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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a three-day trip to the United States, carried with him some exquisite gifts for United States President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden.

Ahead of the Quad Leaders' Summit, Modi met Joe Biden in his hometown Wilmington, Delaware.

PM Modi took an antique silver hand-engraved train model as a gift to US President Joe Biden.

The train model was customised with the inscription "DELHI - DELAWARE" on the sides of the main carriage and "INDIAN RAILWAYS" is on the sides of the engine in English and Hindi languages. The inscriptions were written in the standard format which is used on passenger trains in India.

The inscription is thoughtful since Wilmington, in&nbsp;Delaware, is Biden's hometown.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-biden-from-setting-up-of-semiconductor-plant-to-shoring-up-drone-deal-heres-what-happened-760875">PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened</a>

The silver hand-engraved train model is made of 92.5 per cent silver and was crafted in Maharashtra, a state which is famous for its rich heritage in silver craftsmanship.

The prime minister gifted a Kashmiri pashmina shawl to First Lady Jill Biden.

<h2>PM Modi's meeting with Biden</h2>

Speaking about the meeting with Biden, PM Modi said he had an "extremely fruitful" meeting with him and the two leaders spoke about ways to enhance bilateral co-operation in various areas of mutual interest.

Biden earlier welcomed PM Modi&nbsp;at his residence in Greenville, Delaware, and the two leaders exchanged a warm hug.&nbsp;

"I thank President Biden for hosting me at his residence in Greenville, Delaware. Our talks were extremely fruitful. We had the opportunity to discuss regional and global issues during the meeting," said PM Modi, while speaking after the meeting.

Biden also wrote on X that the partnership of the United States with India is "stronger, closer, and more dynamic than any time in history".

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi arrives in US for 3-day visits

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-us-visit-pm-modi-arrives-in-us-for-3-day-visits-760899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Prime Minister Modi, each time we sit down, I'm struck by our ability to find new areas of cooperation. Today was no different," he said.

In a joint statement issued after holding the bilateral meeting, Biden said that the India-US partnership is "decisively delivering on an ambitious agenda that serves the global good", calling it the "defining partnership of the 21st century".

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a three-day trip to the United States, carried with him some exquisite gifts for United States President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a three-day trip to the United States, carried with him some exquisite gifts for United States President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden. Ahead of the Quad Leaders' Summit, Modi met Joe Biden in his hometown Wilmington, Delaware. PM Modi took an antique silver hand-engraved train model as a gift to US President Joe Biden. The train model was customised with the inscription "DELHI - DELAWARE" on the sides of the main carriage and "INDIAN RAILWAYS" is on the sides of the engine in English and Hindi languages. The inscriptions were written in the standard format which is used on passenger trains in India. The inscription is thoughtful since Wilmington, in Delaware, is Biden's hometown. Also Read: PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened The silver hand-engraved train model is made of 92.5 per cent silver and was crafted in Maharashtra, a state which is famous for its rich heritage in silver craftsmanship. The prime minister gifted a Kashmiri pashmina shawl to First Lady Jill Biden. PM Modi's meeting with Biden Speaking about the meeting with Biden, PM Modi said he had an "extremely fruitful" meeting with him and the two leaders spoke about ways to enhance bilateral co-operation in various areas of mutual interest. Biden earlier welcomed PM Modi at his residence in Greenville, Delaware, and the two leaders exchanged a warm hug. "I thank President Biden for hosting me at his residence in Greenville, Delaware. Our talks were extremely fruitful. We had the opportunity to discuss regional and global issues during the meeting," said PM Modi, while speaking after the meeting. Biden also wrote on X that the partnership of the United States with India is "stronger, closer, and more dynamic than any time in history". Watch: PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi arrives in US for 3-day visits "Prime Minister Modi, each time we sit down, I'm struck by our ability to find new areas of cooperation. Today was no different," he said. In a joint statement issued after holding the bilateral meeting, Biden said that the India-US partnership is "decisively delivering on an ambitious agenda that serves the global good", calling it the "defining partnership of the 21st century". (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi gifts antique silver hand-engraved 'DELHI - DELAWARE' train model to Joe Biden

India is investigating the business practices of US streaming giant Netflix's local operations, including allegations of visa violations and racial discrimination, according to a government email sent to a former executive.

