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Donald Trump will be taking oath as the US President later today for the 2nd term. The ceremony will take place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C and the oath will be administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, with the ceremony including traditional elements such as an inaugural address and a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. The high-profile event will be closely watched by foreign representatives as well. But what has been India's representation? Here we explain that.
Trump oath taking Ceremony&nbsp;
India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is representing the Prime Minister as his Special Envoy at the inaugural function of President Donald Trump in Washington DC. He is carrying a letter from the Prime Minister for President Trump. EAM Dr S Jaishankar is present at the "invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee", India's ministry of external affairs made an announcement on 12th January. Important to point out, foreign ministers of all Quad countries, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, Australia's FM Penny Wong and Japan FM Iwaya are present, and likely to hold a Quad FM's meet with incoming US Secretary of state Marco Rubio. Rubio is likely to get a full senate confirmation, paving way for him to discharge his official duties as incoming US Secretary of state.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-inauguration-5-things-to-know-about-donald-trumps-political-journey-8637954" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">5 Things to know about Donald Trump's Political Journey</a>
Past Practice
Typically, India does not send its Prime Minister or President to the swearing-in ceremonies of other countries' leaders. India's general practice has been to send Special Envoys of the Prime Minister to attend the swearing in ceremony of Heads of State and Government. This practice is based on an unspoken policy to maintain a certain level of diplomatic protocol.
History of Indian representation
Indian ministers have represented Indian government at the oath taking ceremonies. A history of such representation:
May 2023: Indian Defence Minsiter Rajnath Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Nigeria President
November 2023: Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President
July 2024: Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President
October 2024: MoS for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita attended the swearing in ceremony of Indonesian President, Mexico President.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/america-visa-h1b-visa-american-visa-for-indians-americas-h1b-protectionism-is-set-to-benefit-india-8580394" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">America's H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here's why</a>
June 2022: MoS for External Affairs &nbsp;Raj Kumar Ranjan Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Philippines President.
August 2021: EAM Dr S Jaishankar attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President Ebrahim Raisi.
Only Exception
The only exception to this rule was when PM Modi attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President Solih in November 2018. The 2018 visit was the first visit of PM Modi to Maldives and was seen as a significant in the context of India's neighbourhood first policy. After the swearing in ceremony, PM held bilateral talks with the Maldives President &nbsp;Solih during which he conveyed India&rsquo;s desire to work closely for the realization of Maldives&rsquo; developmental priorities, esp in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity.

World India News | At President Donald Trump's inauguration, Dr. S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, represents the Prime Minister, underscoring diplomatic ties in Washington DC.

Donald Trump will be taking oath as the US President later today for the 2nd term. The ceremony will take place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C and the oath will be administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, with the ceremony including traditional elements such as an inaugural address and a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. The high-profile event will be closely watched by foreign representatives as well. But what has been India's representation? Here we explain that. Trump oath taking Ceremony India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is representing the Prime Minister as his Special Envoy at the inaugural function of President Donald Trump in Washington DC. He is carrying a letter from the Prime Minister for President Trump. EAM Dr S Jaishankar is present at the "invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee", India's ministry of external affairs made an announcement on 12th January. Important to point out, foreign ministers of all Quad countries, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, Australia's FM Penny Wong and Japan FM Iwaya are present, and likely to hold a Quad FM's meet with incoming US Secretary of state Marco Rubio. Rubio is likely to get a full senate confirmation, paving way for him to discharge his official duties as incoming US Secretary of state. Also Read: 5 Things to know about Donald Trump's Political Journey Past Practice Typically, India does not send its Prime Minister or President to the swearing-in ceremonies of other countries' leaders. India's general practice has been to send Special Envoys of the Prime Minister to attend the swearing in ceremony of Heads of State and Government. This practice is based on an unspoken policy to maintain a certain level of diplomatic protocol. History of Indian representation Indian ministers have represented Indian government at the oath taking ceremonies. A history of such representation: May 2023: Indian Defence Minsiter Rajnath Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Nigeria President November 2023: Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President July 2024: Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President October 2024: MoS for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita attended the swearing in ceremony of Indonesian President, Mexico President. Also Read: America's H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here's why June 2022: MoS for External Affairs Raj Kumar Ranjan Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Philippines President. August 2021: EAM Dr S Jaishankar attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. Only Exception The only exception to this rule was when PM Modi attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President Solih in November 2018. The 2018 visit was the first visit of PM Modi to Maldives and was seen as a significant in the context of India's neighbourhood first policy. After the swearing in ceremony, PM held bilateral talks with the Maldives President Solih during which he conveyed India’s desire to work closely for the realization of Maldives’ developmental priorities, esp in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity.

Explainer: India's representation at oath taking ceremonies

Srinagar: One Indian Army soldier has been killed in an ongoing gunfight between terrorists and security forces in the Sopore area of North Kashmir in India. The encounter that started on Sunday in the Gujjarpatti area of Sopore in Baramulla district continues on the second day. Security forces had received an input about the presence of terrorists, after which a Joint Cordon and Search Operation was launched by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
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According to the Indian Army, suspicious activity was observed by the troops, and the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on being challenged, resulting in a gunbattle. The troops retaliated, and during the gunfight, one Indian Army soldier was critically injured. The soldier later succumbed to the injuries. The Indian Army is yet to officially announce the death of the soldier.
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The Indian Army had earlier said, &ldquo;In the ensuing firefight during the day, one soldier suffered critical injuries and is being evacuated for requisite medical care. Operation is in progress.&rdquo;
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Security forces believe that two to three terrorists are holed up at the encounter site in the Sopore area. A massive operation is being carried out by the forces. The operation had started on Sunday and was halted during the night. With the first light in the morning, the operation was resumed, and a brief gunfight was reported from the operation site.
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Security forces have brought in reinforcements for deployment in the area.
The security forces maintained tight vigil during the night and intensified searches for suspected terrorists in the morning, officials said.
&nbsp;

India News: As per the Indian Army, suspicious activity was observed by the troops, and the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on being challenged. The troops retaliated, and during the gunfight, one Indian Army soldier was critically injured.

Srinagar: One Indian Army soldier has been killed in an ongoing gunfight between terrorists and security forces in the Sopore area of North Kashmir in India. The encounter that started on Sunday in the Gujjarpatti area of Sopore in Baramulla district continues on the second day. Security forces had received an input about the presence of terrorists, after which a Joint Cordon and Search Operation was launched by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever According to the Indian Army, suspicious activity was observed by the troops, and the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on being challenged, resulting in a gunbattle. The troops retaliated, and during the gunfight, one Indian Army soldier was critically injured. The soldier later succumbed to the injuries. The Indian Army is yet to officially announce the death of the soldier. Also Read | TikTok returns in US, thanks Trump for 'clarity' and assurance on delaying federal ban The Indian Army had earlier said, “In the ensuing firefight during the day, one soldier suffered critical injuries and is being evacuated for requisite medical care. Operation is in progress.” Also Read | Trump vows to end 'American decline', says 'will prevent World War 3 from happening' Security forces believe that two to three terrorists are holed up at the encounter site in the Sopore area. A massive operation is being carried out by the forces. The operation had started on Sunday and was halted during the night. With the first light in the morning, the operation was resumed, and a brief gunfight was reported from the operation site. Also Read | Trump’s presidency: Economic success or growing inequality? Security forces have brought in reinforcements for deployment in the area. The security forces maintained tight vigil during the night and intensified searches for suspected terrorists in the morning, officials said.

Indian Army soldier killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore

The Royal Kolkata Turf Club in India's Kolkata city hosted the 54th edition of the Statesman Vintage Car Rally over the weekend, and there were some delightful vintage models on show, some of them dating back to the 1930s. Take a look at these visuals. Watch in for more details!

Kolkata | 54th Statesman vintage and classic car rally: Vintage car magic over a 25-km rally course

West Bengal's Sealdah court pronounced life imprisonment to convict Sanjay Roy in the RG Kar rape-murder case on Monday. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000. Watch in for more details!

RG Kar case verdict: Life imprisonment for convict Sanjay Roy

A group of 121 farmers, who sat on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri protest site in solidarity with farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, ended their indefinite strike on Sunday after he took medical aid.
Dallewal (70), who has refused any aid since he sat on a fast-unto-death on November 26, agreed on Saturday to take medical aid following the Centre&rsquo;s invitation for talks on February 14 to discuss farmers&rsquo; demands.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-101-farmers-to-resume-delhi-march-from-shambhu-border-on-january-21-8629697" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India: 101 farmers to resume Delhi march from Shambhu border on January 21</a>
With his health deteriorating and the government not agreeing to their demands, a group of 111 farmers joined Dallewal&rsquo;s fast-unto-death on January 15, and sat on the Haryana side of the border near Khanauri. On January 17, 10 more farmers, who were from Haryana, joined them.
The 121 farmers ended their fast by sipping juice in the presence of Deputy Inspector General of Police Mandeep Singh Sidhu and Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police Nanak Singh.
A high-level Central delegation, led by Union Agriculture Ministry Joint Secretary Priya Ranjan, met farmer leader Dallewal and representatives of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha on Saturday, and invited them for a resumption of talks on February 14 at Chandigarh.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmer-protesting-at-shambhu-border-attempts-suicide-died-at-patiala-hospital-8604804" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Farmer protesting at Shambhu border attempts suicide, dies at Patiala hospital</a>
Following the announcement of the proposed meeting, Dallewal agreed to take medical aid. Later, Dallewal took medical assistance with an intravenous drip.
Farmer leaders have, however, said Dallewal will not end his indefinite fast until a legal guarantee to minimum support price for crops is given.
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 | Dallewal (70), who has refused any aid since he sat on a fast-unto-death on November 26, agreed on Saturday to take medical aid.

A group of 121 farmers, who sat on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri protest site in solidarity with farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, ended their indefinite strike on Sunday after he took medical aid. Dallewal (70), who has refused any aid since he sat on a fast-unto-death on November 26, agreed on Saturday to take medical aid following the Centre’s invitation for talks on February 14 to discuss farmers’ demands. Also read | India: 101 farmers to resume Delhi march from Shambhu border on January 21 With his health deteriorating and the government not agreeing to their demands, a group of 111 farmers joined Dallewal’s fast-unto-death on January 15, and sat on the Haryana side of the border near Khanauri. On January 17, 10 more farmers, who were from Haryana, joined them. The 121 farmers ended their fast by sipping juice in the presence of Deputy Inspector General of Police Mandeep Singh Sidhu and Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police Nanak Singh. A high-level Central delegation, led by Union Agriculture Ministry Joint Secretary Priya Ranjan, met farmer leader Dallewal and representatives of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha on Saturday, and invited them for a resumption of talks on February 14 at Chandigarh. Also read | Farmer protesting at Shambhu border attempts suicide, dies at Patiala hospital Following the announcement of the proposed meeting, Dallewal agreed to take medical aid. Later, Dallewal took medical assistance with an intravenous drip. Farmer leaders have, however, said Dallewal will not end his indefinite fast until a legal guarantee to minimum support price for crops is given. 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: 121 protesting farmers end fast after Dallewal agrees to take medical aid

West Bengal's Sealdah court handed life imprisonment to convict Sanjay Roy in the RG Kar rape-murder case on Monday. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000.
The body of the victim doctor was recovered from the seminar hall within RG Kar premises on the morning of August 9 last year. The initial investigation into the matter was started by a special investigation team of Kolkata Police who arrested Roy. However, the CBI started an investigation five days after the date of the crime and thereafter Roy was handed over to the central agency officials by the city police.
<h2 dir="ltr">Roy was staring at 'death penalty'</h2>
On Saturday (Jan 18), Sealdah Civil and Criminal Court found Sanjay Roy guilty in the RG Kar rape and murder case of a trainee doctor. He was found convicted under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 64 (rape), 66 (causing injury resulting in death of rape victim), and 103 (1) (murder).&nbsp;
"There is a complaint against the accused that he went to RG Kar Medical College and Hospital and went to the seminar room, assaulted and murdered the lady doctor taking rest there," the court said.
The judge, on January 18, had already made it clear that the maximum punishment in the case could be the &ldquo;death penalty&rdquo;, while the minimum punishment in the matter could be life imprisonment.
Last year, the former and controversial principal of RG Kar Sandip Ghosh and the former SHO of Tala Police Station Abhijit Mondal were granted &ldquo;default bail&rdquo; by the same special court as the CBI failed to file the supplementary charge sheet against the duo within 90 days of their arrest.
Both Ghosh and Mondal were accused of misleading the probe and tampering with the evidence when the Kolkata Police was investigating. Later, the CBI took charge of the investigation on Calcutta High Court's order.
The trial process in the matter started on November 11 last year, 59 days after the body of the victim was discovered. The conviction process was completed on January 18, which was 162 days from the date of the crime.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Sealdah court sentences Sanjay Roy to life in RG Kar rape-murder case, imposing a Rs 50, 000 fine, emphasising justice for victims and community safety.

