching sides is Congress' culture'</a>
National spokesperson for the BJP, Pradeep Bhandari also criticised the AAP-led government in the state as he wrote on X, "AAP has made Governance in Punjab a joke! The AAP Minister ran a department for 20 Months which never existed! Imagine for 20 months the CM did not even knew that a minister was running a " NON EXISTENT DEPARMENT."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fwcpcp-5qeve6fj-ao6ob8vm">
Aap has made Governance in Punjab a joke! The AAP Minister ran a department for 20 Months which never existed! Imagine for 20 months the CM did not even knew that a minister was running a " NON EXISTENT DEPARMENT"<a href="https://t.co/HR7LXm0qNg">https://t.co/HR7LXm0qNg</a>
&mdash; Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) <a href="https://twitter.com/pradip103/status/1893148643147890781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-aaps-delhi-model-subsidies-continue-under-bjp-8703859">Will AAP's 'Delhi Model' subsidies continue under BJP?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

TRENDING | INDIA NEWS | Dhaliwal used to lead the agriculture and farmers welfare department earlier - but his portfolio was changed in May 2023 during a Cabinet reshuffle. He was then assigned the administrative reforms department.

A minister from the Indian state of Punjab has been found running a department that never existed for 20 months. The scam came to light after a gazette notification was issued by the chief secretary of the state saying that the department allotted to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal was "not in existence". “In partial modification of the previous Punjab govt notification regarding the allocation of portfolios, among ministers, the department of administrative reforms earlier allotted to Dhaliwal is not in existence as of date," the notification read. Also read: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises' It further stated that Dhaliwal's portfolio has been amended and now he will only hold the portfolio of NRI affairs in the Punjab cabinet. The amendment was done on 7 February on the order of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwat Mann. Dhaliwal used to lead the agriculture and farmers welfare department earlier - but his portfolio was changed in May 2023 during a Cabinet reshuffle. He was then assigned to the administrative reforms department. In September 2024, another Cabinet reshuffle took place, but Dhaliwal remained in his position for the department that only existed on paper for nearly 20 months. No staff was hired for the department and no meetings were held. Also read: Delhi NCR earthquake: AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi pray for people’s safety; Police release helpline number 'Crisis in Punjab' As the notification of the bizarre mess-up came, the opposition Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) slammed the Punjab government. Taking to the social media platform X, BJP leader Amit Malviya said, “You can imagine the crisis in Punjab government if it took nearly 20 months to realise that a department assigned to one of its prominent ministers never actually existed. Arvind Kejriwal is a charlatan who must be banished from public life.” You can imagine the crisis in Punjab government if it took nearly 20 months to realise that a department assigned to one of its prominent ministers never actually existed. Arvind Kejriwal is a charlatan who must be banished from public life. https://t.co/DbP0XlWbNx — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) February 22, 2025 Also read: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann rejects rumours of dissent in AAP; 'switching sides is Congress' culture' National spokesperson for the BJP, Pradeep Bhandari also criticised the AAP-led government in the state as he wrote on X, "AAP has made Governance in Punjab a joke! The AAP Minister ran a department for 20 Months which never existed! Imagine for 20 months the CM did not even knew that a minister was running a " NON EXISTENT DEPARMENT." Aap has made Governance in Punjab a joke! The AAP Minister ran a department for 20 Months which never existed! Imagine for 20 months the CM did not even knew that a minister was running a " NON EXISTENT DEPARMENT"https://t.co/HR7LXm0qNg — Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) February 22, 2025 Also read: Will AAP's 'Delhi Model' subsidies continue under BJP? (With inputs from agencies)

AAP minister in Punjab found running department that never existed, BJP calls govt 'a joke'

The higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley have been covered with a white blanket of snow and the winter activities are at their peak in North Kashmir's Gurez area of Bandipora District. Cricket enthusiasts from the Gurez area aren&rsquo;t giving up playing cricket despite heaps of snow and minus-degree temperatures. These local cricket lovers from the bordering village of Gurez have started a cricket tournament on the ice pitch surrounded by the snowclad mountains.&nbsp;
It has become an annual event in the Gurez Valley to hold the Ice Cricket Tournament during winter. The event became a hit a few years ago after videos of the tournament went viral on social media. International cricket players from across the world have appreciated and shared the photos and videos on their social media handles. Gurez has received heaps of snow this year which has generally led to the shutting of roads leading from Srinagar to Gurez.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-snowfall-and-rain-in-kashmir-valley-end-dry-spell-bring-respite-8740289" rel="dofollow">Fresh snowfall and rain in Kashmir Valley end dry spell, bring respite</a>
The tournament is organised by the Indian Army every year to promote tourism and winter activities in the Gurez area which is generally cut off during the winters.&nbsp;
''The tournament has been organised by the Indian Army here. Locals also organise it as well. If the government also held such activities, then Gurez would be promoted as a tourism destination. It's always the Indian Army which helps us to organise such events. We want the government to also support such activities so that this place gets more tourism and promotion,'' said Zakir Hussain, a local.&nbsp;
<h2>Gurez receives heavy snowfall, cutting it off&nbsp;</h2>
Gurez generally remains cut off for months from the rest of Kashmir Valley and the country due to heavy snow accumulation in the region. But that does not dampen the spirit of the locals as the Indian Army has started many winter sports activities in the region. A ski training workshop for the local youth was organised by the Indian Army as well.&nbsp;
The Youth of the Gurez region is extremely happy and thankful to the Indian Army for organising such events where not only are these youngsters trained, but also help promote the region so that more and more people visit the area.&nbsp;
''Indian Army organises these events to engage youth in such events. We are very thankful to them for it and They also keep prize money to help the youngsters of the area. We hope that more and more such activities are held in the area so that Gurez becomes a tourist attraction,'' said Zahid Ahmad, a local.&nbsp;
The Indian Army promotes such activities in these areas with the aim that these winter sports activities will explore local talent &amp; develop skills in citizens to boost tourism and recreational opportunities in the region.&nbsp;

Kashmir snowfall India News: The tournament is organised by the Indian Army every year to promote tourism and winter activities in the Gurez area.

The higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley have been covered with a white blanket of snow and the winter activities are at their peak in North Kashmir's Gurez area of Bandipora District. Cricket enthusiasts from the Gurez area aren’t giving up playing cricket despite heaps of snow and minus-degree temperatures. These local cricket lovers from the bordering village of Gurez have started a cricket tournament on the ice pitch surrounded by the snowclad mountains. It has become an annual event in the Gurez Valley to hold the Ice Cricket Tournament during winter. The event became a hit a few years ago after videos of the tournament went viral on social media. International cricket players from across the world have appreciated and shared the photos and videos on their social media handles. Gurez has received heaps of snow this year which has generally led to the shutting of roads leading from Srinagar to Gurez. Also Read: Fresh snowfall and rain in Kashmir Valley end dry spell, bring respite The tournament is organised by the Indian Army every year to promote tourism and winter activities in the Gurez area which is generally cut off during the winters. ''The tournament has been organised by the Indian Army here. Locals also organise it as well. If the government also held such activities, then Gurez would be promoted as a tourism destination. It's always the Indian Army which helps us to organise such events. We want the government to also support such activities so that this place gets more tourism and promotion,'' said Zakir Hussain, a local. Gurez receives heavy snowfall, cutting it off Gurez generally remains cut off for months from the rest of Kashmir Valley and the country due to heavy snow accumulation in the region. But that does not dampen the spirit of the locals as the Indian Army has started many winter sports activities in the region. A ski training workshop for the local youth was organised by the Indian Army as well. The Youth of the Gurez region is extremely happy and thankful to the Indian Army for organising such events where not only are these youngsters trained, but also help promote the region so that more and more people visit the area. ''Indian Army organises these events to engage youth in such events. We are very thankful to them for it and They also keep prize money to help the youngsters of the area. We hope that more and more such activities are held in the area so that Gurez becomes a tourist attraction,'' said Zahid Ahmad, a local. The Indian Army promotes such activities in these areas with the aim that these winter sports activities will explore local talent & develop skills in citizens to boost tourism and recreational opportunities in the region.

Jammu & Kashmir: Ice cricket tournament in snow-clad Gurez enthuses locals

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday urged party workers to strengthen the organisation and begin preparations for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.
Party workers met Gandhi at his parliamentary residence in Bhuemau and apprised him of various issues, particularly those concerning Dalits.
Sunil Kumar Gautam, president of the Congress Scheduled Caste wing in Rae Bareli, said a 12-member delegation from the community met Gandhi at his Bhuemau residence.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-expresses-dissent-over-chief-election-commissioner-appointment-calls-selection-process-disrespectful-discourteous-8732363">Rahul Gandhi expresses dissent over Chief Election Commissioner&rsquo;s appointment; &lsquo;disrespectful, discourteous&rsquo;</a>
"We discussed issues concerning the Scheduled Caste community and informed him about the difficulties faced since the BJP government came to power in the state. A major concern is that sanitation workers from the Valmiki community, employed in municipal bodies, are still forced to work without protective gear, which is a violation of Supreme Court directives," Gautam told PTI Videos.
He added that Gandhi motivated them and emphasised the need to prepare vigorously for the 2027 elections while strengthening the party organisation.
Congress's Rae Bareli committee vice-president Sarvottam Kumar Mishra praised Gandhi's leadership, and said his "honesty, vision, and work ethic were beyond description".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-court-summons-rahul-gandhi-on-march-24-over-defamatory-remarks-about-indian-army-8713850">UP court summons Rahul Gandhi on March 24 over defamatory remarks about Indian Army</a>
After the meeting, Mishra told PTI Videos that Gandhi carefully listened to party workers and the general public and stressed the need for solutions to their concerns.
The Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha commenced his two-day visit to Rae Bareli on Thursday.
On the second day of his visit, Gandhi paid tribute to Veera Pasi, a hero of the 1857 revolution, and BR Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution, by garlanding their statues in Narpatganj.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-alleges-maharashtra-poll-anomaly-cm-fadnavis-fires-back-8699332">Rahul Gandhi alleges irregularities in Maharashtra polls, CM Fadnavis fires back</a>
Later in the afternoon, he participated in a 'Yuva Samvad" in Lalganj where he interacted with youths, highlighting the issue of unemployment and slamming the government for it. He then visited the Modern Rail Coach Factory plant in Lalganj where he stressed that "railways is the lifeline of India and the government should prioritise making it safe and comfortable for passengers".
Gandhi held discussions with the factory's general manager Prashant Kumar Mishra and other senior officials regarding coach manufacturing.
Chief Public Relations Officer RN Tiwari said, "The MRCF administration provided detailed insights into the production process of various types of coaches, including Sleeper, AC3 Economy, Humsafar, Antyodaya, AC Pantry Car, Non-AC Chair Car, Tejas, Rajdhani, Bharat Gaurav, Mozambique, and Vande Bharat. This year, the production focus is on general and sleeper coaches, which constitute about 90 per cent of the total output."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-in-india-was-good-initiative-but-pm-modi-pretty-much-failed-says-rahul-gandhi-in-lok-sabha-watch-8686628">&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo; was good initiative but PM Modi &lsquo;pretty much failed&rsquo;, says Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha- WATCH</a>
Gandhi described the Railways as the "backbone of the country" and inquired about indigenous technology, domestic manufacturing, and the role of both railway employees and contract workers in coach production."&nbsp;
He acknowledged the transformation in the railway sector, stating, "Railways are a fundamental necessity, and revolutionary changes have taken place." Expressing satisfaction, he noted that while many sectors are primarily engaged in trading, MRCF is actively contributing to coach manufacturing.
Gandhi later left for Lucknow by road to further depart for Delhi.
Meanwhile, in some areas of Rae Bareli, posters opposing Gandhi and the Congress party surfaced during his visit. The posters accused Gandhi of insulting BSP chief Mayawati and the Dalit community.
The posters referenced a recent statement by Congress leader Udit Raj against Mayawati.
"Mr. Rahul Gandhi, your double standards are evident. On one hand, you visit Scheduled Caste hostels and memorials of Veera Pasi to pose as a benefactor of Dalits, while on the other hand, your party leaders openly declare their intention to strangle Dalit icon and four-time Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Behan Kumari Mayawati," read one of the posters.
"This is an insult to the entire Dalit community. Apologise for this, or the Dalit society will ensure you learn a lesson," stated the message, attributed to the Bahujan Swabhiman Manch, Uttar Pradesh.
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 news: Party workers met Gandhi at his parliamentary residence in Bhuemau and apprised him of various issues, particularly those concerning Dalits.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday urged party workers to strengthen the organisation and begin preparations for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. Party workers met Gandhi at his parliamentary residence in Bhuemau and apprised him of various issues, particularly those concerning Dalits. Sunil Kumar Gautam, president of the Congress Scheduled Caste wing in Rae Bareli, said a 12-member delegation from the community met Gandhi at his Bhuemau residence. Also read: Rahul Gandhi expresses dissent over Chief Election Commissioner’s appointment; ‘disrespectful, discourteous’ "We discussed issues concerning the Scheduled Caste community and informed him about the difficulties faced since the BJP government came to power in the state. A major concern is that sanitation workers from the Valmiki community, employed in municipal bodies, are still forced to work without protective gear, which is a violation of Supreme Court directives," Gautam told PTI Videos. He added that Gandhi motivated them and emphasised the need to prepare vigorously for the 2027 elections while strengthening the party organisation. Congress's Rae Bareli committee vice-president Sarvottam Kumar Mishra praised Gandhi's leadership, and said his "honesty, vision, and work ethic were beyond description". Also read: UP court summons Rahul Gandhi on March 24 over defamatory remarks about Indian Army After the meeting, Mishra told PTI Videos that Gandhi carefully listened to party workers and the general public and stressed the need for solutions to their concerns. The Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha commenced his two-day visit to Rae Bareli on Thursday. On the second day of his visit, Gandhi paid tribute to Veera Pasi, a hero of the 1857 revolution, and BR Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution, by garlanding their statues in Narpatganj. Also read: Rahul Gandhi alleges irregularities in Maharashtra polls, CM Fadnavis fires back Later in the afternoon, he participated in a 'Yuva Samvad" in Lalganj where he interacted with youths, highlighting the issue of unemployment and slamming the government for it. He then visited the Modern Rail Coach Factory plant in Lalganj where he stressed that "railways is the lifeline of India and the government should prioritise making it safe and comfortable for passengers". Gandhi held discussions with the factory's general manager Prashant Kumar Mishra and other senior officials regarding coach manufacturing. Chief Public Relations Officer RN Tiwari said, "The MRCF administration provided detailed insights into the production process of various types of coaches, including Sleeper, AC3 Economy, Humsafar, Antyodaya, AC Pantry Car, Non-AC Chair Car, Tejas, Rajdhani, Bharat Gaurav, Mozambique, and Vande Bharat. This year, the production focus is on general and sleeper coaches, which constitute about 90 per cent of the total output." Also read: ‘Make in India’ was good initiative but PM Modi ‘pretty much failed’, says Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha- WATCH Gandhi described the Railways as the "backbone of the country" and inquired about indigenous technology, domestic manufacturing, and the role of both railway employees and contract workers in coach production." He acknowledged the transformation in the railway sector, stating, "Railways are a fundamental necessity, and revolutionary changes have taken place." Expressing satisfaction, he noted that while many sectors are primarily engaged in trading, MRCF is actively contributing to coach manufacturing. Gandhi later left for Lucknow by road to further depart for Delhi. Meanwhile, in some areas of Rae Bareli, posters opposing Gandhi and the Congress party surfaced during his visit. The posters accused Gandhi of insulting BSP chief Mayawati and the Dalit community. The posters referenced a recent statement by Congress leader Udit Raj against Mayawati. "Mr. Rahul Gandhi, your double standards are evident. On one hand, you visit Scheduled Caste hostels and memorials of Veera Pasi to pose as a benefactor of Dalits, while on the other hand, your party leaders openly declare their intention to strangle Dalit icon and four-time Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Behan Kumari Mayawati," read one of the posters. "This is an insult to the entire Dalit community. Apologise for this, or the Dalit society will ensure you learn a lesson," stated the message, attributed to the Bahujan Swabhiman Manch, Uttar Pradesh. 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.