India is investigating the business practices of US streaming giant Netflix's local operations, including allegations of visa violations and racial discrimination, according to a government email sent to a former executive. The details of India's investigation were included in a July 20 email, reviewed by Reuters, which was written by a home ministry official to Netflix's former director of business and legal affairs for India, Nandini Mehta, who left the company in 2020. "This is regarding visa and tax violations concerns regarding the business practices of Netflix in India," wrote Indian official Deepak Yadav from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) of the home ministry in New Delhi. "We have received certain details in this regard w.r.t (with respect to) the stated company's conduct, visa violation, illegal structures, tax evasion and other malpractices including incidents of racial discrimination that company has been engaged in while conducting its business in India," he added. In an emailed statement, Mehta said she is pursuing a lawsuit in US against Netflix for alleged wrongful termination as well as racial and gender discrimination - charges the company denies. Mehta said she welcomed the Indian investigation and hopes the authorities make their findings public, but did not elaborate on the allegations made by the government. Yadav declined to comment, saying he was not authorized to speak to media. The FRRO and India's home ministry did not respond to Reuters queries. A Netflix spokesperson said the company was "unaware of an investigation by the Indian government." The Indian official's email shows growing scrutiny of Netflix in India, where it has roughly 10 million users and which it considers a growth market where companies target affluent people in the nation of 1.4 billion people. Over the years, the US streaming giant has developed more local content featuring Bollywood actors. It has also often faced heat in India over its content deemed insensitive by some users. This month, it was forced to add new disclaimers to an Indian series about a plane hijack after social media outrage and government anger over what they said was Muslim hijackers being shown as Hindus. Watch | Netflix’s revenue reality check × Seeking documents, US lawsuit While it is known that Netflix has since 2023 faced an Indian tax demand - which it is challenging - the existence of a broader investigation into allegations including visa compliance and racial discrimination has not been previously reported. The Indian government's email did not elaborate which agencies are looking at issues concerning Netflix. The FRRO works closely with home ministry's Intelligence Bureau, the domestic intelligence agency, and is the main agency looking into foreigners' visa compliance and permissions to visit so-called "sensitive" regions. Last year, India accused Chinese smartphone player Vivo and its Indian affiliates for breaching visa rules by visiting certain "sensitive" regions without permission. India classifies parts of certain states such as Jammu & Kashmir in the north and Sikkim in the east as restricted areas. Also read | IC 814 row: Has Netflix added disclaimer ONLY for its Indian audience? User on X calls out OTT platform The FRRO also acts as a liaison in matters related to foreigners with other government offices. Mehta worked at the company's Los Angeles and Mumbai offices from April 2018 to April 2020, her LinkedIn profile shows. The Indian government email asked her to provide "details/documents" as she was a former legal executive of the company. In 2021, Mehta sued Netflix in Los Angeles County Superior Court in California for alleged wrongful termination and racial and gender discrimination, among other things, US court filings show. Netflix has in UScourt denied "each and every allegation" and said in its statement that Mehta was fired for repeatedly using her corporate credit card for tens of thousands of dollars in personal expenses. Mehta said she will "continue to fight for justice." Her case is set for a status hearing on Monday in Los Angeles. 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.

Netflix being probed for racial discrimination, visa violations by Indian government

BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after the alleged circulation of a protest poster targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New York on Saturday.

Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader said, "After Rahul Gandhi's return after playing politics with his sponsored pawns, I feel that the same group in America is now showing this hate advertisement against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is an objectionable poster."

"It is a hate advertisement and it is beyond doubt that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi got the meeting and support of those forces who are declared enemies of India. Are they the same group showing this hate advertisement?" said Trivedi.

BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya also took to his social media handle on X and shared the poster that read, "Protest: Modi, You're Not Welcome in New York" and called on people to "raise your voice against a decade of oppression."

The BJP IT cell head accused the Congress leader of indulging in "divisive anti-India politics," including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest.

Malviya alleged that Gandhi's overseas engagements have consistently been detrimental to India's image.

"Every time Rahul Gandhi goes abroad, he indulges in the most divisive anti-India politics, including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest. He has gone to the extent of pleading with Western powers to interfere in Indian politics," read the post by Malviya.

"The Congress will never succeed is a different matter. But now, Sam Pitroda and his cohorts, are planning a protest against the Prime Minister, when he visits New York. Rahul Gandhi should remember he is seeking political relevance in India and the people of Bharat will give him a befitting reply, when the time comes," added the post.

Modi embarked on a three-day visit to the US to attend key international meetings, including a Quad summit and a United Nations General Assembly address.

Meanwhile, PM Modi arrived at Philadelphia International Airport on Saturday morning (local time) on the first day of his three-day visit to the United States.

Philadelphia was the site of the First and Second Continental Congresses and the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

The Prime Minister said that his meeting with President Biden will allow the two countries to review and identify new pathways to further deepen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

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&nbsp;audience.

BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after the alleged circulation of a protest poster targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New York on Saturday.

BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after the alleged circulation of a protest poster targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New York on Saturday. Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader said, "After Rahul Gandhi's return after playing politics with his sponsored pawns, I feel that the same group in America is now showing this hate advertisement against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is an objectionable poster." "It is a hate advertisement and it is beyond doubt that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi got the meeting and support of those forces who are declared enemies of India. Are they the same group showing this hate advertisement?" said Trivedi. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya also took to his social media handle on X and shared the poster that read, "Protest: Modi, You're Not Welcome in New York" and called on people to "raise your voice against a decade of oppression." The BJP IT cell head accused the Congress leader of indulging in "divisive anti-India politics," including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest. Malviya alleged that Gandhi's overseas engagements have consistently been detrimental to India's image. "Every time Rahul Gandhi goes abroad, he indulges in the most divisive anti-India politics, including hobnobbing with agencies and collaborating with forces inimical to India's interest. He has gone to the extent of pleading with Western powers to interfere in Indian politics," read the post by Malviya. "The Congress will never succeed is a different matter. But now, Sam Pitroda and his cohorts, are planning a protest against the Prime Minister, when he visits New York. Rahul Gandhi should remember he is seeking political relevance in India and the people of Bharat will give him a befitting reply, when the time comes," added the post. Modi embarked on a three-day visit to the US to attend key international meetings, including a Quad summit and a United Nations General Assembly address. Meanwhile, PM Modi arrived at Philadelphia International Airport on Saturday morning (local time) on the first day of his three-day visit to the United States. Philadelphia was the site of the First and Second Continental Congresses and the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The Prime Minister said that his meeting with President Biden will allow the two countries to review and identify new pathways to further deepen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. 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: BJP attacks Rahul Gandhi over 'hate advertisment' targeting Modi's US visit

As a 26-year-old employee's death continues to spark anger in India, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday suggested a 40-hour work week. Anna Sebastian Perayil, a chartered accountant (CA) from Kerala, passed away after working with tax consultancy major Ernst&amp;Young (EY) for four months. Her mother wrote to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani and blamed overwork and stress for her daughter's death.&nbsp;

Tharoor shared on his X handle that he had a "deeply emotional and heartrending" conversation with her father, Sibi Joseph. He stressed the need for legislation regarding the workplace, both private and public, to limit work hours to 8 hours a day, five days a week.&nbsp;

Tharoor shared that Anna passed away after suffering from a cardiac arrest after "four months of deeply stressful seven-day weeks of 14 hours a day" at the Big Four accounting firm.

"He (Anna's father) suggested, and I agreed, that I raise the issue of legislating, through Parliament, a fixed calendar for all workplaces, whether in the private sector or the public, that would not exceed eight hours a day, five days a week," Mr Tharoor said.

He further called for punishing such offenders who bring "inhumanity" to the workplace.

"Inhumanity at the workplace must be legislated out of existence with stringent punishment and fines for offenders. Human rights do not stop at the workplace," the Congress MP wrote.

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Had a deeply emotional and heartrending conversation with Shri Sibi Joseph, the father of young Anna Sebastian, who passed away after a cardiac arrest, following four months of deeply stressful seven-day weeks of 14 hours a day at Ernst&amp;Young. He suggested, and I agreed, that I…
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1837170313005793636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Tharoor said he will raise the matter in the Parliament during the next session of Parliament likely to commence in December.

<h2> 
Anna's father speaks on his daughter's trauma</h2>

After her mother's letter caused an uproar, her father spoke to the media this week and detailed the agonising time his daughter was going through at the company. He said that she had to work through the night, till 12.30 am.

"We advised her to quit, but she insisted that this stint would provide valuable professional exposure," Siby Joseph said.

He also claimed that she had raised the issue of extreme work pressure with the senior officials of the EY, but they normalised overwork.

"She had complained to the assistant manager, but they insisted on working even at night," he said.

The family doesn't plan on taking legal action and simply wants no one else to suffer the same fate. "We are not planning to move legally, but we don't want anyone else to face the same fate. We don't want the newbies joining such corporate companies to face similar situations," Sibi Joseph said.

<h2>EY India Chairman On Anna Sebastian Perayil's Death</h2>

The chairman of EY, Rajiv Memani, in a statement, said that the company places the "highest importance" on the well-being of its employees.

"I would like to affirm that the well-being of our people is my top-most priority and I will personally champion this objective. I am absolutely committed to nurturing a harmonious workplace, and I will not rest until that objective is accomplished," he added.

Anna's mother also mentioned in the letter that no one from the company attended her funeral, which deeply hurt the family. Mentioning this, Memani wrote, "I truly regret the fact that we missed being present at Anna's funeral. This is completely alien to our culture. It has never happened before; it will never happen again." 
&nbsp;

As a 26-year-old employee's death continues to spark anger in India, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday suggested a 40-hour work week. Anna Sebastian Perayil, a chartered accountant (CA) from Kerala, passed away after working with tax consultancy major Ernst&Young (EY) for four months.

