National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

Maha Kumbh stampede: Indian politician and former actress Hema Malini stirred a debate online when she called the stampede at ongoing Maha Kumbh, in which 30 devotees died, "not a very big incident".
On the reportage of the incident, she said that the situation was being "exaggerated".
<h2>Hema Malini on Maha Kumbh stampede deaths</h2>
The Bharatiya Janata Party MP told Indian news agency ANI, "We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6qaxbj9-tuexd1wg-ut2q9dcp">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: BJP MP Hema Malini says "...We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated...It was very well-managed, and everything was done very&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/qIuEZ045Um">pic.twitter.com/qIuEZ045Um</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886694715015487978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
Defending the current Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the BJP MP said, "It was very well-managed, and everything was done very well...So many people are coming, it is very difficult to manage but we are doing our best."
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/netizens-dig-up-old-videos-of-udit-narayan-kissing-shreya-ghoshal-karisma-kapoor-amid-recent-kissing-row-8688955" aria-label="Netizens dig up old videos of Udit Narayan kissing Shreya Ghoshal, Karisma Kapoor amid recent kissing row">Netizens dig up old videos of Udit Narayan kissing Shreya Ghoshal, Karisma Kapoor amid recent kissing row</a>
<h2>Opposition party demands action against those responsible for stampede death</h2>
Hema Malini&rsquo;s comment on the stampede case comes after Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav criticised the UP government for its mismanagement of the Maha Kumbh crowd and focusing more on self-promotion. He said, "For the Mahakumbh tragedy, there should be strict punitive action against those responsible, and those who have hidden the truth should be punished. We ask the double-engine government, if there was no guilt, then why were the figures suppressed, hidden, and erased?"
The stampede at the Mahakumbh Mela during the second Shahi Snan on Mauni Amavasya resulted in the deaths of 30 devotees. Close to 60 devotees got injured in the incident.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/baap-ka-naam-says-shah-rukh-khan-to-son-aryan-khan-on-the-bads-of-bollywood-netflix-event-8688496" aria-label="'Baap ka naam...': Shah Rukh Khan to son Aryan Khan on 'The BA***DS of Bollywood' Netflix event">'Baap ka naam...': Shah Rukh Khan to son Aryan Khan on 'The BA***DS of Bollywood' Netflix event</a></h2>
Post the incident, the opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have criticised the UP administration for only taking care of the celebrities and not paying enough attention to the common people&rsquo;s safety.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News Trending Entertainment Bollywood: Calling the reportage of Maha Kumbh stampede "exaggerated", BJP MP Hema Malini raised eyebrows as she said that it was "not a big incident".

Maha Kumbh stampede: Indian politician and former actress Hema Malini stirred a debate online when she called the stampede at ongoing Maha Kumbh, in which 30 devotees died, "not a very big incident". On the reportage of the incident, she said that the situation was being "exaggerated". Hema Malini on Maha Kumbh stampede deaths The Bharatiya Janata Party MP told Indian news agency ANI, "We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated.” #WATCH | Delhi: BJP MP Hema Malini says "...We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated...It was very well-managed, and everything was done very… pic.twitter.com/qIuEZ045Um — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2025 Defending the current Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the BJP MP said, "It was very well-managed, and everything was done very well...So many people are coming, it is very difficult to manage but we are doing our best." Also read: Netizens dig up old videos of Udit Narayan kissing Shreya Ghoshal, Karisma Kapoor amid recent kissing row Opposition party demands action against those responsible for stampede death Hema Malini’s comment on the stampede case comes after Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav criticised the UP government for its mismanagement of the Maha Kumbh crowd and focusing more on self-promotion. He said, "For the Mahakumbh tragedy, there should be strict punitive action against those responsible, and those who have hidden the truth should be punished. We ask the double-engine government, if there was no guilt, then why were the figures suppressed, hidden, and erased?" The stampede at the Mahakumbh Mela during the second Shahi Snan on Mauni Amavasya resulted in the deaths of 30 devotees. Close to 60 devotees got injured in the incident. 'Baap ka naam...': Shah Rukh Khan to son Aryan Khan on 'The BA***DS of Bollywood' Netflix event Post the incident, the opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have criticised the UP administration for only taking care of the celebrities and not paying enough attention to the common people’s safety. (With inputs from agencies)

'Not a big incident,' says Hema Malini on Maha Kumbh stampede

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah said that he bathes every day at his house when he was asked when would he visit the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj for the holy dip.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q9ywba-ged55ufx-ll59dq45">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jammu, J&amp;K: On the INDIA alliance, National Conference president Farooq Abdullah says, "INDIA alliance is doing absolutely fine and will keep doing good in the future as well..." <a href="https://t.co/H9n4YzpKmU">pic.twitter.com/H9n4YzpKmU</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886686812594217061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
Addressing a press conference in Jammu on Tuesday (Feb 4), Abdullah said, &ldquo;My God is neither in the mosque nor in the temple nor the gurdwara. My God is inside me."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-a-big-incident-says-hema-malini-on-maha-kumbh-stampede-case-8689509">'Not a big incident' says Hema Malini on Maha Kumbh stampede case</a>
When asked about the likely result of the Delhi Assembly election, the NC president said he would have to become an astrologer to answer that question.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I will have to become an astrologer so that I can tell you what will happen in the Delhi elections. How would I know who will come and who will go? I did not even know about this place," he added.
<h2>'Not a big deal'&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, in a reaction to the stampede deaths at Maha Kumbh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini said the incident, which killed 30 devotees, was "not a big deal".&nbsp;
She said on Tuesday (Feb 4) that the situation was being "exaggerated".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/came-to-earn-merit-left-with-dead-bodies-akhilesh-yadav-slams-up-govt-demands-transparency-on-maha-kumbh-stampede-8689101">Came to earn merit, left with dead bodies: Akhilesh Yadav slams UP govt, demands transparency on Maha Kumbh stampede</a>
"We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated...It was very well-managed, and everything was done very well...So many people are coming, it is very difficult to manage but we are doing our best," the BJP MP added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ruckus-erupts-in-parliament-during-budget-session-over-maha-kumbh-stampede-8686009">India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6qaiizv-d46b2rzg-h0nucdgr">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: BJP MP Hema Malini says "...We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated...It was very well-managed, and everything was done very&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/qIuEZ045Um">pic.twitter.com/qIuEZ045Um</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886694715015487978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
This came after Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav slammed the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh and asked for transparent figures on the deaths in the stampede.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-up-cm-yogi-adityanath-closely-monitoring-amrit-snan-arrangements-during-basant-panchami-8685490">Maha Kumbh: UP CM Yogi Adityanath closely monitoring 'Amrit Snan' arrangements during Basant Panchami</a>
Yadav said that people had come to the religious gathering to gain blessings, but returned with the bodies of their loved ones.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | National Conference President Farooq Abdullah said that he bathes every day at his home when he was asked when he would visit the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj for the holy dip. 

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah said that he bathes every day at his house when he was asked when would he visit the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj for the holy dip. #WATCH | Jammu, J&K: On the INDIA alliance, National Conference president Farooq Abdullah says, "INDIA alliance is doing absolutely fine and will keep doing good in the future as well..." pic.twitter.com/H9n4YzpKmU — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2025 Addressing a press conference in Jammu on Tuesday (Feb 4), Abdullah said, “My God is neither in the mosque nor in the temple nor the gurdwara. My God is inside me." Also read: 'Not a big incident' says Hema Malini on Maha Kumbh stampede case When asked about the likely result of the Delhi Assembly election, the NC president said he would have to become an astrologer to answer that question. “I will have to become an astrologer so that I can tell you what will happen in the Delhi elections. How would I know who will come and who will go? I did not even know about this place," he added. 'Not a big deal' Meanwhile, in a reaction to the stampede deaths at Maha Kumbh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini said the incident, which killed 30 devotees, was "not a big deal". She said on Tuesday (Feb 4) that the situation was being "exaggerated". Also read: Came to earn merit, left with dead bodies: Akhilesh Yadav slams UP govt, demands transparency on Maha Kumbh stampede "We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated...It was very well-managed, and everything was done very well...So many people are coming, it is very difficult to manage but we are doing our best," the BJP MP added. Also read: India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede #WATCH | Delhi: BJP MP Hema Malini says "...We went to Kumbh, we had a very nice bath. It is right that an incident took place, but it was not a very big incident. I don't know how big it was. It is being exaggerated...It was very well-managed, and everything was done very… pic.twitter.com/qIuEZ045Um — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2025 This came after Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav slammed the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh and asked for transparent figures on the deaths in the stampede. Also read: Maha Kumbh: UP CM Yogi Adityanath closely monitoring 'Amrit Snan' arrangements during Basant Panchami Yadav said that people had come to the religious gathering to gain blessings, but returned with the bodies of their loved ones. (With inputs from agencies)

'I bathe in my house every day': Farooq Abdullah on Maha Kumbh holy dip

The Election Commission of India, on Tuesday (Feb 4), hit back at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over its "repeated pressure tactics" to malign the poll body a day before the Delhi assembly polls.
In a post on its official X handle, ECI said, "The 3-member Commission collectively noted repeated deliberate pressure tactics to malign ECI in Delhi Elections, as if it is a single member body and decided to have constitutional restraint, absorbing such outbursts with sagacity, stoically and not to be swayed by such insinuations..."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q7h40w-q1yfyvl8-ntu61wxg">
Election Commission of India tweets, "The 3-member Commission collectively noted repeated deliberate pressure tactics to malign ECI in Delhi Elections, as if it is a single member body &amp; decided to have constitutional restraint, absorbing such outbursts with sagacity, stoically &amp;&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/ToTxeLOJ7L">pic.twitter.com/ToTxeLOJ7L</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886673748218237021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
The remarks by the poll body come after Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal questioned the poll body's authority and accused it of overlooking Bharatiya Janata Party "openly flouting" the Model Code of Conduct.
Atishi, in a post on X, said that the ECI took no action against Ramesh Bidhuri's family members who were flagrantly violating the model code of conduct and instead a case was registered against her.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-polls-pm-modi-lashes-out-at-aap-for-prioritizing-its-image-over-youths-future-8686124">Also read: Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH</a>
"The Election Commission is unbelievable. Ramesh Bidhuri's family members are openly flouting the model code of conduct and there is no action. I complained to police and the Election Commission and they registered a case against me," she said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q7gjyr-od8ddkjg-oev30tqq">
खुले आम हो रही गुंडागर्दी के ख़िलाफ़ शिकायत करने पर दिल्ली की मुख्यमंत्री के ख़िलाफ़ चुनाव आयोग ने पुलिस केस किया। तो अब दिल्ली पुलिस और चुनाव आयोग का ये official stand है- दिल्ली पुलिस और चुनाव आयोग का &ldquo;काम&rdquo; आम आदमी पार्टी के ख़िलाफ़ ख़ुद गुंडागर्दी करना, बीजेपी की&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/9dQ3sTcsuZ">https://t.co/9dQ3sTcsuZ</a>
&mdash; Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1886643716640866407?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Kejriwal accuses Election Commission of 'surrendering to BJP'</h2>
Kejriwal levelled strong allegations against the Delhi Police and Election Commission, stating that they supported BJP's "hooliganism" against AAP and safeguarded the saffron party as it distributed money and liquor to get votes.
"If anyone stops them, they will be charged under a case of obstructing work," he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brooms-bristles-are-scattering-pm-modi-takes-dig-at-kejriwals-aap-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-polls-8683574">Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</a>
While addressing a press conference on Monday, Kejriwal slammed Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, stating that he "wants a job post-retirement" and that he "destroyed the country" for a mere post.
"... Our revolutionaries were hanged so that there would be democracy in the country, elections would be fair. But the way the Election Commission has surrendered before the BJP today, it seems as if the Election Commission does not exist," Kejriwal said.
"It is absolutely justified for people to have questions in their minds that Rajiv Kumar Ji, who is the Chief Election Commissioner, is retiring at the end of this month, what kind of post has been offered to him post-retirement? The post of Governor, the post of President, what kind of post can it be?... I request Rajiv Kumar Ji with folded hands. Do your duty, give up the desire for the post, give up the greed for the post. Now at the end of your career, do not destroy the country, the country's democracy," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Kejriwal levelled strong allegations against Delhi Police and Election Commission, stating that they supported BJP's "hooliganism" against AAP and safeguarded the saffron party as it distributed money and liquor to get votes.

The Election Commission of India, on Tuesday (Feb 4), hit back at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over its "repeated pressure tactics" to malign the poll body a day before the Delhi assembly polls. In a post on its official X handle, ECI said, "The 3-member Commission collectively noted repeated deliberate pressure tactics to malign ECI in Delhi Elections, as if it is a single member body and decided to have constitutional restraint, absorbing such outbursts with sagacity, stoically and not to be swayed by such insinuations..." Election Commission of India tweets, "The 3-member Commission collectively noted repeated deliberate pressure tactics to malign ECI in Delhi Elections, as if it is a single member body & decided to have constitutional restraint, absorbing such outbursts with sagacity, stoically &… pic.twitter.com/ToTxeLOJ7L — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2025 The remarks by the poll body come after Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal questioned the poll body's authority and accused it of overlooking Bharatiya Janata Party "openly flouting" the Model Code of Conduct. Atishi, in a post on X, said that the ECI took no action against Ramesh Bidhuri's family members who were flagrantly violating the model code of conduct and instead a case was registered against her. Also read: Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH "The Election Commission is unbelievable. Ramesh Bidhuri's family members are openly flouting the model code of conduct and there is no action. I complained to police and the Election Commission and they registered a case against me," she said. खुले आम हो रही गुंडागर्दी के ख़िलाफ़ शिकायत करने पर दिल्ली की मुख्यमंत्री के ख़िलाफ़ चुनाव आयोग ने पुलिस केस किया। तो अब दिल्ली पुलिस और चुनाव आयोग का ये official stand है- दिल्ली पुलिस और चुनाव आयोग का “काम” आम आदमी पार्टी के ख़िलाफ़ ख़ुद गुंडागर्दी करना, बीजेपी की… https://t.co/9dQ3sTcsuZ — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 4, 2025 Kejriwal accuses Election Commission of 'surrendering to BJP' Kejriwal levelled strong allegations against the Delhi Police and Election Commission, stating that they supported BJP's "hooliganism" against AAP and safeguarded the saffron party as it distributed money and liquor to get votes. "If anyone stops them, they will be charged under a case of obstructing work," he said. Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls While addressing a press conference on Monday, Kejriwal slammed Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, stating that he "wants a job post-retirement" and that he "destroyed the country" for a mere post. "... Our revolutionaries were hanged so that there would be democracy in the country, elections would be fair. But the way the Election Commission has surrendered before the BJP today, it seems as if the Election Commission does not exist," Kejriwal said. "It is absolutely justified for people to have questions in their minds that Rajiv Kumar Ji, who is the Chief Election Commissioner, is retiring at the end of this month, what kind of post has been offered to him post-retirement? The post of Governor, the post of President, what kind of post can it be?... I request Rajiv Kumar Ji with folded hands. Do your duty, give up the desire for the post, give up the greed for the post. Now at the end of your career, do not destroy the country, the country's democracy," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Assembly Polls: Election Commission hits back at AAP over 'pressure tactics' to malign ECI