'Begin preparation for 2027 UP elections': Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tells party workers

India and Pakistan on Friday held a flag meeting along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district in an effort to ease tension after several recent incidents of cross-border firing and an IED attack, official sources said.
The sources said the brigade-commander level flag meeting took place in the Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point area with both sides highlighting the need to maintain peace along the borders.
The 75-minute long meeting started around 11 am, they said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-couple-nabbed-for-allegedly-killing-13-yeard-old-maid-for-stealing-chocolate-8733784" rel="dofollow">Pakistan couple nabbed for allegedly killing 13-yeard-old maid who 'stole' chocolates</a>
The meeting took place in a congenial atmosphere and both sides agreed to honour the ceasefire agreement in the larger interest of peace on the borders, the sources said.
The ceasefire violations along the borders of Jammu and Kashmir have been rare since the two countries renewed an agreement on February 25, 2021.
Two Indian Army personnel, including a captain, were killed and another injured in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack carried out by suspected terrorists in the Akhnoor sector of the Jammu region on February 11.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-organises-ice-cricket-tournament-in-gurez-area-close-to-line-of-control-690943" rel="dofollow">Indian Army organises Ice Cricket Tournament in Gurez area close to Line of Control</a>
Two army personnel were also injured in separate incidents of small arms firing from across the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts on February 10 and 14, while two more army personnel were injured in separate landmine explosions in Poonch in the past week.
The extent of damage on the Pakistan side in the retaliatory action was not known immediately but the officials said the enemy forces also suffered &ldquo;heavy casualties&rdquo;.
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 news: Sources said brigade-commander level flag meeting took place in the Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point area with both sides stressing need to maintain peace along borders.

India and Pakistan on Friday held a flag meeting along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district in an effort to ease tension after several recent incidents of cross-border firing and an IED attack, official sources said. The sources said the brigade-commander level flag meeting took place in the Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point area with both sides highlighting the need to maintain peace along the borders. The 75-minute long meeting started around 11 am, they said. Also read: Pakistan couple nabbed for allegedly killing 13-yeard-old maid who 'stole' chocolates The meeting took place in a congenial atmosphere and both sides agreed to honour the ceasefire agreement in the larger interest of peace on the borders, the sources said. The ceasefire violations along the borders of Jammu and Kashmir have been rare since the two countries renewed an agreement on February 25, 2021. Two Indian Army personnel, including a captain, were killed and another injured in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack carried out by suspected terrorists in the Akhnoor sector of the Jammu region on February 11. Also read: Indian Army organises Ice Cricket Tournament in Gurez area close to Line of Control Two army personnel were also injured in separate incidents of small arms firing from across the LoC in Rajouri and Poonch districts on February 10 and 14, while two more army personnel were injured in separate landmine explosions in Poonch in the past week. The extent of damage on the Pakistan side in the retaliatory action was not known immediately but the officials said the enemy forces also suffered “heavy casualties”. 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.

'Need to maintain peace along the borders': India, Pakistan hold flag meeting along LoC in J&K's Poonch

Sri Lanka's acting High commissioner to India Priyanga Wickramasinghe has emphasised "deep rooted" ties with India, one that is "bound by a common heritage of traditions". Speaking at the country's Independence day celebrations in Delhi, she said, "our bonds are deep rooted, defined by mutual respect and cooperation. Our relationship transcends mere diplomacy and geographical proximity. We are bound by a common heritage of traditions and values upon which a vision for the future and shared destiny can emerge", adding, "I'm confident that the robust ties between our peoples and the bilateral relations can only flourish further". The comments come at a time when both countries are working in a range of domains like infra projects including an oil pipeline.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake visited India in December of 2024, which was his first international trip after taking office in September that year.
During the visit, he met Indian President Murmu and held talks with PM Narendra Modi &amp; assured that his country's territory will not be used for any activities against India. The comments were significant in view of China's attempt to increase influence in the Indian ocean region.&nbsp;
The top Sri Lankan diplomat, recalling the visit, said, "both Indian and Sri Lankan leadership "unequivocally recognized the vast potential that our bilateral relationship holds and affirmed their commitment to this mutually beneficial, comprehensive partnership through the many avenues that lie ahead of us". It is expected that PM Modi could travel to the country very soon.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-concerning-indian-foreign-ministry-reacts-to-trumps-21m-funding-for-voter-turnout-in-india-claim-8743564" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim</a>
During Sri Lanka's economic crisis, India provided with assistance of $4 billion even as the international community was seen hesitating. Delhi was also among the first to back Sri Lanka&rsquo;s request for a $2.9 billion IMF bailout in 2022.&nbsp;
At the national day celebrations, India was represented by Minister of State for External Affairs of India Pabitra Margherita. Terming the ties "special", the minister said, "as a trusted and reliable partner, India has been working closely with Sri Lanka on its economic recovery and has been extending all possible assistance. While we supported IMF debt restructuring process, we have provided grant assistance, investment led growth approach to support Sri Lanka in its path of economic recovery"
Delhi's diplomatic community was present in full strength at the celebrations, even as the high commission was decked in blue lotus brought from Sri Lanka, which is the country's national flower. The blue lotus has been a cultural symbol in the country, and used in religious offerings, festivals.&nbsp;
During her address, Priyanga Wickramasinghe also listed President Dissanayake's policies like "Clean Sri Lanka". She said it has become a "nationwide initiative with the vision to create a beautiful island and a smiling people. In many ways, it is a road map towards the future that prioritizes enhancing environmental sustainability, reducing waste across the country and a nationwide commitment to strengthening ethical values. In other words, the word clean here means many things, all of which are of crucial importance in strategizing towards Sri Lanka's future".
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-delhis-4th-woman-cm-holds-10-key-portfolios-including-finance-and-womens-development-8743107" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rekha Gupta, Delhi&rsquo;s 4th woman CM, holds 10 key portfolios, including finance and women's development</a>
Anura Kumara Dissanayake&rsquo;s victory in the 2024 Sri Lankan presidential election is seen as a historic shift in the country&rsquo;s political landscape. For over 70 years, Sri Lanka&rsquo;s presidency was dominated by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), United National Party (UNP), or their offshoots. Dissanayake&rsquo;s win with no ties to these dynasties was a clean break from the past.&nbsp;
The top Sri Lankan diplomat in Delhi pointed, "This year's anniversary is particularly important against the backdrop of having in place a new government in Sri Lanka with a very high national mandate that is unusual even by Sri Lanka's consistently high statistics of electoral participation in recent history. This, in itself, is a major achievement in a very long time. This is the first time the Sri Lankan people, across ethnic, cultural, class, gender, and language divides, have voted almost in unison towards reinventing Sri Lanka after the economic and financial difficulties we experienced in the recent past", explaining, "in many ways, it is a vote for occupying the moral high ground in practice, while at the same time also taking the country forward."

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake visited India in December of 2024, which was his first international trip after taking office in September that year.

Sri Lanka's acting High commissioner to India Priyanga Wickramasinghe has emphasised "deep rooted" ties with India, one that is "bound by a common heritage of traditions". Speaking at the country's Independence day celebrations in Delhi, she said, "our bonds are deep rooted, defined by mutual respect and cooperation. Our relationship transcends mere diplomacy and geographical proximity. We are bound by a common heritage of traditions and values upon which a vision for the future and shared destiny can emerge", adding, "I'm confident that the robust ties between our peoples and the bilateral relations can only flourish further". The comments come at a time when both countries are working in a range of domains like infra projects including an oil pipeline. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake visited India in December of 2024, which was his first international trip after taking office in September that year. During the visit, he met Indian President Murmu and held talks with PM Narendra Modi & assured that his country's territory will not be used for any activities against India. The comments were significant in view of China's attempt to increase influence in the Indian ocean region. The top Sri Lankan diplomat, recalling the visit, said, "both Indian and Sri Lankan leadership "unequivocally recognized the vast potential that our bilateral relationship holds and affirmed their commitment to this mutually beneficial, comprehensive partnership through the many avenues that lie ahead of us". It is expected that PM Modi could travel to the country very soon. Also Read: 'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim During Sri Lanka's economic crisis, India provided with assistance of $4 billion even as the international community was seen hesitating. Delhi was also among the first to back Sri Lanka’s request for a $2.9 billion IMF bailout in 2022. At the national day celebrations, India was represented by Minister of State for External Affairs of India Pabitra Margherita. Terming the ties "special", the minister said, "as a trusted and reliable partner, India has been working closely with Sri Lanka on its economic recovery and has been extending all possible assistance. While we supported IMF debt restructuring process, we have provided grant assistance, investment led growth approach to support Sri Lanka in its path of economic recovery" Delhi's diplomatic community was present in full strength at the celebrations, even as the high commission was decked in blue lotus brought from Sri Lanka, which is the country's national flower. The blue lotus has been a cultural symbol in the country, and used in religious offerings, festivals. During her address, Priyanga Wickramasinghe also listed President Dissanayake's policies like "Clean Sri Lanka". She said it has become a "nationwide initiative with the vision to create a beautiful island and a smiling people. In many ways, it is a road map towards the future that prioritizes enhancing environmental sustainability, reducing waste across the country and a nationwide commitment to strengthening ethical values. In other words, the word clean here means many things, all of which are of crucial importance in strategizing towards Sri Lanka's future". Also Read: Rekha Gupta, Delhi’s 4th woman CM, holds 10 key portfolios, including finance and women's development Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s victory in the 2024 Sri Lankan presidential election is seen as a historic shift in the country’s political landscape. For over 70 years, Sri Lanka’s presidency was dominated by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), United National Party (UNP), or their offshoots. Dissanayake’s win with no ties to these dynasties was a clean break from the past. The top Sri Lankan diplomat in Delhi pointed, "This year's anniversary is particularly important against the backdrop of having in place a new government in Sri Lanka with a very high national mandate that is unusual even by Sri Lanka's consistently high statistics of electoral participation in recent history. This, in itself, is a major achievement in a very long time. This is the first time the Sri Lankan people, across ethnic, cultural, class, gender, and language divides, have voted almost in unison towards reinventing Sri Lanka after the economic and financial difficulties we experienced in the recent past", explaining, "in many ways, it is a vote for occupying the moral high ground in practice, while at the same time also taking the country forward."

'Ties with India deep rooted, bound by heritage', says Sri Lanka's top diplomat in Delhi

Vishvaa Rajakumar, a 20-year-old Indian student, has won the Memory League World Championship 2025 by memorising the order of 80 random numbers in 13.50 seconds and 30 images in 8.40 seconds.
Memory League World Championship is an intense online competition.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-exclusive-driven-by-motherhood-ritu-phogat-eyes-glory-in-one-championship-return-8723979">Exclusive | Driven by motherhood, Ritu Phogat eyes glory in ONE Championship return</a>
According to the Memory League website, Rajakumar is ranked No 1 with a score of 5,000.
Rajakumar memorised 80 numbers in 13.50 seconds and 30 images in 8.40 seconds during the championship held recently.&nbsp;According to his LinkedIn profile, Rajakumar is a student of Puducherry-based ManakulaVinayagar Institute of Technology.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-asia-mixed-team-championships-2025-india-go-down-3-0-to-japan-in-last-eight-stage-8720873">Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025: India go down 3-0 to Japan in quarterfinals</a>
Speaking to The New York Times on his technique and strategies of memorisation, Rajakumar said,"Hydration is very important because it helps your brain. When you memorise things, you usually subvocalise, and it helps to have a clear throat." "Let's say you're reading a book. You're not reading it out loud, but you are vocalising within yourself. If you don't drink a lot of water, your speed will be a bit low. If you drink a lot of water, it will be more and more clear and you can read it faster," he said.
Rajakumar said he was crying when he achieved the feat.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-blitz-championship-vaishali-clinches-womens-bronze-as-india-sign-off-on-a-high-8583149">World Blitz Championship: Vaishali clinches women's bronze as India sign off on a high</a>
"They give you 80 random numbers that they display on a screen. You have to memorize all of those numbers as fast as possible, then click a button and a recall sheet appears. I wrote down all of the 80 digits &mdash; and I got them all right. My fastest time to memorise 80 random digits in this World Championship was 13.5 seconds, so almost six digits per second," he to the newspaper. He said after the completion of college, he would try to be a memory trainer and create a memory institution in India to teach other people these techniques.
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INDIA NEWS | world | Rajakumar memorised 80 numbers in 13.50 seconds and 30 images in 8.40 seconds during the championship held recently. According to his LinkedIn profile, Rajakumar is a student of Puducherry-based ManakulaVinayagar Institute of Technology.