As a 26-year-old employee's death continues to spark anger in India, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday suggested a 40-hour work week. Anna Sebastian Perayil, a chartered accountant (CA) from Kerala, passed away after working with tax consultancy major Ernst&Young (EY) for four months. Her mother wrote to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani and blamed overwork and stress for her daughter's death. Tharoor shared on his X handle that he had a "deeply emotional and heartrending" conversation with her father, Sibi Joseph. He stressed the need for legislation regarding the workplace, both private and public, to limit work hours to 8 hours a day, five days a week. Tharoor shared that Anna passed away after suffering from a cardiac arrest after "four months of deeply stressful seven-day weeks of 14 hours a day" at the Big Four accounting firm. "He (Anna's father) suggested, and I agreed, that I raise the issue of legislating, through Parliament, a fixed calendar for all workplaces, whether in the private sector or the public, that would not exceed eight hours a day, five days a week," Mr Tharoor said. He further called for punishing such offenders who bring "inhumanity" to the workplace. "Inhumanity at the workplace must be legislated out of existence with stringent punishment and fines for offenders. Human rights do not stop at the workplace," the Congress MP wrote. Had a deeply emotional and heartrending conversation with Shri Sibi Joseph, the father of young Anna Sebastian, who passed away after a cardiac arrest, following four months of deeply stressful seven-day weeks of 14 hours a day at Ernst&Young. He suggested, and I agreed, that I… — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) September 20, 2024 × Tharoor said he will raise the matter in the Parliament during the next session of Parliament likely to commence in December. Anna's father speaks on his daughter's trauma After her mother's letter caused an uproar, her father spoke to the media this week and detailed the agonising time his daughter was going through at the company. He said that she had to work through the night, till 12.30 am. "We advised her to quit, but she insisted that this stint would provide valuable professional exposure," Siby Joseph said. He also claimed that she had raised the issue of extreme work pressure with the senior officials of the EY, but they normalised overwork. "She had complained to the assistant manager, but they insisted on working even at night," he said. The family doesn't plan on taking legal action and simply wants no one else to suffer the same fate. "We are not planning to move legally, but we don't want anyone else to face the same fate. We don't want the newbies joining such corporate companies to face similar situations," Sibi Joseph said. EY India Chairman On Anna Sebastian Perayil's Death The chairman of EY, Rajiv Memani, in a statement, said that the company places the "highest importance" on the well-being of its employees. "I would like to affirm that the well-being of our people is my top-most priority and I will personally champion this objective. I am absolutely committed to nurturing a harmonious workplace, and I will not rest until that objective is accomplished," he added. Anna's mother also mentioned in the letter that no one from the company attended her funeral, which deeply hurt the family. Mentioning this, Memani wrote, "I truly regret the fact that we missed being present at Anna's funeral. This is completely alien to our culture. It has never happened before; it will never happen again."

All workplaces need fixed work hours, say Shashi Tharoor and EY employee Anna's father

Security forces on India's northeast border have been placed on alert following reports that 900 suspected militants from war-torn Myanmar have crossed into restive Manipur state, a security official said.

Manipur has been rocked by periodic clashes for more than a year between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki community, dividing the state into ethnic enclaves.

The hill-dwelling Kukis have cultural, familial and religious ties with tribal populations in Myanmar, where dozens of armed groups have been battling the military since it seized power in 2021.

Manipur government security adviser Kuldiep Singh confirmed Friday that authorities had received reports from local intelligence agencies about a possible crossing by suspected militants.

"Nine hundred people are coming," according to the assessment, he told reporters.&nbsp;

Singh said border posts had been "alerted" and security forces would conduct "combing operations" in the remote, rugged area.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-foreign-diplomats-to-witness-elections-in-jammu-and-kashmir-760630">Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir</a>

Local media reports said the intruders were Kuki militants trained in jungle warfare and carrying weaponised drones.

However, a Kuki student group in Manipur dismissed the statement as "propaganda" designed to malign their community.&nbsp;

"We are not in need of any external help to fight this secessionist Meitei community," the Kuki Students' Organisation statement said.&nbsp;

After months of relative calm, fresh fighting erupted in Manipur this month between insurgent groups firing rockets and dropping bombs with drones, killing at least 11 people.

Meitei protesters marched through the state capital Imphal last week to demand security forces act against Kuki insurgents they blame for the latest attacks.

Long-standing tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities revolve around competition for land and public jobs.

Fighting has forced around 60,000 people from their homes and killed at least 200, according to government figures. Many have been unable to return home.

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&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Security forces on India's northeast border have been placed on alert following reports that 900 suspected militants from war-torn Myanmar have crossed into restive Manipur state, a security official said.