West Bengal's Sealdah court handed life imprisonment to convict Sanjay Roy in the RG Kar rape-murder case on Monday. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000. The body of the victim doctor was recovered from the seminar hall within RG Kar premises on the morning of August 9 last year. The initial investigation into the matter was started by a special investigation team of Kolkata Police who arrested Roy. However, the CBI started an investigation five days after the date of the crime and thereafter Roy was handed over to the central agency officials by the city police. Roy was staring at 'death penalty' On Saturday (Jan 18), Sealdah Civil and Criminal Court found Sanjay Roy guilty in the RG Kar rape and murder case of a trainee doctor. He was found convicted under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 64 (rape), 66 (causing injury resulting in death of rape victim), and 103 (1) (murder). "There is a complaint against the accused that he went to RG Kar Medical College and Hospital and went to the seminar room, assaulted and murdered the lady doctor taking rest there," the court said. The judge, on January 18, had already made it clear that the maximum punishment in the case could be the “death penalty”, while the minimum punishment in the matter could be life imprisonment. Last year, the former and controversial principal of RG Kar Sandip Ghosh and the former SHO of Tala Police Station Abhijit Mondal were granted “default bail” by the same special court as the CBI failed to file the supplementary charge sheet against the duo within 90 days of their arrest. Both Ghosh and Mondal were accused of misleading the probe and tampering with the evidence when the Kolkata Police was investigating. Later, the CBI took charge of the investigation on Calcutta High Court's order. The trial process in the matter started on November 11 last year, 59 days after the body of the victim was discovered. The conviction process was completed on January 18, which was 162 days from the date of the crime. (With inputs from agencies)

RG Kar rape-murder case: Convict Sanjay Roy gets life sentence

Outgoing US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti bid farewell with a heartfelt message, highlighting the strong bonds forged between the United States and India during his tenure as the 26th US envoy.&nbsp;
Garcetti shared a video on his social media handle expressing how he was deeply connected with India as he visited the country for the very first time as a child and then as a student.
Acknowledging the warmth and hospitality exhibited by the Indians, Garcetti shared that he had extremely rich experiences in the country that shaped his time in the country.
&ldquo;As I bid farewell to India after serving as the 26th U.S. Ambassador to this amazing country, my heart is full. You&rsquo;ve given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador&mdash;I leave as a lifelong friend and supporter of #USIndiaFWDfortheFuture,&rdquo; Garcetti wrote on his official X handle captioning the video.
&ldquo;My dear India: you're not just incredible--you're unforgettable. With love, Eric,&rdquo; he added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m64q9myj-jpvlht33-axjf22rr">
As I bid farewell to India after serving as the 26th&nbsp;U.S. Ambassador to this amazing country, my heart is full. You&rsquo;ve given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador&mdash;I leave as a lifelong friend and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/FEB6YqoRlm">pic.twitter.com/FEB6YqoRlm</a>
&mdash; U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1880918574757285959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
During his tenure in India, Garcetti extensively travelled the country and visited 28 states, experiencing India's vibrant culture and heritage.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-us-ties-during-donald-trumps-first-term-as-president-a-total-recall-and-what-to-expect-8636460">Also read: India-US ties during Donald Trump's first term as president: A total recall and what to expect in Trump 2.0&nbsp;</a>
&ldquo;From the moment I landed in New Delhi to serve as the 26th U.S. Ambassador, India has felt like home. Your people's dosti and zindadili touch me every day,&rdquo; he said in the video.
Sharing some of his most memorable moments, Garcetti said, &ldquo;I've been able to float past the Ghats at Varanasi, I've crossed living root bridges in Meghalaya, sailed through the backwaters of Kerala, cheered on India at Modi Stadium, and played hoops with the girls in bustling Mumbai. I've seen that fusion of ancient royalty and modern innovation in Hyderabad, celebrated the culture of Kolkata and the incredible history in the ancient temples of Chennai."
Expressing confidence in the enduring relationship between the United States and India, Garcetti emphasised that the ties between the two nations would continue to grow stronger in the future.
He then concluded his message with Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan's dialogue from Om Shanti Om saying, "Our relationship is truly an enduring story of love for the ages. And we are only getting started," Garcetti concluded. "Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost!"
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: During his tenure in India, Garcetti extensively travelled across the country and visited 28 states, experiencing India's vibrant culture and heritage.

Outgoing US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti bid farewell with a heartfelt message, highlighting the strong bonds forged between the United States and India during his tenure as the 26th US envoy. Garcetti shared a video on his social media handle expressing how he was deeply connected with India as he visited the country for the very first time as a child and then as a student. Acknowledging the warmth and hospitality exhibited by the Indians, Garcetti shared that he had extremely rich experiences in the country that shaped his time in the country. “As I bid farewell to India after serving as the 26th U.S. Ambassador to this amazing country, my heart is full. You’ve given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador—I leave as a lifelong friend and supporter of #USIndiaFWDfortheFuture,” Garcetti wrote on his official X handle captioning the video. “My dear India: you're not just incredible--you're unforgettable. With love, Eric,” he added. As I bid farewell to India after serving as the 26th U.S. Ambassador to this amazing country, my heart is full. You’ve given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador—I leave as a lifelong friend and… pic.twitter.com/FEB6YqoRlm — U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) January 19, 2025 During his tenure in India, Garcetti extensively travelled the country and visited 28 states, experiencing India's vibrant culture and heritage. Also read: India-US ties during Donald Trump's first term as president: A total recall and what to expect in Trump 2.0 “From the moment I landed in New Delhi to serve as the 26th U.S. Ambassador, India has felt like home. Your people's dosti and zindadili touch me every day,” he said in the video. Sharing some of his most memorable moments, Garcetti said, “I've been able to float past the Ghats at Varanasi, I've crossed living root bridges in Meghalaya, sailed through the backwaters of Kerala, cheered on India at Modi Stadium, and played hoops with the girls in bustling Mumbai. I've seen that fusion of ancient royalty and modern innovation in Hyderabad, celebrated the culture of Kolkata and the incredible history in the ancient temples of Chennai." Expressing confidence in the enduring relationship between the United States and India, Garcetti emphasised that the ties between the two nations would continue to grow stronger in the future. He then concluded his message with Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan's dialogue from Om Shanti Om saying, "Our relationship is truly an enduring story of love for the ages. And we are only getting started," Garcetti concluded. "Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost!" (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO: Eric Garcetti bids farewell as US Ambassador to India; 'picture abhi baki hai mere dost'

Police in the south Indian state of Kerala have arrested 57 of the 59 people accused of the alleged years-long sexual abuse of an 18-year-old Dalit girl in Pathanamthitta district.
District Police Chief VG Vinod Kumar said all the listed accused, except two who are currently abroad, have been arrested after a comprehensive probe.
A special investigation team led by woman IPS officer S Ajitha Beegam has been investigating the case.
The police made the latest arrest in the case on Sunday (Jan 19). The accused, VS Arun (25), was taken into custody near his house in the district.
<h2 dir="ltr">62 Individuals accused of exploiting the victim for 5 years</h2>
The victim had accused 62 individuals of blackmailing and sexually abusing her over five years since the age of 13. The abuse came to light when the teen's teachers informed the District Child Welfare Committee about noticeable changes in her behaviour.
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The girl revealed the scale of abuse during counselling by the committee, which informed the police. A case was registered at the Ilavumthitta police station on January 10.
It is alleged that when the teen was 13 years old, Subin, one of the accused had sent obscene messages and pictures to her through his mobile phone. He is also accused of procuring obscene pictures and videos of the teen, according to Pathanamthitta Police.
<h2 dir="ltr">Police vow to complete the investigation as soon as possible</h2>
Further, when the girl was 16 years old, the accused allegedly took her on a bike to Achankottumali near her house and raped her on a rubber farm in an uninhabited area. The event was recorded on his phone.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-story-0/india-rg-kar-rape-murder-case-court-to-pronounce-quantum-of-sentence-today-8636566">India: RG Kar rape-murder case: Court to pronounce quantum of sentence today</a>
Police said the victim was gang-raped on at least five occasions, including assaults inside a car and at the Pathanamthitta General Hospital in January 2024.
The district police chief said the objective is to complete the investigation and submit the charge sheet as soon as possible.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: District police chief Kumar confirmed that almost all suspects have been apprehended, with only two still at large due to being overseas during the probe.

Police in the south Indian state of Kerala have arrested 57 of the 59 people accused of the alleged years-long sexual abuse of an 18-year-old Dalit girl in Pathanamthitta district. District Police Chief VG Vinod Kumar said all the listed accused, except two who are currently abroad, have been arrested after a comprehensive probe. A special investigation team led by woman IPS officer S Ajitha Beegam has been investigating the case. The police made the latest arrest in the case on Sunday (Jan 19). The accused, VS Arun (25), was taken into custody near his house in the district. 62 Individuals accused of exploiting the victim for 5 years The victim had accused 62 individuals of blackmailing and sexually abusing her over five years since the age of 13. The abuse came to light when the teen's teachers informed the District Child Welfare Committee about noticeable changes in her behaviour. Also read | Maha Kumbh: More than 22.7 lakh devotees take holy dip in Triveni Sangam in India's Prayagraj today The girl revealed the scale of abuse during counselling by the committee, which informed the police. A case was registered at the Ilavumthitta police station on January 10. It is alleged that when the teen was 13 years old, Subin, one of the accused had sent obscene messages and pictures to her through his mobile phone. He is also accused of procuring obscene pictures and videos of the teen, according to Pathanamthitta Police. Police vow to complete the investigation as soon as possible Further, when the girl was 16 years old, the accused allegedly took her on a bike to Achankottumali near her house and raped her on a rubber farm in an uninhabited area. The event was recorded on his phone. Also read | India: RG Kar rape-murder case: Court to pronounce quantum of sentence today Police said the victim was gang-raped on at least five occasions, including assaults inside a car and at the Pathanamthitta General Hospital in January 2024. The district police chief said the objective is to complete the investigation and submit the charge sheet as soon as possible. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Kerala Police arrest 57 of 59 accused in alleged mass sexual abuse of Dalit girl

A special court in Kolkata, on Monday, will pronounce the sentence for civic volunteer Sanjay Roy, the sole convict in the case of ghastly rape and murder of a woman doctor of state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital.
The woman's body was found in the hospital premises in Kolkata in August 2024. The special court judge Anirban Das convicted Roy on January 18.
The proceedings of the special court will start on Monday at around noon and in the beginning, the judge will allow Roy as well as the victims of the parents to present their concluding statements on the matter. Thereafter the special court judge will pronounce the sentence in the case.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-more-than-227-lakh-devotees-take-holy-dip-in-triveni-sangam-in-indias-prayagraj-8636249">Maha Kumbh: More than 22.7 lakh devotees take holy dip in Triveni Sangam in India's Prayagraj today</a>
The judge, on January 18, had already made it clear that the maximum punishment in the case could be the &ldquo;death penalty&rdquo;, while the minimum punishment in the matter could be life imprisonment.
Although the process of sentence against Roy in the matter of the crime of rape and murder will be completed on Monday, the angle of investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as regards &ldquo;tampering&rdquo; and &ldquo;altering&rdquo; of evidence in the matter will be still alive.
The CBI, sources said, had already informed the special court that the scope for filing a supplementary charge sheet on the tampering of evidence angle is still open, which the case in this particular angle keeps pending.
Last year, the former and controversial principal of R.G. Kar Sandip Ghosh and the former SHO of Tala Police Station Abhijit Mondal were granted &ldquo;default bail&rdquo; by the same special court, as the CBI failed to file the supplementary charge sheet against the duo within 90 days of their arrest.
Both Ghosh and Mondal were accused of misleading the probe and tampering with the evidence when the Kolkata Police was investigating initially. Later, the CBI took charge of the investigation on Calcutta High Court's order.
The body of the victim doctor was recovered from the seminar hall within R.G. Kar premises on the morning of August 9 last year. The initial investigation into the matter was started by a special investigation team of Kolkata Police, who arrested Roy. However, the CBI started an investigation five days after the date of the crime and thereafter Roy was handed over to the central agency officials by the city police.
The trial process in the matter started on November 11 last year, 59 days after the body of the victim was discovered. The conviction process was completed on January 18, which was 162 days from the date of the crime. Now, the sentence will be pronounced on Monday exactly 164 days from the date of the crime.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

A woman's body was discovered on hospital grounds in Kolkata, leading to a significant legal case with Roy's conviction by Judge Anirban Das in January

A special court in Kolkata, on Monday, will pronounce the sentence for civic volunteer Sanjay Roy, the sole convict in the case of ghastly rape and murder of a woman doctor of state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. The woman's body was found in the hospital premises in Kolkata in August 2024. The special court judge Anirban Das convicted Roy on January 18. The proceedings of the special court will start on Monday at around noon and in the beginning, the judge will allow Roy as well as the victims of the parents to present their concluding statements on the matter. Thereafter the special court judge will pronounce the sentence in the case. Also read | Maha Kumbh: More than 22.7 lakh devotees take holy dip in Triveni Sangam in India's Prayagraj today The judge, on January 18, had already made it clear that the maximum punishment in the case could be the “death penalty”, while the minimum punishment in the matter could be life imprisonment. Although the process of sentence against Roy in the matter of the crime of rape and murder will be completed on Monday, the angle of investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as regards “tampering” and “altering” of evidence in the matter will be still alive. The CBI, sources said, had already informed the special court that the scope for filing a supplementary charge sheet on the tampering of evidence angle is still open, which the case in this particular angle keeps pending. Last year, the former and controversial principal of R.G. Kar Sandip Ghosh and the former SHO of Tala Police Station Abhijit Mondal were granted “default bail” by the same special court, as the CBI failed to file the supplementary charge sheet against the duo within 90 days of their arrest. Both Ghosh and Mondal were accused of misleading the probe and tampering with the evidence when the Kolkata Police was investigating initially. Later, the CBI took charge of the investigation on Calcutta High Court's order. The body of the victim doctor was recovered from the seminar hall within R.G. Kar premises on the morning of August 9 last year. The initial investigation into the matter was started by a special investigation team of Kolkata Police, who arrested Roy. However, the CBI started an investigation five days after the date of the crime and thereafter Roy was handed over to the central agency officials by the city police. The trial process in the matter started on November 11 last year, 59 days after the body of the victim was discovered. The conviction process was completed on January 18, which was 162 days from the date of the crime. Now, the sentence will be pronounced on Monday exactly 164 days from the date of the crime. 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 | RG Kar rape-murder case: Court to pronounce quantum of sentence today