Vishvaa Rajakumar, a 20-year-old Indian student, has won the Memory League World Championship 2025 by memorising the order of 80 random numbers in 13.50 seconds and 30 images in 8.40 seconds. Memory League World Championship is an intense online competition. Also read: Exclusive | Driven by motherhood, Ritu Phogat eyes glory in ONE Championship return According to the Memory League website, Rajakumar is ranked No 1 with a score of 5,000. Rajakumar memorised 80 numbers in 13.50 seconds and 30 images in 8.40 seconds during the championship held recently. According to his LinkedIn profile, Rajakumar is a student of Puducherry-based ManakulaVinayagar Institute of Technology. Also read: Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025: India go down 3-0 to Japan in quarterfinals Speaking to The New York Times on his technique and strategies of memorisation, Rajakumar said,"Hydration is very important because it helps your brain. When you memorise things, you usually subvocalise, and it helps to have a clear throat." "Let's say you're reading a book. You're not reading it out loud, but you are vocalising within yourself. If you don't drink a lot of water, your speed will be a bit low. If you drink a lot of water, it will be more and more clear and you can read it faster," he said. Rajakumar said he was crying when he achieved the feat. Also read: World Blitz Championship: Vaishali clinches women's bronze as India sign off on a high "They give you 80 random numbers that they display on a screen. You have to memorize all of those numbers as fast as possible, then click a button and a recall sheet appears. I wrote down all of the 80 digits — and I got them all right. My fastest time to memorise 80 random digits in this World Championship was 13.5 seconds, so almost six digits per second," he to the newspaper. He said after the completion of college, he would try to be a memory trainer and create a memory institution in India to teach other people these techniques. 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.

Indian student Vishvaa Rajakumar wins Memory League World Championship 2025

Rekha Gupta, the newly appointed Delhi Minister, on Thursday (Feb 20) announced the allocation of portfolios among her Council of Ministers. Gupta, the fourth woman CM of India's national capital, has kept a number of important portfolios, including finance, services, vigilance, revenue, and women and child development, with her.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-are-they-to-question-us-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-and-aap-leader-atishi-bicker-over-election-promises-8742908">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises'</a>
<h2>Which portfolios does CM Rekha Gupta have?</h2>
As per a PTI news agency report, the newly appointed CM has been assigned a total of 10 portfolios, the highest among all the ministers in Delhi's new government.
Her responsibilities include:
<ol>
<li>General Administration</li>
<li>Services</li>
<li>Finance</li>
<li>Revenue</li>
<li>Women and Child Development</li>
<li>Land and Building</li>
<li>Information and Public Relations</li>
<li>Vigilance</li>
<li>Administrative Reforms</li>
<li>Planning and any other department not allocated to other ministers</li>
</ol>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-first-act-as-delhi-cm-grand-yamuna-aarti-with-bjp-ministers-watch-8741057">Rekha Gupta&rsquo;s first action as Delhi CM? Grand &lsquo;Yamuna aarti&rsquo; with&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;ministers&nbsp;|&nbsp;Watch</a>
<h2>Rekha Gupta's cabinet picks</h2>
Following a cabinet meeting, CM Gupta, in her inaugural press conference as chief minister, announced that Parvesh Verma, who defeated ex-CM Arvind Kejriwal on the New Delhi assembly seat, has been allotted multiple portfolios:
<ul>
<li>Public Works Department</li>
<li>Legislative Affairs</li>
<li>Irrigation &amp; Flood Control</li>
<li>Water</li>
<li>Gurudwara Elections</li>
</ul>
Ashish Sood has been assigned six departments:
<ul>
<li>Home</li>
<li>Power</li>
<li>Urban Development</li>
<li>Education</li>
<li>Higher Education</li>
<li>Training &amp; Technical Education</li>
</ul>
Kapil Mishra, a turncoat politician who was earlier with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has been made the minister for:
<ul>
<li>Law &amp; Justice</li>
<li>Labour</li>
<li>Employment</li>
<li>Development</li>
<li>Art</li>
<li>Culture &amp; Language</li>
<li>Tourism</li>
</ul>
Manjinder Singh Sirsa has been allotted:
<ul>
<li>Industries</li>
<li>Food &amp; Supplies</li>
<li>Environment</li>
<li>Forest &amp; Wild Life</li>
</ul>
Ravinder Indraj has been made minister of:
<ul>
<li>Health &amp; Family Welfare</li>
<li>Transport</li>
<li>Information Technology</li>
</ul>
Pankaj Singh's portfolio includes:
<ul>
<li>Social Welfare</li>
<li>Welfare of SC &amp; ST</li>
<li>Cooperative</li>
<li>Election</li>
</ul>
The portfolio appointments have been confirmed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, a notification issued by the general administrative department stated.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Discover the full list of portfolios assigned under Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, who has taken on key responsibilities, including finance and women and child development.

Rekha Gupta, the newly appointed Delhi Minister, on Thursday (Feb 20) announced the allocation of portfolios among her Council of Ministers. Gupta, the fourth woman CM of India's national capital, has kept a number of important portfolios, including finance, services, vigilance, revenue, and women and child development, with her. Also read | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises' Which portfolios does CM Rekha Gupta have? As per a PTI news agency report, the newly appointed CM has been assigned a total of 10 portfolios, the highest among all the ministers in Delhi's new government. Her responsibilities include: General Administration Services Finance Revenue Women and Child Development Land and Building Information and Public Relations Vigilance Administrative Reforms Planning and any other department not allocated to other ministers Also read | Rekha Gupta’s first action as Delhi CM? Grand ‘Yamuna aarti’ with BJP ministers | Watch Rekha Gupta's cabinet picks Following a cabinet meeting, CM Gupta, in her inaugural press conference as chief minister, announced that Parvesh Verma, who defeated ex-CM Arvind Kejriwal on the New Delhi assembly seat, has been allotted multiple portfolios: Public Works Department Legislative Affairs Irrigation & Flood Control Water Gurudwara Elections Ashish Sood has been assigned six departments: Home Power Urban Development Education Higher Education Training & Technical Education Kapil Mishra, a turncoat politician who was earlier with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has been made the minister for: Law & Justice Labour Employment Development Art Culture & Language Tourism Manjinder Singh Sirsa has been allotted: Industries Food & Supplies Environment Forest & Wild Life Ravinder Indraj has been made minister of: Health & Family Welfare Transport Information Technology Pankaj Singh's portfolio includes: Social Welfare Welfare of SC & ST Cooperative Election The portfolio appointments have been confirmed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, a notification issued by the general administrative department stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Rekha Gupta, Delhi’s 4th woman CM, holds 10 key portfolios, including finance and women's development

Devotees continued to arrive in large numbers at Triveni Sangam on Thursday to take a holy dip during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela at Prayagraj.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing the Assembly on Wednesday, emphasized the grandeur of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj and condemned the spread of misinformation against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, and India.
"While we are participating in the discussion here, more than 56.25 crore devotees have already taken their holy dip in Prayagraj... When we make baseless allegations or spread fake videos against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, or the Maha Kumbh, it is like playing with the faith of these 56 crore people," he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-are-they-to-question-us-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-and-aap-leader-atishi-bicker-over-election-promises-8742908">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises'</a>
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Tejasvi Surya attended the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj on Wednesday.
After taking holy dip in Triveni Sangam, BJP MP Surya interacted with the media and said he was blessed to take the 'Sangam' snan alongside hundreds of BJYM workers. He added that people from all the parts of the world have come here and praised the Yogi Adityanath government for organising the event.
"Today I had the blessed opportunity to take Sangam 'snan' along with hundreds of our BJYM workers...the world hasn't witnessed an event of this grandeur and scale before...the beauty about this entire event is the message of oneness and unity..", Surya said.
"People from across the country have come here, people from foreign countries have also come here...UP CM Yogi Adityanath and his administration have organised this event in an incredible fashion...", Surya added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-congress-over-alleged-foreign-funding-after-trumps-21-million-claim-8742586">'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</a>
The ongoing Mahakumbh 2025, the world's largest human gathering, has witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with over 550 million devotees taking the holy dip until February 18, officials said on Tuesday.
According to official data from February 18, 2025, till 8 PM, more than 12.6 million devotees participated in the grand religious event, marking yet another significant milestone in the 45-day-long spiritual congregation.
The Mahakumbh has witnessed a record-breaking massive turnout this time, and it is set to conclude on February 26. Many more are expected to visit and take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam.
A massive influx of devotees was witnessed at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and Ayodhya as pilgrims, after taking a holy dip in Prayagraj are arriving at the temples for darshan.&nbsp;
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.

Experience the spiritual fervor as thousands of devotees gather at Triveni Sangam for a sacred dip during the illustrious Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

Devotees continued to arrive in large numbers at Triveni Sangam on Thursday to take a holy dip during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela at Prayagraj. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing the Assembly on Wednesday, emphasized the grandeur of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj and condemned the spread of misinformation against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, and India. "While we are participating in the discussion here, more than 56.25 crore devotees have already taken their holy dip in Prayagraj... When we make baseless allegations or spread fake videos against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, or the Maha Kumbh, it is like playing with the faith of these 56 crore people," he said. Also read | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises' Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Tejasvi Surya attended the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj on Wednesday. After taking holy dip in Triveni Sangam, BJP MP Surya interacted with the media and said he was blessed to take the 'Sangam' snan alongside hundreds of BJYM workers. He added that people from all the parts of the world have come here and praised the Yogi Adityanath government for organising the event. "Today I had the blessed opportunity to take Sangam 'snan' along with hundreds of our BJYM workers...the world hasn't witnessed an event of this grandeur and scale before...the beauty about this entire event is the message of oneness and unity..", Surya said. "People from across the country have come here, people from foreign countries have also come here...UP CM Yogi Adityanath and his administration have organised this event in an incredible fashion...", Surya added. Also read | 'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi The ongoing Mahakumbh 2025, the world's largest human gathering, has witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with over 550 million devotees taking the holy dip until February 18, officials said on Tuesday. According to official data from February 18, 2025, till 8 PM, more than 12.6 million devotees participated in the grand religious event, marking yet another significant milestone in the 45-day-long spiritual congregation. The Mahakumbh has witnessed a record-breaking massive turnout this time, and it is set to conclude on February 26. Many more are expected to visit and take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam. A massive influx of devotees was witnessed at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and Ayodhya as pilgrims, after taking a holy dip in Prayagraj are arriving at the temples for darshan. 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.

Mahakumbh: Devotees continue to arrive in large numbers at Triveni Sangam to take holy dip

Rekha Gupta, the new Chief Minister of Delhi, hit back at former CM Atishi on Friday (Feb 21) after the latter accused the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) of &ldquo;breaking election promises&rdquo;.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The Congress ruled for 15 years and the AAP ruled for 13. Instead of looking at what they did, who are they to question us?... We had a cabinet meeting on day one, immediately after taking the oath, and we cleared the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which was blocked by AAP. We gave a benefit of ₹10 lakhs ($11,537) to the people of Delhi on the first day,&rdquo; the Delhi CM said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-atishi-lead-opposition-to-form-women-ruled-delhi-assembly-with-cm-rekha-gupta-8740352">Will Atishi lead opposition, make it women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta?</a>
&ldquo;They don't have any right to question us... We will worry about Delhi now and Delhi will get its rights under the leadership of PM Modi... They should look after their party; there are many people who want to leave... They are worried that when the CAG report will be tabled in the House, records of a lot of people would be exposed,&rdquo; Gupta further added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7egzi6c-9jf7qaxu-llor6nvh">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta says, "The Congress ruled for 15 years and the AAP ruled for 13. Instead of looking at what they did, how can they raise questions on one day of ours?... We had a cabinet meeting on day 1, immediately after taking the oath, and we cleared the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/3OJjWRjcUF">pic.twitter.com/3OJjWRjcUF</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892802453223158114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-earthquake-aaps-arvind-kejriwal-atishi-pray-for-peoples-safety-police-release-helpline-number-8727438">Delhi NCR earthquake: AAP&rsquo;s Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi pray for people&rsquo;s safety; Police release helpline number</a>
<h2>Atishi's allegations</h2>
In a video posted on the social media platform X on Thursday (Feb 20), Atishi said that the BJP had promised to pass the scheme of giving ₹2,500 ($28.84) to Delhi women in the first cabinet meeting itself.
"The new CM Rekha Gupta and her cabinet ministers took oath. In the evening, at 7 pm, the first cabinet meeting took place. All the women of Delhi were expecting the scheme to be passed...The first day itself BJP started breaking their promises...they did not pass the scheme...BJP has made up their mind to cheat people of Delhi," she said in the video.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/atishi-resigns-as-delhi-chief-minister-after-aap-faces-massive-defeat-against-bjp-8704138">Atishi resigns as chief minister after AAP faces massive defeat in Delhi</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7egzrt8-fp94w724-kehwuhwp">
भाजपा की दिल्ली सरकार ने पहले दिन से ही दिल्लीवालों को धोखा देना शुरू कर दिया। चुनाव से पहले पीएम मोदी और सभी भाजपा नेताओं ने वादा किया था कि पहली कैबिनेट में ही दिल्ली की हर महिला को ₹2500/महीना देने की योजना पास करेंगे। लेकिन आज पहली कैबिनेट हुई और इस पर कोई निर्णय नहीं हुआ।&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/TqxKtvnhPQ">pic.twitter.com/TqxKtvnhPQ</a>
&mdash; Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1892618237063659611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Atishi questions Rekha Gupta&nbsp;</h2>
In a press conference on Friday (Feb 21), Atishi again said, "Today, I want to ask Ms Rekha Gupta that is she going to prove Modiji a liar again or will ₹2,500 ($28.84) be credited to the accounts of all women of Delhi by March 8?"&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aaps-atishi-slammed-for-celebrating-kalkaji-assembly-win-watch-8703566">&lsquo;Shameless&rsquo;: AAP&rsquo;s Atishi criticised for dancing and celebrating Kalkaji seat win - WATCH</a>
Atishi was seen holding a sign with Rekha Gupta's picture which read "₹2,500 ($28.84) kab ayenge?" (When will ₹2,500 ($28.84) be credited?) along with some other women holding placards showing a picture of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the hashtag #ModiJhootaHai.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7egzwlq-k0r4wec5-8jqetksm">
भाजपा की दिल्ली सरकार ने महिलाओं को दिया धोखा, पहली कैबिनेट में ही ₹2500/महीने की स्कीम पास करने के वादे को तोड़ा। महत्वपूर्ण प्रेस कॉन्फ्रेंस। LIVE <a href="https://t.co/ktwdexwtfQ">https://t.co/ktwdexwtfQ</a>
&mdash; Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1892833998419743168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

INDIA NEWS | TRENDING | In a video posted on the social media platform X on Thursday (Feb 20), Atishi said that the BJP had promised to pass the scheme of giving ₹2,500 ($28.84) to Delhi women in the first cabinet meeting itself.