ANI | Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav has demanded transparency regarding the fatalities at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-medical-force-on-high-alert-ahead-of-amrit-snan-on-basant-panchami-8683966">Mahakumbh</a> stampede, urging the government to present accurate figures on the deaths, treatment of the injured, and arrangements made for the event.
Participating in the debate on the motion of thanks on the President's Address, Akhilesh called for an all-party meeting to clarify the situation and recommended that disaster management and the lost and found centre be handed over to the Army.
"While the government is continuously giving budget figures, please also give the figures of those who died in Mahakumbh. I demand an all-party meeting should be called to clarify the arrangements for Mahakumbh. The responsibility of Mahakumbh disaster management and lost and found centre should be given to the Army. The figures for the deaths in Mahakumbh accident, treatment of injured, availability of medicines, doctors, food, water, transport should be presented in the Parliament," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ruckus-erupts-in-parliament-during-budget-session-over-maha-kumbh-stampede-8686009">India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede</a>
Yadav also pressed for strict punitive action against those responsible for the tragedy and those who concealed the facts, questioning the government's decision to suppress the numbers.
"For the Mahakumbh tragedy, there should be strict punitive action against those responsible and those who have hidden the truth should be punished. We ask the double-engine government, if there was no guilt, then why were the figures suppressed, hidden and erased?" he added.
"Log puny kamane aaye the aur apno ke shav lekar gaye hai (People came to earn merit, but they left with the bodies of their loved ones)" the SP Chief said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-stampede-five-key-changes-implemented-to-manage-crowd-vvip-passes-cancelled-8673467">Maha Kumbh Stampede: VVIP passes cancelled, five key changes implemented to manage crowd</a>
Sharpening his attacks on the Uttar Pradesh government, Akhilesh Yadav said that where proper arrangements should have been made, there was political campaigning instead.
"Political campaigning in a religious gathering, especially with a double-engine government, is disgraceful and condemnable. It was claimed that the Mahakumbh would be conducted digitally and with modern technology. Based on CCTV, drones, and live streaming, those who claimed to be organizing a digital Kumbh are unable to even provide digital records of the deceased," he said.
He mentioned that the "miraculous thing" is that the bodies of the devotees were found, but the government was not ready to acknowledge this.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-stampede-up-cm-yogi-adityanath-tightens-arrangements-issues-fresh-orders-to-avoid-more-tragedies-8669675">Maha Kumbh stampede: UP CM Yogi Adityanath tightens arrangements, issues fresh orders to avoid more tragedies</a>
"When information surfaced that some people had lost their lives, what did the government do? They used government helicopters to shower flowers. Is this our Sanatan tradition?" he asked.
"Our Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister didn't even express condolences. When the President and Prime Minister of the country expressed their condolences, the government only accepted it 17 hours later," Yadav said.
The stampede occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela during the second Shahi Snan on Mouni Amawasya, claiming at least 30 lives and injuring around 60 individuals. Several opposition leaders raised concerns over the government's handling of the stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual.&nbsp;
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maha-kumbh-stampede-in-prayagraj-who-is-responsible-what-went-wrong-8681783">Maha Kumbh stampede in Prayagraj | Who is responsible? What went wrong?</a>
<div class="post-content">
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>
</div>

India news | The stampede occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela during the second Shahi Snan on Mouni Amawasya, claiming at least 30 lives and injuring around 60 individuals. 

ANI | Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav has demanded transparency regarding the fatalities at the Mahakumbh stampede, urging the government to present accurate figures on the deaths, treatment of the injured, and arrangements made for the event. Participating in the debate on the motion of thanks on the President's Address, Akhilesh called for an all-party meeting to clarify the situation and recommended that disaster management and the lost and found centre be handed over to the Army. "While the government is continuously giving budget figures, please also give the figures of those who died in Mahakumbh. I demand an all-party meeting should be called to clarify the arrangements for Mahakumbh. The responsibility of Mahakumbh disaster management and lost and found centre should be given to the Army. The figures for the deaths in Mahakumbh accident, treatment of injured, availability of medicines, doctors, food, water, transport should be presented in the Parliament," he said. Also read: India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede Yadav also pressed for strict punitive action against those responsible for the tragedy and those who concealed the facts, questioning the government's decision to suppress the numbers. "For the Mahakumbh tragedy, there should be strict punitive action against those responsible and those who have hidden the truth should be punished. We ask the double-engine government, if there was no guilt, then why were the figures suppressed, hidden and erased?" he added. "Log puny kamane aaye the aur apno ke shav lekar gaye hai (People came to earn merit, but they left with the bodies of their loved ones)" the SP Chief said. Also read: Maha Kumbh Stampede: VVIP passes cancelled, five key changes implemented to manage crowd Sharpening his attacks on the Uttar Pradesh government, Akhilesh Yadav said that where proper arrangements should have been made, there was political campaigning instead. "Political campaigning in a religious gathering, especially with a double-engine government, is disgraceful and condemnable. It was claimed that the Mahakumbh would be conducted digitally and with modern technology. Based on CCTV, drones, and live streaming, those who claimed to be organizing a digital Kumbh are unable to even provide digital records of the deceased," he said. He mentioned that the "miraculous thing" is that the bodies of the devotees were found, but the government was not ready to acknowledge this. Also read: Maha Kumbh stampede: UP CM Yogi Adityanath tightens arrangements, issues fresh orders to avoid more tragedies "When information surfaced that some people had lost their lives, what did the government do? They used government helicopters to shower flowers. Is this our Sanatan tradition?" he asked. "Our Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister didn't even express condolences. When the President and Prime Minister of the country expressed their condolences, the government only accepted it 17 hours later," Yadav said. The stampede occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela during the second Shahi Snan on Mouni Amawasya, claiming at least 30 lives and injuring around 60 individuals. Several opposition leaders raised concerns over the government's handling of the stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual. WATCH: Maha Kumbh stampede in Prayagraj | Who is responsible? What went wrong? Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Came to earn merit, left with dead bodies: Akhilesh Yadav slams UP govt, demands transparency on Maha Kumbh stampede

Two local men and a 22-year-old Bangladeshi woman have been arrested in the Indian state of Assam for allegedly producing pornography on Monday (Feb 3). They were reportedly making the content in a hotel room in Guwahati and were nabbed by the Dispur Police.&nbsp;
The two men were identified as Shafikul and Jahangir, both from Assam, and the Bangladeshi woman was identified as Meen Akhtar.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/form-of-violence-across-globe-deepfake-porn-targets-women-politicians-8595408">'Form of violence': Across globe, deepfake porn targets women politicians</a>
According to the police report, the group booked rooms at a hotel in the Super Market area of Guwahati to shoot the obscene videos. The woman reportedly entered India from Bangladesh under the pretence of false employment and had no visa or passport.&nbsp;
Police are now investigating the case to find any possible link to a larger case surrounding the illegal activities.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-gay-couple-gets-100-years-in-jail-for-raping-adopted-sons-and-filming-child-pornography-786444">Georgia gay couple gets 100 years in jail for raping adopted sons and filming child pornography</a>
<h2>Is porn illegal in India?&nbsp;</h2>
In India, private consumption of pornography is permissible - but it is illegal to produce, distribute or publicly exhibit the content. Under the IPC Section 293 of the Indian constitution, the distribution or sale of pornographic content to anyone below the age of 20 is prohibited.&nbsp;
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 292 also bars public exhibition of obscene content.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-police-shut-down-dizzyingly-large-child-pornography-website-with-thousands-of-users-765679">German police shut down 'dizzyingly large' child pornography website with thousands of users, arrest 6</a>
<h2>Similar case&nbsp;</h2>
In a similar incident in March 2024, 13 men and five women, including one Bangladeshi, were nabbed in the Indian state of Maharashtra for producing pornographic content in a bungalow in Pune.&nbsp;
The arrested people were: Vishnu Munnasahab Sahu (30) of 24 Parganas in West Bengal, Javed Habibulla Khan (35) of Basti in Uttar Pradesh, Buddhsen Shrinivas (38) of Chandrapur, Sameer Alam (26) of Amroha in Uttar Pradesh, Anup Choubey (29) of Kandivli in Mumbai and Ramkumar Yadav (21) of Raunak City in Haryana and others.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/madonna-accused-of-exposing-concertgoers-to-pornography-without-warning-lawsuit-filed-727347">Madonna accused of exposing concertgoers to 'pornography without warning'; lawsuit filed</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | The woman reportedly entered India from Bangladesh under the pretence of false employment and had no visa or passport. 

Two local men and a 22-year-old Bangladeshi woman have been arrested in the Indian state of Assam for allegedly producing pornography on Monday (Feb 3). They were reportedly making the content in a hotel room in Guwahati and were nabbed by the Dispur Police. The two men were identified as Shafikul and Jahangir, both from Assam, and the Bangladeshi woman was identified as Meen Akhtar. Also read: 'Form of violence': Across globe, deepfake porn targets women politicians According to the police report, the group booked rooms at a hotel in the Super Market area of Guwahati to shoot the obscene videos. The woman reportedly entered India from Bangladesh under the pretence of false employment and had no visa or passport. Police are now investigating the case to find any possible link to a larger case surrounding the illegal activities. Also read: Georgia gay couple gets 100 years in jail for raping adopted sons and filming child pornography Is porn illegal in India? In India, private consumption of pornography is permissible - but it is illegal to produce, distribute or publicly exhibit the content. Under the IPC Section 293 of the Indian constitution, the distribution or sale of pornographic content to anyone below the age of 20 is prohibited. The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 292 also bars public exhibition of obscene content. Also read: German police shut down 'dizzyingly large' child pornography website with thousands of users, arrest 6 Similar case In a similar incident in March 2024, 13 men and five women, including one Bangladeshi, were nabbed in the Indian state of Maharashtra for producing pornographic content in a bungalow in Pune. The arrested people were: Vishnu Munnasahab Sahu (30) of 24 Parganas in West Bengal, Javed Habibulla Khan (35) of Basti in Uttar Pradesh, Buddhsen Shrinivas (38) of Chandrapur, Sameer Alam (26) of Amroha in Uttar Pradesh, Anup Choubey (29) of Kandivli in Mumbai and Ramkumar Yadav (21) of Raunak City in Haryana and others. Also read: Madonna accused of exposing concertgoers to 'pornography without warning'; lawsuit filed (With inputs from agencies)

India: Two Assam men arrested for producing pornography content with Bangladeshi woman

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of India's president, hosted a wedding. The ceremony took place inside the complex of the world&rsquo;s second-largest residence of the head of state on February 12 after President Droupadi Murmu granted special approval.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-murmu-offers-dahi-cheeni-to-fm-sitharaman-before-presenting-budget-2025-8680098">Union Budget 2025: President Murmu offeres 'dahi-cheeni' to FM Sitharaman ahead of her 8th Budget</a>&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Poonam Gupta?&nbsp;</h2>
The bride is Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officer Poonam Gupta, who is currently appointed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Hailing from Madhya Pradesh&rsquo;s Shivpuri, Poonam Gupta is a CRPF Assistant Commandant and is serving as a Personal Security Officer (PSO) at the president&rsquo;s residence. Gupta led the all-women contingent at the 74th Republic Day Parade.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/insult-of-100-million-tribals-pm-modi-slams-congress-over-remarks-on-president-murmu-8678367">'Insult of 100 million tribals': PM Modi slams Congress over remarks on President Murmu&nbsp;</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m74g0gg6-vwgjrycr-3nopvsey">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRPF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CRPF</a> Officer Poonam Gupta Gets Married at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu Blesses Newlyweds . <a href="https://t.co/b0XDuj17G9">pic.twitter.com/b0XDuj17G9</a>
&mdash; राष्ट्र प्रथम_CRPF (@RashtraPratham0) <a href="https://twitter.com/RashtraPratham0/status/1889998599863583145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Gupta holds a bachelor&rsquo;s degree in Mathematics, a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and a master's degree in English Literature. In 2018, she attained an impressive rank of 81 in the UPSC CAPF exam.
Before her current role at the president&rsquo;s residence, she also served in Naxal-affected areas of Bihar.&nbsp;
Apart from her professional achievements, Gupta also has an active social media profile on Instagram, where she posts inspiring content like motivational messages for students and her work. Her passion for service is evident through her online presence, which empowers other women as well.
President Murmu was reportedly highly impressed by her dedication and professionalism. Gupta tied the knot with fellow CRPF officer Avneesh Kumar.&nbsp;
An earlier version of this article incorrectly claimed that it was the first such event in history, but a PIB Fact Check clarified that the claim was fake and President's Estate has been the venue of several weddings since its inception.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m74g1dpf-o6gdgw05-5esxwkdj">
It is being claimed in news reports that for the first time in history, Rashtrapati Bhavan will be hosting a wedding. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PIBFactCheck?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PIBFactCheck</a> ▶️This claim is Fake ▶️President's Estate has been the venue of several weddings since its inception. <a href="https://t.co/nE4ZJ5CYMo">pic.twitter.com/nE4ZJ5CYMo</a>
&mdash; PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBFactCheck/status/1889595839154094168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

Learn about Poonam Gupta's impressive journey as a CRPF Assistant Commandant and her leadership role at the Republic Day Parade, showcasing her dedication and achievements.