Over 2.3 million pilgrims took a holy dip in the sacred waters of Triveni Sangam in the north Indian city of Prayagraj on Monday (Jan 20), marking the eighth day of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
According to the Uttar Pradesh Government, so far more than 82.6 million devotees have taken a holy dip at Triveni Sangam.
As of Sunday, among a congregation of over 5.18 million devotees gathered at the Sangam Triveni, 1 million Kalpvasis and 4.182 million pilgrims took a holy dip by 6 PM.
<h2>UP CM Yogi Adityanath conducts aerial survey</h2>
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also conducted an aerial survey and inspection of the Maha Kumbh.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-massive-fire-breaks-out-at-maha-kumbh-mela-in-indias-prayagraj-50-tents-burnt-8635110">Maha Kumbh mela fire: Tents, huts gutted in India's Prayagraj; UP CM Adityanath visits site</a>
The chief minister visited the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp to attend the ongoing 'Katha' by Indian spiritual leader Morari Bapu. He was welcomed by Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the spiritual head of the Rishikesh-based Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
"Crores of people are visiting Prayagraj daily just to take a holy dip. Amazingly, 10 lakh people are taking a dip within an hour. The kind of crowd management, event management and safety done here by Yogi ji is amazing," Saraswati had said earlier while speaking to ANI news agency.
The CM also met a women's delegation from Italy. Founder and trainer of Meditation and Yoga Center in Italy, Mahi Guruji along with his followers made a courtesy visit to CM Yogi in Lucknow today. The women who returned from Prayagraj Mahakumbh recited Ramayana, Shiv Tandava and several bhajans in front of the Chief Minister.
<h2>Fire at tent in Maha Kumbh</h2>
A fire broke out at the Gita Press camp in the Mela due to the explosion of three cooking gas cylinders, however, no casualties were reported.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Uttar Pradesh CM to inquire about the situation following the incident.
Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of the Maha Kumbh Mela, Vivek Chaturvedi confirmed that around 70 to 80 huts and around 8 to 10 tents were burnt in the fire.
Speaking to ANI, the ADM said, "Unfortunately a fire broke out at the Gita Press camp. It is reported that around 70 to 80 huts and eight to 10 tents have been burnt. There are no reports of any casualties. Everyone has been rescued safely. The fire has been extinguished."
The Maha Kumbh began on January 13 and will continue until February 26.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Dvotees gathered at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj for a sacred dip, celebrating the eighth day of the grand event with spiritual fervour and devotion.

Over 2.3 million pilgrims took a holy dip in the sacred waters of Triveni Sangam in the north Indian city of Prayagraj on Monday (Jan 20), marking the eighth day of the Maha Kumbh Mela. According to the Uttar Pradesh Government, so far more than 82.6 million devotees have taken a holy dip at Triveni Sangam. As of Sunday, among a congregation of over 5.18 million devotees gathered at the Sangam Triveni, 1 million Kalpvasis and 4.182 million pilgrims took a holy dip by 6 PM. UP CM Yogi Adityanath conducts aerial survey Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also conducted an aerial survey and inspection of the Maha Kumbh. Also read | Maha Kumbh mela fire: Tents, huts gutted in India's Prayagraj; UP CM Adityanath visits site The chief minister visited the Paramarth Niketan Kumbh Mela Camp to attend the ongoing 'Katha' by Indian spiritual leader Morari Bapu. He was welcomed by Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the spiritual head of the Rishikesh-based Parmarth Niketan Ashram. "Crores of people are visiting Prayagraj daily just to take a holy dip. Amazingly, 10 lakh people are taking a dip within an hour. The kind of crowd management, event management and safety done here by Yogi ji is amazing," Saraswati had said earlier while speaking to ANI news agency. The CM also met a women's delegation from Italy. Founder and trainer of Meditation and Yoga Center in Italy, Mahi Guruji along with his followers made a courtesy visit to CM Yogi in Lucknow today. The women who returned from Prayagraj Mahakumbh recited Ramayana, Shiv Tandava and several bhajans in front of the Chief Minister. Fire at tent in Maha Kumbh A fire broke out at the Gita Press camp in the Mela due to the explosion of three cooking gas cylinders, however, no casualties were reported. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Uttar Pradesh CM to inquire about the situation following the incident. Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of the Maha Kumbh Mela, Vivek Chaturvedi confirmed that around 70 to 80 huts and around 8 to 10 tents were burnt in the fire. Speaking to ANI, the ADM said, "Unfortunately a fire broke out at the Gita Press camp. It is reported that around 70 to 80 huts and eight to 10 tents have been burnt. There are no reports of any casualties. Everyone has been rescued safely. The fire has been extinguished." The Maha Kumbh began on January 13 and will continue until February 26. (With inputs from agencies)

Maha Kumbh: More than 2.3 million devotees take holy dip in Triveni Sangam in India's Prayagraj

A massive fire broke out at Maha Kumbh Mela in India's Prayagraj, Zee News reported on Sunday (Jan 19). Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath arrived at the Mela site to inspect the area. The CM took an assessment&nbsp;of the situation and reviewed the emergency response measures. As per officials, around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents were burnt in the fire.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to Yogi Adityanath and sought information about the fire incident.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m63khepb-rt4pf0h3-bgkukh9x">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Fire at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbhMela2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbhMela2025</a> | Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath arrives at the fire incident spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbhMela2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbhMela2025</a> The fire has been brought under control. No causality has been reported. <a href="https://t.co/qKJQBFyezI">pic.twitter.com/qKJQBFyezI</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1880946993788596709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
<div class="px-1 storyContent flex flex-col ">
Ravindra Kumar, DM, Prayagraj said, "The fire broke out at 4.30 pm in sector 19 in the tent of Gita press. The fire spread to the nearby 10 tents. The police and administration team reached the spot. The fire has been extinguished. There is no information of any casualty. The situation is under ccontrol."
ADM Mela, Vivek Chaturvedi, said, "A fire broke out at the Geeta Press camp. It is reported that around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents have been burnt. There are no reports of any casualties. Everyone has been rescued safely. The fire has been extinguished."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m63njeng-msyx63fr-ia8l8nns">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Fire at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbhMela2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbhMela2025</a> | Prayagraj, UP: ADM Mela Vivek Chaturvedi says, "Unfortunately, a fire broke out at the Geeta Press camp. It is reported that around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents have been burnt. There are no reports of any casualties. Everyone has been rescued&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/pNoYS7wKQo">pic.twitter.com/pNoYS7wKQo</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1880951634756559183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
Speaking to PTI about the cause of fire, ADG&nbsp;Bhanu Bhaskar said, "Two-three cylinders exploded in Sector 19 of the Maha Kumbh Mela, causing a massive fire in the camps. The fire has been controlled. All people are safe, and no one has been injured. An investigation will be conducted."
</div>
Fire tenders are present on the spot. As per UP Police, the fire has been brought under control.&nbsp;
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or casualties so far.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m63ixrrq-qppam18g-px7q2mfp">
Fire breaks out at Maha Kumbh Mela in India's Prayagraj, at least 50 tents gutted in blaze . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbhMela?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbhMela</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahaKumbhMela2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahaKumbhMela2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/dQ45JNUWbB">pic.twitter.com/dQ45JNUWbB</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1880937605661114805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Maha Kumbh and tragedies</h2>
The Maha Kumbh Mela, known as the world&rsquo;s largest spiritual gathering, has a long history marked by tragic incidents, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-organisers-use-ai-to-prevent-stampedes-and-ensure-safety-of-400-million-pilgrims-8631920">stampedes</a>. In 1954, one of the deadliest crowd-related disasters occurred during the Kumbh Mela, when over 400 people lost their lives, either getting trampled or drowned. In 2013, during the last&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-sangam-dip-to-temple-prayers-rajnath-singh-embraces-maha-kumbh-spirit-8633843">Maha Kumbh</a> held in Prayagraj (then known as Allahabad), 36 individuals were crushed to death in a stampede.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/abhay-singh-aka-iit-baba-reveals-the-reason-behind-his-abrupt-maha-kumbh-exit-8633363">Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit</a>
This year&rsquo;s Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday, 13 January. On the first day, over 15 million devotees took a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-devotees-brave-dense-fog-to-attend-morning-ganga-aarti-8634700">holy dip</a> at the Triveni Sangam to mark the start of the event. Over the course of 45 days, more than 400 million visitors are expected to attend this largest religious gathering.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: A massive fire broke out at Maha Kumbh Mela in India's Prayagraj, Zee News reported on Sunday (Jan 19). Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath arrived at the incident to survey the area.

A massive fire broke out at Maha Kumbh Mela in India's Prayagraj, Zee News reported on Sunday (Jan 19). Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath arrived at the Mela site to inspect the area. The CM took an assessment of the situation and reviewed the emergency response measures. As per officials, around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents were burnt in the fire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to Yogi Adityanath and sought information about the fire incident. #WATCH | Fire at #MahaKumbhMela2025 | Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath arrives at the fire incident spot in the #MahaKumbhMela2025 The fire has been brought under control. No causality has been reported. pic.twitter.com/qKJQBFyezI — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2025 Ravindra Kumar, DM, Prayagraj said, "The fire broke out at 4.30 pm in sector 19 in the tent of Gita press. The fire spread to the nearby 10 tents. The police and administration team reached the spot. The fire has been extinguished. There is no information of any casualty. The situation is under ccontrol." ADM Mela, Vivek Chaturvedi, said, "A fire broke out at the Geeta Press camp. It is reported that around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents have been burnt. There are no reports of any casualties. Everyone has been rescued safely. The fire has been extinguished." #WATCH | Fire at #MahaKumbhMela2025 | Prayagraj, UP: ADM Mela Vivek Chaturvedi says, "Unfortunately, a fire broke out at the Geeta Press camp. It is reported that around 70-80 huts and 8-10 tents have been burnt. There are no reports of any casualties. Everyone has been rescued… pic.twitter.com/pNoYS7wKQo — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2025 Speaking to PTI about the cause of fire, ADG Bhanu Bhaskar said, "Two-three cylinders exploded in Sector 19 of the Maha Kumbh Mela, causing a massive fire in the camps. The fire has been controlled. All people are safe, and no one has been injured. An investigation will be conducted." Fire tenders are present on the spot. As per UP Police, the fire has been brought under control. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or casualties so far. Fire breaks out at Maha Kumbh Mela in India's Prayagraj, at least 50 tents gutted in blaze . . . . .#MahaKumbhMela #MahaKumbh #MahaKumbhMela2025 pic.twitter.com/dQ45JNUWbB — WION (@WIONews) January 19, 2025 Maha Kumbh and tragedies The Maha Kumbh Mela, known as the world’s largest spiritual gathering, has a long history marked by tragic incidents, including stampedes. In 1954, one of the deadliest crowd-related disasters occurred during the Kumbh Mela, when over 400 people lost their lives, either getting trampled or drowned. In 2013, during the last Maha Kumbh held in Prayagraj (then known as Allahabad), 36 individuals were crushed to death in a stampede. Also read: Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit This year’s Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday, 13 January. On the first day, over 15 million devotees took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam to mark the start of the event. Over the course of 45 days, more than 400 million visitors are expected to attend this largest religious gathering. (With inputs from agencies)

Maha Kumbh mela fire: Tents, huts gutted in India's Prayagraj; UP CM Adityanath visits site

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is now facing legal trouble over his controversial statement made during the inauguration of the Congress Party's new headquarters in Delhi on Wednesday (Jan 15). He had remarked, &ldquo;We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS, and the Indian State itself.&rdquo; Rahul's statement had sparked widespread criticism.&nbsp;
<h2>Complaint filed in Guwahati&nbsp;</h2>
An FIR was registered at the Pan Bazar Police Station in Guwahati, Assam, accusing Rahul Gandhi of making statements that threaten India&rsquo;s unity and sovereignty.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-praises-election-commission-maha-kumbh-on-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2025-8634884">PM Modi praises Election Commission, Maha Kumbh on first &lsquo;Mann Ki Baat&rsquo; of 2025</a>
<h2>Complainant alleges threat to national security</h2>
The complainant, Monjit Chetia, claimed that Gandhi&rsquo;s statement crossed the boundaries of free speech and could provoke unrest. Chetia further alleged that Gandhi&rsquo;s words were aimed at delegitimising the government and inciting rebellion.
Chetia said in his complaint, "By declaring that his fight is against the 'Indian State itself', the accused has consciously incited subversive activities and rebellion among the populace. This is an attempt to delegitimise the authority of the State and to portray it as a hostile force, thereby creating a dangerous narrative that could provoke unrest and separatist sentiments."
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-they-want-to-eliminate-arvind-kejriwal-says-delhi-cm-atishi-on-attack-on-aap-supremos-car-8635080">India: &lsquo;They want to eliminate Arvind Kejriwal&rsquo;, says Delhi CM Atishi on attack on AAP supremo&rsquo;s car</a>
The complaint also mentioned, "Having been unable to gain public trust through democratic means, the accused now seeks to incite disaffection against the central government and the Indian state. This is particularly alarming, given his position as the Leader of the Opposition, a role that comes with the responsibility to maintain public confidence in democratic institutions. Instead, the accused has chosen to exploit his platform to spread falsehoods and provoke rebellion, endangering the unity and sovereignty of India."&nbsp;
<h2>Legal action under serious charges</h2>
The FIR has been filed under sections 152 and 197(1)d of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) &nbsp;for &lsquo;acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.'
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: An FIR was registered at the Pan Bazar Police Station in Guwahati, Assam, accusing Rahul Gandhi of making statements that threaten India’s unity and sovereignty. 