Rekha Gupta, the new Chief Minister of Delhi, hit back at former CM Atishi on Friday (Feb 21) after the latter accused the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) of “breaking election promises”. “The Congress ruled for 15 years and the AAP ruled for 13. Instead of looking at what they did, who are they to question us?... We had a cabinet meeting on day one, immediately after taking the oath, and we cleared the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which was blocked by AAP. We gave a benefit of ₹10 lakhs ($11,537) to the people of Delhi on the first day,” the Delhi CM said. Also read: Will Atishi lead opposition, make it women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta? “They don't have any right to question us... We will worry about Delhi now and Delhi will get its rights under the leadership of PM Modi... They should look after their party; there are many people who want to leave... They are worried that when the CAG report will be tabled in the House, records of a lot of people would be exposed,” Gupta further added. #WATCH | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta says, "The Congress ruled for 15 years and the AAP ruled for 13. Instead of looking at what they did, how can they raise questions on one day of ours?... We had a cabinet meeting on day 1, immediately after taking the oath, and we cleared the… pic.twitter.com/3OJjWRjcUF — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2025 Also read: Delhi NCR earthquake: AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi pray for people’s safety; Police release helpline number Atishi's allegations In a video posted on the social media platform X on Thursday (Feb 20), Atishi said that the BJP had promised to pass the scheme of giving ₹2,500 ($28.84) to Delhi women in the first cabinet meeting itself. "The new CM Rekha Gupta and her cabinet ministers took oath. In the evening, at 7 pm, the first cabinet meeting took place. All the women of Delhi were expecting the scheme to be passed...The first day itself BJP started breaking their promises...they did not pass the scheme...BJP has made up their mind to cheat people of Delhi," she said in the video. Also read: Atishi resigns as chief minister after AAP faces massive defeat in Delhi भाजपा की दिल्ली सरकार ने पहले दिन से ही दिल्लीवालों को धोखा देना शुरू कर दिया। चुनाव से पहले पीएम मोदी और सभी भाजपा नेताओं ने वादा किया था कि पहली कैबिनेट में ही दिल्ली की हर महिला को ₹2500/महीना देने की योजना पास करेंगे। लेकिन आज पहली कैबिनेट हुई और इस पर कोई निर्णय नहीं हुआ।… pic.twitter.com/TqxKtvnhPQ — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) February 20, 2025 Atishi questions Rekha Gupta In a press conference on Friday (Feb 21), Atishi again said, "Today, I want to ask Ms Rekha Gupta that is she going to prove Modiji a liar again or will ₹2,500 ($28.84) be credited to the accounts of all women of Delhi by March 8?" Also read: ‘Shameless’: AAP’s Atishi criticised for dancing and celebrating Kalkaji seat win - WATCH Atishi was seen holding a sign with Rekha Gupta's picture which read "₹2,500 ($28.84) kab ayenge?" (When will ₹2,500 ($28.84) be credited?) along with some other women holding placards showing a picture of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the hashtag #ModiJhootaHai. भाजपा की दिल्ली सरकार ने महिलाओं को दिया धोखा, पहली कैबिनेट में ही ₹2500/महीने की स्कीम पास करने के वादे को तोड़ा। महत्वपूर्ण प्रेस कॉन्फ्रेंस। LIVE https://t.co/ktwdexwtfQ — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) February 21, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and AAP leader Atishi bicker over 'election promises'

US President Donald Trump has once again criticised USAID funding to India, this time labeling the $21 million allocated for "voter turnout" as "a kickback scheme". Trump didn't provide evidence or clarify who benefited from the alleged scheme.
The BJP responded to Trump's comments, accusing Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of seeking foreign interference in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. They pointed to Gandhi's remarks at a London event as evidence.
"$21 million for voter turnout in India. Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems... it's a kickback scheme, you know," Trump said at a Republican Governors' conference.
"In many cases, many of these cases actually, you have no idea what we&rsquo;re talking about. That means there's a kickback because nobody has any idea what's going on," Trump said.
Trump's latest allegation comes a day after he questioned a move by former president Joe Biden's administration to provide $21 million to India for "voter turnout" and questioned if they were "trying to get somebody else elected".
"USD 21 million for voter turnout in India. Why do we need to spend USD 21 million for voter turnout in India? I guess they (the Biden administration) were trying to get somebody else elected. We have got to tell the Indian government... This is a total breakthrough," he said.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tractor-drivers-reckless-stunt-for-social-media-reel-turns-deadly-kills-10th-grade-student-in-up-8742054">India | Tractor driver's reckless stunt for social media reel turns deadly, kills 10th-grade student in UP</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">BJP reacts</h2>
BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya alleged that the USAID funds to India were used to sustain "deep-state assets".&nbsp;
While sharing Trump's video on X, Malviya stated, "A day after US President Donald Trump spoke about $21 million being sent to India for voter turnout, he has reiterated the charge. And no, he is not confusing it with the $29 million funnelled into Bangladesh. This time, he has also mentioned kickbacks. Essentially, this money is also used to sustain deep-state assets who work to defend and deflect such revelations. We are now witnessing the same pattern unfold in India."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kiit-suicide-five-more-arrested-for-allegedly-assaulting-nepalese-students-8741974">KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Jairam Ramesh demands a White Paper</h2>
Jairam Ramesh, the Congress's senior leader and communications in-charge, has hit back with a demand for a White Paper.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-second-term-sparks-controversy-57-pc-of-americans-say-hes-overstepped-authority-8742467">Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57 pc of Americans say he&rsquo;s overstepped authority</a>
In a post on X, Mr Ramesh said: "USAID is very much in the news these days. It was set up on November 3, 1961. Claims being made by the US President are typically nonsensical to say the least. Even so, the Govt of India should bring out a White Paper at the earliest detailing USAID's support to both governmental and non-governmental institutions in India over the decades".
(With inputs from agencies)

US President Trump criticised USAID's $21 million funding to India for voter turnout, calling it a kickback scheme, though he provided no evidence or details on beneficiaries.

US President Donald Trump has once again criticised USAID funding to India, this time labeling the $21 million allocated for "voter turnout" as "a kickback scheme". Trump didn't provide evidence or clarify who benefited from the alleged scheme. The BJP responded to Trump's comments, accusing Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of seeking foreign interference in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. They pointed to Gandhi's remarks at a London event as evidence. "$21 million for voter turnout in India. Why are we caring about India turnout? We got enough problems... it's a kickback scheme, you know," Trump said at a Republican Governors' conference. "In many cases, many of these cases actually, you have no idea what we’re talking about. That means there's a kickback because nobody has any idea what's going on," Trump said. Trump's latest allegation comes a day after he questioned a move by former president Joe Biden's administration to provide $21 million to India for "voter turnout" and questioned if they were "trying to get somebody else elected". "USD 21 million for voter turnout in India. Why do we need to spend USD 21 million for voter turnout in India? I guess they (the Biden administration) were trying to get somebody else elected. We have got to tell the Indian government... This is a total breakthrough," he said. Also read | India | Tractor driver's reckless stunt for social media reel turns deadly, kills 10th-grade student in UP BJP reacts BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya alleged that the USAID funds to India were used to sustain "deep-state assets". While sharing Trump's video on X, Malviya stated, "A day after US President Donald Trump spoke about $21 million being sent to India for voter turnout, he has reiterated the charge. And no, he is not confusing it with the $29 million funnelled into Bangladesh. This time, he has also mentioned kickbacks. Essentially, this money is also used to sustain deep-state assets who work to defend and deflect such revelations. We are now witnessing the same pattern unfold in India." Also read | KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students Jairam Ramesh demands a White Paper Jairam Ramesh, the Congress's senior leader and communications in-charge, has hit back with a demand for a White Paper. Also read | Trump's second term sparks controversy: 57 pc of Americans say he’s overstepped authority In a post on X, Mr Ramesh said: "USAID is very much in the news these days. It was set up on November 3, 1961. Claims being made by the US President are typically nonsensical to say the least. Even so, the Govt of India should bring out a White Paper at the earliest detailing USAID's support to both governmental and non-governmental institutions in India over the decades". (With inputs from agencies)

'Kickback Scheme': Trump criticises USAID funding to India, BJP targets Rahul Gandhi

Highlighting the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the G20's ability to harmonise viewpoints is key to advancing the global agenda.
Jaishankar is in Johannesburg on a two-day visit to South Africa to participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, Addressing the G20 session titled 'Discussion on the Global Geopolitical Situation', Jaishankar said the G20 is an important expression of the world's growing multi-polarity.
"The global geopolitical situation remains difficult by any definition. Some of it is the accumulated challenges of the Covid pandemic, conflict situations, financial pressures, food security and climate concerns," he said on Thursday.
But there are also the current anxieties about concentrated supply chains, weaponisation of trade and finance, and transparency of data flows, Jaishankar said.
"Looking ahead, differential progress on Artificial intelligence and Electric vehicles, space, drones or green hydrogen have clear geopolitical implications," he said.
G20 captures the "diversity of our interests, cultures and outlook," he said.
"For this very reason, its ability to harmonise viewpoints is key to advancing the global agenda," the minister said. He said the "polarisation" of recent years has created visible stress and distorted priorities.
"What we could do was, to somehow, find enough common ground to safeguard this institution. Today, the imperative is to go beyond that," Jaishankar said.
He also presented India's position on West Asia, maritime security, Ukraine conflict, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms. He said India welcomes the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, supports humanitarian assistance, condemns terrorism, and advocates a two-state solution.
Maintaining the ceasefire in Lebanon and ensuring an inclusive Syrian-led, Syrian-owned solution are important. Peace and stability in the region is vital for the entire world, he said.
Ensuring maritime security in and around this region is also essential, he said.
"Indian naval forces have contributed to that in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Restoring normal maritime commerce remains a priority," Jaishankar said.
In the Indo-Pacific, it is important that international law &ndash; especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 &ndash; is respected.
"Agreements entered into must be observed. And there must be no room for coercion," he said.
On the Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar said India has long advocated dialogue and diplomacy.&nbsp;Today, the world expects that parties concerned deal with each other to end the war, he said.
On UN reforms he said, "As G20 members, we also must recognise that multilateralism itself lies deeply damaged. The UN and its Security Council is often grid-locked. Just getting it back to work is not enough; its working methods and representation must change." More plurilateralism is required to plug global deficits, Jaishankar said.
"International cooperation itself must be less opaque or unilateral. And the global agenda cannot be narrowed down to the interests of a few," he said.
Geo-politics is a reality, as is national interest, he said.
"But the very purpose of diplomacy - and a group like G20 - is to find common ground and create the basis for collaboration," the minister said.
"We can do so best by observing international law, respecting the UN Charter and preserving institutions. Differences must not become disputes, disputes should not become conflicts, and conflicts should not lead to a bigger breakdown," he said.
As the premier forum for international economic cooperation, the G20 plays a critical role in steering the global economy through the significant challenges it faces.
The members of the G20 are: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, the African Union and the European Union.
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.

Explore India's stance on key issues like the Ukraine conflict, maritime security, and UN reforms, emphasizing the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and inclusive solutions.

Highlighting the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the G20's ability to harmonise viewpoints is key to advancing the global agenda. Jaishankar is in Johannesburg on a two-day visit to South Africa to participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, Addressing the G20 session titled 'Discussion on the Global Geopolitical Situation', Jaishankar said the G20 is an important expression of the world's growing multi-polarity. "The global geopolitical situation remains difficult by any definition. Some of it is the accumulated challenges of the Covid pandemic, conflict situations, financial pressures, food security and climate concerns," he said on Thursday. But there are also the current anxieties about concentrated supply chains, weaponisation of trade and finance, and transparency of data flows, Jaishankar said. "Looking ahead, differential progress on Artificial intelligence and Electric vehicles, space, drones or green hydrogen have clear geopolitical implications," he said. G20 captures the "diversity of our interests, cultures and outlook," he said. "For this very reason, its ability to harmonise viewpoints is key to advancing the global agenda," the minister said. He said the "polarisation" of recent years has created visible stress and distorted priorities. "What we could do was, to somehow, find enough common ground to safeguard this institution. Today, the imperative is to go beyond that," Jaishankar said. He also presented India's position on West Asia, maritime security, Ukraine conflict, Indo-Pacific and UN reforms. He said India welcomes the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, supports humanitarian assistance, condemns terrorism, and advocates a two-state solution. Maintaining the ceasefire in Lebanon and ensuring an inclusive Syrian-led, Syrian-owned solution are important. Peace and stability in the region is vital for the entire world, he said. Ensuring maritime security in and around this region is also essential, he said. "Indian naval forces have contributed to that in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Restoring normal maritime commerce remains a priority," Jaishankar said. In the Indo-Pacific, it is important that international law – especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 – is respected. "Agreements entered into must be observed. And there must be no room for coercion," he said. On the Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar said India has long advocated dialogue and diplomacy. Today, the world expects that parties concerned deal with each other to end the war, he said. On UN reforms he said, "As G20 members, we also must recognise that multilateralism itself lies deeply damaged. The UN and its Security Council is often grid-locked. Just getting it back to work is not enough; its working methods and representation must change." More plurilateralism is required to plug global deficits, Jaishankar said. "International cooperation itself must be less opaque or unilateral. And the global agenda cannot be narrowed down to the interests of a few," he said. Geo-politics is a reality, as is national interest, he said. "But the very purpose of diplomacy - and a group like G20 - is to find common ground and create the basis for collaboration," the minister said. "We can do so best by observing international law, respecting the UN Charter and preserving institutions. Differences must not become disputes, disputes should not become conflicts, and conflicts should not lead to a bigger breakdown," he said. As the premier forum for international economic cooperation, the G20 plays a critical role in steering the global economy through the significant challenges it faces. The members of the G20 are: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, the African Union and the European Union. 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.