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of India's president, hosted a wedding. The ceremony took place inside the complex of the world’s second-largest residence of the head of state on February 12 after President Droupadi Murmu granted special approval. Also read | Union Budget 2025: President Murmu offeres 'dahi-cheeni' to FM Sitharaman ahead of her 8th Budget Who is Poonam Gupta? The bride is Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officer Poonam Gupta, who is currently appointed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Hailing from Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri, Poonam Gupta is a CRPF Assistant Commandant and is serving as a Personal Security Officer (PSO) at the president’s residence. Gupta led the all-women contingent at the 74th Republic Day Parade. Also read | 'Insult of 100 million tribals': PM Modi slams Congress over remarks on President Murmu #CRPF Officer Poonam Gupta Gets Married at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu Blesses Newlyweds . pic.twitter.com/b0XDuj17G9 — राष्ट्र प्रथम_CRPF (@RashtraPratham0) February 13, 2025 Gupta holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and a master's degree in English Literature. In 2018, she attained an impressive rank of 81 in the UPSC CAPF exam. Before her current role at the president’s residence, she also served in Naxal-affected areas of Bihar. Apart from her professional achievements, Gupta also has an active social media profile on Instagram, where she posts inspiring content like motivational messages for students and her work. Her passion for service is evident through her online presence, which empowers other women as well. President Murmu was reportedly highly impressed by her dedication and professionalism. Gupta tied the knot with fellow CRPF officer Avneesh Kumar. An earlier version of this article incorrectly claimed that it was the first such event in history, but a PIB Fact Check clarified that the claim was fake and President's Estate has been the venue of several weddings since its inception. It is being claimed in news reports that for the first time in history, Rashtrapati Bhavan will be hosting a wedding. #PIBFactCheck ▶️This claim is Fake ▶️President's Estate has been the venue of several weddings since its inception. pic.twitter.com/nE4ZJ5CYMo — PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) February 12, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

CRPF officer Poonam Gupta gets married at Rashtrapati Bhavan

ANI | AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday warned the government against tabling the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in its current form, saying that it would lead to social instability in the country.
Mr Owaisi said that the Bill has been rejected by the entire Muslim community.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-to-introduce-16-bills-including-waqf-amendment-act-during-budget-session-8676528">India: Centre to introduce 16 bills including Waqf Amendment Act during Budget session</a>
"I am cautioning and warning this government - if you bring and make a Waqf law in the present form, which will be a violation of Article 25, 26 and 14, it will lead to social instability in this country. It has been rejected by the entire Muslim community. No Waqf property will be left, nothing will be left," the AIMIM chief said during his address in the Lok Sabha.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jpc-adopts-amended-waqf-bill-as-opposition-slams-its-provisions-as-unconstitutional-8664059">JPC adopts amended Waqf Bill as Opposition slams its provisions as 'unconstitutional'</a>
"You want to make India 'Viksit Bharat', we want 'Viksit Bharat'. You want to take this country back to the '80s and early '90s, it will be your responsibility," he added.
He further said, "As a proud Indian Muslim, I will not lose an inch of my Masjid...I will not lose an inch of my Dargah. I will not allow that. We will no more come and give a diplomatic talk over here. This is the House where I have to stand and speak honestly, that my community - we are proud Indians.&nbsp;It is my property, not given by anyone. You cannot snatch it away from me. Waqf is a form of worship for me."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ttd-chief-says-waqf-board-real-estate-firm-owaisis-comparison-with-tirumala-wrong-773204">TTD chief says 'Waqf board real estate firm', Owaisi's comparison with 'Tirumala' wrong</a>
Earlier in the day, opposition MPs Kalyan Banerjee (Lok Sabha) and Md. Nadimul Haque (Rajya Sabha) strongly protested the removal of key portions from their dissent notes submitted to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
In a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the MPs alleged that their objections were arbitrarily deleted without prior notice or explanation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-claims-indian-opposition-leader-rahul-gandhi-fell-asleep-in-parliament-during-waqf-discussion-748964">Video claims Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament during Waqf bill discussion</a>
"To our dismay and utter surprise, we found that the following objectives and dissent notes have been deleted by the Chairman without informing us and without our consent," the MPs wrote in their letter dated February 3, 2025.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

India News | "You want to make India 'Viksit Bharat', we want 'Viksit Bharat'. You want to take this country back to the '80s and early '90s, it will be your responsibility," Owaisi added.

ANI | AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday warned the government against tabling the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in its current form, saying that it would lead to social instability in the country. Mr Owaisi said that the Bill has been rejected by the entire Muslim community. Also read: India: Centre to introduce 16 bills including Waqf Amendment Act during Budget session "I am cautioning and warning this government - if you bring and make a Waqf law in the present form, which will be a violation of Article 25, 26 and 14, it will lead to social instability in this country. It has been rejected by the entire Muslim community. No Waqf property will be left, nothing will be left," the AIMIM chief said during his address in the Lok Sabha. Also read: JPC adopts amended Waqf Bill as Opposition slams its provisions as 'unconstitutional' "You want to make India 'Viksit Bharat', we want 'Viksit Bharat'. You want to take this country back to the '80s and early '90s, it will be your responsibility," he added. He further said, "As a proud Indian Muslim, I will not lose an inch of my Masjid...I will not lose an inch of my Dargah. I will not allow that. We will no more come and give a diplomatic talk over here. This is the House where I have to stand and speak honestly, that my community - we are proud Indians. It is my property, not given by anyone. You cannot snatch it away from me. Waqf is a form of worship for me." Also read: TTD chief says 'Waqf board real estate firm', Owaisi's comparison with 'Tirumala' wrong Earlier in the day, opposition MPs Kalyan Banerjee (Lok Sabha) and Md. Nadimul Haque (Rajya Sabha) strongly protested the removal of key portions from their dissent notes submitted to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. In a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the MPs alleged that their objections were arbitrarily deleted without prior notice or explanation. Also read: Video claims Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi fell asleep in Parliament during Waqf bill discussion "To our dismay and utter surprise, we found that the following objectives and dissent notes have been deleted by the Chairman without informing us and without our consent," the MPs wrote in their letter dated February 3, 2025. Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'If you bring and make a Waqf law...': Asaduddin Owaisi's 'warning' to Centre

A case was filed against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Tuesday (Feb 4), a day before the Assembly election in the national capital. The Delhi police filed two cases, one against Atishi for violating the code of conduct ahead of polls and another against her supporters for obstructing government work.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bjp-releases-manifesto-ahead-of-delhi-election-8630971">India: BJP releases manifesto ahead of Delhi Election</a>
Police claimed that the CM violated the Model Code of Conduct by visiting Fateh Singh Marg with 10 vehicles and around 60 supporters. When she was asked to leave, she refused, police said.&nbsp;
Two AAP members were accused of assaulting a head constable of Govindpuri on Monday (Feb 3) and&nbsp;allegedly slapping a police officer, the police added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q2o0yl-4jh204cp-0swdamxe">
<a href="https://twitter.com/CeodelhiOffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ceodelhioffice</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECISVEEP</a> @dmsoutheastdelhi, <a href="https://twitter.com/CPDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CPDelhi</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AtishiAAP</a> On 04/02/25, at 00:59 hrs, a gathering was reported at Baba Fateh Singh Marg, Govindpuri. HC Kaushal Pal responded &amp; began videography. AAP members Ashmit &amp; Sagar Mehta obstructed &amp; assaulted him. <a href="https://t.co/DxNYscIrlW">pic.twitter.com/DxNYscIrlW</a>
&mdash; DCP South East Delhi (@DCPSEastDelhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCPSEastDelhi/status/1886626459965411387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
Detailing on Atisi's case, the DCP said, "On February 4 at 12:30 am, AAP candidate from Kalkaji (AC-51) with 50-70 people &amp; 10 vehicles was found at Fateh Singh Marg. Police instructed them to vacate due to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). On a complaint by FST, a case under section 223 BNS &amp; 126 RP Act is registered at Police Station Govindpuri."&nbsp;
<h2>Atishi's allegations&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, Atishi took to the social media platform X and alleged that police had "illegally" nabbed the two people who were reporting and making a video of "MCC violations."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q18ktx-6i3pyzy1-utx4kotq">
Letter given to <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiPolice</a> late last night, when they illegally took in custody two youth who were reporting and making a video of MCC violations. No action was taken against those making the violation. Hope that <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECISVEEP</a> intends to have free and fair elections in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/m8QJMe5Ycd">pic.twitter.com/m8QJMe5Ycd</a>
&mdash; Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1886637129872167359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
"No action was taken against those making the violation," claimed the CM, running for AAP from the Kalkaji constituency.
Sharing a video in the post, Atishi said, "The boy who was making the video was beaten and taken away by the police. You can see in this video that the police are kicking him. Action was taken against the person who made the video. Nothing against the person who broke the rules."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6q3bamf-4vnv9vof-z6kpixyb">
जो लड़का वीडियो बना रह था उसको पुलिस मारती हुई ले गई। आप इस वीडियो में देख सकते हैं कि पुलिस उसको लात मार रही है। वीडियो बनाने वाले पर एक्शन। नियम तोड़ने वाले पर कुछ नहीं। <a href="https://t.co/jIIV75XFhB">pic.twitter.com/jIIV75XFhB</a>
&mdash; Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1886510583723303102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-are-delhi-assembly-elections-scheduled-for-wednesday-india-chief-election-commissioner-rajiv-kumar-explains-8600043">Why are Delhi elections scheduled for Wednesday? CEC Rajiv Kumar explains</a>
<h2>Case against Ramesh Bidhuri's son </h2>
Meanwhile, a case was also registered against the son of BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri after Atishi claimed he violated the MCC and interfered during the "silence period".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eight-outgoing-aap-mlas-join-bjp-four-days-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-election-8681845">Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election</a>
Deputy Commissioner of Police, South East Delhi posted on the social media platform X and informed that a case has been registered against Manish Bidhuri for violation of the Model Code of Conduct.
"In this matter, taking cognizance of the complaint against Manish Bidhuri &amp; Ravi Dayama for violation of MCC, a legal case under section 126 RP Act has been registered against them in PS Govindpuri," the post read.
Responding to another allegation by the Delhi Chief Minister, he said, "Three more members of Ramesh Bidhuri ji's family - who live in Tughlakabad village - were found roaming in the Kalkaji assembly constituency at 1 am."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837">Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India News | Police claimed that the CM violated the Model Code of Conduct by visiting Fateh Singh Marg with 10 vehicles and around 60 supporters. 

A case was filed against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Tuesday (Feb 4), a day before the Assembly election in the national capital. The Delhi police filed two cases, one against Atishi for violating the code of conduct ahead of polls and another against her supporters for obstructing government work. Also read: India: BJP releases manifesto ahead of Delhi Election Police claimed that the CM violated the Model Code of Conduct by visiting Fateh Singh Marg with 10 vehicles and around 60 supporters. When she was asked to leave, she refused, police said. Two AAP members were accused of assaulting a head constable of Govindpuri on Monday (Feb 3) and allegedly slapping a police officer, the police added. @ceodelhioffice, @ECISVEEP @dmsoutheastdelhi, @CPDelhi, @AtishiAAP On 04/02/25, at 00:59 hrs, a gathering was reported at Baba Fateh Singh Marg, Govindpuri. HC Kaushal Pal responded & began videography. AAP members Ashmit & Sagar Mehta obstructed & assaulted him. pic.twitter.com/DxNYscIrlW — DCP South East Delhi (@DCPSEastDelhi) February 4, 2025 Detailing on Atisi's case, the DCP said, "On February 4 at 12:30 am, AAP candidate from Kalkaji (AC-51) with 50-70 people & 10 vehicles was found at Fateh Singh Marg. Police instructed them to vacate due to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). On a complaint by FST, a case under section 223 BNS & 126 RP Act is registered at Police Station Govindpuri." Atishi's allegations Meanwhile, Atishi took to the social media platform X and alleged that police had "illegally" nabbed the two people who were reporting and making a video of "MCC violations." Letter given to @DelhiPolice late last night, when they illegally took in custody two youth who were reporting and making a video of MCC violations. No action was taken against those making the violation. Hope that @ECISVEEP intends to have free and fair elections in Delhi pic.twitter.com/m8QJMe5Ycd — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) February 4, 2025 "No action was taken against those making the violation," claimed the CM, running for AAP from the Kalkaji constituency. Sharing a video in the post, Atishi said, "The boy who was making the video was beaten and taken away by the police. You can see in this video that the police are kicking him. Action was taken against the person who made the video. Nothing against the person who broke the rules." जो लड़का वीडियो बना रह था उसको पुलिस मारती हुई ले गई। आप इस वीडियो में देख सकते हैं कि पुलिस उसको लात मार रही है। वीडियो बनाने वाले पर एक्शन। नियम तोड़ने वाले पर कुछ नहीं। pic.twitter.com/jIIV75XFhB — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) February 3, 2025 Also read: Why are Delhi elections scheduled for Wednesday? CEC Rajiv Kumar explains Case against Ramesh Bidhuri's son Meanwhile, a case was also registered against the son of BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri after Atishi claimed he violated the MCC and interfered during the "silence period". Also read: Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election Deputy Commissioner of Police, South East Delhi posted on the social media platform X and informed that a case has been registered against Manish Bidhuri for violation of the Model Code of Conduct. "In this matter, taking cognizance of the complaint against Manish Bidhuri & Ravi Dayama for violation of MCC, a legal case under section 126 RP Act has been registered against them in PS Govindpuri," the post read. Responding to another allegation by the Delhi Chief Minister, he said, "Three more members of Ramesh Bidhuri ji's family - who live in Tughlakabad village - were found roaming in the Kalkaji assembly constituency at 1 am." Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Assembly Election: Case filed against Delhi CM Atishi after AAP supporters slap policeman

With the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-campaign-ends-aap-bjp-congress-make-final-push-before-5-feb-vote-8687341">Delhi Assembly election</a> set to be held on Wednesday (Feb 5), a YouTuber named Meghnad S has debuted in politics as an independent candidate with a pen as his election symbol. But what has grabbed the attention of the voters is the catchy election campaign song of the digital media journalist-turned-politician, which he posted on his YouTube channel, 'Meghnerd'.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-launches-website-for-residents-to-calculate-savings-from-welfare-schemes-8684388">Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes</a>
The song titled "Dilli Ka Normie Neta" has some not-so-traditional promises and rather says, "Not a Hindu or Muslim, your leader will be a nerd."&nbsp;
Meghnad, running from the Malviya Nagar constituency of Delhi, says in the song, "He will take care of roads, air, and water, and your issues will be solved. Hi, my name is Meghnad. I'll take care of Malviya Nagar's people."
Claiming to be India's "first YouTuber neta," Meghnad introduced his candidacy against the backdrop of the chaotic and congested life of Delhi and issues like floods, pollution, etc.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="400" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k1_i_ArkZ6w?feature=oembed" title="Dilli ka Normie Neta | MUSIC VIDEO | (feat. @novacanemusic97) | #delhielection2025" class="publive-iframes-block publive-YouTube-block" id="PL_iframe_block-m6py7d4f-4ijcs0dx-9y8fra4o"></iframe>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-manifesto-bjp-manifesto-congress-manifesto-arvind-kejriwal-narendra-modi-rahul-gandhi-8683870">Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos</a>
The YouTuber urged people to vote for him in the song, saying, "I bring some hope to you. Not even one vote might come in, honestly, I know that too. But I'm in this game, I know the rules, choose me, and I'll show it to you."
"I'm just trying to walk the talk because that's what we're supposed to do. We need our person, Who will win this time? Delhi wants a normie leader. Even if no one votes, this song will play in every street."
"Delhi wants a normie leader," the song ended.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eight-outgoing-aap-mlas-join-bjp-four-days-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-election-8681845">Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election</a>
Pamphlets have been distributed for Meghnad with slogans like "Pen chuno, kaam dekho" (Choose the pen, see the work) and "Teach the herd, vote for the nerd."
In his interactions with the media, Meghnad said that he believes hyper-local candidates can best address the local issues of the voters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-elelctions-2025-aap-chief-arvind-kejriwal-releases-party-manifesto-for-upcoming-polls-8657270">Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 &lsquo;guarantees&rsquo;</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Trending | With the Delhi Assembly election set to be held on Wednesday (Feb 5), a YouTuber named Meghnad S debuts in politics as an independent candidate with a pen as his election symbol. 