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is now facing legal trouble over his controversial statement made during the inauguration of the Congress Party's new headquarters in Delhi on Wednesday (Jan 15). He had remarked, “We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS, and the Indian State itself.” Rahul's statement had sparked widespread criticism. Complaint filed in Guwahati An FIR was registered at the Pan Bazar Police Station in Guwahati, Assam, accusing Rahul Gandhi of making statements that threaten India’s unity and sovereignty. Also Read | PM Modi praises Election Commission, Maha Kumbh on first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of 2025 Complainant alleges threat to national security The complainant, Monjit Chetia, claimed that Gandhi’s statement crossed the boundaries of free speech and could provoke unrest. Chetia further alleged that Gandhi’s words were aimed at delegitimising the government and inciting rebellion. Chetia said in his complaint, "By declaring that his fight is against the 'Indian State itself', the accused has consciously incited subversive activities and rebellion among the populace. This is an attempt to delegitimise the authority of the State and to portray it as a hostile force, thereby creating a dangerous narrative that could provoke unrest and separatist sentiments." Also Read | India: ‘They want to eliminate Arvind Kejriwal’, says Delhi CM Atishi on attack on AAP supremo’s car The complaint also mentioned, "Having been unable to gain public trust through democratic means, the accused now seeks to incite disaffection against the central government and the Indian state. This is particularly alarming, given his position as the Leader of the Opposition, a role that comes with the responsibility to maintain public confidence in democratic institutions. Instead, the accused has chosen to exploit his platform to spread falsehoods and provoke rebellion, endangering the unity and sovereignty of India." Legal action under serious charges The FIR has been filed under sections 152 and 197(1)d of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for ‘acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.' (With inputs from agencies)

FIR filed against Rahul Gandhi in Guwahati over remarks on 'Indian state'

Delhi Chief Minister leader Atishi has alleged that &ldquo;goons of the BJP&rdquo; attacked Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal&rsquo;s car with a stone on Saturday (Jan 18).&nbsp;
Kejriwal said on Sunday (Jan 19) that he had never witnessed such a poll campaign when a former chief minister was attacked.
AAP leaders alleged that Kejriwal&rsquo;s car was attacked by stones while he was campaigning for the upcoming Assembly elections.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-arvind-kejriwal-attacked-during-delhi-election-poll-campaign-8632915" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India: Kejriwal 'signalled' driver to hit us, alleged youth hit by AAP supremo's car</a>
<h2>Delhi CM Atishi accuses BJP</h2>
The party accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the attack, saying that the rival party has gone &ldquo;crazy&rdquo; due to the fear of loss in the upcoming elections. The party claimed that the BJP candidate Pravesh Verma had sent &ldquo;goons&rdquo; to attack the AAP supremo with a brick. It further alleged that the attack was to stop Kejriwal from campaigning.&nbsp;
During a joint press conference with party MP Sanjay Singh on Sunday (Jan 19), Delhi CM Atishi said that the BJP is conspiring to &ldquo;eliminate&rdquo; Arvind Kejriwal as they cannot defeat him.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-praises-election-commission-maha-kumbh-on-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2025-8634884#google_vignette" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PM Modi praises Election Commission, Maha Kumbh on first &lsquo;Mann Ki Baat&rsquo; of 2025</a>
&ldquo;The people who attacked Arvind Kejriwal and threw stones at his car are serious offenders with cases registered against them, including of robbery and attempt to murder,&rdquo; she alleged.
&ldquo;The attack was perpetrated by BJP goons. Who were the people that attacked Arvind Kejriwal? Upon closer observation, there is one name&ndash;&lsquo;Shanky,&rsquo; who is a Vice President of the BJP and is often seen putting up posters of Pravesh Verma in his area. Moreover, he is frequently found in the company of Pravesh Verma. During campaigns, Shanky stays closely associated with Pravesh Verma,&rdquo; Atishi said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This individual who has multiple criminal cases against him was involved in the attack. He is frequently seen with Verma. They want to eliminate Arvind Kejriwal,&rdquo; she added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-devotees-brave-dense-fog-to-attend-morning-ganga-aarti-8634700" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees brave dense fog to attend morning Ganga Aarti</a>
Sanjay Singh said, &ldquo;The BJP is unable to defeat us in the assembly polls, so they are resorting to such tactics to remove Arvind Kejriwal from their way.&rdquo;
<h2>BJP accuses AAP of crushing youths</h2>
Responding to allegations by the rival party, BJP's New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma said that Kejriwal&rsquo;s car tried to crush three youths protesting against the AAP leader and left them seriously injured.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-to-meet-with-farmers-on-feb-14-dallewal-agrees-to-take-medical-aid-8633999" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India: Centre to meet with farmers on Feb 14; Dallewal agrees to take medical aid</a>
&ldquo;The car of Arvind Kejriwal has gone ahead by crushing the worker of the BJP. The leg of the worker (BJP) has broken and I am going to the Lady Hardinge Medical College to inquire about his health...This is very shameful,&rdquo; he said.
He further claimed that it was Kejriwal who &ldquo;asked the driver to crush them&rdquo;.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Responding to allegations by the rival party, BJP's New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma said that Kejriwal’s car tried to crush three youths protesting against the AAP leader and left them injured.

Delhi Chief Minister leader Atishi has alleged that “goons of the BJP” attacked Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal’s car with a stone on Saturday (Jan 18). Kejriwal said on Sunday (Jan 19) that he had never witnessed such a poll campaign when a former chief minister was attacked. AAP leaders alleged that Kejriwal’s car was attacked by stones while he was campaigning for the upcoming Assembly elections. Also read | India: Kejriwal 'signalled' driver to hit us, alleged youth hit by AAP supremo's car Delhi CM Atishi accuses BJP The party accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the attack, saying that the rival party has gone “crazy” due to the fear of loss in the upcoming elections. The party claimed that the BJP candidate Pravesh Verma had sent “goons” to attack the AAP supremo with a brick. It further alleged that the attack was to stop Kejriwal from campaigning. During a joint press conference with party MP Sanjay Singh on Sunday (Jan 19), Delhi CM Atishi said that the BJP is conspiring to “eliminate” Arvind Kejriwal as they cannot defeat him. Also read | PM Modi praises Election Commission, Maha Kumbh on first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of 2025 “The people who attacked Arvind Kejriwal and threw stones at his car are serious offenders with cases registered against them, including of robbery and attempt to murder,” she alleged. “The attack was perpetrated by BJP goons. Who were the people that attacked Arvind Kejriwal? Upon closer observation, there is one name–‘Shanky,’ who is a Vice President of the BJP and is often seen putting up posters of Pravesh Verma in his area. Moreover, he is frequently found in the company of Pravesh Verma. During campaigns, Shanky stays closely associated with Pravesh Verma,” Atishi said. “This individual who has multiple criminal cases against him was involved in the attack. He is frequently seen with Verma. They want to eliminate Arvind Kejriwal,” she added. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees brave dense fog to attend morning Ganga Aarti Sanjay Singh said, “The BJP is unable to defeat us in the assembly polls, so they are resorting to such tactics to remove Arvind Kejriwal from their way.” BJP accuses AAP of crushing youths Responding to allegations by the rival party, BJP's New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma said that Kejriwal’s car tried to crush three youths protesting against the AAP leader and left them seriously injured. Also read | India: Centre to meet with farmers on Feb 14; Dallewal agrees to take medical aid “The car of Arvind Kejriwal has gone ahead by crushing the worker of the BJP. The leg of the worker (BJP) has broken and I am going to the Lady Hardinge Medical College to inquire about his health...This is very shameful,” he said. He further claimed that it was Kejriwal who “asked the driver to crush them”. (With inputs from agencies)

India: ‘They want to eliminate Arvind Kejriwal’, says Delhi CM Atishi after attack on AAP supremo’s car

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Jan 19) urged citizens to vote and also lauded the Election Commission of India, during the first episode of Mann Ki Baat of 2025.
PM Modi encouraged people to use their right to vote and actively participate in the democratic process of the nation. He also highlighted the importance of January 25, which is celebrated as &lsquo;National Voters Day&rsquo; in India, marking the establishment of the Election Commission.
<h2>Prime Minister lauds Election Commission</h2>
Praising the EC, the prime minister said that it has used the power of technology to modernise and strengthen the voting process and has empowered the people of India.
Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-devotees-brave-dense-fog-to-attend-morning-ganga-aarti-8634700" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees brave dense fog to attend morning Ganga Aarti</a>
&ldquo;I would also like to thank the Election Commission, which has, from time to time, modernised and strengthened our voting process. The Commission has used the power of technology to give more power to the people. I congratulate the Election Commission for its commitment to fair elections,&rdquo; he added.
While opposition parties have repeatedly questioned the authenticity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), PM Modi&rsquo;s remarks are seen as an endorsement of the voting process.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-to-meet-with-farmers-on-feb-14-dallewal-agrees-to-take-medical-aid-8633999" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India: Centre to meet with farmers on Feb 14; Dallewal agrees to take medical aid</a>
<h2>PM Modi extends Republic Day wishes</h2>
PM Modi also asserted that while doubts have been cast upon India as a democracy, the country has proved them wrong, saying that India is the mother of democracy. He then extended his wish for Republic Day in advance.
&ldquo;I want to extend wishes for Republic Day to the countrymen. This year&rsquo;s &lsquo;Republic Day&rsquo; is very special. This is the 75th anniversary of the Indian Republic. This year marks 75 years since the Constitution came into force. I salute all those great personalities of the Constituent Assembly who gave us our sacred Constitution,&rdquo; he said.
Mann Ki Baat, the podcast which is held on every last Sunday of the month was held on the third Sunday this month due to the Republic Day celebration on the next Sunday, noted PM Modi.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-sangam-dip-to-temple-prayers-rajnath-singh-embraces-maha-kumbh-spirit-8633843" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">From Sangam dip to temple prayers: Rajnath Singh embraces Maha Kumbh spirit</a>
<h2>Great personalities of Constituent Assembly</h2>
Talking about the Constituent Assembly, the prime minister played short audio clips of some notable personalities of India&rsquo;s Constituent Assembly, including its chairman Rajendra Prasad, Bhim Rao Ambedkar and Syama Prasad Mookerjee, highlighting their values.
&ldquo;Baba Saheb was emphasizing that the Constituent Assembly should remain united and work together for welfare of all. Dr Rajendra Prasad talked about the commitment to human values. Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee raised the topic of commonality of opportunities. I hope that you may have felt delighted after listening these audio clips,&rdquo; PM Modi said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rg-kar-medical-college-rape-murder-protests-and-arrest-heres-how-victim-finally-got-justice-8633439" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how RG Kar Medical College victim finally got justice</a>
&ldquo;We should take inspiration from them to build an India of which our Constitution makers would have been proud,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>PM Modi on Maha Kumbh 2025</h2>
PM Modi also talked about the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj. The prime minister said there is no discrimination of any kind, saying that people of various castes and regions have come together.
He also said that extensive youth participation in the event is evident in the gigantic get-together of devouts. He noted that it would strengthen civilisational roots and assure a gold future.
The event&rsquo;s popularity across the world is a matter of pride for every Indian, he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | PM Modi also asserted that while doubts have been cast upon India as a democracy, the country has proved them wrong, saying that India is the mother of democracy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Jan 19) urged citizens to vote and also lauded the Election Commission of India, during the first episode of Mann Ki Baat of 2025. PM Modi encouraged people to use their right to vote and actively participate in the democratic process of the nation. He also highlighted the importance of January 25, which is celebrated as ‘National Voters Day’ in India, marking the establishment of the Election Commission. Prime Minister lauds Election Commission Praising the EC, the prime minister said that it has used the power of technology to modernise and strengthen the voting process and has empowered the people of India. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees brave dense fog to attend morning Ganga Aarti “I would also like to thank the Election Commission, which has, from time to time, modernised and strengthened our voting process. The Commission has used the power of technology to give more power to the people. I congratulate the Election Commission for its commitment to fair elections,” he added. While opposition parties have repeatedly questioned the authenticity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), PM Modi’s remarks are seen as an endorsement of the voting process. Also read | India: Centre to meet with farmers on Feb 14; Dallewal agrees to take medical aid PM Modi extends Republic Day wishes PM Modi also asserted that while doubts have been cast upon India as a democracy, the country has proved them wrong, saying that India is the mother of democracy. He then extended his wish for Republic Day in advance. “I want to extend wishes for Republic Day to the countrymen. This year’s ‘Republic Day’ is very special. This is the 75th anniversary of the Indian Republic. This year marks 75 years since the Constitution came into force. I salute all those great personalities of the Constituent Assembly who gave us our sacred Constitution,” he said. Mann Ki Baat, the podcast which is held on every last Sunday of the month was held on the third Sunday this month due to the Republic Day celebration on the next Sunday, noted PM Modi. Also read | From Sangam dip to temple prayers: Rajnath Singh embraces Maha Kumbh spirit Great personalities of Constituent Assembly Talking about the Constituent Assembly, the prime minister played short audio clips of some notable personalities of India’s Constituent Assembly, including its chairman Rajendra Prasad, Bhim Rao Ambedkar and Syama Prasad Mookerjee, highlighting their values. “Baba Saheb was emphasizing that the Constituent Assembly should remain united and work together for welfare of all. Dr Rajendra Prasad talked about the commitment to human values. Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee raised the topic of commonality of opportunities. I hope that you may have felt delighted after listening these audio clips,” PM Modi said. Also read | Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how RG Kar Medical College victim finally got justice “We should take inspiration from them to build an India of which our Constitution makers would have been proud,” he said. PM Modi on Maha Kumbh 2025 PM Modi also talked about the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj. The prime minister said there is no discrimination of any kind, saying that people of various castes and regions have come together. He also said that extensive youth participation in the event is evident in the gigantic get-together of devouts. He noted that it would strengthen civilisational roots and assure a gold future. The event’s popularity across the world is a matter of pride for every Indian, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi praises Election Commission, Maha Kumbh on first ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of 2025