G20's ability to harmonise viewpoints key to advancing global agenda: EAM Jaishankar

A postmortem examination of two women and a teenage girl, whose bodies were discovered inside their home in Kolkata, has confirmed that they were murdered. On Thursday (Feb 20), police dismissed earlier speculations of suicide and alleged that they were just efforts to mislead the investigation.
The shocking deaths of the three females came to light after a car carrying three male members of the same family crashed into a Metro Rail pillar in the early hours of Wednesday (Feb 19). Two of them have been identified as Pranay and Prasun Dey. One of the injured men told the police about the deaths at their home in Tangra, claiming that their family members had committed suicide. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/4000-year-old-mystery-indian-scientists-conduct-underwater-search-for-krishnas-dwarka-in-arabian-sea-8742110">'4,000-year-old mystery': Indian scientists conduct underwater search for Krishna&rsquo;s Dwarka in Arabian Sea</a>
<h2>Autopsy findings</h2>
Three female members &mdash; two women and a minor girl &mdash; of the Dey family were found murdered in their home with grievous injuries.
City Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, after visiting the crime, told the press that they "noted cut marks on the throats and wrists of the two older women, and bruises on the lips and nose region of the minor girl."
An autopsy of the three deceased revealed that the two women, identified as Sudeshna and Romi Dey, had deep throat injuries and slit wrists, with their wounds determined to be "antemortem" (inflicted before death).&nbsp;
"Romi Dey had a single slash injury and both of her wrists were slit. The cause of her death is due to the effect of the antemortem injuries. The same was found on Sudeshna Dey's body," a senior police officer of Kolkata Police told news agency PTI.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tractor-drivers-reckless-stunt-for-social-media-reel-turns-deadly-kills-10th-grade-student-in-up-8742054">India | Tractor driver's reckless stunt for social media reel turns deadly, kills 10th-grade student in UP</a>
"The injuries were not self-inflicted in nature. They died around 36 to 48 hours before the bodies were found on Wednesday morning," added the officer.
Meanwhile, the teenage girl, Prasun Dey's daughter, was found to have died due to poisoning. The minor also had multiple bruises across her body, legs, and lips. A forensic examination of her stomach detected the smell of medicine, confirming the ingestion of a toxic substance.
The three victims were murdered within "three to six hours after they had their last meal", said the police.&nbsp;
<h2>Murder case filed</h2>
The local police have lodged a murder case against unidentified people. Pranay and Prasun Dey are suspected of having an "active role" behind the deaths.
"The two brothers claimed that the three died by suicide. They tried to mislead our investigators. We suspect that they had an active role behind these deaths," said a police officer.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-kash-patel-confirmed-as-fbi-director-donald-trump-senate-confirmation-vote-8741481">'You will regret this to your&nbsp;grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director</a>
A team was also probing the accident near Abhishikta crossing on EM Bypass which happened when the two men along with the minor were trying to "flee," he said. &nbsp;
The Dey family ran a tannery business and were reportedly struggling financially. Forensic experts have collected evidence from the house, with key samples "mainly from the dining room and the bathroom area where bloodstains were discovered".
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Discover the chilling details of a triple murder in Kolkata involving two women and a teenage girl, as police suspect the involvement of family members in the heinous crime.

A postmortem examination of two women and a teenage girl, whose bodies were discovered inside their home in Kolkata, has confirmed that they were murdered. On Thursday (Feb 20), police dismissed earlier speculations of suicide and alleged that they were just efforts to mislead the investigation. The shocking deaths of the three females came to light after a car carrying three male members of the same family crashed into a Metro Rail pillar in the early hours of Wednesday (Feb 19). Two of them have been identified as Pranay and Prasun Dey. One of the injured men told the police about the deaths at their home in Tangra, claiming that their family members had committed suicide. Also read | '4,000-year-old mystery': Indian scientists conduct underwater search for Krishna’s Dwarka in Arabian Sea Autopsy findings Three female members — two women and a minor girl — of the Dey family were found murdered in their home with grievous injuries. City Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, after visiting the crime, told the press that they "noted cut marks on the throats and wrists of the two older women, and bruises on the lips and nose region of the minor girl." An autopsy of the three deceased revealed that the two women, identified as Sudeshna and Romi Dey, had deep throat injuries and slit wrists, with their wounds determined to be "antemortem" (inflicted before death). "Romi Dey had a single slash injury and both of her wrists were slit. The cause of her death is due to the effect of the antemortem injuries. The same was found on Sudeshna Dey's body," a senior police officer of Kolkata Police told news agency PTI. Also read | India | Tractor driver's reckless stunt for social media reel turns deadly, kills 10th-grade student in UP "The injuries were not self-inflicted in nature. They died around 36 to 48 hours before the bodies were found on Wednesday morning," added the officer. Meanwhile, the teenage girl, Prasun Dey's daughter, was found to have died due to poisoning. The minor also had multiple bruises across her body, legs, and lips. A forensic examination of her stomach detected the smell of medicine, confirming the ingestion of a toxic substance. The three victims were murdered within "three to six hours after they had their last meal", said the police. Murder case filed The local police have lodged a murder case against unidentified people. Pranay and Prasun Dey are suspected of having an "active role" behind the deaths. "The two brothers claimed that the three died by suicide. They tried to mislead our investigators. We suspect that they had an active role behind these deaths," said a police officer. Also read | 'You will regret this to your grave': Indian-American Kash Patel confirmed as FBI director A team was also probing the accident near Abhishikta crossing on EM Bypass which happened when the two men along with the minor were trying to "flee," he said. The Dey family ran a tannery business and were reportedly struggling financially. Forensic experts have collected evidence from the house, with key samples "mainly from the dining room and the bathroom area where bloodstains were discovered". (With inputs from agencies)

Triple Murder in Kolkata: Two women and teenage girl found dead in Tangra, police suspect family's involvement

A tractor driver, busy making a &lsquo;reel&rsquo; on Thursday, collided with a motorcycle in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddha Nagar district, resulting in the death of a 10th-grade student and injuring his friend.
According to the police, the student identified as Lalit (17) was on his way to fetch his admit card for the high school examination from Inter College located in Jhanjhar village along with his friend Munesh on a bike.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kiit-suicide-five-more-arrested-for-allegedly-assaulting-nepalese-students-8741974">KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Lalit died on the spot, Munesh critically injured</h2>
Rabupura police station in-charge Sujit Upadhyay said that Lalit died on the spot while his friend Munesh was seriously injured.
Upon receiving the information, the police reached the spot, took the body in their possession and sent it for post-mortem.&nbsp;
Upadhyay said Munesh, who was in a serious condition, was referred to a hospital in Bulandshahr, where he is being treated.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bodies-of-indian-miners-found-trapped-in-assam-coal-mine-found-after-44-days-8741495">Bodies of Indian miners trapped in Assam coal mine found after 44 days</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Search for accused driver underway</h2>
The officer said the accused driver fled the spot after the incident.
The SHO said the police have registered a case and seized the tractor based on a complaint by Lalit&rsquo;s father Sundar Pal. Search for the accused driver is underway.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the video of the incident is going viral on social media.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: A tractor stunt for a social media reel led to a tragic accident in Gautam Buddha Nagar, causing the death of a 10th grader and injuring another student.

A tractor driver, busy making a ‘reel’ on Thursday, collided with a motorcycle in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddha Nagar district, resulting in the death of a 10th-grade student and injuring his friend. According to the police, the student identified as Lalit (17) was on his way to fetch his admit card for the high school examination from Inter College located in Jhanjhar village along with his friend Munesh on a bike. Also read | KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students Lalit died on the spot, Munesh critically injured Rabupura police station in-charge Sujit Upadhyay said that Lalit died on the spot while his friend Munesh was seriously injured. Upon receiving the information, the police reached the spot, took the body in their possession and sent it for post-mortem. Upadhyay said Munesh, who was in a serious condition, was referred to a hospital in Bulandshahr, where he is being treated. Also read | Bodies of Indian miners trapped in Assam coal mine found after 44 days Search for accused driver underway The officer said the accused driver fled the spot after the incident. The SHO said the police have registered a case and seized the tractor based on a complaint by Lalit’s father Sundar Pal. Search for the accused driver is underway. Meanwhile, the video of the incident is going viral on social media. (With inputs from agencies)

India | Tractor driver's reckless stunt for social media reel turns deadly, kills 10th-grade student in UP

The police on Thursday (Feb 20) arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students who were leaving their hostel as instructed by college authorities.
With this, the number of people arrested in the KIIT fiasco increased to 11 including an engineering student, who was booked for allegedly abetting the suicide of a 20-year-old Nepalese woman in her hostel room on Sunday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-sonia-gandhi-admitted-to-delhis-ganga-ram-hospital-8741435">Congress leader Sonia Gandhi admitted to Delhi's Ganga Ram Hospital</a>
Following the death of&nbsp; Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year B Tech student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, India, the Nepalese students staged demonstrations demanding justice.
<h2 dir="ltr">Five arrested for assaulting Nepalese students</h2>
According to a statement from Infocity Police Station, CCTV footage revealed that five KIIT employees assaulted Nepalese students while they were vacating their hostel rooms on Monday, between 11 am and 12:20 pm.
"The KIIT staff suddenly arrived there and asked them to leave as soon as possible. Seeing that the students were a little late in vacating the hostel, the accused persons suddenly got angry and abused them in incomprehensible language, attacked them and beat them up. As a result, the students immediately fled from the place," the police said.
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The five accused were subsequently presented in court, where their bail petition was denied based on the evidence provided by the police. As a result, they have been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days.
Earlier, the police had arrested five university employees, and they secured bail.
<h2 dir="ltr">Alleged prolonged harassment by her boyfriend</h2>
Lamsal allegedly endured prolonged harassment by her boyfriend, Advik Srivastava, which ultimately led to her death.
According to a statement by the Police Commissionerate of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack, a complaint was filed by Siddhant Sigdel, Lamsal's cousin and a fellow student at KIIT, alleging that Lamsal took her own life due to Srivastava's harassment.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: Police have detained five KIIT staff members on allegations of attacking Nepalese students who were exiting their hostel as per college instructions.

The police on Thursday (Feb 20) arrested five more staff members of KIIT, a private engineering college, for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students who were leaving their hostel as instructed by college authorities. With this, the number of people arrested in the KIIT fiasco increased to 11 including an engineering student, who was booked for allegedly abetting the suicide of a 20-year-old Nepalese woman in her hostel room on Sunday. Also read | Congress leader Sonia Gandhi admitted to Delhi's Ganga Ram Hospital Following the death of Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year B Tech student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, India, the Nepalese students staged demonstrations demanding justice. Five arrested for assaulting Nepalese students According to a statement from Infocity Police Station, CCTV footage revealed that five KIIT employees assaulted Nepalese students while they were vacating their hostel rooms on Monday, between 11 am and 12:20 pm. "The KIIT staff suddenly arrived there and asked them to leave as soon as possible. Seeing that the students were a little late in vacating the hostel, the accused persons suddenly got angry and abused them in incomprehensible language, attacked them and beat them up. As a result, the students immediately fled from the place," the police said. Also read | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what The five accused were subsequently presented in court, where their bail petition was denied based on the evidence provided by the police. As a result, they have been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days. Earlier, the police had arrested five university employees, and they secured bail. Alleged prolonged harassment by her boyfriend Lamsal allegedly endured prolonged harassment by her boyfriend, Advik Srivastava, which ultimately led to her death. According to a statement by the Police Commissionerate of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack, a complaint was filed by Siddhant Sigdel, Lamsal's cousin and a fellow student at KIIT, alleging that Lamsal took her own life due to Srivastava's harassment. (With inputs from agencies)

KIIT suicide: Five more arrested for allegedly assaulting Nepalese students

The decomposed bodies of three more miners trapped in a coal mine in Assam's Dima Hasao district have been recovered, 44 days after they went missing in the quarry, an official said on Thursday.
The bodies were recovered late on Wednesday evening, while two bodies were retrieved earlier in the day.
With this recovery, all the nine miners who had been trapped there on January 6 were found.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-illegal-miners-trapped-in-abandoned-south-african-mine-many-dead-8619941">Hundreds of illegal miners trapped in abandoned South African mine, many dead</a>
Dewatering operation in the mine at Umrangshu has been continuing for over one month and was completed on Wednesday to a level where retrieval operations could be launched.
The highly decomposed corpses were spotted by the divers who went in and brought them out.
The bodies are yet to be identified, and the process to do so has been initiated, the official said.
Nine workers were trapped inside the mine on January 6, and the body of one was recovered two days later, while those of three others were found on January 11.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-mining-rescue-one-body-recovered-8-miners-continue-to-be-trapped-in-coal-mine-8601496">Assam mining rescue: One body recovered, 8 miners continue to be trapped in coal mine</a>
An ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh each has been paid by the government to the next of kin of the four miners whose bodies were recovered earlier and Rs 6 lakh each to the family of those trapped inside.
The state government had announced that the families of all trapped inside the mine would be paid a total of Rs 10 lakh each.
The chief minister had earlier claimed that the mine was abandoned 12 years ago and was under the Assam Mineral Development Corporation till three years ago.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/around-dozen-miners-trapped-in-flooded-coal-mine-in-indias-assam-8597078">Around a dozen miners trapped in flooded coal mine in India's Assam</a>
The state government has also announced a judicial inquiry into the incident, with retired high court judge Anima Hazarika heading the one-person committee.
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 news: The bodies were recovered late on Wednesday evening, while two bodies were retrieved earlier in the day. With this recovery, all nine miners were found.