With the Delhi Assembly election set to be held on Wednesday (Feb 5), a YouTuber named Meghnad S has debuted in politics as an independent candidate with a pen as his election symbol. But what has grabbed the attention of the voters is the catchy election campaign song of the digital media journalist-turned-politician, which he posted on his YouTube channel, 'Meghnerd'. Also read: Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes The song titled "Dilli Ka Normie Neta" has some not-so-traditional promises and rather says, "Not a Hindu or Muslim, your leader will be a nerd." Meghnad, running from the Malviya Nagar constituency of Delhi, says in the song, "He will take care of roads, air, and water, and your issues will be solved. Hi, my name is Meghnad. I'll take care of Malviya Nagar's people." Claiming to be India's "first YouTuber neta," Meghnad introduced his candidacy against the backdrop of the chaotic and congested life of Delhi and issues like floods, pollution, etc. Also read: Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos The YouTuber urged people to vote for him in the song, saying, "I bring some hope to you. Not even one vote might come in, honestly, I know that too. But I'm in this game, I know the rules, choose me, and I'll show it to you." "I'm just trying to walk the talk because that's what we're supposed to do. We need our person, Who will win this time? Delhi wants a normie leader. Even if no one votes, this song will play in every street." "Delhi wants a normie leader," the song ended. Also read: Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election Pamphlets have been distributed for Meghnad with slogans like "Pen chuno, kaam dekho" (Choose the pen, see the work) and "Teach the herd, vote for the nerd." In his interactions with the media, Meghnad said that he believes hyper-local candidates can best address the local issues of the voters. Also read: Delhi assembly elections 2025: Kejriwal releases AAP manifesto, promises 15 ‘guarantees’ (With inputs from agencies)

'Not a Hindu or Muslim, your leader will be a nerd': YouTuber turned politician's catchy campaign song for Delhi election

The campaign for the Delhi Assembly election came to an end, with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into effect after 5 pm on Monday. The city will go to the polls on 5 February, bringing months of intense electioneering to a close.
This election cycle has been marked by aggressive campaigning, AI-generated memes, and sharp political exchanges. Parties have competed to win over voters with promises, including freebies for women and young people.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-leaders-ready-to-respond-if-trump-imposes-tariffs-8686934" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: EU should do all to avert &lsquo;totally unnecessary and stupid tariff wars&rsquo;, says Polish PM Donald Tusk</a>
<h2>Heavyweight campaigners and star power</h2>
The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress deployed their top leaders to lead the charge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with senior ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Piyush Goyal, spearheaded the BJP&rsquo;s electioneering. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also played a key role, as did former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, and other chief ministers from BJP- and Congress-ruled states.
Celebrities also joined the fray, with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Bollywood actor Shatrughan Sinha adding star power to AAP&rsquo;s campaign.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kejriwal-accuses-bjp-of-trying-to-deceive-slum-residents-in-delhi-by-offering-them-money-8683702">Kejriwal accuses BJP of trying to deceive slum residents in Delhi by offering them money</a>
Key issues dominating the election discourse included financial assistance for women, corruption allegations linked to the liquor policy and &lsquo;Sheesh Mahal&rsquo; controversy, unemployment, water supply and sewage issues, air pollution, the Yamuna&rsquo;s condition, and free health insurance.
<h2>Final day of campaigning</h2>
The final day saw a flurry of activities. The BJP organised 22 roadshows and rallies across Delhi, while PM Modi released a video of his interaction with students.
BJP&rsquo;s New Delhi candidate, Parvesh Verma, announced that if his party wins, Talkatora Stadium would be renamed after &ldquo;Maharishi Valmiki.&rdquo; He further stated that all major airports, stadiums, and significant buildings should be named after a &ldquo;Bhagwan or a martyr&rdquo; who sacrificed their life for the nation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brooms-bristles-are-scattering-pm-modi-takes-dig-at-kejriwals-aap-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-polls-8683574">'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</a>
Amit Shah also took a swipe at AAP, claiming that states with a &ldquo;double-engine BJP government&rdquo; have seen progress in the last ten years, whereas Delhi has fallen behind due to AAP&rsquo;s confrontations with the central government.
Meanwhile, AAP&rsquo;s campaign ended with Arvind Kejriwal holding public meetings in Chhatarpur and Kalkaji and releasing a video alleging attempts to manipulate Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). AAP&rsquo;s Jangpura candidate, Manish Sisodia, accused the BJP of using &ldquo;threats&rdquo; and &ldquo;hooliganism&rdquo; before the election. &ldquo;The public will respond through their votes and re-elect Kejriwal as chief minister,&rdquo; he stated.
The Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 years between 1998 and 2013, appeared reinvigorated in its campaign efforts.
With just hours left before voting, the Delhi election office has enforced restrictions, prohibiting the public display of election material through films, television, or other electronic media, as well as public meetings, in the 48-hour period before polling ends.
Delhi&rsquo;s 70-member Assembly will be decided on 5 February, with results set to be announced on 8 February. In the outgoing House, AAP holds 62 seats, while BJP has eight.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837">Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
According to the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), 1.56 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots at 13,766 polling stations. Among them, 83.76 lakh are men, 72.36 lakh are women, and 1,267 are third-gender voters. This year, 699 candidates are contesting, compared to 672 in 2020.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: This election cycle has been marked by aggressive campaigning, AI-generated memes, and sharp political exchanges between AAP, BJP, and Congress leaders.

The campaign for the Delhi Assembly election came to an end, with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into effect after 5 pm on Monday. The city will go to the polls on 5 February, bringing months of intense electioneering to a close. This election cycle has been marked by aggressive campaigning, AI-generated memes, and sharp political exchanges. Parties have competed to win over voters with promises, including freebies for women and young people. Also read: EU should do all to avert ‘totally unnecessary and stupid tariff wars’, says Polish PM Donald Tusk Heavyweight campaigners and star power The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress deployed their top leaders to lead the charge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with senior ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Piyush Goyal, spearheaded the BJP’s electioneering. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also played a key role, as did former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, and other chief ministers from BJP- and Congress-ruled states. Celebrities also joined the fray, with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Bollywood actor Shatrughan Sinha adding star power to AAP’s campaign. Also read: Kejriwal accuses BJP of trying to deceive slum residents in Delhi by offering them money Key issues dominating the election discourse included financial assistance for women, corruption allegations linked to the liquor policy and ‘Sheesh Mahal’ controversy, unemployment, water supply and sewage issues, air pollution, the Yamuna’s condition, and free health insurance. Final day of campaigning The final day saw a flurry of activities. The BJP organised 22 roadshows and rallies across Delhi, while PM Modi released a video of his interaction with students. BJP’s New Delhi candidate, Parvesh Verma, announced that if his party wins, Talkatora Stadium would be renamed after “Maharishi Valmiki.” He further stated that all major airports, stadiums, and significant buildings should be named after a “Bhagwan or a martyr” who sacrificed their life for the nation. Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls Amit Shah also took a swipe at AAP, claiming that states with a “double-engine BJP government” have seen progress in the last ten years, whereas Delhi has fallen behind due to AAP’s confrontations with the central government. Meanwhile, AAP’s campaign ended with Arvind Kejriwal holding public meetings in Chhatarpur and Kalkaji and releasing a video alleging attempts to manipulate Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). AAP’s Jangpura candidate, Manish Sisodia, accused the BJP of using “threats” and “hooliganism” before the election. “The public will respond through their votes and re-elect Kejriwal as chief minister,” he stated. The Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 years between 1998 and 2013, appeared reinvigorated in its campaign efforts. With just hours left before voting, the Delhi election office has enforced restrictions, prohibiting the public display of election material through films, television, or other electronic media, as well as public meetings, in the 48-hour period before polling ends. Delhi’s 70-member Assembly will be decided on 5 February, with results set to be announced on 8 February. In the outgoing House, AAP holds 62 seats, while BJP has eight. Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign According to the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), 1.56 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots at 13,766 polling stations. Among them, 83.76 lakh are men, 72.36 lakh are women, and 1,267 are third-gender voters. This year, 699 candidates are contesting, compared to 672 in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi election campaign ends: AAP, BJP, Congress make final push before Feb 5 vote

Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan claimed on Monday (Feb 3) that the water at the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has been contaminated due to the bodies of those who died in last month's stampede being thrown into the river. &nbsp;
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFmpzdVtnN0/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 16px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFmpzdVtnN0/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div>
</a>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFmpzdVtnN0/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by WION (@wionews)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>Questions UP govt&rsquo;s arrangements</h2>
Bachchan criticised the Yogi Adityanath-led government, alleging that no special arrangements have been made for the common people attending Kumbh. "The real issues are not being addressed. The common people visiting Kumbh are not receiving any special treatment, and there is no arrangement for them," she told reporters outside Parliament. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-rebukes-rahul-gandhi-over-trump-inauguration-invite-allegation-common-knowledge-pm-does-not-attend-such-events-8686736">Jaishankar rebukes Rahul Gandhi over Trump inauguration invite allegation; 'common knowledge PM doesn't attend such events'</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan says, "... Where is the water most contaminated right now? It's in Kumbh. Bodies (of those who died in the stampede) have been thrown in the river because of which the water has been contaminated... The real issues are not being&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/9EWM2OUCJj">pic.twitter.com/9EWM2OUCJj</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886328101740974266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ruckus-erupts-in-parliament-during-budget-session-over-maha-kumbh-stampede-8686009">India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede</a>
<h2>Alleges VIP privileges&nbsp;</h2>
She further claimed that while VIPs are getting special treatment, ordinary devotees have been left without proper facilities. "The common people visiting Kumbh are not receiving any special treatment, and there is no arrangement for them," she reiterated. &nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-polls-pm-modi-lashes-out-at-aap-for-prioritizing-its-image-over-youths-future-8686124"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-polls-pm-modi-lashes-out-at-aap-for-prioritizing-its-image-over-youths-future-8686124">Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH</a>
<h2>Questions crowd estimates</h2>
Bachchan also expressed doubt over the reported number of attendees at Maha Kumbh, questioning the scale of the gathering. "They are lying that crores of people have visited the place. How can such a large number of people gather there at any given point?," she asked.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Trending: Bachchan criticised the Yogi Adityanath-led government, alleging that no special arrangements have been made for the common people attending Kumbh.

Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan claimed on Monday (Feb 3) that the water at the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has been contaminated due to the bodies of those who died in last month's stampede being thrown into the river. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) Questions UP govt’s arrangements Bachchan criticised the Yogi Adityanath-led government, alleging that no special arrangements have been made for the common people attending Kumbh. "The real issues are not being addressed. The common people visiting Kumbh are not receiving any special treatment, and there is no arrangement for them," she told reporters outside Parliament. Also Read | Jaishankar rebukes Rahul Gandhi over Trump inauguration invite allegation; 'common knowledge PM doesn't attend such events' #WATCH | Delhi: Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan says, "... Where is the water most contaminated right now? It's in Kumbh. Bodies (of those who died in the stampede) have been thrown in the river because of which the water has been contaminated... The real issues are not being… pic.twitter.com/9EWM2OUCJj — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2025 Also Read | India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede Alleges VIP privileges She further claimed that while VIPs are getting special treatment, ordinary devotees have been left without proper facilities. "The common people visiting Kumbh are not receiving any special treatment, and there is no arrangement for them," she reiterated. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH Questions crowd estimates Bachchan also expressed doubt over the reported number of attendees at Maha Kumbh, questioning the scale of the gathering. "They are lying that crores of people have visited the place. How can such a large number of people gather there at any given point?," she asked. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaya Bachchan claims Kumbh water contaminated, questions UP government’s arrangements | Video

S Jaishankar has hit back at Rahul Gandhi after the Leader of Opposition mocked the Modi government, claiming that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send the Foreign Minister to the United States to get an invite for Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Donald Trump's inauguration.
Taking to his official X account, Jaishankar said that he went to meet the Secretary of State and NSA of the Biden Administration.
Slamming Gandhi, Jaishankar said that it was "common knowledge" that the Prime Minister does not attend such events.
"Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi deliberately spoke a falsehood about my visit to the US in December 2024. I went to meet the Secretary of State and NSA of the Biden Administration. Also to chair a gathering of our Consuls General. During my stay, the incoming NSA-designate met with me," he wrote in a post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6oyz82e-e1v1mu4e-kaciwt7r">
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi deliberately spoke a falsehood about my visit to the US in December 2024. I went to meet the Secretary of State and NSA of the Biden Administration. Also to chair a gathering of our Consuls General. During my stay, the incoming NSA-designate met&hellip;
&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1886368544226504960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
"At no stage was an invitation in respect of the PM discussed. It is common knowledge that our PM does not attend such events. In fact, India is generally represented by Special Envoys. Rahul Gandhi&rsquo;s lies may be intended politically. But they damage the nation abroad," Jaishankar added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-honour-to-represent-india-says-eam-jaishankar-as-he-attends-trumps-swearing-in-ceremony-8639153">Also read: 'Great honour to represent India,' says EAM Jaishankar as he attends Trump's swearing-in ceremony</a>
<h2>'Jaishankar went to US to get invitation for PM Modi for Trump's coronation,' says Gandhi</h2>
Gandhi claimed that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to the United States to get an invite for the prime minister to Donald Trump's inauguration.
"Our foreign policy would take into account this revolution. When we talk to the United States, we would not send our foreign minister to invite our Prime Minister to his coronation...Because if we had a production system and if we were working on these technologies, the American President would come here and invite the Prime Minister," the Congress leader said.
<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">Also read: 'Make in India' was good initiative but PM Modi 'pretty much failed', says Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha- WATCH</a>
<h2>Kiren Rijiju hits back</h2>
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju hit back at Gandhi over his "unsubstantiated claims" on the government's foreign policy.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6oyzkz0-iqy1dydq-oxiizxps">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju objects to Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi's remarks on PM Modi over the inaugural ceremony of US President Donald Trump Kiren Rijiju says, "Leader of Opposition cannot make such serious unsubstantial statement. This is&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/zdbDl1RnRl">https://t.co/zdbDl1RnRl</a> <a href="https://t.co/rcgMKuLQlZ">pic.twitter.com/rcgMKuLQlZ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886343911981068414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
"You cannot make such unsubstantiated claims," he said.
"Leader of Opposition cannot make such serious unsubstantial statement. This is related to the relation between two countries and he is making an unverified statement about the invitation of the Prime Minister of our country," Rijiju said.
To this Gandhi replied, "I apologise for disturbing your peace of mind..."
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India news: Gandhi claimed that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to the United States to get an invite for the prime minister to Donald Trump's inauguration.