Security forces on India's northeast border have been placed on alert following reports that 900 suspected militants from war-torn Myanmar have crossed into restive Manipur state, a security official said. Manipur has been rocked by periodic clashes for more than a year between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki community, dividing the state into ethnic enclaves. The hill-dwelling Kukis have cultural, familial and religious ties with tribal populations in Myanmar, where dozens of armed groups have been battling the military since it seized power in 2021. Manipur government security adviser Kuldiep Singh confirmed Friday that authorities had received reports from local intelligence agencies about a possible crossing by suspected militants. "Nine hundred people are coming," according to the assessment, he told reporters. Singh said border posts had been "alerted" and security forces would conduct "combing operations" in the remote, rugged area. Also Read | Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir Local media reports said the intruders were Kuki militants trained in jungle warfare and carrying weaponised drones. However, a Kuki student group in Manipur dismissed the statement as "propaganda" designed to malign their community. "We are not in need of any external help to fight this secessionist Meitei community," the Kuki Students' Organisation statement said. After months of relative calm, fresh fighting erupted in Manipur this month between insurgent groups firing rockets and dropping bombs with drones, killing at least 11 people. Meitei protesters marched through the state capital Imphal last week to demand security forces act against Kuki insurgents they blame for the latest attacks. Long-standing tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities revolve around competition for land and public jobs. Fighting has forced around 60,000 people from their homes and killed at least 200, according to government figures. Many have been unable to return home. 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: Violence-hit Manipur on high alert after 900 militants arrive from Myanmar

Congress lawmaker and the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Sep 21) gave clarification on his controversial remarks on Sikhs during his recent trip to the United States. He took to X and accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of resorting to lies and not standing up to the truth.

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The BJP has been spreading lies about my remarks in America. 
 
I want to ask every Sikh brother and sister in India and abroad - is there anything wrong in what I have said? Shouldn't India be a country where every Sikh - and every Indian - can freely practice their religion… <a href="https://t.co/sxNdMavR1X">pic.twitter.com/sxNdMavR1X</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1837434584524263534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"As usual, the BJP is resorting to lies. They are desperate to silence me because they cannot stand the truth. But I will always speak up for the values that define India: our unity in diversity, equality, and love," Gandhi posted.

It is to be noted that while delivering a speech in Washington DC on September 10, Gandhi said that Sikhs in India had to fight to wear a turban in India. "The fight is about if a Sikh is allowed to wear a turban in India, or whether a Sikh is allowed to wear a kara in India, or if a Sikh is going to be able to go to Gurdwara. That's what the fight is about. And this is for all religions," Gandhi said while talking about the importance of religious freedom.

A massive controversy erupted after his remarks were backed by Sikh separatists and a designated Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The terrorist said that Rahul Gandhi’s remarks "corroborates with Sikhs For Justice's (SFJ) stance on the justification of Punjab's Independence Referendum to establish Sikh homeland Khalistan."

The SFJ is outlawed in India for threatening the country's&nbsp;national security and territorial integrity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiWg_KomNSIAxUBn68BHQqtEBIQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-under-threat-from-nda-congress-files-police-complaint-after-bjp-nda-leader-statements-on-lop-759723" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-under-threat-from-nda-congress-files-police-complaint-after-bjp-nda-leader-statements-on-lop-759723&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWg_KomNSIAxUBn68BHQqtEBIQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Rahul Gandhi under threat from NDA? Cong files police complaint after BJP-NDA leaders statements on LoP</a>

Gandhi on Saturday defended his remarks, saying there was nothing wrong in it.

"I want to ask every Sikh brother and sister in India and abroad – is there anything wrong in what I have said? Shouldn't India be a country where every Sikh – and every Indian – can freely practice their religion without fear?" Gandhi posted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress lawmaker and the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Sep 21) gave clarification on his controversial remarks on Sikhs during his recent trip to the United States.

Congress lawmaker and the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Sep 21) gave clarification on his controversial remarks on Sikhs during his recent trip to the United States. He took to X and accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of resorting to lies and not standing up to the truth. The BJP has been spreading lies about my remarks in America. I want to ask every Sikh brother and sister in India and abroad - is there anything wrong in what I have said? Shouldn't India be a country where every Sikh - and every Indian - can freely practice their religion… pic.twitter.com/sxNdMavR1X — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) September 21, 2024 × "As usual, the BJP is resorting to lies. They are desperate to silence me because they cannot stand the truth. But I will always speak up for the values that define India: our unity in diversity, equality, and love," Gandhi posted. It is to be noted that while delivering a speech in Washington DC on September 10, Gandhi said that Sikhs in India had to fight to wear a turban in India. "The fight is about if a Sikh is allowed to wear a turban in India, or whether a Sikh is allowed to wear a kara in India, or if a Sikh is going to be able to go to Gurdwara. That's what the fight is about. And this is for all religions," Gandhi said while talking about the importance of religious freedom. A massive controversy erupted after his remarks were backed by Sikh separatists and a designated Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The terrorist said that Rahul Gandhi’s remarks "corroborates with Sikhs For Justice's (SFJ) stance on the justification of Punjab's Independence Referendum to establish Sikh homeland Khalistan." The SFJ is outlawed in India for threatening the country's national security and territorial integrity. Also read: Rahul Gandhi under threat from NDA? Cong files police complaint after BJP-NDA leaders statements on LoP Gandhi on Saturday defended his remarks, saying there was nothing wrong in it. "I want to ask every Sikh brother and sister in India and abroad – is there anything wrong in what I have said? Shouldn't India be a country where every Sikh – and every Indian – can freely practice their religion without fear?" Gandhi posted. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Nothing wrong,’ Rahul Gandhi defends his remarks on Sikhs earlier endorsed by Pannun

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi took the oath as the Chief Minister (CM)&nbsp;of the Indian National Capital Territory of Delhi on Saturday (Sep 21). This comes as President Droupadi Murmu, appointed Atishi as the new CM of Delhi, effective from the date of her swearing-in.