The decomposed bodies of three more miners trapped in a coal mine in Assam's Dima Hasao district have been recovered, 44 days after they went missing in the quarry, an official said on Thursday. The bodies were recovered late on Wednesday evening, while two bodies were retrieved earlier in the day. With this recovery, all the nine miners who had been trapped there on January 6 were found. Also read: Hundreds of illegal miners trapped in abandoned South African mine, many dead Dewatering operation in the mine at Umrangshu has been continuing for over one month and was completed on Wednesday to a level where retrieval operations could be launched. The highly decomposed corpses were spotted by the divers who went in and brought them out. The bodies are yet to be identified, and the process to do so has been initiated, the official said. Nine workers were trapped inside the mine on January 6, and the body of one was recovered two days later, while those of three others were found on January 11. Also read: Assam mining rescue: One body recovered, 8 miners continue to be trapped in coal mine An ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh each has been paid by the government to the next of kin of the four miners whose bodies were recovered earlier and Rs 6 lakh each to the family of those trapped inside. The state government had announced that the families of all trapped inside the mine would be paid a total of Rs 10 lakh each. The chief minister had earlier claimed that the mine was abandoned 12 years ago and was under the Assam Mineral Development Corporation till three years ago. Also read: Around a dozen miners trapped in flooded coal mine in India's Assam The state government has also announced a judicial inquiry into the incident, with retired high court judge Anima Hazarika heading the one-person committee. 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.

Bodies of Indian miners trapped in Assam coal mine found after 44 days

Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi has been admitted to Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi on Thursday (Feb 20), PTI reported, citing sources.&nbsp;
According to sources, she is doing fine, and is likely to be discharged on Friday.&nbsp;
She is under observation of a team of doctors at the Ganga Ram Hospital, the sources said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-sonia-gandhi-over-poor-lady-comment-on-president-murmu-watch-what-she-said-8677800">'Unfortunate, entirely avoidable': Rashtrapati Bhavan condemns Sonia Gandhi's remark on President Murmu's speech</a>
The Congress leader turned 78 in last December.&nbsp;
She was admitted at 8:30 am in the morning, due to stomach related issues. She had for a routine check-up and is now stable, ANI reported.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi this morning at 8:30 am due to stomach related issues. She underwent a routine check-up and is now stable and is under observation: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892628171784134729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

"Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi this morning at 8:30 am due to stomach related issues. She underwent a routine check-up and is now stable and is under observation: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital," Indian news agency ANI said in a post on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-kiren-rijiju-calls-sonia-gandhi-george-soros-link-serious-concern-congress-refutes-782630">BJP's Kiren Rijiju calls Sonia Gandhi-George Soros link 'serious concern', Congress pushes back</a>
<h2>'Likely to be discharged tomorrow'</h2>
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Chairman said that there is no major concern and confirmed that she is likely to be discharged tomorrow morning.
&ldquo;She was admitted today for some abdomen-related issue. However, there is no major concern and in all likelihood she will be discharged by tomorrow morning,&rdquo; according to Dr Ajay Swaroop, chairman- Board of Management, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhis-emotional-appeal-to-people-of-raebareli-i-am-handing-over-my-son-to-you-722576">Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you'</a>
She is under the care of Dr Samiran Nundy, gastroenterology specialist.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India news: According to sources, she is doing fine and is likely to be discharged on Friday. She is under observation of a team of doctors at the Ganga Ram Hospital

Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi has been admitted to Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi on Thursday (Feb 20), PTI reported, citing sources. According to sources, she is doing fine, and is likely to be discharged on Friday. She is under observation of a team of doctors at the Ganga Ram Hospital, the sources said. Also read: 'Unfortunate, entirely avoidable': Rashtrapati Bhavan condemns Sonia Gandhi's remark on President Murmu's speech The Congress leader turned 78 in last December. She was admitted at 8:30 am in the morning, due to stomach related issues. She had for a routine check-up and is now stable, ANI reported. Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi this morning at 8:30 am due to stomach related issues. She underwent a routine check-up and is now stable and is under observation: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2025 "Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi this morning at 8:30 am due to stomach related issues. She underwent a routine check-up and is now stable and is under observation: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital," Indian news agency ANI said in a post on X. Also read: BJP's Kiren Rijiju calls Sonia Gandhi-George Soros link 'serious concern', Congress pushes back 'Likely to be discharged tomorrow' Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Chairman said that there is no major concern and confirmed that she is likely to be discharged tomorrow morning. “She was admitted today for some abdomen-related issue. However, there is no major concern and in all likelihood she will be discharged by tomorrow morning,” according to Dr Ajay Swaroop, chairman- Board of Management, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Also read: Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you' She is under the care of Dr Samiran Nundy, gastroenterology specialist. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi admitted to Delhi's Ganga Ram Hospital

Bangladesh's foreign advisor Md. Touhid Hossain has termed ties with India as "close" while pointing that both countries need "mutually beneficial good relations". In the backdrop of his meeting with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in Muscat on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference earlier this week, he said, "we both understand each other's language, and we have discussed about the coming steps that we can take to improve relations". This was the second bilateral at the foreign ministers level between the two sides since last year.&nbsp;
Asked about Dhaka's ties with Pakistan under Yunus administration, he said, "I don't see any reason why Indian security should be jeopardized because of that (Dhaka-Islamabad ties), because we are not going to do anything that impacts the internal security of India, no, not at all". Pakistan-Bangladesh relations are witnessing a notable warming trend, particularly following the political shift in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s ouster in August 2024. Chief Advisor Md Yunus has met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the D8 summit in Cairo even as trade has emerged as a key focus area.
The full interview on a range of issues, including the situation of minorities, border situation, ties with Trump administration etc.
Sidhant Sibal: How was your bilateral meeting with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. India has said it wants a mutually beneficial relationship with Bangladesh, what are the steps taken by Bangladesh on that front? Md. Touhid Hossain: Bangladesh believes that both Bangladesh and India need a mutually beneficial good relation, and the present government of Bangladesh is working to that target. I had a good meeting with Dr S Jaishankar. I believe that we both understand each other's language, and we have discussed about the coming steps that we can improve relations on. We are having some bilateral meetings ahead, for example, the border security people of both the countries are going to meet very soon. We have also proposed that there could be other mutually agreed meetings that can help us to progress with the bilateral relations. We recognize that the change that took place in July, August, threw up some uncertainties about the relations, let us accept the reality that what has happened, and we just want both sides to come out of that and follow each other's requirements and go ahead with improving relations.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: Sir, you mentioned about the steps, if perhaps you can elaborate on what are the steps which you're talking about. Md. Touhid Hossain: &nbsp;For example, we have already discussed the trade picking up already, because there was just for a short while, there was some stoppage of trade, or reduction of trade, but it has just picked up and the private sector is doing fine. We have recognized that, and at the official level, the two foreign secretaries have met, which is a positive thing, and we have also a mechanism for the next step, which is that we have a mechanism for meeting within the foreign ministers. Maybe someday we'll just go about that. These are the broad areas that we have discussed, in which all aspects of our relationship can be discussed and some decisions, some directions can come out from that.
Sidhant Sibal: Indian readout mentioned about the BIMSTEC summit. What's your view, and do you think that on the sidelines of the &nbsp;BIMSTEC &nbsp;summit, there can be a meeting between the Indian Prime Minister and the advisor, the chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus? Md. Touhid Hossain: This is going to be one meeting in which I understand that the heads of government of both the countries are going to be present at the same time. In fact, you know that there was initially a possibility of the meeting of the two in New York, but then the time did not correspond. By the time the chief adviser Md Yunus had gone there, Mr. Modi was already back in India. This is one meeting which has the advantage that all the heads of government will be there together. Second thing is that it's not too large a group. It's a relatively small group. So usually, traditionally, each of the heads of government meet each of the others, so there is an opportunity for the two of them to meet.
Sidhant Sibal: India has raised the issue of the situation of minorities in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh government has said that it is not communal in nature. It is more political in nature. It is done by Awami League. We have seen the comments by the Bangladeshi Government as well. Now, what are the steps taken by your government to instill confidence when it comes to the minorities in Bangladesh? Md. Touhid Hossain: In the first place, let me propose that we come out of this minority issue, we have been having a lot of, you know, time spent on this during the last five months, particularly in the Indian media, often exaggerated, often even on pure falsehood. Let's come out of this. The minorities, I mean, the Hindus and others, are equal citizens of Bangladesh, as with the Muslims, they have equal rights. They have equal protection under the law. So we will take care of our minorities, as India has to take care of their minorities. And I don't think this should become an issue between two countries. We are there. The government is there, taking appropriate steps, the confidence is there among the minorities. &nbsp;The number of Puja Mandaps have been exponential this time, nobody had any complaint about this. So let us get out of this mindset and better let us deal with other issues, or other issues that concern our two countries. The minorities are a concern of Bangladesh, and Bangladesh is taking care of them.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: Border has also emerged as an important issue between the two countries. We know what has happened now, essentially, what is Bangladesh's view? Because there were comments suggesting that the agreement signed under the Hasina government can be relooked by Dhaka. Can you perhaps give a status update? What is the status of the Bangladeshi sides?&nbsp; Md. Touhid Hossain: As far as I am concerned, I have not come across any such proposal that the border agreement or the arrangements that we have agreed upon has to be changed. No, I haven't heard anything like that. The issue on the border is actually the BSF shooting and killing of civilians. This doesn't happen anywhere in the world. There are two friendly countries, there has been an issue that there are crimes at the border. Yes, there are crimes on every border in the world. That doesn't mean that they shoot people to kill. If anyone has broken the law, can be arrested, taken to court. The court, Indian court, what is to happen to them. But this is not done between friendly countries. That you shoot civilians on the border, even if they are committing any crime. Apart from that, the two border authorities are going to sit in a few days' time, and I'm sure that this mechanism has been working. It will work. They will just decide on how to manage the border. We want the border to be managed, and we are ready to help each other in this respect.
Sidhant Sibal: You are also engaging with other countries in the region. That is the right of every sovereign government. But talking about your relationship with Pakistan, it has substantially increased. What is the view? What are the content in the relationship, because in the previous government, the relationship was not as substantive when it comes to the current government in Dhaka and of course, Pakistan. Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, let's look at it like this. During the last few years, Pakistan was singled out for the visa system. All countries of the world were similar, and Pakistan was different, that every visa, even of a 70-year-old gentleman or lady coming, many divided families coming to see their relatives in Dhaka, had to wait months and then clearances, one after the other for the visa. This is not normal. We just look at Pakistan as just as another country. So, we think that it should be dealt with in the way that we deal with other countries also. So these are the one or two small things that are happening, but the hue and cry being created in the media about Pakistan, relation with Pakistan, I don't think that there is any substance. We are going to just normalize relations with Pakistan at par with other countries.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: I am asking this also because of the India and Pakistan relationship. You know very well, India has its own concerns regarding cross border terror from Pakistan. Now, when it comes to the Bangladesh and Pakistan relationship, Do you think that it could negatively impact India's security? Can you assure that India's security will be as it was in the past?&nbsp; Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, I do not see any possibility that the relation with Pakistan, whatever improvements we make on issues where some deliberate efforts were being made to put it down or create hindrances. We just want to remove those. And I don't see any reason why Indian security should be jeopardized because of that, because we are not going to do anything that impacts the internal security of India, no, not at all.
Sidhant Sibal: So now talking about the Trump administration. What's your view about the Trump administration? We saw the visit of the Indian prime minister as well. We saw the Indian foreign secretary talking about India's concern, but not seeking your response on that, seeking your response on how do you envisage your relationship with the Trump administration in Washington? Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, the Trump administration has just come into power, and then everyone has seen that a lot of changes are taking place in their policies, and we do not know exactly what they're going to do, but as far as we are concerned, we value the relation with the US. The US is the largest market of our export products. The US is also home to a very vibrant Bangladeshi diaspora community, and they send a substantial number of remittances to help our economy. So, these are areas in which we have very important relations with the US, and we will make all efforts to continue that. If there is any change in US policy, we'll of course try to adjust to that and ensure that the maximum benefits we can derive out of that relation,
Sidhant Sibal: Sir, we recently saw the demolition of the residents of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka. This is something that obviously was seen very negatively, especially in India, given the historic relationship between India and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman not seeking response on that but seeking a response on the demolition. What's your assessment, is Bangladesh trying to distance itself from its legacy, the legacy of the Liberation War? Md. Touhid Hossain: &nbsp;Surely not, actually it was, I would not justify this, but it happened sort of as a reaction to the incendiary statements of Sheikh Hasina, who is now living in India. I would like to see a situation in which, when she is staying in India, she keeps quiet and allows things to settle down, both for Bangladesh and for our relations. The demolition is purely an internal matter. I don't think India has any reason to be concerned about that.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: But will you rebuild the residence? Because this is part of your history. This is part of your legacy, the identity of Bangladesh. Md. Touhid Hossain: I don't think the identity of Bangladesh relates to one building. Again, I'm not justifying the demolition again, I insist on that. But as I said that this is absolutely an internal matter, and then we'll deal with it as part of the law.
Sidhant Sibal: So, we know the India, Bangladesh relationship and Ramzan is coming. Usually when Ramzan comes, Bangladesh used to request for food commodities, any requests from the Bangladeshi side this time around, Md. Touhid Hossain: &nbsp;I don't think there is any special request needed. The export and imports are not a matter of request. It's the question of the business - people being interested. And their interest is, naturally, profit. So whenever and from wherever it will be profitable for the business - people in Bangladesh, they will import. And Indian exporters will export to Bangladesh if they find it to be profitable for them.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: My last question to you, it has been an extensive interview about the status of the Indian projects in Bangladesh. What is the status? How are they going about? There was a plan to connect northeast of India through Bangladeshi ports. Is it still continuing? Or is it still suspended? Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, I don't know of any suspension of any such projects, but the thing is that this is an ongoing process. There will be projects and there will be decisions which will be taken in course of time, and things will go on. Bangladesh and India are very close neighbours, friendly neighbours. So, we will continue, and we will continue to pursue relations as it is found beneficial for both the countries.&nbsp;
Sidhant Sibal: When can we see elections in Bangladesh? Md. Touhid Hossain: I am not competent to actually say exactly when the elections will be held, because I do not know it as yet. But the point of the Bangladesh government is that the political change that took place, and the young generation, which brought about the change, have certain aspirations, they have certain views for their future. And then they want to ensure that they want some changes to take place in the political system, in the electoral system, and we are going for some, you know, changes like that. And we know that all the reforms cannot be done instantly in one day or one month, and we are not going to stay here for years and years to enact those but as I understand that the intention is to enact some of the reforms which are possible and then go for election. But in the meantime, we also want it's not the government, it's actually the young generation. They want that there should be some sort of a higher agreement among all the politicians that they are going to take care of their aspirations, the change they want.
Sidhant Sibal: A new political party? Md. Touhid Hossain: I don't know.&nbsp;

Pakistan-Bangladesh relations are witnessing a notable warming trend, particularly following the political shift in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s ousting in August 2024.