S Jaishankar has hit back at Rahul Gandhi after the Leader of Opposition mocked the Modi government, claiming that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send the Foreign Minister to the United States to get an invite for Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Donald Trump's inauguration. Taking to his official X account, Jaishankar said that he went to meet the Secretary of State and NSA of the Biden Administration. Slamming Gandhi, Jaishankar said that it was "common knowledge" that the Prime Minister does not attend such events. "Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi deliberately spoke a falsehood about my visit to the US in December 2024. I went to meet the Secretary of State and NSA of the Biden Administration. Also to chair a gathering of our Consuls General. During my stay, the incoming NSA-designate met with me," he wrote in a post. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi deliberately spoke a falsehood about my visit to the US in December 2024. I went to meet the Secretary of State and NSA of the Biden Administration. Also to chair a gathering of our Consuls General. During my stay, the incoming NSA-designate met… — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 3, 2025 "At no stage was an invitation in respect of the PM discussed. It is common knowledge that our PM does not attend such events. In fact, India is generally represented by Special Envoys. Rahul Gandhi’s lies may be intended politically. But they damage the nation abroad," Jaishankar added. Also read: 'Great honour to represent India,' says EAM Jaishankar as he attends Trump's swearing-in ceremony 'Jaishankar went to US to get invitation for PM Modi for Trump's coronation,' says Gandhi Gandhi claimed that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to the United States to get an invite for the prime minister to Donald Trump's inauguration. "Our foreign policy would take into account this revolution. When we talk to the United States, we would not send our foreign minister to invite our Prime Minister to his coronation...Because if we had a production system and if we were working on these technologies, the American President would come here and invite the Prime Minister," the Congress leader said. Also read: 'Make in India' was good initiative but PM Modi 'pretty much failed', says Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha- WATCH Kiren Rijiju hits back Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju hit back at Gandhi over his "unsubstantiated claims" on the government's foreign policy. #WATCH | Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju objects to Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi's remarks on PM Modi over the inaugural ceremony of US President Donald Trump Kiren Rijiju says, "Leader of Opposition cannot make such serious unsubstantial statement. This is… https://t.co/zdbDl1RnRl pic.twitter.com/rcgMKuLQlZ — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2025 "You cannot make such unsubstantiated claims," he said. "Leader of Opposition cannot make such serious unsubstantial statement. This is related to the relation between two countries and he is making an unverified statement about the invitation of the Prime Minister of our country," Rijiju said. To this Gandhi replied, "I apologise for disturbing your peace of mind..." (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar slams Rahul Gandhi for his Trump inauguration invite remark; ‘common knowledge PM doesn't attend such events’

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, on Monday (Feb 3), denounced the President's address to the two Houses saying that saying that it was eerily similar to last year's speech.&nbsp;
He dismissed the address as a mere "laundry list" of the government's accomplishments, implying that it lacked substance and vision for the country's future.&nbsp;
During a debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address on January 31, Gandhi criticised the government's handling of unemployment.
He argued that both the UPA, led by Congress, and the present NDA governments failed to address the issue, leaving young people without clear employment prospects.&nbsp;
He then said that 'Make in India' was a good initiative by the government, but the Prime Minister "pretty much failed".
Gandhi further alleged that China's presence within India's borders is the result of the country refusing to produce, which showcases a failure of 'Make in India' initiative.
"I am worried that India is going to give up this revolution to the Chinese once again," he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-polls-pm-modi-lashes-out-at-aap-for-prioritizing-its-image-over-youths-future-8686124">Also read: Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH</a>
<h2>'Jaishankar went to US to get invitation for PM Modi for Trump's coronation,' says Gandhi</h2>
Gandhi then mocked the Modi government, claiming that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to the United States to get an invite for the prime minister to Donald Trump's inauguration.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6oxs7tb-c3lixf32-8uhfggas">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession2025</a> | Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says "People talk about AI, but it's important to understand that AI on its own is absolutely meaningless because AI operates on top of data. Without data, AI means nothing. And if we look at data today, there is one&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/WD5oMnh0gl">pic.twitter.com/WD5oMnh0gl</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886341575586029614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Our foreign policy would take into account this revolution. When we talk to the United States, we would not send our foreign minister to invite our Prime Minister to his coronation...Because if we had a production system and if we were working on these technologies, the American President would come here and invite the Prime Minister," the Congress leader said.
<h2>Kiren Rijiju hits back</h2>
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju hit back at Gandhi over his "unsubstantiated claims" on the government's foreign policy.
"You cannot make such unsubstantiated claims," he said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6oxt1yx-7l70mlip-fripmk5u">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju objects to Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi's remarks on PM Modi over the inaugural ceremony of US President Donald Trump Kiren Rijiju says, "Leader of Opposition cannot make such serious unsubstantial statement. This is&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/zdbDl1RnRl">https://t.co/zdbDl1RnRl</a> <a href="https://t.co/rcgMKuLQlZ">pic.twitter.com/rcgMKuLQlZ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886343911981068414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Leader of Opposition cannot make such a serious, unsubstantial statement. This is related to the relation between two countries, and he is making an unverified statement about the invitation of the Prime Minister of our country," Rijiju said.
To this Gandhi replied, "I apologize for disturbing your peace of mind..."
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Rahul Gandhi mocked the Modi government, claiming that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to the US to get an invite for the PM to Donald Trump's inauguration.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, on Monday (Feb 3), denounced the President's address to the two Houses saying that saying that it was eerily similar to last year's speech. He dismissed the address as a mere "laundry list" of the government's accomplishments, implying that it lacked substance and vision for the country's future. During a debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address on January 31, Gandhi criticised the government's handling of unemployment. He argued that both the UPA, led by Congress, and the present NDA governments failed to address the issue, leaving young people without clear employment prospects. He then said that 'Make in India' was a good initiative by the government, but the Prime Minister "pretty much failed". Gandhi further alleged that China's presence within India's borders is the result of the country refusing to produce, which showcases a failure of 'Make in India' initiative. "I am worried that India is going to give up this revolution to the Chinese once again," he said. Also read: Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH 'Jaishankar went to US to get invitation for PM Modi for Trump's coronation,' says Gandhi Gandhi then mocked the Modi government, claiming that if the Centre had taken the economic policies seriously, it would not have to send Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to the United States to get an invite for the prime minister to Donald Trump's inauguration. #BudgetSession2025 | Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says "People talk about AI, but it's important to understand that AI on its own is absolutely meaningless because AI operates on top of data. Without data, AI means nothing. And if we look at data today, there is one… pic.twitter.com/WD5oMnh0gl — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2025 "Our foreign policy would take into account this revolution. When we talk to the United States, we would not send our foreign minister to invite our Prime Minister to his coronation...Because if we had a production system and if we were working on these technologies, the American President would come here and invite the Prime Minister," the Congress leader said. Kiren Rijiju hits back Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju hit back at Gandhi over his "unsubstantiated claims" on the government's foreign policy. "You cannot make such unsubstantiated claims," he said. #WATCH | Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju objects to Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi's remarks on PM Modi over the inaugural ceremony of US President Donald Trump Kiren Rijiju says, "Leader of Opposition cannot make such serious unsubstantial statement. This is… https://t.co/zdbDl1RnRl pic.twitter.com/rcgMKuLQlZ — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2025 "Leader of Opposition cannot make such a serious, unsubstantial statement. This is related to the relation between two countries, and he is making an unverified statement about the invitation of the Prime Minister of our country," Rijiju said. To this Gandhi replied, "I apologize for disturbing your peace of mind..." (With inputs from agencies)

‘Make in India’ was good initiative but PM Modi ‘pretty much failed’, says Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha- WATCH

An ex-Army man was shot dead and his family was injured in a terrorist attack in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. The ex-Army man has been identified as Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, who was hit by a bullet in his abdomen while his family members, including his wife and niece, were hit by bullets in their legs. Wagay was shifted to a hospital in Srinagar, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Jammu and Kashmir Police's top official said that the terrorists fired upon an ex-Army man along with his family. All of them have been shifted to the nearby hospital. The ex-Army man has been identified as Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, a resident of Behibagh Kulgam. He was accompanied by his wife and niece in the car when terrorists shot at them from a point-blank range.
Jammu and Kashmir Police have cordoned the whole area where the attack took place, and a massive search operation has been started to nab the terrorists involved in the attack. This is the first terror attack that has taken place in Kashmir Valley in the year 2025. Security has been put on high alert across the region after the incident.
The resurgence of terrorist attacks on ex-security personnel has been witnessed after a long gap in Kashmir, raising concerns among the police and administration.
The terrorists had fired on the ex-Army man and his family outside their residence in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, injuring him as well as his wife and niece.&nbsp;
Jammu and Kashmir Police's top official said that the terrorists fired upon an ex-Army man and his family. All of them have been shifted to the nearby hospital. The official identified the ex-Army man as Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, a resident of Behibagh, Kulgam. He was with his family in a car when terrorists shot at them from point-blank range.&nbsp;

India News | Jammu and Kashmir Police's top official said that the terrorists fired upon an ex-Army man and his family. All of them have been shifted to the nearby hospital. 

An ex-Army man was shot dead and his family was injured in a terrorist attack in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. The ex-Army man has been identified as Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, who was hit by a bullet in his abdomen while his family members, including his wife and niece, were hit by bullets in their legs. Wagay was shifted to a hospital in Srinagar, where he succumbed to his injuries. Jammu and Kashmir Police's top official said that the terrorists fired upon an ex-Army man along with his family. All of them have been shifted to the nearby hospital. The ex-Army man has been identified as Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, a resident of Behibagh Kulgam. He was accompanied by his wife and niece in the car when terrorists shot at them from a point-blank range. Jammu and Kashmir Police have cordoned the whole area where the attack took place, and a massive search operation has been started to nab the terrorists involved in the attack. This is the first terror attack that has taken place in Kashmir Valley in the year 2025. Security has been put on high alert across the region after the incident. The resurgence of terrorist attacks on ex-security personnel has been witnessed after a long gap in Kashmir, raising concerns among the police and administration. The terrorists had fired on the ex-Army man and his family outside their residence in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, injuring him as well as his wife and niece. Jammu and Kashmir Police's top official said that the terrorists fired upon an ex-Army man and his family. All of them have been shifted to the nearby hospital. The official identified the ex-Army man as Manzoor Ahmad Wagay, a resident of Behibagh, Kulgam. He was with his family in a car when terrorists shot at them from point-blank range.

Jammu and Kashmir: Ex-Army man killed, his family injured in terror attack at Kulgam

TROPEX-25, or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise 2025 is significant Indian military exercises, with Indian Navy at the core. The focus of the exercise is to show jointness, and also how to deal with challenges and show power projects in the Indian Ocean Region.
<h2>What is TROPEX-25?</h2>
TROPEX is the Indian Navy&rsquo;s largest biennial maritime exercise, involving the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard which is onducted in the Indian Ocean. In January 2025, senior military leaders embarked on INS Vikrant off the West Coast to witness the joint phase of TROPEX-25. The exercise involves inter-service coordination, operational demonstrations, complex drills, live weapon firings. Overall a message on Indian Navy's combat and material readiness.
<h2>TROPEX-25 as Part of India&rsquo;s Defence Strategy</h2>
TROPEX-25 shows India&rsquo;s evolving military doctrine in which joint warfare, fleet integration, and rapid response at the heart of national defence. It has 3 key takeaways:
Integrated Fleet Operations A Reality: The coming together of Eastern &amp; Western Fleets shows hat India&rsquo;s Navy can and will work as a single, consolidated maritime force rather than in isolated silos. This shift is critical in an era where conflicts are no longer restricted to single theatres.
Carrier-Based Air Power is Central to Future Warfare: INS Vikrant&rsquo;s participation in TROPEX-25 was a defining moment. No longer just a symbolic platform, the carrier is now integrated into networked fleet combat, conducting real-world naval strike missions. The Navy asset will serve as a force multiplier in the Indo-Pacific, significantly expanding India&rsquo;s maritime reach.
Shaping the Indo-Pacific Battlespace: Beyond India&rsquo;s military transformation, TROPEX-25 is a signal to the wider Indo-Pacific region especially with China&rsquo;s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean&mdash;through spy ships, dual-use ports, and increased submarine activity. India is demonstrating that it can counterbalance Chinese move in the region with a formidable, networked military response.
<h2>The Vice Chiefs Come Together</h2>
On Friday, the Vice Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force&mdash;Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Admiral K Swaminathan, and Air Marshal SP Dharkar&mdash; came together onboard INS Vikrant during TROPEX-25. From INS Vikrant, the Vice Chiefs witnessed MiG-29K fighter operations, coordinated with Indian Air Force (IAF) assets, executing simulated maritime strike missions. Terming it as "momentous occasion", the Indian Navy statement said, "In the true spirit of Joint Manship, the VCAS embarked INS Vikrant in a Mig 29K trainer. The overnight sea sortie of the senior officers is part of TROPEX and AMPHEX where joint operations between Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force would be conducted."
The presence of vice chiefs aboard India&rsquo;s first indigenous aircraft carrier during the theatre-level maritime exercise reflected a broader strategic shift&mdash;one that is redefining joint warfare, naval force projection, and India&rsquo;s maritime combat doctrine. For decades, India&rsquo;s military services have traditionally operated in distinct silos, with the need for operational synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.&nbsp;
TROPEX-25 signals that jointness is no longer an aspiration&mdash;it is now being executed in the field. A clear message on the evolving nature of India&rsquo;s warfighting doctrine, where land, sea, and air forces are not just coordinating&mdash;they are fighting as a single, unified force.
<h2>TROPEX-25: A Convergence of the Eastern and Western Fleets</h2>
Beyond jointness, this year&rsquo;s exercise featured a convergence of India&rsquo;s two naval powerhouses&mdash;the Eastern and Western Fleets&mdash;operating together in a theatre-wide combat scenario. While both fleets have always played a role in TROPEX, this year&rsquo;s edition emphasised integrated fleet operations. India&rsquo;s Western Fleet, based in Mumbai, focuses on operations in the Arabian Sea, while the Eastern Fleet, headquartered in Visakhapatnam, has been responsible for Bay of Bengal security and overall Indo-Pacific engagements. The combined presence in TROPEX-25 signifies a major shift that prioritises force concentration across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).&nbsp;
For India&rsquo;s adversaries, this is a powerful deterrence signal. It proves that the Indian Navy is not keeping itself limited to regional fleet divisions&mdash;it can bring together its full naval strength when required. With both fleets engaged in high-intensity combat drills involving carriers, destroyers, submarines, and aircraft, TROPEX-25 tests the Indian Navy&rsquo;s sustained ability to function as a single, networked force across its vast maritime domain.&nbsp;
<h2>Strategic Importance</h2>
For India's allies in the Quad&mdash;comprising the United States, Japan, and Australia&mdash;these military exercises solidify New Delhi's dedication to regional security. The growing integration of Indian forces enhances India's capacity to engage in coalition-led maritime defense efforts, fostering stronger strategic coordination with its partners and sending a resolute signal to potential adversaries.