Atishi, 43, will be Delhi's third woman CM, following in the footsteps of&nbsp;Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1972}">Kejriwal resigns</h2>

President Murmu, as per reports, has accepted the resignation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. However, Kejriwal held office till his successor, Atishi, was sworn in.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:478,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2066}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/atishi-to-take-oath-as-chief-minister-of-delhi-on-september-21-aap-760006">Atishi to take oath as Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21: AAP</a>

"The President is pleased to accept the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi, along with his Council of Ministers, with immediate effect."

"He will, however, continue to act as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi, till the new Chief Minister is sworn in," said the official statement.

"The President is pleased to appoint Atishi as the Chief Minister, National Capital&nbsp;Territory of Delhi, with effect from the date she is sworn in," added the statement.

The AAP in a statement said, "Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21, and other ministers will also take their oaths alongside her".

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiI_aTU3dOIAxUySWwGHUouLg0QxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-new-cm-atishi-to-succeed-arvind-kejriwal-as-new-delhi-chief-minister-759340" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-new-cm-atishi-to-succeed-arvind-kejriwal-as-new-delhi-chief-minister-759340&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiI_aTU3dOIAxUySWwGHUouLg0QxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE">Atishi Marlena New CM of Delhi | Atishi succeeds Arvind Kejriwal as Delhi's new Chief Minister</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:464,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2301}">Other ministers also approved</h2>

President Droupadu Murmu has also cleared the&nbsp;appointment of five other ministers, including Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai and Kailash Gahlot.

"The President has been pleased to appoint, on the advice of the Chief Minister, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Imran Hussain, and Mukesh Ahlawat, to be the Minister in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, with effect from the date (s) they are sworn in," said an official statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi took the oath as the Chief Minister (CM) of the Indian National Capital Territory of Delhi on Saturday (Sep 21). This comes as President Droupadi Murmu, appointed Atishi as the new CM of Delhi, effective from the date of her swearing-in.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi took the oath as the Chief Minister (CM) of the Indian National Capital Territory of Delhi on Saturday (Sep 21). This comes as President Droupadi Murmu, appointed Atishi as the new CM of Delhi, effective from the date of her swearing-in. Atishi, 43, will be Delhi's third woman CM, following in the footsteps of Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. Kejriwal resigns President Murmu, as per reports, has accepted the resignation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. However, Kejriwal held office till his successor, Atishi, was sworn in. Also read | Atishi to take oath as Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21: AAP "The President is pleased to accept the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi, along with his Council of Ministers, with immediate effect." "He will, however, continue to act as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi, till the new Chief Minister is sworn in," said the official statement. "The President is pleased to appoint Atishi as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi, with effect from the date she is sworn in," added the statement. The AAP in a statement said, "Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21, and other ministers will also take their oaths alongside her". Also read | Atishi Marlena New CM of Delhi | Atishi succeeds Arvind Kejriwal as Delhi's new Chief Minister Other ministers also approved President Droupadu Murmu has also cleared the appointment of five other ministers, including Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai and Kailash Gahlot. "The President has been pleased to appoint, on the advice of the Chief Minister, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Imran Hussain, and Mukesh Ahlawat, to be the Minister in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, with effect from the date (s) they are sworn in," said an official statement. (With inputs from agencies)

President Murmu appoints Atishi as Delhi's new Chief Minister

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as Delhi's youngest chief minister on Saturday (Sep 21). The oath-taking ceremony began at 4:30 pm IST at Raj Niwas. The ceremony was initially scheduled for September 26-27 but was preponed&nbsp;at&nbsp;the request of the Delhi LG.

Atishi, the only woman in the Delhi government cabinet, was elected for the CM position by AAP leaders on September 17.&nbsp;

The move came after ex-CM Arvind Kejriwal stepped down, just days after the country's Supreme Court granted him bail in a graft case related to the liquor policy.

Ahead of taking the oath, Atishi, along with the proposed ministers, went to Kejriwal's house to meet him.

After the meeting, Atishi and other ministers reached 'Raj Nivas'.&nbsp;

The new Council of Ministers announced by the party comprises Sultanpur Majra MLA Mukesh Ahlawat, a new entrant, besides ministers Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj and Imran Hussain. All five ministers also took oath alongside Atishi at Raj Nivas.