Despite the chilly weather and dense fog, a large number of devotees gathered at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to witness the morning Ganga Aarti on the seventh day of the Maha Kumbh Mela.&nbsp;
The Aarti, a hallmark of devotional celebration along the Ganga ghats, was performed by priests holding huge lighted oil lamps, while the river Ganga was worshipped by offering flowers and diyas.
The minimum temperature forecasted for the day is 11 degrees Celsius while the maximum temperature will go up to 23 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-indian-railways-sets-up-medical-facilities-at-prayagraj-station-for-devotees-8632631#google_vignette" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh 2025: Indian Railways sets up medical facilities at Prayagraj station for devotees</a>
India Meteorological Department Scientist Dr Soma Sen Roy also said that fog conditions are likely over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and North Rajasthan on the morning of January 19.
In Prayagraj, where Maha Kumbh is being held, fog conditions are expected to persist till 20 January, she added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-authorities-gearing-up-for-second-amrit-snan-slated-for-jan-29-8630867" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh 2025: Authorities gearing up for second 'Amrit Snan' slated for Jan 29</a>
"Dense fog conditions were realised in Punjab, Haryana, UP, and over Rajasthan, this morning, with visibility of less than 50 metres... Our forecast for tomorrow morning (19 January) is that fog conditions are likely over Punjab, Haryana, UP, and North Rajasthan," Roy told ANI.&nbsp;
She said that the day after tomorrow (20 January), distribution as well as intensity of fog is likely to decrease.
"Over the Western Himalayan region, rainfall is likely to continue for the next 5 days. It will increase from 21 January and peak around 22-23 January. Over the plains, rainfall is likely to start on 22 January and continue into 23 January. Along with this, temperatures will rise, we may also get some thunderstorm activity, and fog conditions will significantly reduce," she said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-organisers-use-ai-to-prevent-stampedes-and-ensure-safety-of-400-million-pilgrims-8631920" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh 2025: Organisers use AI to prevent stampedes, ensure safety of 400mn pilgrims</a>
"Over South India, we are expecting heavy rainfall over Tamil Nadu today, and heavy rainfall over Kerala and Tamil Nadu tomorrow... In Prayagraj, we are expecting fog conditions till 20 January. Subsequently, temperatures are likely to rise slightly over Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj," she added.
Despite the cold conditions, devotees are flocking to Triveni Sangam and over 1.7 million pilgrims visited the Mahakumbh Mela on Sunday as of 8 AM, according to official data released by the Uttar Pradesh government.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/abhay-singh-aka-iit-baba-reveals-the-reason-behind-his-abrupt-maha-kumbh-exit-8633363" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit</a>
On the seventh day of the Maha Kumbh, among a congregation of over 1.7 million devotees gathered at the Sangam Triveni, 10 lakh Kalpvasis and 7.02 lakh pilgrims took a holy dip by 8 AM.
As of January 18, more than 77.2 million pilgrims have taken a dip at the Sangam Triveni during the Maha Kumbh 2025.&nbsp;

India news | Trending | Despite the cold conditions, devotees are flocking to Triveni Sangam and over 1.7 million pilgrims visited the Mahakumbh Mela on Sunday as of 8 AM.

Despite the chilly weather and dense fog, a large number of devotees gathered at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to witness the morning Ganga Aarti on the seventh day of the Maha Kumbh Mela. The Aarti, a hallmark of devotional celebration along the Ganga ghats, was performed by priests holding huge lighted oil lamps, while the river Ganga was worshipped by offering flowers and diyas. The minimum temperature forecasted for the day is 11 degrees Celsius while the maximum temperature will go up to 23 degrees Celsius. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Indian Railways sets up medical facilities at Prayagraj station for devotees India Meteorological Department Scientist Dr Soma Sen Roy also said that fog conditions are likely over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and North Rajasthan on the morning of January 19. In Prayagraj, where Maha Kumbh is being held, fog conditions are expected to persist till 20 January, she added. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Authorities gearing up for second 'Amrit Snan' slated for Jan 29 "Dense fog conditions were realised in Punjab, Haryana, UP, and over Rajasthan, this morning, with visibility of less than 50 metres... Our forecast for tomorrow morning (19 January) is that fog conditions are likely over Punjab, Haryana, UP, and North Rajasthan," Roy told ANI. She said that the day after tomorrow (20 January), distribution as well as intensity of fog is likely to decrease. "Over the Western Himalayan region, rainfall is likely to continue for the next 5 days. It will increase from 21 January and peak around 22-23 January. Over the plains, rainfall is likely to start on 22 January and continue into 23 January. Along with this, temperatures will rise, we may also get some thunderstorm activity, and fog conditions will significantly reduce," she said. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Organisers use AI to prevent stampedes, ensure safety of 400mn pilgrims "Over South India, we are expecting heavy rainfall over Tamil Nadu today, and heavy rainfall over Kerala and Tamil Nadu tomorrow... In Prayagraj, we are expecting fog conditions till 20 January. Subsequently, temperatures are likely to rise slightly over Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj," she added. Despite the cold conditions, devotees are flocking to Triveni Sangam and over 1.7 million pilgrims visited the Mahakumbh Mela on Sunday as of 8 AM, according to official data released by the Uttar Pradesh government. Also read | Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit On the seventh day of the Maha Kumbh, among a congregation of over 1.7 million devotees gathered at the Sangam Triveni, 10 lakh Kalpvasis and 7.02 lakh pilgrims took a holy dip by 8 AM. As of January 18, more than 77.2 million pilgrims have taken a dip at the Sangam Triveni during the Maha Kumbh 2025.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees brave dense fog to attend morning Ganga Aarti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in the 118th edition of his radio program, Mann Ki Baat. PM Modi explained the significance of Kumbh in this episode.

PM Modi Mann Ki Baat: Indian PM Modi addresses the nation with 118th edition of Mann Ki Baat

Saif Ali Khan's attacker was arrested for over three days of extensive search by the Mumbai Police. The attacker was identified as Mohammed Aliyan who used fake name to evade arrest.

Saif Ali Khan attacker arrested in Thane after 3 days

The Centre will hold a meeting with Punjab's protesting farmers on February 14 in Chandigarh to discuss their demands, thus ending a stalemate over the resumption of a dialogue with the agitators who have been demanding a legal guarantee on the MSP for crops.
Following the announcement of the proposed meeting, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, whose fast-unto-death entered 54th day on Saturday, agreed to take medical aid.
However, he will not end his indefinite fast till a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops is given, said farmer leader Sukhjit Singh Hardojhande.
Later, pictures of Dallewal taking medical aid with an intravenous drip were released by the farmers.
The breakthrough came after a delegation of officials from the Union agriculture ministry, led by Joint Secretary Priya Ranjan, met Dallewal and held a meeting with the representatives of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), which are spearheading the agitation for the last 11 months.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-week-flight-disruptions-at-delhi-airport-from-jan-19-26-check-timings-and-updates-8633445">Also read: Flight disruptions at Delhi Airport from Jan 19-26: Check timings and updates</a>
The Centre's delegation also urged Dallewal to take medical aid so that he can participate in the proposed meeting, which will take place at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration in Chandigarh at 5 pm on February 14.
Talking to reporters at the Khanauri protest site, Ranjan said a high-level delegation was sent by the Centre, keeping in mind the deteriorating health of Dallewal.
"We enquired about his health and held a meeting with the representatives (of the protesting farmer bodies)," he said.
Ranjan said the meeting will be held in Chandigarh on February 14.
"We urged him (Dallewal) to break his fast and take medical aid, so that he can participate in the meeting," he said.
A letter addressed to Dallewal, SKM (Non-Political) and KMM read: "This is in continuation of the previous meeting with the leaders of SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), which was held on February 15, 2024 at Chandigarh.
"A meeting with the ministers of the government of India and the Punjab government regarding the demands of the farmers' unions has been convened on February 14, 2025 (5 pm) at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration Punjab (MGSIPA), Sector-26, Chandigarh. You are cordially invited to the meeting, please attend at the scheduled time. We hope that Dallewal will soon end his fast, recover and join the discussion," said the letter written by Ranjan.
Four rounds of meetings had taken place between Union ministers and the protesting farmers on February 8, 12, 15 and 18 last year, but the talks remained inconclusive.
Earlier on Saturday, the farmers protesting at the Khanauri and Shambhu border points between Punjab and Haryana said they have received a proposal from the central government which they will discuss.
The Centre's delegation held meetings with the representatives of both forums.
A Punjab government team led by retired additional director general of police Jaskaran Singh and former deputy inspector general of police Narinder Bhargav, who were holding discussions with the farmer leaders, was also present.
According to farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar, officials have said February 14 has been fixed for the meeting as Assembly polls are due in Delhi and the Model Code of Conduct will be in force in the capital till February 9.
When the Model Code of Conduct is in force, no government can make any announcement, Kohar said.
Sharing details about Dallewal's health, Kohar said the farmer leader was unable to take water and had been vomiting.
Doctors have warned that anything could happen to Dallewal, he added.
Before agreeing to take medical aid, Dallewal had asked the farmer leaders to take consent from the 121 farmers who were also on an indefinite fast.
A few days ago, a group of 111 farmers and later, 10 more farmers sat on a fast-unto-death in solidarity with Dallewal.
Dallewal, who is the convenor of the SKM (Non-Political), has been on an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border point since November 26 last year in support of various demands, including a legal guarantee on the MSP for crops.
Farmers had said Dallewal had not eaten anything since November 26 last year and was just surviving on water.
Farmer leaders on Thursday said Dallewal has lost about 20-kg weight during his fast-unto-death.
The weight of Dallewal has reduced to 66.4 kg now from 86.9 kg, when he began the indefinite fast.
Farmers, under the banner of the SKM (Non-Political) and KMM, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13 last year, after security forces did not allow them to march to Delhi to press for their various demands, including a legal guarantee on the MSP for their crops.&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.

Talking to reporters at the Khanauri protest site, Ranjan said a high-level delegation was sent by the Centre keeping in mind the deteriorating health of Dallewal.

The Centre will hold a meeting with Punjab's protesting farmers on February 14 in Chandigarh to discuss their demands, thus ending a stalemate over the resumption of a dialogue with the agitators who have been demanding a legal guarantee on the MSP for crops. Following the announcement of the proposed meeting, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, whose fast-unto-death entered 54th day on Saturday, agreed to take medical aid. However, he will not end his indefinite fast till a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops is given, said farmer leader Sukhjit Singh Hardojhande. Later, pictures of Dallewal taking medical aid with an intravenous drip were released by the farmers. The breakthrough came after a delegation of officials from the Union agriculture ministry, led by Joint Secretary Priya Ranjan, met Dallewal and held a meeting with the representatives of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), which are spearheading the agitation for the last 11 months. Also read: Flight disruptions at Delhi Airport from Jan 19-26: Check timings and updates The Centre's delegation also urged Dallewal to take medical aid so that he can participate in the proposed meeting, which will take place at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration in Chandigarh at 5 pm on February 14. Talking to reporters at the Khanauri protest site, Ranjan said a high-level delegation was sent by the Centre, keeping in mind the deteriorating health of Dallewal. "We enquired about his health and held a meeting with the representatives (of the protesting farmer bodies)," he said. Ranjan said the meeting will be held in Chandigarh on February 14. "We urged him (Dallewal) to break his fast and take medical aid, so that he can participate in the meeting," he said. A letter addressed to Dallewal, SKM (Non-Political) and KMM read: "This is in continuation of the previous meeting with the leaders of SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), which was held on February 15, 2024 at Chandigarh. "A meeting with the ministers of the government of India and the Punjab government regarding the demands of the farmers' unions has been convened on February 14, 2025 (5 pm) at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration Punjab (MGSIPA), Sector-26, Chandigarh. You are cordially invited to the meeting, please attend at the scheduled time. We hope that Dallewal will soon end his fast, recover and join the discussion," said the letter written by Ranjan. Four rounds of meetings had taken place between Union ministers and the protesting farmers on February 8, 12, 15 and 18 last year, but the talks remained inconclusive. Earlier on Saturday, the farmers protesting at the Khanauri and Shambhu border points between Punjab and Haryana said they have received a proposal from the central government which they will discuss. The Centre's delegation held meetings with the representatives of both forums. A Punjab government team led by retired additional director general of police Jaskaran Singh and former deputy inspector general of police Narinder Bhargav, who were holding discussions with the farmer leaders, was also present. According to farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar, officials have said February 14 has been fixed for the meeting as Assembly polls are due in Delhi and the Model Code of Conduct will be in force in the capital till February 9. When the Model Code of Conduct is in force, no government can make any announcement, Kohar said. Sharing details about Dallewal's health, Kohar said the farmer leader was unable to take water and had been vomiting. Doctors have warned that anything could happen to Dallewal, he added. Before agreeing to take medical aid, Dallewal had asked the farmer leaders to take consent from the 121 farmers who were also on an indefinite fast. A few days ago, a group of 111 farmers and later, 10 more farmers sat on a fast-unto-death in solidarity with Dallewal. Dallewal, who is the convenor of the SKM (Non-Political), has been on an indefinite hunger strike at the Khanauri border point since November 26 last year in support of various demands, including a legal guarantee on the MSP for crops. Farmers had said Dallewal had not eaten anything since November 26 last year and was just surviving on water. Farmer leaders on Thursday said Dallewal has lost about 20-kg weight during his fast-unto-death. The weight of Dallewal has reduced to 66.4 kg now from 86.9 kg, when he began the indefinite fast. Farmers, under the banner of the SKM (Non-Political) and KMM, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13 last year, after security forces did not allow them to march to Delhi to press for their various demands, including a legal guarantee on the MSP for their crops. 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: Centre to meet with farmers on Feb 14; Dallewal agrees to take medical aid