India News | The exercise involves inter-service coordination, operational demonstrations, complex drills, live weapon firings. Overall a message on Indian Navy's combat and material readiness.

TROPEX-25, or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise 2025 is significant Indian military exercises, with Indian Navy at the core. The focus of the exercise is to show jointness, and also how to deal with challenges and show power projects in the Indian Ocean Region. What is TROPEX-25? TROPEX is the Indian Navy’s largest biennial maritime exercise, involving the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard which is onducted in the Indian Ocean. In January 2025, senior military leaders embarked on INS Vikrant off the West Coast to witness the joint phase of TROPEX-25. The exercise involves inter-service coordination, operational demonstrations, complex drills, live weapon firings. Overall a message on Indian Navy's combat and material readiness. TROPEX-25 as Part of India’s Defence Strategy TROPEX-25 shows India’s evolving military doctrine in which joint warfare, fleet integration, and rapid response at the heart of national defence. It has 3 key takeaways: Integrated Fleet Operations A Reality: The coming together of Eastern & Western Fleets shows hat India’s Navy can and will work as a single, consolidated maritime force rather than in isolated silos. This shift is critical in an era where conflicts are no longer restricted to single theatres. Carrier-Based Air Power is Central to Future Warfare: INS Vikrant’s participation in TROPEX-25 was a defining moment. No longer just a symbolic platform, the carrier is now integrated into networked fleet combat, conducting real-world naval strike missions. The Navy asset will serve as a force multiplier in the Indo-Pacific, significantly expanding India’s maritime reach. Shaping the Indo-Pacific Battlespace: Beyond India’s military transformation, TROPEX-25 is a signal to the wider Indo-Pacific region especially with China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean—through spy ships, dual-use ports, and increased submarine activity. India is demonstrating that it can counterbalance Chinese move in the region with a formidable, networked military response. The Vice Chiefs Come Together On Friday, the Vice Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force—Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Admiral K Swaminathan, and Air Marshal SP Dharkar— came together onboard INS Vikrant during TROPEX-25. From INS Vikrant, the Vice Chiefs witnessed MiG-29K fighter operations, coordinated with Indian Air Force (IAF) assets, executing simulated maritime strike missions. Terming it as "momentous occasion", the Indian Navy statement said, "In the true spirit of Joint Manship, the VCAS embarked INS Vikrant in a Mig 29K trainer. The overnight sea sortie of the senior officers is part of TROPEX and AMPHEX where joint operations between Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force would be conducted." The presence of vice chiefs aboard India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier during the theatre-level maritime exercise reflected a broader strategic shift—one that is redefining joint warfare, naval force projection, and India’s maritime combat doctrine. For decades, India’s military services have traditionally operated in distinct silos, with the need for operational synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. TROPEX-25 signals that jointness is no longer an aspiration—it is now being executed in the field. A clear message on the evolving nature of India’s warfighting doctrine, where land, sea, and air forces are not just coordinating—they are fighting as a single, unified force. TROPEX-25: A Convergence of the Eastern and Western Fleets Beyond jointness, this year’s exercise featured a convergence of India’s two naval powerhouses—the Eastern and Western Fleets—operating together in a theatre-wide combat scenario. While both fleets have always played a role in TROPEX, this year’s edition emphasised integrated fleet operations. India’s Western Fleet, based in Mumbai, focuses on operations in the Arabian Sea, while the Eastern Fleet, headquartered in Visakhapatnam, has been responsible for Bay of Bengal security and overall Indo-Pacific engagements. The combined presence in TROPEX-25 signifies a major shift that prioritises force concentration across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). For India’s adversaries, this is a powerful deterrence signal. It proves that the Indian Navy is not keeping itself limited to regional fleet divisions—it can bring together its full naval strength when required. With both fleets engaged in high-intensity combat drills involving carriers, destroyers, submarines, and aircraft, TROPEX-25 tests the Indian Navy’s sustained ability to function as a single, networked force across its vast maritime domain. Strategic Importance For India's allies in the Quad—comprising the United States, Japan, and Australia—these military exercises solidify New Delhi's dedication to regional security. The growing integration of Indian forces enhances India's capacity to engage in coalition-led maritime defense efforts, fostering stronger strategic coordination with its partners and sending a resolute signal to potential adversaries.

Explainer: What is the Indian Navy's Tropex-25 exercises

Backward classes other than Muslim minorities at 46.25 per cent form the largest chunk of the total 3.70 crore population of Telangana, according to the caste survey conducted in the state.
The population of BCs is followed by the Scheduled Castes (17.43 per cent), Scheduled Tribes (10.45), backward classes among Muslims (10.08), Other Castes (13.31), and OCs among Muslims (2.48) in terms of the percentage of population.
The state planning department, which conducted the survey, submitted its report to the cabinet sub-committee headed by state Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy on Sunday.
The minister said the report would be presented before the state cabinet on February 4. On the same day, it would be placed before a special session of the legislative assembly for debate.
In terms of numbers, the population of SCs is 61,84,319, STs is 37,05,929, BCs other than Muslim minorities is 1,64,09,179, BCs among Muslim minorities are 35,76,588, Muslim (OC) is 8,80,424.
The total Muslim percentage in the state is 12.56, Reddy told reporters here.
The number of total households in the state is 1,15,78,457, while the count of total households surveyed is 1,12,15,134. Telangana provides reservations to backward Muslims in the backward classes category.
Reddy, who termed the report historic, said the survey covered 3,54,77,554 individuals (96.9 per cent of population).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-telangana-lands-52-billion-renewable-energy-investment-deal-with-sun-petrochemicals-8646044">India: Telangana lands $5.2 billion renewable energy investment deal with Sun Petrochemicals</a>
He said 3.1 per cent of the population (16 lakh) were left out of the survey as they were either not available or did not show interest in participating in it.
"This process of preparing the report and the report itself is a landmark achievement to the government of Telangana, which will go down in the annals of social history of the country," the minister said.
Through the survey, data-driven welfare and data-driven opportunities in social, economic, educational, political fields would be available to the "poorest of the poor, weakest of the weak and marginalised sections in Telangana", he said.
The Congress government's comprehensive socio-economic, employment, political, and caste survey, an election promise of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, was conducted for 50 days from November 6, 2024.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news | Through the survey, data-driven welfare and data-driven opportunities in social, economic, educational, political fields would be available to the "poorest of the poor, weakest of the weak and marginalised sections in Telangana", he said.

Backward classes other than Muslim minorities at 46.25 per cent form the largest chunk of the total 3.70 crore population of Telangana, according to the caste survey conducted in the state. The population of BCs is followed by the Scheduled Castes (17.43 per cent), Scheduled Tribes (10.45), backward classes among Muslims (10.08), Other Castes (13.31), and OCs among Muslims (2.48) in terms of the percentage of population. The state planning department, which conducted the survey, submitted its report to the cabinet sub-committee headed by state Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy on Sunday. The minister said the report would be presented before the state cabinet on February 4. On the same day, it would be placed before a special session of the legislative assembly for debate. In terms of numbers, the population of SCs is 61,84,319, STs is 37,05,929, BCs other than Muslim minorities is 1,64,09,179, BCs among Muslim minorities are 35,76,588, Muslim (OC) is 8,80,424. The total Muslim percentage in the state is 12.56, Reddy told reporters here. The number of total households in the state is 1,15,78,457, while the count of total households surveyed is 1,12,15,134. Telangana provides reservations to backward Muslims in the backward classes category. Reddy, who termed the report historic, said the survey covered 3,54,77,554 individuals (96.9 per cent of population). Also read | India: Telangana lands $5.2 billion renewable energy investment deal with Sun Petrochemicals He said 3.1 per cent of the population (16 lakh) were left out of the survey as they were either not available or did not show interest in participating in it. "This process of preparing the report and the report itself is a landmark achievement to the government of Telangana, which will go down in the annals of social history of the country," the minister said. Through the survey, data-driven welfare and data-driven opportunities in social, economic, educational, political fields would be available to the "poorest of the poor, weakest of the weak and marginalised sections in Telangana", he said. The Congress government's comprehensive socio-economic, employment, political, and caste survey, an election promise of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, was conducted for 50 days from November 6, 2024. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Telangana caste survey shows backward classes make up more than half

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.
In a shocking and disturbing incident, a dispute between two brothers took an ominous turn when they insisted on cutting the body of their father, who died of natural causes, into two parts to perform separate cremations.
The incident took place in Tal Lidhora, a small village in Madhya Pradesh, according to a TOI report. The dispute arose between the two brothers, Damodar Singh and Kishan Singh, after the demise of their 85-year-old father, Dhyani Singh Ghosh, on Sunday (Feb 2).
Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-terrorists-fire-at-ex-army-man-and-his-family-in-kulgam-8686231" rel="dofollow"> Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists fire at ex-Army man and his family in Kulgam</a>
<h2>From heated argument to bizarre solution</h2>
Concerned by how the events were unfolding, some villagers alerted the police about the unusual dispute between the brothers, as the body of their father had been lying outside the house for nearly five hours.
According to the police, Damodar had cared for their ailing father, who died of natural causes. He was preparing for the last rites when Kishan arrived with his family, insisting on performing them himself.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/forced-to-lick-toilet-seat-indian-teen-kills-himself-after-bullying-by-school-gang-8678696" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Forced to lick toilet seat': Indian teen kills himself after bullying by 'school gang'</a>
A heated argument broke out between the two brothers, who fought over who would perform the cremation of their father. It was then that Kishan came up with a bizarre solution, suggesting they divide the body of their father into two so that they can both perform the rituals separately, according to media reports.
Despite pleas from relatives and villagers, Kishan refused to budge and left the body of his father outside the house, after which the villagers approached the police.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-36-year-old-man-diagnosed-with-gbs-dies-in-maharashtras-pune-death-toll-reaches-3-8677485" rel="dofollow">India | 36-year-old man diagnosed with GBS dies in Maharashtra&rsquo;s Pune, death toll reaches 3</a>
<h2>Police intervention</h2>
The police arrived at the scene to resolve the matter and decided that Damodar would perform the last rites after consulting with the family, ending the dispute.&nbsp;
Kishan and his family, on the other hand, attended the cremation under the supervision of the police.

India News: Concerned by how the events were unfolding, some villagers alerted the police about the unusual dispute between the brothers, as the body of their father had been lying outside the house for nearly five hours.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. In a shocking and disturbing incident, a dispute between two brothers took an ominous turn when they insisted on cutting the body of their father, who died of natural causes, into two parts to perform separate cremations. The incident took place in Tal Lidhora, a small village in Madhya Pradesh, according to a TOI report. The dispute arose between the two brothers, Damodar Singh and Kishan Singh, after the demise of their 85-year-old father, Dhyani Singh Ghosh, on Sunday (Feb 2). Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists fire at ex-Army man and his family in Kulgam From heated argument to bizarre solution Concerned by how the events were unfolding, some villagers alerted the police about the unusual dispute between the brothers, as the body of their father had been lying outside the house for nearly five hours. According to the police, Damodar had cared for their ailing father, who died of natural causes. He was preparing for the last rites when Kishan arrived with his family, insisting on performing them himself. Also read | 'Forced to lick toilet seat': Indian teen kills himself after bullying by 'school gang' A heated argument broke out between the two brothers, who fought over who would perform the cremation of their father. It was then that Kishan came up with a bizarre solution, suggesting they divide the body of their father into two so that they can both perform the rituals separately, according to media reports. Despite pleas from relatives and villagers, Kishan refused to budge and left the body of his father outside the house, after which the villagers approached the police. Also read | India | 36-year-old man diagnosed with GBS dies in Maharashtra’s Pune, death toll reaches 3 Police intervention The police arrived at the scene to resolve the matter and decided that Damodar would perform the last rites after consulting with the family, ending the dispute. Kishan and his family, on the other hand, attended the cremation under the supervision of the police.