Bangladesh's foreign advisor Md. Touhid Hossain has termed ties with India as "close" while pointing that both countries need "mutually beneficial good relations". In the backdrop of his meeting with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in Muscat on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference earlier this week, he said, "we both understand each other's language, and we have discussed about the coming steps that we can take to improve relations". This was the second bilateral at the foreign ministers level between the two sides since last year. Asked about Dhaka's ties with Pakistan under Yunus administration, he said, "I don't see any reason why Indian security should be jeopardized because of that (Dhaka-Islamabad ties), because we are not going to do anything that impacts the internal security of India, no, not at all". Pakistan-Bangladesh relations are witnessing a notable warming trend, particularly following the political shift in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in August 2024. Chief Advisor Md Yunus has met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the D8 summit in Cairo even as trade has emerged as a key focus area. The full interview on a range of issues, including the situation of minorities, border situation, ties with Trump administration etc. Sidhant Sibal: How was your bilateral meeting with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. India has said it wants a mutually beneficial relationship with Bangladesh, what are the steps taken by Bangladesh on that front? Md. Touhid Hossain: Bangladesh believes that both Bangladesh and India need a mutually beneficial good relation, and the present government of Bangladesh is working to that target. I had a good meeting with Dr S Jaishankar. I believe that we both understand each other's language, and we have discussed about the coming steps that we can improve relations on. We are having some bilateral meetings ahead, for example, the border security people of both the countries are going to meet very soon. We have also proposed that there could be other mutually agreed meetings that can help us to progress with the bilateral relations. We recognize that the change that took place in July, August, threw up some uncertainties about the relations, let us accept the reality that what has happened, and we just want both sides to come out of that and follow each other's requirements and go ahead with improving relations. Sidhant Sibal: Sir, you mentioned about the steps, if perhaps you can elaborate on what are the steps which you're talking about. Md. Touhid Hossain: For example, we have already discussed the trade picking up already, because there was just for a short while, there was some stoppage of trade, or reduction of trade, but it has just picked up and the private sector is doing fine. We have recognized that, and at the official level, the two foreign secretaries have met, which is a positive thing, and we have also a mechanism for the next step, which is that we have a mechanism for meeting within the foreign ministers. Maybe someday we'll just go about that. These are the broad areas that we have discussed, in which all aspects of our relationship can be discussed and some decisions, some directions can come out from that. Sidhant Sibal: Indian readout mentioned about the BIMSTEC summit. What's your view, and do you think that on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit, there can be a meeting between the Indian Prime Minister and the advisor, the chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus? Md. Touhid Hossain: This is going to be one meeting in which I understand that the heads of government of both the countries are going to be present at the same time. In fact, you know that there was initially a possibility of the meeting of the two in New York, but then the time did not correspond. By the time the chief adviser Md Yunus had gone there, Mr. Modi was already back in India. This is one meeting which has the advantage that all the heads of government will be there together. Second thing is that it's not too large a group. It's a relatively small group. So usually, traditionally, each of the heads of government meet each of the others, so there is an opportunity for the two of them to meet. Sidhant Sibal: India has raised the issue of the situation of minorities in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh government has said that it is not communal in nature. It is more political in nature. It is done by Awami League. We have seen the comments by the Bangladeshi Government as well. Now, what are the steps taken by your government to instill confidence when it comes to the minorities in Bangladesh? Md. Touhid Hossain: In the first place, let me propose that we come out of this minority issue, we have been having a lot of, you know, time spent on this during the last five months, particularly in the Indian media, often exaggerated, often even on pure falsehood. Let's come out of this. The minorities, I mean, the Hindus and others, are equal citizens of Bangladesh, as with the Muslims, they have equal rights. They have equal protection under the law. So we will take care of our minorities, as India has to take care of their minorities. And I don't think this should become an issue between two countries. We are there. The government is there, taking appropriate steps, the confidence is there among the minorities. The number of Puja Mandaps have been exponential this time, nobody had any complaint about this. So let us get out of this mindset and better let us deal with other issues, or other issues that concern our two countries. The minorities are a concern of Bangladesh, and Bangladesh is taking care of them. Sidhant Sibal: Border has also emerged as an important issue between the two countries. We know what has happened now, essentially, what is Bangladesh's view? Because there were comments suggesting that the agreement signed under the Hasina government can be relooked by Dhaka. Can you perhaps give a status update? What is the status of the Bangladeshi sides? Md. Touhid Hossain: As far as I am concerned, I have not come across any such proposal that the border agreement or the arrangements that we have agreed upon has to be changed. No, I haven't heard anything like that. The issue on the border is actually the BSF shooting and killing of civilians. This doesn't happen anywhere in the world. There are two friendly countries, there has been an issue that there are crimes at the border. Yes, there are crimes on every border in the world. That doesn't mean that they shoot people to kill. If anyone has broken the law, can be arrested, taken to court. The court, Indian court, what is to happen to them. But this is not done between friendly countries. That you shoot civilians on the border, even if they are committing any crime. Apart from that, the two border authorities are going to sit in a few days' time, and I'm sure that this mechanism has been working. It will work. They will just decide on how to manage the border. We want the border to be managed, and we are ready to help each other in this respect. Sidhant Sibal: You are also engaging with other countries in the region. That is the right of every sovereign government. But talking about your relationship with Pakistan, it has substantially increased. What is the view? What are the content in the relationship, because in the previous government, the relationship was not as substantive when it comes to the current government in Dhaka and of course, Pakistan. Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, let's look at it like this. During the last few years, Pakistan was singled out for the visa system. All countries of the world were similar, and Pakistan was different, that every visa, even of a 70-year-old gentleman or lady coming, many divided families coming to see their relatives in Dhaka, had to wait months and then clearances, one after the other for the visa. This is not normal. We just look at Pakistan as just as another country. So, we think that it should be dealt with in the way that we deal with other countries also. So these are the one or two small things that are happening, but the hue and cry being created in the media about Pakistan, relation with Pakistan, I don't think that there is any substance. We are going to just normalize relations with Pakistan at par with other countries. Sidhant Sibal: I am asking this also because of the India and Pakistan relationship. You know very well, India has its own concerns regarding cross border terror from Pakistan. Now, when it comes to the Bangladesh and Pakistan relationship, Do you think that it could negatively impact India's security? Can you assure that India's security will be as it was in the past? Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, I do not see any possibility that the relation with Pakistan, whatever improvements we make on issues where some deliberate efforts were being made to put it down or create hindrances. We just want to remove those. And I don't see any reason why Indian security should be jeopardized because of that, because we are not going to do anything that impacts the internal security of India, no, not at all. Sidhant Sibal: So now talking about the Trump administration. What's your view about the Trump administration? We saw the visit of the Indian prime minister as well. We saw the Indian foreign secretary talking about India's concern, but not seeking your response on that, seeking your response on how do you envisage your relationship with the Trump administration in Washington? Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, the Trump administration has just come into power, and then everyone has seen that a lot of changes are taking place in their policies, and we do not know exactly what they're going to do, but as far as we are concerned, we value the relation with the US. The US is the largest market of our export products. The US is also home to a very vibrant Bangladeshi diaspora community, and they send a substantial number of remittances to help our economy. So, these are areas in which we have very important relations with the US, and we will make all efforts to continue that. If there is any change in US policy, we'll of course try to adjust to that and ensure that the maximum benefits we can derive out of that relation, Sidhant Sibal: Sir, we recently saw the demolition of the residents of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka. This is something that obviously was seen very negatively, especially in India, given the historic relationship between India and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman not seeking response on that but seeking a response on the demolition. What's your assessment, is Bangladesh trying to distance itself from its legacy, the legacy of the Liberation War? Md. Touhid Hossain: Surely not, actually it was, I would not justify this, but it happened sort of as a reaction to the incendiary statements of Sheikh Hasina, who is now living in India. I would like to see a situation in which, when she is staying in India, she keeps quiet and allows things to settle down, both for Bangladesh and for our relations. The demolition is purely an internal matter. I don't think India has any reason to be concerned about that. Sidhant Sibal: But will you rebuild the residence? Because this is part of your history. This is part of your legacy, the identity of Bangladesh. Md. Touhid Hossain: I don't think the identity of Bangladesh relates to one building. Again, I'm not justifying the demolition again, I insist on that. But as I said that this is absolutely an internal matter, and then we'll deal with it as part of the law. Sidhant Sibal: So, we know the India, Bangladesh relationship and Ramzan is coming. Usually when Ramzan comes, Bangladesh used to request for food commodities, any requests from the Bangladeshi side this time around, Md. Touhid Hossain: I don't think there is any special request needed. The export and imports are not a matter of request. It's the question of the business - people being interested. And their interest is, naturally, profit. So whenever and from wherever it will be profitable for the business - people in Bangladesh, they will import. And Indian exporters will export to Bangladesh if they find it to be profitable for them. Sidhant Sibal: My last question to you, it has been an extensive interview about the status of the Indian projects in Bangladesh. What is the status? How are they going about? There was a plan to connect northeast of India through Bangladeshi ports. Is it still continuing? Or is it still suspended? Md. Touhid Hossain: Well, I don't know of any suspension of any such projects, but the thing is that this is an ongoing process. There will be projects and there will be decisions which will be taken in course of time, and things will go on. Bangladesh and India are very close neighbours, friendly neighbours. So, we will continue, and we will continue to pursue relations as it is found beneficial for both the countries. Sidhant Sibal: When can we see elections in Bangladesh? Md. Touhid Hossain: I am not competent to actually say exactly when the elections will be held, because I do not know it as yet. But the point of the Bangladesh government is that the political change that took place, and the young generation, which brought about the change, have certain aspirations, they have certain views for their future. And then they want to ensure that they want some changes to take place in the political system, in the electoral system, and we are going for some, you know, changes like that. And we know that all the reforms cannot be done instantly in one day or one month, and we are not going to stay here for years and years to enact those but as I understand that the intention is to enact some of the reforms which are possible and then go for election. But in the meantime, we also want it's not the government, it's actually the young generation. They want that there should be some sort of a higher agreement among all the politicians that they are going to take care of their aspirations, the change they want. Sidhant Sibal: A new political party? Md. Touhid Hossain: I don't know.

India a close neighbour, says Bangladesh's Touhid; allays concerns over Pak ties

Following her grand swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20) at the Ramlila Maidan, Bharatiya Janata Party's Rekha Gupta assumed duties as the chief minister of Delhi.
Gupta held the first Delhi Cabinet meeting and announced the allocation of ministerial portfolios. The chief minister will oversee crucial departments, including finance, while Parvesh Verma will be in charge of ministries, including PWD, Legislative Affairs, and others.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-first-act-as-delhi-cm-grand-yamuna-aarti-with-bjp-ministers-watch-8741057">Rekha Gupta&rsquo;s first action as Delhi CM? Grand &lsquo;Yamuna aarti&rsquo; with&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;ministers&nbsp;|&nbsp;Watch</a>
<h2>List of ministers and portfolios</h2>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 824px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 411px;"><col style="width: 411px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="center">Ministers</td>
<td class="center">Portfolios</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">CM Rekha Gupta</td>
<td class="center">&nbsp;General Administration, Services, Finance, Revenue, Women and Child Development, Land and Building, Information and Public Relations, Vigilance, Administrative Reforms, Planning, other department not allocated to other ministers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">Parvesh Verma</td>
<td class="center">Public Works Department (PWD), Legislative Affairs, Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&amp;FC), Water, and Gurdwara elections</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">Ashish Sood</td>
<td class="center">Home, Power, Urban Development, Education, Higher Education, Training and Technical Education</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">Manjinder Singh Sirsa</td>
<td class="center">Food and Supplies, Forest and Environment, and Industries</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">Ravinder Singh</td>
<td class="center">Social Welfare, SC and ST Welfare, Cooperative, and Elections</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">Kapil Mishra</td>
<td class="center">Law and Justice, Labour, Employment, Art and Culture, Language, and Tourism</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="center">Pankaj Singh</td>
<td class="center">Health and Family Welfare, Transport, Information Technology</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-rekha-gupta-next-chief-minister-of-delhi-set-to-take-oath-on-feb-20-8737332">Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20</a>
<h2>&lsquo;5 goals in 100 days&rsquo;</h2>
After being sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister on Thursday (Feb 20), Rekha Gupta has planned to tackle five major issues within the first 100 days to show &ldquo;visible results&rdquo; to the people of Delhi.&nbsp;
In her 100-day action plan, Gupta's agenda includes rolling out the Ayushman Bharat medical insurance scheme in Delhi, a long-pending demand aimed at improving access to healthcare for the underprivileged.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alka-lamba-shares-memories-from-college-days-with-new-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-shares-picture-8740655">Alka Lamba shares memories from college days with new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, posts picture online</a>
Her government will focus on cleaning the Yamuna River, prioritising the de-silting of roads and sewers, launching a massive citywide cleanliness drive, and repairing and maintaining roads.
A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP&rsquo;s decade-long hold on the seat.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News | Rekha Gupta held the first Delhi Cabinet meeting, announcing the allocation of ministerial portfolios. The chief minister will oversee crucial departments, including finance.