<h2>Atishi's tenure will be brief</h2>

The tenure of the Atishi government will be brief as Delhi assembly polls are scheduled to be held in February next year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-votes-in-presidential-election-why-do-these-polls-matter-for-india-760631" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-votes-in-presidential-election-why-do-these-polls-matter-for-india-760631&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Sri Lanka votes in presidential election: Why do these polls matter for India?</a>

During her brief stint in the CM office, Atishi will look forward&nbsp;to fast-tracking and giving nod to various pending policies and welfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 and doorstep delivery of services among others.

<h2>More details about Atishi</h2>

Atishi was born on June 8, 1981, to distinguished Delhi University professors Vijay Kumar Singh and Tripta Wahi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-foreign-diplomats-to-witness-elections-in-jammu-and-kashmir-760630" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-foreign-diplomats-to-witness-elections-in-jammu-and-kashmir-760630&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir</a>

She commenced her education at Springdale School in New Delhi, before moving on to St Stephen’s College, where she excelled in history and secured the top rank in Delhi University. Her academic pursuits continued at Oxford University, where she earned her Master’s degree as a recipient of the prestigious Chevening scholarship.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as Delhi's youngest chief minister on Saturday (Sep 21). The oath-taking ceremony began at 4:30 pm IST at Raj Niwas.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as Delhi's youngest chief minister on Saturday (Sep 21). The oath-taking ceremony began at 4:30 pm IST at Raj Niwas. The ceremony was initially scheduled for September 26-27 but was preponed at the request of the Delhi LG. Atishi, the only woman in the Delhi government cabinet, was elected for the CM position by AAP leaders on September 17. The move came after ex-CM Arvind Kejriwal stepped down, just days after the country's Supreme Court granted him bail in a graft case related to the liquor policy. Ahead of taking the oath, Atishi, along with the proposed ministers, went to Kejriwal's house to meet him. After the meeting, Atishi and other ministers reached 'Raj Nivas'. The new Council of Ministers announced by the party comprises Sultanpur Majra MLA Mukesh Ahlawat, a new entrant, besides ministers Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj and Imran Hussain. All five ministers also took oath alongside Atishi at Raj Nivas. Atishi's tenure will be brief The tenure of the Atishi government will be brief as Delhi assembly polls are scheduled to be held in February next year. Also read: Sri Lanka votes in presidential election: Why do these polls matter for India? During her brief stint in the CM office, Atishi will look forward to fast-tracking and giving nod to various pending policies and welfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 and doorstep delivery of services among others. More details about Atishi Atishi was born on June 8, 1981, to distinguished Delhi University professors Vijay Kumar Singh and Tripta Wahi. Also read: Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir She commenced her education at Springdale School in New Delhi, before moving on to St Stephen’s College, where she excelled in history and secured the top rank in Delhi University. Her academic pursuits continued at Oxford University, where she earned her Master’s degree as a recipient of the prestigious Chevening scholarship. (With inputs from agencies)

Atishi takes oath as Delhi CM, becomes youngest leader to hold top office

Amid the Tirupati laddoo row in Andhra Pradesh, Amul filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police Station on Saturday (Sep 21)&nbsp;after false reports on social media platform X claimed that the ghee used in the Tirupati temple's laddoos was supplied by the Indian dairy brand.&nbsp;

The complaint alleged that the misinformation was spread to damage Amul's reputation.&nbsp;

This comes after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made startling claims about how the laddoos were adulterated with animal fat, when YSR Congress Party's Jagan Mohan Reddy was the CM of the Indian state.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-test-results-confirm-animal-fat-used-in-making-tirupati-laddoos-760139">Also read:&nbsp;India: Private lab test report confirms use of animal fat in making Tirupati laddoos</a>

According to Amul's complaint, certain individuals posted misleading information on social media with the motive of defaming Amul. The social media posts alleged that the 'ghee' used in Tirupati 'prasadam' was supplied by the company.&nbsp;

However, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the 'Amul' brand, denied the accusations.&nbsp;

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Issued in Public Interest by Amul <a href="https://t.co/j7uobwDtJI">pic.twitter.com/j7uobwDtJI</a>
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GCMMF took to&nbsp;X and said, "We also wish to clarify that Amul ghee is made from milk at our state-of-the-art production facilities which are ISO-certified. Amul ghee is made from high-quality pure milk fat. This post is being issued to stop this misinformation campaign against Amul."

The accused were charged under sections 336 (4) and 196 (1) (a) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and provisions of the Information Technology (IT) Act.

Watch |&nbsp;Tirupati Laddu Row: Report Finds Adulteration in Sample, Doesn't Confirm Animal Fat

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The managing director of the federation Jayen Mehta said that the misinformation harms 3.6 million&nbsp;dairy farmer families dependent on Amul, adding, "We never supplied the ghee to the temple. We have lodged an FIR to stop this misinformation."

The MD of the federation, which owns the Amul brand said that they have&nbsp;"never supplied its product to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD)."