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Saturday and said it is "a spiritual and cultural mega festival of Indianness," a statement from the Uttar Pradesh government read.
Singh, accompanied by BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi, was welcomed at Bamrauli Airport by Uttar Pradesh Minister Nand Gopal Gupta.
The Defence Minister first took a dip at the holy Sangam&mdash;the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers&mdash;amid the chanting of mantras. They also sipped the waters of the Ganga and offered prayers to Lord Surya, the statement added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-stage-of-deal-temporary-ceasefire-netanyahu-says-biden-trump-back-israels-right-to-resume-fighting-8633839">First stage of deal 'temporary ceasefire', Netanyahu says Biden, Trump back Israel's right to resume fighting</a>
"I consider it my good fortune to have taken a bath in the Prayagraj Sangam today. This is a spiritual and cultural mega festival of Indianness. It should not be seen in association with any sect, community, or religion. If anyone wants to understand India and Indianness, they should come and see the Maha Kumbh," Singh remarked.
The Defence Minister is also scheduled to meet with Army officials to discuss security arrangements for the Maha Kumbh, the statement added.
After landing at VIP Ghat from the Sangam, he visited and worshipped at Chhatra Akshayvat in the Akshayvat Corridor. He then visited the Patalpuri Temple and Saraswati Koop.
Singh also visited the Bade Hanuman Ji Temple, where he performed special prayers, the statement added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/abhay-singh-aka-iit-baba-reveals-the-reason-behind-his-abrupt-maha-kumbh-exit-8633363">Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit</a>
The Defence Minister also inquired about the well-being of the temple priest and asked about the arrangements made for the Maha Kumbh.
Additionally, he sought information about the security measures in place, given concerns over potential terrorist threats and rumours about a bomb being found at the Maha Kumbh, the statement said. 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

India news: The Defence Minister first took a dip at the holy Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—amid the chanting of mantras.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Saturday and said it is "a spiritual and cultural mega festival of Indianness," a statement from the Uttar Pradesh government read. Singh, accompanied by BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi, was welcomed at Bamrauli Airport by Uttar Pradesh Minister Nand Gopal Gupta. The Defence Minister first took a dip at the holy Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—amid the chanting of mantras. They also sipped the waters of the Ganga and offered prayers to Lord Surya, the statement added. Also read: First stage of deal 'temporary ceasefire', Netanyahu says Biden, Trump back Israel's right to resume fighting "I consider it my good fortune to have taken a bath in the Prayagraj Sangam today. This is a spiritual and cultural mega festival of Indianness. It should not be seen in association with any sect, community, or religion. If anyone wants to understand India and Indianness, they should come and see the Maha Kumbh," Singh remarked. The Defence Minister is also scheduled to meet with Army officials to discuss security arrangements for the Maha Kumbh, the statement added. After landing at VIP Ghat from the Sangam, he visited and worshipped at Chhatra Akshayvat in the Akshayvat Corridor. He then visited the Patalpuri Temple and Saraswati Koop. Singh also visited the Bade Hanuman Ji Temple, where he performed special prayers, the statement added. Also read: Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit The Defence Minister also inquired about the well-being of the temple priest and asked about the arrangements made for the Maha Kumbh. Additionally, he sought information about the security measures in place, given concerns over potential terrorist threats and rumours about a bomb being found at the Maha Kumbh, the statement said. 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.

From Sangam dip to temple prayers: Rajnath Singh embraces Maha Kumbh spirit

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has ordered the constitution of an inter-ministerial team to visit a village in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jammu-and-kashmir" rel="dofollow">Jammu and Kashmir</a>'s Rajouri district to ascertain the causes of 16 deaths in three incidents in the past six weeks.
The team will be headed by a senior Union home ministry officer and consist of experts from the ministries of health and family welfare, agriculture, chemicals and fertilisers, and water resources, according to an official statement.
The team will also be assisted by experts from animal husbandry, food safety, and forensic science labs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-army-personnel-injured-in-mine-blast-in-rajouri-jammu-and-kashmir-8621258" rel="dofollow">Six army personnel injured in mine blast in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir</a>
The central team will proceed on Sunday and, in collaboration with the local administration, also work on providing immediate relief as well as taking precautionary measures to prevent such incidents in the future, according to the statement.
Experts from some of the most reputable institutions in the country have been arranged to manage the situation and understand the causes of the deaths.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-security-grid-tightened-ahead-of-winters-forces-have-input-about-infiltration-attempts-777359" rel="dofollow"> Jammu and Kashmir: Security Grid tightened ahead of winters, forces have input about infiltration attempts</a>
At least 16 people have died of a mysterious illness in the Budhal village of Rajouri district in the past 45 days.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-records-least-rainfall-in-50-years-jhelum-water-level-lowest-ever-8621151" rel="dofollow">Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever</a>
People complained of fever, pain, nausea, and loss of consciousness before dying within days of their admission to hospitals. A girl continues to remain critical.
Earlier, a Jammu and Kashmir government spokesperson said investigations and samples empirically indicated that the incidents were not due to a communicable disease of bacterial or viral origin and that there is no public health angle.&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: The team will be headed by a senior Union home ministry officer and will include experts from the health and family welfare ministries, agriculture, chemicals, and fertilisers. 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has ordered the constitution of an inter-ministerial team to visit a village in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district to ascertain the causes of 16 deaths in three incidents in the past six weeks. The team will be headed by a senior Union home ministry officer and consist of experts from the ministries of health and family welfare, agriculture, chemicals and fertilisers, and water resources, according to an official statement. The team will also be assisted by experts from animal husbandry, food safety, and forensic science labs. Also read: Six army personnel injured in mine blast in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir The central team will proceed on Sunday and, in collaboration with the local administration, also work on providing immediate relief as well as taking precautionary measures to prevent such incidents in the future, according to the statement. Experts from some of the most reputable institutions in the country have been arranged to manage the situation and understand the causes of the deaths. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Security Grid tightened ahead of winters, forces have input about infiltration attempts At least 16 people have died of a mysterious illness in the Budhal village of Rajouri district in the past 45 days. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir records least rainfall in 50 years, Jhelum level lowest ever People complained of fever, pain, nausea, and loss of consciousness before dying within days of their admission to hospitals. A girl continues to remain critical. Earlier, a Jammu and Kashmir government spokesperson said investigations and samples empirically indicated that the incidents were not due to a communicable disease of bacterial or viral origin and that there is no public health angle. 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: Amit Shah forms inter-ministerial team to probe 16 'mysterious' deaths in J&K village

The year was 1998, when Chanderkant Jha, a 31-year-old man from the Indian state of Bihar,&nbsp;was arrested for killing a man in Delhi. He was in jail till 2002 and was later released due to lack of evidence. Soon after the release, he started a chilling series of murders in Delhi.&nbsp;
By the year 2002, Chanderkant Jha had killed and dismembered 18 people in West Delhi. His victims included Shekar and Umesh in 2003, Guddu in 2005, Amit in 2006, and Upender and Dalip in 2007. The majority of his victims were labourers from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Jha used to befriend them and help them get small jobs first, and then made them his targets.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rg-kar-medical-college-rape-murder-protests-and-arrest-heres-how-victim-finally-got-justice-8633439" aria-label="Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how victim of RG Kar Medical College finally got justice">Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how victim of RG Kar Medical College finally got justice</a>
Later, on&nbsp;small disputes like lying or for being non-vegetarian, Jha used to start fighting with them and murder them by strangulating them. The case sent shivers down the spines of people in Delhi.&nbsp;
In February 2013, he was sentenced to death. In January 2016, the conviction was changed to life imprisonment.&nbsp;
He was released on 90-day parole and was supposed to return to jail in October 2023, but he had other plans: he disappeared.
Afterover a year-long search, the Delhi Police nabbed him on Friday (Jan 17).&nbsp;
"Chanderkant Jha carried a reward of ₹50,000. He has been traced... After several months of surveillance and planning, he was arrested from Delhi railway station," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Sanjay Sen said.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-week-flight-disruptions-at-delhi-airport-from-jan-19-26-check-timings-and-updates-8633445" aria-label="Flight disruptions at Delhi Airport from Jan 19-26: Check timings and updates">Flight disruptions at Delhi Airport from Jan 19-26: Check timings and updates</a>
The police team arrested him after an intense search of vegetable&nbsp;mandis (markets) across Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, where Jha had once worked, along with interrogating individuals and visiting his previous crime spots.&nbsp;
He was nabbed from the Old Delhi Railway Station while he was attempting to flee&nbsp;to Bihar.&nbsp;
<h2>Brutal murders</h2>
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/abhay-singh-aka-iit-baba-reveals-the-reason-behind-his-abrupt-maha-kumbh-exit-8633363" aria-label="Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit">Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit</a>
Police revealed that Jha used to tie the hands of his victims, punish them, and then strangle them using some local nunchaku. Later, he used to cut the bodies into pieces while ensuring minimal blood splatter. He used to pack the pieces into a plastic bag, carry them in his modified rickshaw, and throw them at a specific location, usually near Tihar Jail.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-arvind-kejriwal-attacked-during-delhi-election-poll-campaign-8632915" aria-label="India: Kejriwal 'signalled' driver to hit us, alleged youth hit by AAP supremo's car">India: Kejriwal 'signalled' driver to hit us, alleged youth hit by AAP supremo's car</a>
He used to leave handwritten notes along with the dismembered bodies bodies, challenging&nbsp;the police to catch him.&nbsp;
<h2>Early life&nbsp;</h2>
Jha used to work as a hawker in Delhi's weekly markets. He had married two times and had abandoned his first wife within a year. He has five daughters from his second wife and used to mostly live away from home.&nbsp;
<h2>'The Butcher of Delhi'</h2>
In July 2022, Netflix released a documentary series on Jha showing his life and criminal cases&mdash;Indian Predator: The Butcher of Delhi.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rg-kar-case-verdict-main-accused-sanjoy-roy-found-guilty-of-raping-murdering-doctor-8632532" aria-label="RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor">RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | In February , a man was sentenced to death in India for a significant crime, marking a pivotal moment in the country's legal history and sparking widespread public debate.