Following her grand swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20) at the Ramlila Maidan, Bharatiya Janata Party's Rekha Gupta assumed duties as the chief minister of Delhi. Gupta held the first Delhi Cabinet meeting and announced the allocation of ministerial portfolios. The chief minister will oversee crucial departments, including finance, while Parvesh Verma will be in charge of ministries, including PWD, Legislative Affairs, and others. Also read | Rekha Gupta’s first action as Delhi CM? Grand ‘Yamuna aarti’ with BJP ministers | Watch List of ministers and portfolios Ministers Portfolios CM Rekha Gupta General Administration, Services, Finance, Revenue, Women and Child Development, Land and Building, Information and Public Relations, Vigilance, Administrative Reforms, Planning, other department not allocated to other ministers Parvesh Verma Public Works Department (PWD), Legislative Affairs, Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FC), Water, and Gurdwara elections Ashish Sood Home, Power, Urban Development, Education, Higher Education, Training and Technical Education Manjinder Singh Sirsa Food and Supplies, Forest and Environment, and Industries Ravinder Singh Social Welfare, SC and ST Welfare, Cooperative, and Elections Kapil Mishra Law and Justice, Labour, Employment, Art and Culture, Language, and Tourism Pankaj Singh Health and Family Welfare, Transport, Information Technology Also read | Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20 ‘5 goals in 100 days’ After being sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister on Thursday (Feb 20), Rekha Gupta has planned to tackle five major issues within the first 100 days to show “visible results” to the people of Delhi. In her 100-day action plan, Gupta's agenda includes rolling out the Ayushman Bharat medical insurance scheme in Delhi, a long-pending demand aimed at improving access to healthcare for the underprivileged. Also read | Alka Lamba shares memories from college days with new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, posts picture online Her government will focus on cleaning the Yamuna River, prioritising the de-silting of roads and sewers, launching a massive citywide cleanliness drive, and repairing and maintaining roads. A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP’s decade-long hold on the seat. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces cabinet portfolio allocation. Check who gets what

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her cabinet ministers took part in the Yamuna 'aarti' at Vasudev Ghat in the national capital on Thursday (Feb 20), marking their first official event after assuming office.
Several key ministers, including Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, attended the 'aarti' along with other BJP leaders.
<h2>'Maa Yamuna has blessed us'</h2>
Cleaning the Yamuna River was a major poll promise of the BJP, which has long been a point of contention between the saffron party and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dhafi4-4roevcsv-q2li8a6t">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta says, "Today, during the aarti of Maa Yamuna, we remembered our resolution to clean the river. We will use the needed resources, and it will be our priority..." <a href="https://t.co/KmAfhJxUKN">pic.twitter.com/KmAfhJxUKN</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892567306766545314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Before the first cabinet meeting, CM Gupta, accompanied by Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva and her ministers, performed 'Maa Yamuna puja' and then conducted the aarti. The event saw the playing of Ram bhajans, with chants of "Jai Shree Ram" and "Yamuna Maiya Ki Jai" resonating at the ghat, as reported by PTI.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alka-lamba-shares-memories-from-college-days-with-new-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-shares-picture-8740655">Alka Lamba shares memories from college days with new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, posts picture online</a>
Speaking to reporters, CM Gupta said, &ldquo;Today, during the aarti of Maa Yamuna, we remembered our resolution to clean the river. We will use the needed resources, and it will be our priority.&rdquo;
Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva added, &ldquo;We have made a promise regarding Yamuna&hellip; Maa Yamuna has blessed us. BJP's Delhi government will work to ensure that Yamuna is clean.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The issue of Yamuna pollution and its cleanup was a key flashpoint between the BJP and AAP during the Delhi assembly election campaign.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-atishi-lead-opposition-to-form-women-ruled-delhi-assembly-with-cm-rekha-gupta-8740352">Will Atishi lead opposition, make it women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta?</a>
Earlier in the day, Rekha Gupta, a first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh, was sworn in as Delhi&rsquo;s chief minister by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena at a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan. Her council of ministers, including Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma&mdash;who defeated former CM Arvind Kejriwal, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Singh&mdash;also took the oath of office.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Cleaning the Yamuna River was a major poll promise of the BJP, which has long been a point of contention between the saffron party and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her cabinet ministers took part in the Yamuna 'aarti' at Vasudev Ghat in the national capital on Thursday (Feb 20), marking their first official event after assuming office. Several key ministers, including Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, attended the 'aarti' along with other BJP leaders. 'Maa Yamuna has blessed us' Cleaning the Yamuna River was a major poll promise of the BJP, which has long been a point of contention between the saffron party and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). #WATCH | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta says, "Today, during the aarti of Maa Yamuna, we remembered our resolution to clean the river. We will use the needed resources, and it will be our priority..." pic.twitter.com/KmAfhJxUKN — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2025 Before the first cabinet meeting, CM Gupta, accompanied by Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva and her ministers, performed 'Maa Yamuna puja' and then conducted the aarti. The event saw the playing of Ram bhajans, with chants of "Jai Shree Ram" and "Yamuna Maiya Ki Jai" resonating at the ghat, as reported by PTI. Also read: Alka Lamba shares memories from college days with new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, posts picture online Speaking to reporters, CM Gupta said, “Today, during the aarti of Maa Yamuna, we remembered our resolution to clean the river. We will use the needed resources, and it will be our priority.” Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva added, “We have made a promise regarding Yamuna… Maa Yamuna has blessed us. BJP's Delhi government will work to ensure that Yamuna is clean.” The issue of Yamuna pollution and its cleanup was a key flashpoint between the BJP and AAP during the Delhi assembly election campaign. Also read: Will Atishi lead opposition, make it women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta? Earlier in the day, Rekha Gupta, a first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh, was sworn in as Delhi’s chief minister by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena at a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan. Her council of ministers, including Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma—who defeated former CM Arvind Kejriwal, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Singh—also took the oath of office. (With inputs from agencies)

Rekha Gupta’s first action as Delhi CM? Grand ‘Yamuna aarti’ with BJP ministers | Watch

After Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan on Thursday (Feb 20), Congress leader Alka Lamba shared a 1995 photograph of her with Gupta, reminiscing their days together as members of the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU).
&ldquo;I want to congratulate Rekha ji. When the BJP announced Rekha ji's name as Delhi CM, I went back 30 years... I recalled the day when we took oath together... I won the DUSU president election as NSUI candidate and she won the secretary seat. I shared a photo to that memorable moment yesterday,&rdquo; said Lamba, who contested against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)&rsquo;s Atishi from the Kalkaji assembly seat in the recent Assembly elections.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-rekha-gupta-next-chief-minister-of-delhi-set-to-take-oath-on-feb-20-8737332">Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20</a>
While sharing the photograph on X, Lamba wrote in Hindi, &ldquo;This memorable picture from 1995 &mdash; when Rekha Gupta and I took oath together. NSUI won the post of President of Delhi University Students&rsquo; Union (DUSU) and Rekha won the post of General Secretary from ABVP.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1995 की यह यादगार तस्वीर - जब मैंने और रेखा गुप्ता ने एक साथ शपथ ग्रहण की थी- मैंने <a href="https://twitter.com/nsui?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsui</a> से दिल्ली विश्वविद्यालय छात्र संघ (DUSU) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#अध्यक्ष</a> पद पर जीत हासिल की थी और रेखा ने <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ABVP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ABVP</a> से <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#महासचिव</a> पद पर जीत हासिल की थी- रेखा गुप्ता को बधाई और शुभकामनाएँ. दिल्ली को चौथी महिला&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/csM1Rmwu9y">pic.twitter.com/csM1Rmwu9y</a>
&mdash; Alka Lamba 🇮🇳 (@LambaAlka) <a href="https://twitter.com/LambaAlka/status/1892223117994381437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

&ldquo;Congratulations and best wishes to Rekha Gupta&hellip; Congratulations on becoming Delhi&rsquo;s fourth woman Chief Minister. We the people of Delhi hope that ma Yamuna will be clean and our daughters will be safe,&rdquo; she added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-atishi-lead-opposition-to-form-women-ruled-delhi-assembly-with-cm-rekha-gupta-8740352">Will Atishi lead opposition to form women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta?</a>
In the photograph, Rekha Gupta and Alka Lamba can be seen standing on the stage together after their victory in the university elections. Gupta became the president of DUSU the following year.
<h2>Reminiscing college days</h2>
Recalling their college days, Lamba shared that while both had ideological differences, they united to fight for women&rsquo;s safety and security on campus.
Also read | <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">'5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure</a>
&ldquo;I was a Gandhian and she was a staunch RSS supporter&hellip; We used to have ideological fights but we both were 20 years old and had to juggle both college and politics&hellip; and we had only one year,&rdquo; she told PTI.
&ldquo;Back then, we did not have mobile phones or social media&hellip; When I heard her name, I took out my old album and searched for the pictures&hellip;,&rdquo; added Lamba.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-delhi-cm-rekha-guptas-leadership-she-has-risen-from-the-grassroots-8739582">PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots'</a>
Lamba further congratulated Gupta on becoming chief minister of Delhi, &ldquo;I am happy to see the growth of Rekha in politics. She contested for the first time and became a minister&hellip; She is a grassroots level supporter of the Sangh and her trust and faith are fructified today&hellip; She is a hard worker&hellip; She will have challenges as a first-time MLA and CM&hellip;&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | In the photograph, Rekha Gupta and Alka Lamba can be seen standing on the stage together after their victory in the university elections. Gupta became the president of DUSU the following year.

After Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan on Thursday (Feb 20), Congress leader Alka Lamba shared a 1995 photograph of her with Gupta, reminiscing their days together as members of the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU). “I want to congratulate Rekha ji. When the BJP announced Rekha ji's name as Delhi CM, I went back 30 years... I recalled the day when we took oath together... I won the DUSU president election as NSUI candidate and she won the secretary seat. I shared a photo to that memorable moment yesterday,” said Lamba, who contested against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)’s Atishi from the Kalkaji assembly seat in the recent Assembly elections. Also read | Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20 While sharing the photograph on X, Lamba wrote in Hindi, “This memorable picture from 1995 — when Rekha Gupta and I took oath together. NSUI won the post of President of Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) and Rekha won the post of General Secretary from ABVP.” 1995 की यह यादगार तस्वीर - जब मैंने और रेखा गुप्ता ने एक साथ शपथ ग्रहण की थी- मैंने @nsui से दिल्ली विश्वविद्यालय छात्र संघ (DUSU) #अध्यक्ष पद पर जीत हासिल की थी और रेखा ने #ABVP से #महासचिव पद पर जीत हासिल की थी- रेखा गुप्ता को बधाई और शुभकामनाएँ. दिल्ली को चौथी महिला… pic.twitter.com/csM1Rmwu9y — Alka Lamba 🇮🇳 (@LambaAlka) February 19, 2025 “Congratulations and best wishes to Rekha Gupta… Congratulations on becoming Delhi’s fourth woman Chief Minister. We the people of Delhi hope that ma Yamuna will be clean and our daughters will be safe,” she added. Also read | Will Atishi lead opposition to form women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta? In the photograph, Rekha Gupta and Alka Lamba can be seen standing on the stage together after their victory in the university elections. Gupta became the president of DUSU the following year. Reminiscing college days Recalling their college days, Lamba shared that while both had ideological differences, they united to fight for women’s safety and security on campus. Also read | '5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure “I was a Gandhian and she was a staunch RSS supporter… We used to have ideological fights but we both were 20 years old and had to juggle both college and politics… and we had only one year,” she told PTI. “Back then, we did not have mobile phones or social media… When I heard her name, I took out my old album and searched for the pictures…,” added Lamba. Also read | PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots' Lamba further congratulated Gupta on becoming chief minister of Delhi, “I am happy to see the growth of Rekha in politics. She contested for the first time and became a minister… She is a grassroots level supporter of the Sangh and her trust and faith are fructified today… She is a hard worker… She will have challenges as a first-time MLA and CM…” (With inputs from agencies)

Alka Lamba shares memories from college days with new Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, posts picture online

With Rekha Gupta becoming the fourth woman chief minister of Delhi, questions now arise about who will be the new leader of the opposition from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).&nbsp;
On Thursday (Feb 20), BJP leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, becoming the fourth woman to lead the Delhi Assembly.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-rekha-gupta-next-chief-minister-of-delhi-set-to-take-oath-on-feb-20-8737332">Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20</a>
In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. Six other MLAs&mdash;Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh&mdash;also took oaths as ministers alongside Gupta.
While Rekha Gupta has been sworn in as the new chief minister, will Aam Aadmi Party&rsquo;s Atishi become the leader of the opposition to form a women-ruled Assembly?
Also read | <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">'5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure</a>
<h2>Will Atishi be the leader of opposition?</h2>
AAP will form the opposition in the Delhi Assembly following its first defeat in the elections to BJP.
Former chief minister Atishi is one of the contenders to lead the opposition in the Delhi Assembly. She represents the Kalkaji constituency, which she won for the second consecutive time.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-delhi-cm-rekha-guptas-leadership-she-has-risen-from-the-grassroots-8739582">PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots'</a>
Atishi became Delhi CM on September 21, 2024, after the resignation of her predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal.
She previously served as Minister of Education, PWD, Culture, and Tourism before she was appointed chief minister. From July 2015 until April 17, 2018, she was an adviser to then Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia, focusing mainly on education.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-to-be-next-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-says-i-hope-she-8737527">Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says &lsquo;I hope she&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
If Atishi becomes the leader of the opposition with Rekha Gupta as chief minister, the two will form a women-led Delhi Assembly for the first time. Interestingly, both are alumni of the University of Delhi.
Other possible contenders for the post of leader of opposition include Gopal Rai, who represents the Babarpur constituency; Jarnail Singh, who represents the Tilaknagar constituency; and Sanjeev Jha, who represents the Burari constituency.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | On Thursday (Feb 20), BJP leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, becoming the fourth woman to lead the Delhi Assembly.

With Rekha Gupta becoming the fourth woman chief minister of Delhi, questions now arise about who will be the new leader of the opposition from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). On Thursday (Feb 20), BJP leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, becoming the fourth woman to lead the Delhi Assembly. Also read | Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20 In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. Six other MLAs—Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh—also took oaths as ministers alongside Gupta. While Rekha Gupta has been sworn in as the new chief minister, will Aam Aadmi Party’s Atishi become the leader of the opposition to form a women-ruled Assembly? Also read | '5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure Will Atishi be the leader of opposition? AAP will form the opposition in the Delhi Assembly following its first defeat in the elections to BJP. Former chief minister Atishi is one of the contenders to lead the opposition in the Delhi Assembly. She represents the Kalkaji constituency, which she won for the second consecutive time. Also read | PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots' Atishi became Delhi CM on September 21, 2024, after the resignation of her predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal. She previously served as Minister of Education, PWD, Culture, and Tourism before she was appointed chief minister. From July 2015 until April 17, 2018, she was an adviser to then Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia, focusing mainly on education. Also read | Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says ‘I hope she…’ If Atishi becomes the leader of the opposition with Rekha Gupta as chief minister, the two will form a women-led Delhi Assembly for the first time. Interestingly, both are alumni of the University of Delhi. Other possible contenders for the post of leader of opposition include Gopal Rai, who represents the Babarpur constituency; Jarnail Singh, who represents the Tilaknagar constituency; and Sanjeev Jha, who represents the Burari constituency. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Atishi lead opposition, make it women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta?

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