Shocking! Brothers nearly cut father’s body in half after heated argument over cremation

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Feb 3), lashed out at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for prioritising its image over the future of youth of the country.
PM Modi accused AAP of only allowing students who score well to progress beyond 9th grade, supposedly to protect their own reputation.&nbsp;
"I have heard in Delhi, they (AAP government) do not allow children to go further after class 9. Only those children who are guaranteed to pass are allowed to go. Because if their result is bad, their government's reputation will be ruined. That is why very dishonest work is done," the Indian prime minister said in an interaction with students in the national capital.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6otj0kb-zq6z07bz-ceap7lst">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: In an interaction with students, PM Narendra Modi lashes out at how students' future is harmed to improve the image of the AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) govt <a href="https://t.co/VVp9XOvnsM">pic.twitter.com/VVp9XOvnsM</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1886314152865767905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Exuding confidence in BJP coming out victorious in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram on Sunday (Feb 2), likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital.
"In a few days, a new spring of development will arrive in Delhi. This time, the BJP government is about to form in Delhi. The 'AAP-da party' has wasted 11 years. My biggest request is that we should be given a chance to serve the people of Delhi. I promise to go to any length to remove every difficulty you face. A double-engine government will come to Delhi that will make the lives of every poor and middle-class family prosperous," he said.
He also promised nutritious meals, worth Rs 5, for people living in slums and announced that the government would set up a welfare board for auto drivers and domestic workers while assuring that no existing welfare schemes would be discontinued.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brooms-bristles-are-scattering-pm-modi-takes-dig-at-kejriwals-aap-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-polls-8683574">Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</a>
"A welfare board will be set up for auto drivers and domestic workers, providing them with insurance coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh. The BJP government will also assist with children's school fees. I give another guarantee: these AAP-Da people are spreading falsehoods, but not a single slum in Delhi will be demolished. The welfare schemes for the public in Delhi will not be stopped," PM Modi asserted.
<h2>Kejriwal accuses Election Commission of 'surrendering to BJP'</h2>
Meanwhile, AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused the Election Commission of surrendering before the BJP.
While addressing a press conference, Kejriwal said that the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar "wants a job post-retirement" and that he "destroyed the country" for a mere post.
"... Our revolutionaries were hanged so that there would be democracy in the country, elections would be fair. But the way the Election Commission has surrendered before the BJP today, it seems as if the Election Commission does not exist," Kejriwal said.
"It is absolutely justified for people to have questions in their minds that Rajiv Kumar Ji, who is the Chief Election Commissioner, is retiring at the end of this month, what kind of post has been offered to him post-retirement? The post of Governor, the post of President, what kind of post can it be?... I request Rajiv Kumar Ji with folded hands. Do your duty, give up the desire for the post, give up the greed for the post. Now at the end of your career, do not destroy the country, the country's democracy," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: PM Modi promised nutritious meals, worth Rs 5, for people living in slums and announced that the government would set up a welfare board for auto drivers and domestic workers while assuring that no existing welfare schemes would be discontinued.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Feb 3), lashed out at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for prioritising its image over the future of youth of the country. PM Modi accused AAP of only allowing students who score well to progress beyond 9th grade, supposedly to protect their own reputation. "I have heard in Delhi, they (AAP government) do not allow children to go further after class 9. Only those children who are guaranteed to pass are allowed to go. Because if their result is bad, their government's reputation will be ruined. That is why very dishonest work is done," the Indian prime minister said in an interaction with students in the national capital. #WATCH | Delhi: In an interaction with students, PM Narendra Modi lashes out at how students' future is harmed to improve the image of the AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) govt pic.twitter.com/VVp9XOvnsM — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2025 Exuding confidence in BJP coming out victorious in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram on Sunday (Feb 2), likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital. "In a few days, a new spring of development will arrive in Delhi. This time, the BJP government is about to form in Delhi. The 'AAP-da party' has wasted 11 years. My biggest request is that we should be given a chance to serve the people of Delhi. I promise to go to any length to remove every difficulty you face. A double-engine government will come to Delhi that will make the lives of every poor and middle-class family prosperous," he said. He also promised nutritious meals, worth Rs 5, for people living in slums and announced that the government would set up a welfare board for auto drivers and domestic workers while assuring that no existing welfare schemes would be discontinued. Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls "A welfare board will be set up for auto drivers and domestic workers, providing them with insurance coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh. The BJP government will also assist with children's school fees. I give another guarantee: these AAP-Da people are spreading falsehoods, but not a single slum in Delhi will be demolished. The welfare schemes for the public in Delhi will not be stopped," PM Modi asserted. Kejriwal accuses Election Commission of 'surrendering to BJP' Meanwhile, AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused the Election Commission of surrendering before the BJP. While addressing a press conference, Kejriwal said that the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar "wants a job post-retirement" and that he "destroyed the country" for a mere post. "... Our revolutionaries were hanged so that there would be democracy in the country, elections would be fair. But the way the Election Commission has surrendered before the BJP today, it seems as if the Election Commission does not exist," Kejriwal said. "It is absolutely justified for people to have questions in their minds that Rajiv Kumar Ji, who is the Chief Election Commissioner, is retiring at the end of this month, what kind of post has been offered to him post-retirement? The post of Governor, the post of President, what kind of post can it be?... I request Rajiv Kumar Ji with folded hands. Do your duty, give up the desire for the post, give up the greed for the post. Now at the end of your career, do not destroy the country, the country's democracy," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Assembly Polls: PM Modi lashes out at AAP for 'prioritising its image over youth's future'- WATCH

A political uproar has erupted in both the Lower House and Upper House of the Parliament disrupting the proceedings on the second day of the Budget Session.
Opposition MPs were continuously raising slogans against the government over several issues including the issue of the Mahakumbh stampede incident.
Slamming the opposition members, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said, "People of India elected you as MPs not for breaking tables, for sloganeering and disturbing House proceedings, but to hold discussions."
During the Question Hour, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla questioned the Opposition members saying, "Have the people of India elected you as MPs for sloganeering and disturbing House proceedings?"
Meanwhile, the proceedings for the Day 2 has also began in the Rajya Sabha. During the proceedings, entire opposition party MPs walked out from Rajya Sabha over the issue of Mahakumbh stampede incident.
A stampede incident occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela on the second Shahi Snan on the occasion of Mouni Amawasya which claimed at least 30 lives and around 60 individuals were injured in the incident.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-stampede-five-key-changes-implemented-to-manage-crowd-vvip-passes-cancelled-8673467">Maha Kumbh Stampede: VVIP passes cancelled, five key changes implemented to manage crowd</a>
Several opposition leaders had raised their concerns over the government's handling of the stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual.
However, following the incident, a three-member judicial commission was formed to investigate the stampede that occurred during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual. The commission has been tasked with examining the causes and circumstances that led to the stampede and will also provide recommendations to prevent such incidents in future.
The investigation report must be submitted within one month of the commission's formation. The budget session of the Parliament commenced on Friday (January 31) with the joint address of President Droupadi Murmu.
The first part of the Budget session will continue till February 13 and the two Houses will again meet on March 10 after recess with the session concluding on April 4.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

India news | Several opposition leaders had raised their concerns over the government's handling of the stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual.

A political uproar has erupted in both the Lower House and Upper House of the Parliament disrupting the proceedings on the second day of the Budget Session. Opposition MPs were continuously raising slogans against the government over several issues including the issue of the Mahakumbh stampede incident. Slamming the opposition members, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said, "People of India elected you as MPs not for breaking tables, for sloganeering and disturbing House proceedings, but to hold discussions." During the Question Hour, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla questioned the Opposition members saying, "Have the people of India elected you as MPs for sloganeering and disturbing House proceedings?" Meanwhile, the proceedings for the Day 2 has also began in the Rajya Sabha. During the proceedings, entire opposition party MPs walked out from Rajya Sabha over the issue of Mahakumbh stampede incident. A stampede incident occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela on the second Shahi Snan on the occasion of Mouni Amawasya which claimed at least 30 lives and around 60 individuals were injured in the incident. Also read | Maha Kumbh Stampede: VVIP passes cancelled, five key changes implemented to manage crowd Several opposition leaders had raised their concerns over the government's handling of the stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual. However, following the incident, a three-member judicial commission was formed to investigate the stampede that occurred during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual. The commission has been tasked with examining the causes and circumstances that led to the stampede and will also provide recommendations to prevent such incidents in future. The investigation report must be submitted within one month of the commission's formation. The budget session of the Parliament commenced on Friday (January 31) with the joint address of President Droupadi Murmu. The first part of the Budget session will continue till February 13 and the two Houses will again meet on March 10 after recess with the session concluding on April 4. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Ruckus erupts in parliament during Budget session over Maha Kumbh stampede

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Sunday, stressed the need to avoid 'stagnation' of minds, and pointed the importance of introspection for both states and societies.
His remarks came during the launch of the Hindi edition of book 'Islam Authoritarianism: Underdevelopment--A Global and Historical Comparison' authored by Turkish-American scholar Ahmet T Kuru and published by the Khusro Foundation at the New Delhi World Book Fair.
"Introspection by states and societies has always been important. The fidelity to religion or state should not be compromised. We should not allow our brains to be imprisoned. If you don't introspect you lose time and direction. If done too late then you tend to lag," the NSA said in his address.
"The phenomenon of the relationship of state and religion, is not unique to Islam. As bought out by Dr Ahmed T Kuru, in different stages of the history of Islam also, probably it has changed...the problem is conflicts are inherent...any thought or ideology has to be competitive...first conflict is between men themselves...the conflict between what your competing believes, thoughts, needs and aspirations are," Doval further added.
Citing history, he added that those generations who could not think out of the box have stagnated.
"If we want any change, any progress and we have to ponder over that why is it that some societies became stagnant? Those societies which could not generate new thoughts, new ideas, look out of the box and look at things fundamentally, probably they got stagnated at a point of time...The original idea of the printing press came from the Ottoman Empire...At that point in time, the biggest resistance came from the Clergy who did not want the thoughts or the ideas to be sprung on which they thought that they got the monopoly," Doval said.
Speaking on the occasion MJ Akbar, former minister, author and journalist said more than democracy, Muslims need to revert to a knowledge-based society as it was during the "glorious period of Muslim rule". He said the fall of Muslim empires happened because they stopped sharing knowledge.
In the context of Islam, Akbar said, Sufism is practical because it teaches us a relationship that is not hostile.
He said the real problem of Muslims is their "inability to come to terms with modernity" and understand the nation-state.
He also pointed that Pakistan is a "classic example" of how religion was used to divide a country and to generate institutionalized and generational conflict.
Speaking on the occasion, Kuru suggested that Muslims must accept their citizenship - both for their rights and to perform their duties - to end their backwardness.
He said the solution to Muslims' backwardness could be found in democracy. "Both the majority and minority communities in a country should respect citizenship. All should be given equal rights and be mindful of their duties towards their country as well," he said.
The author further said Muslims did well when they believed in coexistence; and were open-minded and accepting of diversity.
Turkish-origin Prof Ahmet is a Professor of Political Science and Director for Islamic and Arabic Studies at San Diego State University in the USA.
Khusro Foundation convenor Dr Hafizur Rahman said the foundation would continue to challenge the false narratives being associated with Islam through books. The Foundation, he said is working on bringing a series of books for children.&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.

India news: Doval's remarks came during the launch of the Hindi edition of book 'Islam Authoritarianism: Underdevelopment--A Global and Historical Comparison' authored by Turkish-American scholar Ahmet T Kuru and published by the Khusro Foundation at the New Delhi World Book Fair.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Sunday, stressed the need to avoid 'stagnation' of minds, and pointed the importance of introspection for both states and societies. His remarks came during the launch of the Hindi edition of book 'Islam Authoritarianism: Underdevelopment--A Global and Historical Comparison' authored by Turkish-American scholar Ahmet T Kuru and published by the Khusro Foundation at the New Delhi World Book Fair. "Introspection by states and societies has always been important. The fidelity to religion or state should not be compromised. We should not allow our brains to be imprisoned. If you don't introspect you lose time and direction. If done too late then you tend to lag," the NSA said in his address. "The phenomenon of the relationship of state and religion, is not unique to Islam. As bought out by Dr Ahmed T Kuru, in different stages of the history of Islam also, probably it has changed...the problem is conflicts are inherent...any thought or ideology has to be competitive...first conflict is between men themselves...the conflict between what your competing believes, thoughts, needs and aspirations are," Doval further added. Citing history, he added that those generations who could not think out of the box have stagnated. "If we want any change, any progress and we have to ponder over that why is it that some societies became stagnant? Those societies which could not generate new thoughts, new ideas, look out of the box and look at things fundamentally, probably they got stagnated at a point of time...The original idea of the printing press came from the Ottoman Empire...At that point in time, the biggest resistance came from the Clergy who did not want the thoughts or the ideas to be sprung on which they thought that they got the monopoly," Doval said. Speaking on the occasion MJ Akbar, former minister, author and journalist said more than democracy, Muslims need to revert to a knowledge-based society as it was during the "glorious period of Muslim rule". He said the fall of Muslim empires happened because they stopped sharing knowledge. In the context of Islam, Akbar said, Sufism is practical because it teaches us a relationship that is not hostile. He said the real problem of Muslims is their "inability to come to terms with modernity" and understand the nation-state. He also pointed that Pakistan is a "classic example" of how religion was used to divide a country and to generate institutionalized and generational conflict. Speaking on the occasion, Kuru suggested that Muslims must accept their citizenship - both for their rights and to perform their duties - to end their backwardness. He said the solution to Muslims' backwardness could be found in democracy. "Both the majority and minority communities in a country should respect citizenship. All should be given equal rights and be mindful of their duties towards their country as well," he said. The author further said Muslims did well when they believed in coexistence; and were open-minded and accepting of diversity. Turkish-origin Prof Ahmet is a Professor of Political Science and Director for Islamic and Arabic Studies at San Diego State University in the USA. Khusro Foundation convenor Dr Hafizur Rahman said the foundation would continue to challenge the false narratives being associated with Islam through books. The Foundation, he said is working on bringing a series of books for children. 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.