The year was 1998, when Chanderkant Jha, a 31-year-old man from the Indian state of Bihar, was arrested for killing a man in Delhi. He was in jail till 2002 and was later released due to lack of evidence. Soon after the release, he started a chilling series of murders in Delhi. By the year 2002, Chanderkant Jha had killed and dismembered 18 people in West Delhi. His victims included Shekar and Umesh in 2003, Guddu in 2005, Amit in 2006, and Upender and Dalip in 2007. The majority of his victims were labourers from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Jha used to befriend them and help them get small jobs first, and then made them his targets. Also read | Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how victim of RG Kar Medical College finally got justice Later, on small disputes like lying or for being non-vegetarian, Jha used to start fighting with them and murder them by strangulating them. The case sent shivers down the spines of people in Delhi. In February 2013, he was sentenced to death. In January 2016, the conviction was changed to life imprisonment. He was released on 90-day parole and was supposed to return to jail in October 2023, but he had other plans: he disappeared. Afterover a year-long search, the Delhi Police nabbed him on Friday (Jan 17). "Chanderkant Jha carried a reward of ₹50,000. He has been traced... After several months of surveillance and planning, he was arrested from Delhi railway station," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Sanjay Sen said. Also read | Flight disruptions at Delhi Airport from Jan 19-26: Check timings and updates The police team arrested him after an intense search of vegetable mandis (markets) across Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, where Jha had once worked, along with interrogating individuals and visiting his previous crime spots. He was nabbed from the Old Delhi Railway Station while he was attempting to flee to Bihar. Brutal murders Also read | Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit Police revealed that Jha used to tie the hands of his victims, punish them, and then strangle them using some local nunchaku. Later, he used to cut the bodies into pieces while ensuring minimal blood splatter. He used to pack the pieces into a plastic bag, carry them in his modified rickshaw, and throw them at a specific location, usually near Tihar Jail. Also read | India: Kejriwal 'signalled' driver to hit us, alleged youth hit by AAP supremo's car He used to leave handwritten notes along with the dismembered bodies bodies, challenging the police to catch him. Early life Jha used to work as a hawker in Delhi's weekly markets. He had married two times and had abandoned his first wife within a year. He has five daughters from his second wife and used to mostly live away from home. 'The Butcher of Delhi' In July 2022, Netflix released a documentary series on Jha showing his life and criminal cases—Indian Predator: The Butcher of Delhi. Also read | RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor (With inputs from agencies)

Butcher of Delhi: Who is Chanderkant Jha, serial killer from Bihar who murdered 18 people

Nearly five months after a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital was brutally raped and murdered, a local court on Saturday (Jan 18) convicted former civic volunteer and the prime accused, Sanjay Roy.&nbsp;
The court found Sanjay Roy guilty under Sections 64 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which governs rape, and Sections 66 and 103 (1) of the Act, which deal with punishments for death and murder. The court added that the quantum of punishment will be announced on Monday (Jan 20).
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rg-kar-case-verdict-main-accused-sanjoy-roy-found-guilty-of-raping-murdering-doctor-8632532" rel="dofollow">RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor</a>
The rape-murder incident, which happened in August 2024, sparked massive outrage across the country, with the High Court of West Bengal state transferring the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation, which filed its chargesheet before the sessions court.&nbsp;
<h2>Timeline of events since August 9</h2>
August 9: The 31-year-old trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital was raped and murdered. Her semi-naked body was found in the seminar hall on the third floor.
August 10: The Kolkata Police arrested the prime accused, Sanjay Roy, who was a civic volunteer with the police. He was caught on CCTV camera, entering the hall, and a Bluetooth device belonging to him was also found near the victim's body. Roy was later charged with committing the crime.&nbsp;
Following this, massive protests took place across the country.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/snatch-justice-if-necessary-father-of-rg-kar-victim-says-will-not-beg-ahead-of-final-verdict-8630773" rel="dofollow">'Snatch justice if necessary': Father of RG Kar victim says 'will not beg', ahead of final verdict</a>
August 12: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met the victim's parents and promised a detailed CBI inquiry if police failed to solve the case in seven days.&nbsp; Later that day, RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh stepped down amid the protests.&nbsp;
August 13: The victim's parents filed a petition before the Calcutta High Court, while several others filed public interest litigations (PILs) demanding a CBI probe in the case. The high court later transferred the case to the CBI.&nbsp;
August 14: The Kolkata Police handed prime accused Sanjay Roy to the CBI.&nbsp;
August 15: "Reclaim the Night" protests took place, organised by women and activists, demanding justice and protection for women.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-big-conspiracy-report-finds-no-evidence-of-struggle-resistance-at-kolkata-rg-kar-rape-scene-786381" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;A big conspiracy?&rsquo; Report finds no evidence of &lsquo;struggle, resistance&rsquo; at Kolkata RG Kar rape scene</a>
The protest at the RG Kar College turned violent and a mob damaged the hospital and crime scene.
August 17: CBI interrogated former RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh.
Also, healthcare services were hit across the nation as doctors responded to the Indian Medical Association's (IMA) call for a 24-hour withdrawal of medical services.&nbsp;
August 18: India's apex court took suo moto cognisance of the case and posted the hearing for August 20.&nbsp;
August 20: A three-judge bench led by former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led government, Kolkata police, and the hospital administration over the delay in filing the FIR.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parents-of-kolkata-rape-murder-victim-slam-failing-system-after-sandip-ghosh-one-other-granted-bail-783797" rel="dofollow">Parents of Kolkata rape-murder victim 'heartbroken' after RG Kar hospital ex-principal granted bail&nbsp;</a>
August 24: Sanjay Roy, along with six others, underwent a lie detector test.
September 2: A protest march, led by junior doctors, was taken out till Lalbazar, before being stopped by police and guardrails.&nbsp;
September 9: The SC asked the protesting doctors to continue work, giving them a deadline of 5 pm on September 10.&nbsp;
September 14: Mamata Banerjee visited the protesters and addressed them.&nbsp;
September 16: The West Bengal CM met with the protesting junior doctors at her residence. After the interaction, police commissioner Vineet Goyal and two health department officials were removed from their posts.&nbsp;
September 20: The protesting junior doctors called off their cease-work agitation.
October 5: After two phases of protests, which lasted 50 days, doctors began a hunger strike.&nbsp;
October 7: The CBI filed a chargesheet against accused Sanjay Roy in the case and said he allegedly committed the crime.&nbsp;
October 24: Protesting doctors called off the strike after holding a meeting with Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;
December 13: Former RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh and former Tala police station OC Mondal were granted bail after the CBI failed to submit its chargesheet against the duo in the rape-murder case.&nbsp;
December 20: Doctors began a new protest in Kolkata and called for the CBI to file a chargesheet against Ghosh and Mandal.&nbsp;
January 9: The hearings concluded in Sealdah court with the CBI seeking the death penalty for the accused.&nbsp;
January 18: The local court convicted Sanjay Roy.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The rape-murder incident, which happened in August 2024, sparked massive outrage across the country, with the High Court of West Bengal state transferring the matter to the CBI.

Nearly five months after a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital was brutally raped and murdered, a local court on Saturday (Jan 18) convicted former civic volunteer and the prime accused, Sanjay Roy. The court found Sanjay Roy guilty under Sections 64 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which governs rape, and Sections 66 and 103 (1) of the Act, which deal with punishments for death and murder. The court added that the quantum of punishment will be announced on Monday (Jan 20). Also read: RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor The rape-murder incident, which happened in August 2024, sparked massive outrage across the country, with the High Court of West Bengal state transferring the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation, which filed its chargesheet before the sessions court. Timeline of events since August 9 August 9: The 31-year-old trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital was raped and murdered. Her semi-naked body was found in the seminar hall on the third floor. August 10: The Kolkata Police arrested the prime accused, Sanjay Roy, who was a civic volunteer with the police. He was caught on CCTV camera, entering the hall, and a Bluetooth device belonging to him was also found near the victim's body. Roy was later charged with committing the crime. Following this, massive protests took place across the country. Also read: 'Snatch justice if necessary': Father of RG Kar victim says 'will not beg', ahead of final verdict August 12: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met the victim's parents and promised a detailed CBI inquiry if police failed to solve the case in seven days. Later that day, RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh stepped down amid the protests. August 13: The victim's parents filed a petition before the Calcutta High Court, while several others filed public interest litigations (PILs) demanding a CBI probe in the case. The high court later transferred the case to the CBI. August 14: The Kolkata Police handed prime accused Sanjay Roy to the CBI. August 15: "Reclaim the Night" protests took place, organised by women and activists, demanding justice and protection for women. Also read: ‘A big conspiracy?’ Report finds no evidence of ‘struggle, resistance’ at Kolkata RG Kar rape scene The protest at the RG Kar College turned violent and a mob damaged the hospital and crime scene. August 17: CBI interrogated former RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh. Also, healthcare services were hit across the nation as doctors responded to the Indian Medical Association's (IMA) call for a 24-hour withdrawal of medical services. August 18: India's apex court took suo moto cognisance of the case and posted the hearing for August 20. August 20: A three-judge bench led by former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led government, Kolkata police, and the hospital administration over the delay in filing the FIR. Also read: Parents of Kolkata rape-murder victim 'heartbroken' after RG Kar hospital ex-principal granted bail August 24: Sanjay Roy, along with six others, underwent a lie detector test. September 2: A protest march, led by junior doctors, was taken out till Lalbazar, before being stopped by police and guardrails. September 9: The SC asked the protesting doctors to continue work, giving them a deadline of 5 pm on September 10. September 14: Mamata Banerjee visited the protesters and addressed them. September 16: The West Bengal CM met with the protesting junior doctors at her residence. After the interaction, police commissioner Vineet Goyal and two health department officials were removed from their posts. September 20: The protesting junior doctors called off their cease-work agitation. October 5: After two phases of protests, which lasted 50 days, doctors began a hunger strike. October 7: The CBI filed a chargesheet against accused Sanjay Roy in the case and said he allegedly committed the crime. October 24: Protesting doctors called off the strike after holding a meeting with Mamata Banerjee. December 13: Former RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh and former Tala police station OC Mondal were granted bail after the CBI failed to submit its chargesheet against the duo in the rape-murder case. December 20: Doctors began a new protest in Kolkata and called for the CBI to file a chargesheet against Ghosh and Mandal. January 9: The hearings concluded in Sealdah court with the CBI seeking the death penalty for the accused. January 18: The local court convicted Sanjay Roy. (With inputs from agencies)

Rape-murder, protests and arrest: Here's how RG Kar Medical College victim finally got justice

Delhi airport operator DIAL on Saturday said there will be no flight arrivals and departures between 10.20 am and 12.45 pm for the next eight days till January 26 in view of the Republic Day week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/abhay-singh-aka-iit-baba-reveals-the-reason-behind-his-abrupt-maha-kumbh-exit-8633363">Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit</a>
"As per the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued for Republic Day week from 19th to 26th Jan 2025, no flights would be arriving or departing from Delhi Airport between 10:20 AM to 12:45 PM IST," DIAL said in a post on X. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) also advised passengers to check with the airlines concerned for the updated flight information.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m629t5xd-s1ikf1qt-7xfqk4ei">
Kind attention to all flyers! <a href="https://t.co/yWfzhrsfSl">pic.twitter.com/yWfzhrsfSl</a>
&mdash; Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1880488573784211645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
The government has also asked schools to be careful about kite flying on Republic Day.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/are-you-charging-woman-tax-from-your-husband-this-british-woman-does-know-what-it-is-8633237">Are you charging 'Woman Tax' from your husband? This British woman does. Know what it is</a>
<h2>Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to be chief guest at 76th Republic Day celebrations</h2>
This year, Indonesian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indonesia-president-to-travel-to-malaysia-after-india-visit-8610323">Prabowo Subianto</a> will be the chief guest for India&rsquo;s Republic Day celebrations on 26 January, according to an announcement made by the government on Thursday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-as-ramayana-anime-readies-for-big-screen-release-8633380">'Fondly Remember Watching This,' says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as Ramayana Anime readies for big screen release</a>
President Prabowo&rsquo;s visit to India marks his first as president, following his assumption of office in October 2024. He is the fourth Indonesian leader to be invited as the chief guest for Republic Day, with President Sukarno having attended the inaugural celebrations in 1950.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated, &ldquo;At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto will pay a State Visit to India during 25-26 January 2025. President Prabowo will also be the Chief Guest for India&rsquo;s 76th Republic Day celebrations.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) also advised passengers to check with the airlines concerned for the updated flight information.

Delhi airport operator DIAL on Saturday said there will be no flight arrivals and departures between 10.20 am and 12.45 pm for the next eight days till January 26 in view of the Republic Day week. Also read: Abhay Singh aka 'IIT Baba' reveals the reason behind his abrupt Maha Kumbh exit "As per the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued for Republic Day week from 19th to 26th Jan 2025, no flights would be arriving or departing from Delhi Airport between 10:20 AM to 12:45 PM IST," DIAL said in a post on X. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) also advised passengers to check with the airlines concerned for the updated flight information. Kind attention to all flyers! pic.twitter.com/yWfzhrsfSl — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) January 18, 2025 The government has also asked schools to be careful about kite flying on Republic Day. Also read: Are you charging 'Woman Tax' from your husband? This British woman does. Know what it is Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to be chief guest at 76th Republic Day celebrations This year, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will be the chief guest for India’s Republic Day celebrations on 26 January, according to an announcement made by the government on Thursday. Also read: 'Fondly Remember Watching This,' says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as Ramayana Anime readies for big screen release President Prabowo’s visit to India marks his first as president, following his assumption of office in October 2024. He is the fourth Indonesian leader to be invited as the chief guest for Republic Day, with President Sukarno having attended the inaugural celebrations in 1950. The Ministry of External Affairs stated, “At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto will pay a State Visit to India during 25-26 January 2025. President Prabowo will also be the Chief Guest for India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations.” (With inputs from agencies)