'If you don't introspect you lose time and direction': Ajit Doval

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is overseeing the 'Amrit Snan' during Basant Panchami celebrations.
He reportedly has been receiving updates about the security arrangements and giving instructions to top officials.&nbsp;
DIG Maha Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, spoke about the arrangements, saying, "The arrangements are very nice, and today our crowd control measures are well in place. The snan of all Akharas has concluded successfully. Mahanirvani Akhara, Niranjani Akhara, and Juna Akhara have successfully done their snan, and other Akharas will also take part in the snan successfully."
The sacred bathing ritual began with the Naga Sadhus taking a dip at the ghats in Prayagraj.
"Amrit Snan started on the Ghats by Naga Sadhus. With faith and devotion, the banks of Triveni are witnessing the ancient Indian culture and traditions," the Maha Kumbh administration said in a post on X.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6onipos-la12my6w-aymkk0cm">
यह एकता का महायज्ञ है, सनातन का संगम है, वैभव और वैराग्य का समागम है...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B5_%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#बसंतोत्सव_महाकुम्भ</a> <a href="https://t.co/8q3rJOCVjm">pic.twitter.com/8q3rJOCVjm</a>
&mdash; Yogi Adityanath Office (@myogioffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/myogioffice/status/1886282617797964136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
This comes after a stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual on January 29 claimed the lives of 30 and wounded 60 others.
Yogi visited the site of the incident on Saturday (Feb 1) &nbsp;and conducted an aerial survey of the Mahakumbh.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-amrit-snan-begins-as-over-165-million-devotees-take-holy-dip-on-basant-panchami-8684999">Also read: Maha Kumbh 2025: 'Amrit Snan' begins as over 1.65 million devotees take holy dip on 'Basant Panchami'</a>
<h2>Over 350 million devotees have taken a holy dip since the start of Mahakumbh</h2>
At Prayagraj the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is witnessing an unprecedented outpouring of devotion as sages, saints, devotees, Kalpvasis, and millions of pilgrims gather for the revered Maha Kumbh festival, immersing themselves in spiritual fervour.
On the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami's Amrit Snan, as per an official release from the administration, the total number of bathers since the commencement of Mahakumbh has surpassed 350 million (35 crores).
On Monday (Feb 3), by 8 am, a record 6.2 million devotees had taken a holy dip at Triveni Sangam.&nbsp;
With just 23 days left in the Maha Kumbh, the pilgrim tally is poised to cross the monumental 500-million mark.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the site of the incident on Saturday (Feb 1)  and conducted an aerial survey of the Mahakumbh.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is overseeing the 'Amrit Snan' during Basant Panchami celebrations. He reportedly has been receiving updates about the security arrangements and giving instructions to top officials. DIG Maha Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, spoke about the arrangements, saying, "The arrangements are very nice, and today our crowd control measures are well in place. The snan of all Akharas has concluded successfully. Mahanirvani Akhara, Niranjani Akhara, and Juna Akhara have successfully done their snan, and other Akharas will also take part in the snan successfully." The sacred bathing ritual began with the Naga Sadhus taking a dip at the ghats in Prayagraj. "Amrit Snan started on the Ghats by Naga Sadhus. With faith and devotion, the banks of Triveni are witnessing the ancient Indian culture and traditions," the Maha Kumbh administration said in a post on X. यह एकता का महायज्ञ है, सनातन का संगम है, वैभव और वैराग्य का समागम है...#बसंतोत्सव_महाकुम्भ pic.twitter.com/8q3rJOCVjm — Yogi Adityanath Office (@myogioffice) February 3, 2025 This comes after a stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual on January 29 claimed the lives of 30 and wounded 60 others. Yogi visited the site of the incident on Saturday (Feb 1) and conducted an aerial survey of the Mahakumbh. Also read: Maha Kumbh 2025: 'Amrit Snan' begins as over 1.65 million devotees take holy dip on 'Basant Panchami' Over 350 million devotees have taken a holy dip since the start of Mahakumbh At Prayagraj the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is witnessing an unprecedented outpouring of devotion as sages, saints, devotees, Kalpvasis, and millions of pilgrims gather for the revered Maha Kumbh festival, immersing themselves in spiritual fervour. On the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami's Amrit Snan, as per an official release from the administration, the total number of bathers since the commencement of Mahakumbh has surpassed 350 million (35 crores). On Monday (Feb 3), by 8 am, a record 6.2 million devotees had taken a holy dip at Triveni Sangam. With just 23 days left in the Maha Kumbh, the pilgrim tally is poised to cross the monumental 500-million mark. (With inputs from agencies)

Maha Kumbh: UP CM Yogi Adityanath closely monitoring 'Amrit Snan' arrangements during Basant Panchami

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that 'Import duties have been rationalised to allow Indian industry to source raw materials and promote domestic manufacturing and exports'. Watch this report for more details!

India's FM Sitharaman announces duty cuts to support MSMEs & exports

Free flow of thoughts is important to avoid conflicts linked to religious identities, India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval said. 

Doval's remarks came in the context of larger issues linked to conflict between state and religion during the release of the Hindi version of the Turkish-American scholar Ahmet T Kuru's book 'Islam Authoritarianism: Underdevelopment - A Global and Historical Comparison'. The book has been published by the Khusro Foundation.

India's NSA Ajit Doval highlights need for societies to focus on conflict resolution

More than 1.65 million devotees took a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam as of 4 am on Monday, marking the beginning of the third 'Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami, officials said.
The sacred bathing ritual, which started with Naga Sadhus taking the plunge at the ghats, is part of the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj.
"Amrit Snan started on the Ghats by Naga Sadhus. With faith and devotion, the banks of Triveni are witnessing the ancient Indian culture and traditions," the Maha Kumbh administration said in a post on X.
As of February 3, over 340 million (34 crore) devotees have participated in the sacred bathing ritual since the commencement of the Maha Kumbh Mela on January 13, according to the Uttar Pradesh Information Department.
The number of Kalpwasis--devotees observing month-long spiritual austerities--has exceeded 1 million, adding to the spiritual fervour.
Meanwhile, a large number of devotees gathered at Prayagraj to take a holy dip in the River Ganga and offer prayers to Maa Saraswati on the occasion of 'Basant Panchami' in the early hours of Monday.
A massive influx of devotees was witnessed at Prayagraj junction as the city gears up to host the sacred Amrit Snan on February 3, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami.
The event is part of the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, drawing pilgrims from across the country to take the holy dip in the Ganges.
The holy city saw devotees from different parts of the country, with many also performing charitable acts and rituals.
It is believed that Maa Saraswati was born on Basant Panchami, and taking a dip in the Ganga on this auspicious day holds great significance.
Speaking about the preparedness for the Amrit Snan today, Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi said, "Today is the "Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami and the procession of Mahanirvani Akhara and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara is heading towards the Sangam ghat. Proper arrangements have been made for the safety of devotees."
Meanwhile, Mahamandleshwars of different akhadas started leading processions for the third 'Amrit Snan' of Maha Kumbh 2025.
Police personnel also offered prayers as Saints and Nagas headed towards Triveni Sangam for the 'Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami.
The Hindu festival of Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, Shri Panchami, and Saraswati Panchami, is celebrated on the first day of spring and falls on the fifth day of the month of Magha.
It also heralds the start of Holi preparations, which take place forty days following the feast. Maa Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning, music, and the arts, is honoured throughout the festival.
The Uttar Pradesh government has made elaborate arrangements in Prayagraj for the occasion, which have been praised by devotees. Many have commended the government's efforts in ensuring a smooth and safe experience for pilgrims. To ensure a smooth experience for devotees during the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami, the Kumbh Command and Control Centre is overseeing all operations for the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025.
The centre is monitoring 25 sectors, 30 pontoon bridges, and sensitive barricades, with over 3,000 CCTV cameras deployed to cover both the city and the Mela area. The Maha Kumbh 2025, which commenced on January 13, will continue until February 26. The event has already attracted millions of devotees from across the country and around the world and is expected to set new records for attendance and participation.&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.

India news: A massive influx of devotees was witnessed at Prayagraj junction as the city gears up to host the sacred Amrit Snan on February 3, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami.

More than 1.65 million devotees took a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam as of 4 am on Monday, marking the beginning of the third 'Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami, officials said. The sacred bathing ritual, which started with Naga Sadhus taking the plunge at the ghats, is part of the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. "Amrit Snan started on the Ghats by Naga Sadhus. With faith and devotion, the banks of Triveni are witnessing the ancient Indian culture and traditions," the Maha Kumbh administration said in a post on X. As of February 3, over 340 million (34 crore) devotees have participated in the sacred bathing ritual since the commencement of the Maha Kumbh Mela on January 13, according to the Uttar Pradesh Information Department. The number of Kalpwasis--devotees observing month-long spiritual austerities--has exceeded 1 million, adding to the spiritual fervour. Meanwhile, a large number of devotees gathered at Prayagraj to take a holy dip in the River Ganga and offer prayers to Maa Saraswati on the occasion of 'Basant Panchami' in the early hours of Monday. A massive influx of devotees was witnessed at Prayagraj junction as the city gears up to host the sacred Amrit Snan on February 3, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami. The event is part of the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, drawing pilgrims from across the country to take the holy dip in the Ganges. The holy city saw devotees from different parts of the country, with many also performing charitable acts and rituals. It is believed that Maa Saraswati was born on Basant Panchami, and taking a dip in the Ganga on this auspicious day holds great significance. Speaking about the preparedness for the Amrit Snan today, Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi said, "Today is the "Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami and the procession of Mahanirvani Akhara and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara is heading towards the Sangam ghat. Proper arrangements have been made for the safety of devotees." Meanwhile, Mahamandleshwars of different akhadas started leading processions for the third 'Amrit Snan' of Maha Kumbh 2025. Police personnel also offered prayers as Saints and Nagas headed towards Triveni Sangam for the 'Amrit Snan' on the occasion of Basant Panchami. The Hindu festival of Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, Shri Panchami, and Saraswati Panchami, is celebrated on the first day of spring and falls on the fifth day of the month of Magha. It also heralds the start of Holi preparations, which take place forty days following the feast. Maa Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning, music, and the arts, is honoured throughout the festival. The Uttar Pradesh government has made elaborate arrangements in Prayagraj for the occasion, which have been praised by devotees. Many have commended the government's efforts in ensuring a smooth and safe experience for pilgrims. To ensure a smooth experience for devotees during the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami, the Kumbh Command and Control Centre is overseeing all operations for the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025. The centre is monitoring 25 sectors, 30 pontoon bridges, and sensitive barricades, with over 3,000 CCTV cameras deployed to cover both the city and the Mela area. The Maha Kumbh 2025, which commenced on January 13, will continue until February 26. The event has already attracted millions of devotees from across the country and around the world and is expected to set new records for attendance and participation. 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.

Maha Kumbh 2025: 'Amrit Snan' begins as over 1.65 million devotees take holy dip on 'Basant Panchami'

Akharas kickstarted the third grand 'Amrit Snan' at ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj in the early hours of Monday, amid tighter protocols.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Akharas take holy dip during third Amrit Snan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presided over the Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia, emphasising the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Indonesia, underlining the countries' shared heritage in faith and spirituality.
Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital. Speaking through video conference, PM Modi extended his wishes on the Maha Kumbh-Abhishekam of the Murugan Temple and thanked "My brother, Indonesian President Prabowo" for making this event "even more special for me through his presence." PM Modi said, "I am physically hundreds of kilometers away from Jakarta, my heart is as close to this event as the relationship between India and Indonesia".
The Government of Jakarta donated 4000 square meter of land in the heart of the city to build a Hindu temple. It will also serve for multiple activities like cultural events, Tamil classes, marriage hall at affordable cost to locals, yoga, and meditation centre.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-launches-website-for-residents-to-calculate-savings-from-welfare-schemes-8684388" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes</a>
The Indian Prime Minister Modi said that the "relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history&rdquo;. He emphasised that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality and this connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha.&nbsp;
He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same "spiritual feeling" as in Kashi and Kedarnath and that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India.&nbsp;
Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population anywhere in the world, also has among the largest population of Hindus in the world. Hinduism, which arrived in Indonesia centuries ago, is still followed in regions like Bali where Hindus are in the majority (87%). Many monuments like Parmanand Temple, Borobudur temples, Arjuna and Horses statues are still preserved and supported by the Indonesian government.&nbsp;
Hinduism was the dominant religion during the era of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, influencing the architecture, arts, literature, and governance of the region. &nbsp;Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still celebrated, notably in Bali, but also influence cultural expressions in other parts of Indonesia.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/budget-is-by-the-people-for-the-people-says-fm-sitharaman-citing-abraham-lincoln-8684033" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln</a>
During the address, PM Modi mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is performed in Ayodhya, India. He said, "When we hear the words 'Om Swasti-Astu' in Bali, we are reminded of the Swasti Vaachan recited by Vedic scholars in Bharat. The Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha that we experience in &nbsp;Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in Bharat".&nbsp;
On the cultural connect, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage.
He mentioned that during President Prabowo's recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of shared heritage. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India in January and was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade, becoming the 4th Indonesian leader to do so since 1950. During that visit, India announced that it would take part in initiatives to preserve the Prambanan Temple.&nbsp;
During his address, PM said,"Alongside Lord Murugan, several other Gods-Goddesses have also been enshrined in this temple. This diversity&mdash;this multiplicity&mdash;is the very foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this philosophy is called Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In &nbsp;Bharat, we call it Unity in Diversity. It is our ease with the diversity that allows people of different communities to live together in harmony, both in Indonesia and in Bharat. That is why today&rsquo;s sacred occasion is also inspiring us for unity in diversity". During the Maha Kumbabhishegam ceremony, the Indonesian Foreign minister, Religious Affairs Minister, Forest Minister and Indian ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty were present.&nbsp;
In the past, PM Modi presided over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2024. The idea for the temple was conceived in 1997 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, who envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi. In August 2015, during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, the UAE government, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, allocated 27 acres of land for the temple's construction.

India News | Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple, is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presided over the Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia, emphasising the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Indonesia, underlining the countries' shared heritage in faith and spirituality. Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital. Speaking through video conference, PM Modi extended his wishes on the Maha Kumbh-Abhishekam of the Murugan Temple and thanked "My brother, Indonesian President Prabowo" for making this event "even more special for me through his presence." PM Modi said, "I am physically hundreds of kilometers away from Jakarta, my heart is as close to this event as the relationship between India and Indonesia". The Government of Jakarta donated 4000 square meter of land in the heart of the city to build a Hindu temple. It will also serve for multiple activities like cultural events, Tamil classes, marriage hall at affordable cost to locals, yoga, and meditation centre. Also Read: Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes The Indian Prime Minister Modi said that the "relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history”. He emphasised that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality and this connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha. He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same "spiritual feeling" as in Kashi and Kedarnath and that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India. Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population anywhere in the world, also has among the largest population of Hindus in the world. Hinduism, which arrived in Indonesia centuries ago, is still followed in regions like Bali where Hindus are in the majority (87%). Many monuments like Parmanand Temple, Borobudur temples, Arjuna and Horses statues are still preserved and supported by the Indonesian government. Hinduism was the dominant religion during the era of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, influencing the architecture, arts, literature, and governance of the region. Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still celebrated, notably in Bali, but also influence cultural expressions in other parts of Indonesia. Also Read: 'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln During the address, PM Modi mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is performed in Ayodhya, India. He said, "When we hear the words 'Om Swasti-Astu' in Bali, we are reminded of the Swasti Vaachan recited by Vedic scholars in Bharat. The Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha that we experience in Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in Bharat". On the cultural connect, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage. He mentioned that during President Prabowo's recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of shared heritage. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India in January and was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade, becoming the 4th Indonesian leader to do so since 1950. During that visit, India announced that it would take part in initiatives to preserve the Prambanan Temple. During his address, PM said,"Alongside Lord Murugan, several other Gods-Goddesses have also been enshrined in this temple. This diversity—this multiplicity—is the very foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this philosophy is called Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In Bharat, we call it Unity in Diversity. It is our ease with the diversity that allows people of different communities to live together in harmony, both in Indonesia and in Bharat. That is why today’s sacred occasion is also inspiring us for unity in diversity". During the Maha Kumbabhishegam ceremony, the Indonesian Foreign minister, Religious Affairs Minister, Forest Minister and Indian ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty were present. In the past, PM Modi presided over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2024. The idea for the temple was conceived in 1997 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, who envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi. In August 2015, during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, the UAE government, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, allocated 27 acres of land for the temple's construction.

Indian PM Modi presides over "Maha Abhishekam" of Jakarta Murugan Temple

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news