Flight disruptions at Delhi Airport from Jan 19-26: Check timings and updates

Delhi's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal was attacked while campaigning for the upcoming Assembly elections on Saturday (Jan 18), the party claimed. He was campaigning in his New Delhi constituency when the alleged attack took place.&nbsp;
The ruling party shared a video on the social media platform X of the attack. The video showed a brick thrown at Kejriwal's car while it was moving in the presence of the security.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-indian-railways-sets-up-medical-facilities-at-prayagraj-station-for-devotees-8632631" aria-label="Maha Kumbh 2025: Indian Railways sets up medical facilities at Prayagraj station for devotees">Maha Kumbh 2025: Indian Railways sets up medical facilities at Prayagraj station for devotees</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m623ngip-7i1nftmy-2ed21fyr">
हार के डर से बौखलाई BJP, अपने गुंडों से करवाया अरविंद केजरीवाल जी पर हमला‼️ BJP प्रत्याशी प्रवेश वर्मा के गुंडों ने चुनाव प्रचार करते वक्त अरविंद केजरीवाल जी पर ईंट-पत्थर से हमला कर उन्हें चोट पहुंचाने की कोशिश की ताकि वो प्रचार ना कर सकें। बीजेपी वालों, तुम्हारे इस कायराना&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/QcanvqX8fB">pic.twitter.com/QcanvqX8fB</a>
&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1880572930943513046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
The post accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the attack, as it alleged that the rival party has gone "crazy" due to the fear of loss in the upcoming elections.
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The party claimed that the BJP candidate Pravesh Verma had sent "goons" to attack the AAP supremo using a brick. It further alleged that the attack was to stop Kejriwal from campaigning.&nbsp;
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"BJP, Kejriwal is not going to be scared by this cowardly attack by you. Delhi people will answer you for this," the X post by AAP said.&nbsp;
The Delhi elections are scheduled to be held on February 5, and the result will be out on February 8.&nbsp;
Congress has fielded Sandeep Dikshit, son of the former Delhi chief Sheila Dikshit, from the New Delhi constituency, while BJP has named Parvesh Verma.&nbsp;
<h2>BJP's counter-accusation</h2>
Soon after the allegations, BJP's New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma accused Kejriwal's vehicle of "crushing" two BJP workers. He claimed that the BJP workers were taken to the Lady Hardinge Hospital, and he was going to meet them there.&nbsp;
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Delhi: On AAP alleging attack on the convoy of Arvind Kejriwal, BJP candidate from New Delhi assembly seat, Parvesh Verma says, "The car of Arvind Kejriwal has gone ahead by crushing the worker of the BJP. The leg of the worker (BJP) has broken and I am going to the Lady&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/63CAwqOVPK">pic.twitter.com/63CAwqOVPK</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1880573971697176696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
"The car of Arvind Kejriwal has gone ahead by crushing the workers of the BJP. The leg of the worker (BJP) has broken, and I am going to the Lady Hardinge Medical College to inquire about his health...This is very shameful..." Parvesh Verma told news agency ANI.&nbsp;
The doctor observing the injured told ANI, "We have seen their injuries and they have injuries on their legs. We have given them first aid and now their X-ray is being conducted..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Dr Prashant says, "We have seen their injuries and they have injuries on their legs. We have given them first aid and now their X-ray is being conducted..." <a href="https://t.co/dDydKnrTMW">https://t.co/dDydKnrTMW</a> <a href="https://t.co/QEEQJjmTv1">pic.twitter.com/QEEQJjmTv1</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1880588861774176473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
The victims of the incident claimed that Kejriwal signalled his driver to hit them.&nbsp;
"I am a resident of the (New Delhi) constituency. We just went there to ask him about jobs. Arvind Kejriwal signalled the driver of the car to hit us", says Vishal one of the injured after allegedly being hit by the car of Arvind Kejriwal.&nbsp;
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(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Delhi's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal was allegedly attacked on Saturday (Jan 18) while campaigning for the upcoming Assembly elections. 

Delhi's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal was attacked while campaigning for the upcoming Assembly elections on Saturday (Jan 18), the party claimed. He was campaigning in his New Delhi constituency when the alleged attack took place. The ruling party shared a video on the social media platform X of the attack. The video showed a brick thrown at Kejriwal's car while it was moving in the presence of the security. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Indian Railways sets up medical facilities at Prayagraj station for devotees हार के डर से बौखलाई BJP, अपने गुंडों से करवाया अरविंद केजरीवाल जी पर हमला‼️ BJP प्रत्याशी प्रवेश वर्मा के गुंडों ने चुनाव प्रचार करते वक्त अरविंद केजरीवाल जी पर ईंट-पत्थर से हमला कर उन्हें चोट पहुंचाने की कोशिश की ताकि वो प्रचार ना कर सकें। बीजेपी वालों, तुम्हारे इस कायराना… pic.twitter.com/QcanvqX8fB — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) January 18, 2025 The post accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the attack, as it alleged that the rival party has gone "crazy" due to the fear of loss in the upcoming elections. Also read | RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor The party claimed that the BJP candidate Pravesh Verma had sent "goons" to attack the AAP supremo using a brick. It further alleged that the attack was to stop Kejriwal from campaigning. Also read | India: SC to hear plea by Atul Subhash's mother seeking custody of his minor son on Jan 20 "BJP, Kejriwal is not going to be scared by this cowardly attack by you. Delhi people will answer you for this," the X post by AAP said. The Delhi elections are scheduled to be held on February 5, and the result will be out on February 8. Congress has fielded Sandeep Dikshit, son of the former Delhi chief Sheila Dikshit, from the New Delhi constituency, while BJP has named Parvesh Verma. BJP's counter-accusation Soon after the allegations, BJP's New Delhi candidate Parvesh Verma accused Kejriwal's vehicle of "crushing" two BJP workers. He claimed that the BJP workers were taken to the Lady Hardinge Hospital, and he was going to meet them there. #WATCH Delhi: On AAP alleging attack on the convoy of Arvind Kejriwal, BJP candidate from New Delhi assembly seat, Parvesh Verma says, "The car of Arvind Kejriwal has gone ahead by crushing the worker of the BJP. The leg of the worker (BJP) has broken and I am going to the Lady… pic.twitter.com/63CAwqOVPK — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2025 "The car of Arvind Kejriwal has gone ahead by crushing the workers of the BJP. The leg of the worker (BJP) has broken, and I am going to the Lady Hardinge Medical College to inquire about his health...This is very shameful..." Parvesh Verma told news agency ANI. The doctor observing the injured told ANI, "We have seen their injuries and they have injuries on their legs. We have given them first aid and now their X-ray is being conducted..." #WATCH | Delhi: Dr Prashant says, "We have seen their injuries and they have injuries on their legs. We have given them first aid and now their X-ray is being conducted..." https://t.co/dDydKnrTMW pic.twitter.com/QEEQJjmTv1 — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2025 The victims of the incident claimed that Kejriwal signalled his driver to hit them. "I am a resident of the (New Delhi) constituency. We just went there to ask him about jobs. Arvind Kejriwal signalled the driver of the car to hit us", says Vishal one of the injured after allegedly being hit by the car of Arvind Kejriwal. Also read | India to simplify income tax law with new bill in upcoming budget session: Report (With inputs from agencies)

India: Kejriwal 'signalled' driver to hit us, alleged youth hit by AAP supremo's car

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday distributed around 65 lakh Svamitva property cards and said it will bolster economic activities and help in poverty alleviation.
He also interacted with some beneficiaries through video conferencing and said the scheme will help people get loans and benefits of government schemes.
These property cards are being distributed to beneficiaries across more than 50,000 villages in 10 states -- Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and two Union Territories off Jammu &amp; Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rg-kar-case-verdict-main-accused-sanjoy-roy-found-guilty-of-raping-murdering-doctor-8632532">RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor</a>
"Around 2.24 crore beneficiaries in villages will now have Svamitva property cards after 65 lakh cards are distributed today," the prime minister said.
"Property rights is a major challenge across the world. Years ago, the United Nations held a study that revealed people did not have legal documents for property rights in several countries. The UN has said property rights are important for poverty alleviation," he said.
The prime minister said an eminent economist had opined that property in villages is a "dead capital" because people cannot do anything with it, and it can't help increase their income.
"India was also impacted by this challenge. People in villages have property worth lakhs of crores, but they do not have papers for it. There were disputes, properties were snatched, and even banks did not provide loans over it," he said.
"Previous governments should have taken steps to do something about it, but nothing much was done," he said.
Modi said Dalits, backward classes, and tribals were the worst affected by this.
"After getting legal property rights, lakhs of people have taken loans. They have used this money to start their businesses. Many of these are farmers, for whom this property card is a guarantee of financial security," he said.
He also said that Svamitva and Bhu-Adhaar will become the foundation of the development of villages.
Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh 'Lalan', Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S P Singh Baghel, and Ministry of Panchayati Raj Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj were also present at the event.
It was attended virtually by several chief ministers, Union ministers and state ministers.
Events are also being organised in over 230 districts for the physical distribution of property cards. It is expected that around 13 Union ministers will physically join from designated locations from across the country to oversee regional distribution ceremonies of property cards.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

India News: Prime Minister Modi distributed around 65 lakh Svamitva property cards to boost economic activities and target poverty alleviation through rural property rights.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday distributed around 65 lakh Svamitva property cards and said it will bolster economic activities and help in poverty alleviation. He also interacted with some beneficiaries through video conferencing and said the scheme will help people get loans and benefits of government schemes. These property cards are being distributed to beneficiaries across more than 50,000 villages in 10 states -- Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and two Union Territories off Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Also read | RG Kar case verdict: Main accused Sanjoy Roy found guilty of raping, murdering doctor "Around 2.24 crore beneficiaries in villages will now have Svamitva property cards after 65 lakh cards are distributed today," the prime minister said. "Property rights is a major challenge across the world. Years ago, the United Nations held a study that revealed people did not have legal documents for property rights in several countries. The UN has said property rights are important for poverty alleviation," he said. The prime minister said an eminent economist had opined that property in villages is a "dead capital" because people cannot do anything with it, and it can't help increase their income. "India was also impacted by this challenge. People in villages have property worth lakhs of crores, but they do not have papers for it. There were disputes, properties were snatched, and even banks did not provide loans over it," he said. "Previous governments should have taken steps to do something about it, but nothing much was done," he said. Modi said Dalits, backward classes, and tribals were the worst affected by this. "After getting legal property rights, lakhs of people have taken loans. They have used this money to start their businesses. Many of these are farmers, for whom this property card is a guarantee of financial security," he said. He also said that Svamitva and Bhu-Adhaar will become the foundation of the development of villages. Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh 'Lalan', Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S P Singh Baghel, and Ministry of Panchayati Raj Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj were also present at the event. It was attended virtually by several chief ministers, Union ministers and state ministers. Events are also being organised in over 230 districts for the physical distribution of property cards. It is expected that around 13 Union ministers will physically join from designated locations from across the country to oversee regional distribution ceremonies of property cards. 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: PM Modi distributes 65 lakh Svamitva property cards

As the Maha Kumbh Mela continues to attract millions of devotees from across India and around the world, Indian Railways has stepped up its efforts to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims with well-equipped medical facilities at key railway stations, including Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj Junction.
With lakhs of devotees making their way to the city for the religious event, the railway authorities have set up a dedicated observation room at the entry gate towards platform number 3 of Prayagraj station. These centres are designed to provide immediate medical assistance to anyone who may face health-related issues or accidents.
Also read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-to-hear-plea-by-atul-subhashs-mother-seeking-custody-of-his-minor-son-on-jan-20-court-bengaluru-india-8632464">India: SC to hear plea by Atul Subhash's mother seeking custody of his minor son on Jan 20</a>
The observation rooms are equipped with crucial medical equipment such as Electrocardiogram (ECG) machines for heart-related concerns, defibrillators for cases of cardiac arrest, oxygen concentrators for respiratory issues, and glucometers for diabetic patients.
A pharmacist posted at the facility shared, "All necessary facilities are available here. Our nursing staff is on standby round the clock. In case of an emergency, we offer immediate care. If a case is more severe, we quickly transfer the patient via ambulance to the nearest hospital."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-organisers-use-ai-to-prevent-stampedes-and-ensure-safety-of-400-million-pilgrims-8631920">Maha Kumbh 2025: Organisers use AI to prevent stampedes, ensure safety of 400mn pilgrims</a>
A recent incident saw a woman being treated after feeling dizzy late at night. Her relative, Naveen, expressed gratitude, saying, "We were heading to the Ganga for a bath when her health deteriorated. We're grateful for the prompt and excellent care provided by the railway staff."
The medical centres are part of a broader initiative by Indian Railways to provide 24/7 health services during the ongoing Mela, ensuring that millions of pilgrims who flock to Prayagraj for this sacred event are well taken care of.
With over 7 crore devotees having already bathed at the Sangam, the number is expected to exceed 50 crore by the time the 45-day festival concludes on February 26. The Maha Kumbh Mela, a once-in-twelve-years spiritual gathering, offers pilgrims the opportunity to take a ritual bath at the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

India News | With millions making their way to the city, the railway authorities have set up a dedicated observation room at the entry gate towards platform number 3

As the Maha Kumbh Mela continues to attract millions of devotees from across India and around the world, Indian Railways has stepped up its efforts to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims with well-equipped medical facilities at key railway stations, including Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj Junction. With lakhs of devotees making their way to the city for the religious event, the railway authorities have set up a dedicated observation room at the entry gate towards platform number 3 of Prayagraj station. These centres are designed to provide immediate medical assistance to anyone who may face health-related issues or accidents. Also read: India: SC to hear plea by Atul Subhash's mother seeking custody of his minor son on Jan 20 The observation rooms are equipped with crucial medical equipment such as Electrocardiogram (ECG) machines for heart-related concerns, defibrillators for cases of cardiac arrest, oxygen concentrators for respiratory issues, and glucometers for diabetic patients. A pharmacist posted at the facility shared, "All necessary facilities are available here. Our nursing staff is on standby round the clock. In case of an emergency, we offer immediate care. If a case is more severe, we quickly transfer the patient via ambulance to the nearest hospital." Also read: Maha Kumbh 2025: Organisers use AI to prevent stampedes, ensure safety of 400mn pilgrims A recent incident saw a woman being treated after feeling dizzy late at night. Her relative, Naveen, expressed gratitude, saying, "We were heading to the Ganga for a bath when her health deteriorated. We're grateful for the prompt and excellent care provided by the railway staff." The medical centres are part of a broader initiative by Indian Railways to provide 24/7 health services during the ongoing Mela, ensuring that millions of pilgrims who flock to Prayagraj for this sacred event are well taken care of. With over 7 crore devotees having already bathed at the Sangam, the number is expected to exceed 50 crore by the time the 45-day festival concludes on February 26. The Maha Kumbh Mela, a once-in-twelve-years spiritual gathering, offers pilgrims the opportunity to take a ritual bath at the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. 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: Indian Railways sets up medical facilities at Prayagraj station for devotees

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