"Amul products are of top quality and pass through stringent quality checks. We urge people to stay away from such kind of disinformation," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the Tirupati laddoo row in Andhra Pradesh, Amul filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police Station on Saturday (Sep 21) after false reports on social media platform X claimed that the ghee used in the Tirupati temple's laddoos was supplied by the Indian dairy brand.

Amid the Tirupati laddoo row in Andhra Pradesh, Amul filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police Station on Saturday (Sep 21) after false reports on social media platform X claimed that the ghee used in the Tirupati temple's laddoos was supplied by the Indian dairy brand. The complaint alleged that the misinformation was spread to damage Amul's reputation. This comes after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made startling claims about how the laddoos were adulterated with animal fat, when YSR Congress Party's Jagan Mohan Reddy was the CM of the Indian state. Also read: India: Private lab test report confirms use of animal fat in making Tirupati laddoos According to Amul's complaint, certain individuals posted misleading information on social media with the motive of defaming Amul. The social media posts alleged that the 'ghee' used in Tirupati 'prasadam' was supplied by the company. However, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the 'Amul' brand, denied the accusations. Issued in Public Interest by Amul pic.twitter.com/j7uobwDtJI — Amul.coop (@Amul_Coop) September 20, 2024 × GCMMF took to X and said, "We also wish to clarify that Amul ghee is made from milk at our state-of-the-art production facilities which are ISO-certified. Amul ghee is made from high-quality pure milk fat. This post is being issued to stop this misinformation campaign against Amul." The accused were charged under sections 336 (4) and 196 (1) (a) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and provisions of the Information Technology (IT) Act. Watch | Tirupati Laddu Row: Report Finds Adulteration in Sample, Doesn't Confirm Animal Fat × The managing director of the federation Jayen Mehta said that the misinformation harms 3.6 million dairy farmer families dependent on Amul, adding, "We never supplied the ghee to the temple. We have lodged an FIR to stop this misinformation." The MD of the federation, which owns the Amul brand said that they have "never supplied its product to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD)." "Amul products are of top quality and pass through stringent quality checks. We urge people to stay away from such kind of disinformation," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Tirupati laddoo row: Amul files complaint against X users for claiming that it supplied ghee to temple

The ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh claimed that laboratory reports have detected adulterated oil containing “beef tallow” in the ghee used for making the world-renowned Tirupati temple's 'Laddu Prasadam'.

Tirupati Laddu Row: Report Finds Adulteration in Sample, Doesn't Confirm Animal Fat

A group of foreign diplomats will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir later this week, to witness first-hand the ongoing elections in the union territory. The visit, organised by the Indian government, is part of a broader diplomatic initiative to showcase democratic processes in the region following the significant political changes that took place in 2019-removal of Article 370.

The Legislative Assembly elections are seen as significant, as they are the first since the removal of special status granted under Article 370 of the Indian constitution, &amp; the bifurcation of the state into two separate union territories—Ladakh and Jammu &amp; Kashmir.

The elections will be undertaken in three phases, from September 18 till October 1, 2024. The first phase involved voting for 24 out of the 90 assembly constituencies and saw significant voter turnout. The visiting diplomats will arrive in J&amp;K as the Union Territory gets ready for the second phase of voting, scheduled for October 25.

Not the first time&nbsp;India has taken foreign diplomats to the region. India organised several visits of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir after removal of the special status, half a decade ago. The visits were aimed at demonstrating that the region was moving towards normalcy and development.

A group of foreign diplomats will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir later this week, to witness first-hand the ongoing elections in the union territory. The visit, organised by the Indian government, is part of a broader diplomatic initiative to showcase democratic processes in the region following the significant political changes that took place in 2019-removal of Article 370.

A group of foreign diplomats will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir later this week, to witness first-hand the ongoing elections in the union territory. The visit, organised by the Indian government, is part of a broader diplomatic initiative to showcase democratic processes in the region following the significant political changes that took place in 2019-removal of Article 370. The Legislative Assembly elections are seen as significant, as they are the first since the removal of special status granted under Article 370 of the Indian constitution, & the bifurcation of the state into two separate union territories—Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. The elections will be undertaken in three phases, from September 18 till October 1, 2024. The first phase involved voting for 24 out of the 90 assembly constituencies and saw significant voter turnout. The visiting diplomats will arrive in J&K as the Union Territory gets ready for the second phase of voting, scheduled for October 25. Not the first time India has taken foreign diplomats to the region. India organised several visits of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir after removal of the special status, half a decade ago. The visits were aimed at demonstrating that the region was moving towards normalcy and development.

Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir

Five police personnel in the Indian state of Odisha were suspended in connection with the police brutality against an army officer and his fiancée, according to media reports on Thursday (Sept 19).

Five police personnel in the Indian state of Odisha were suspended in connection with the police brutality against an army officer and his fiancée, according to media reports on Thursday (Sept 19). In a statement, the Odisha police confirmed the suspension of IIC (Inspector-In-Charge) Dinakrushna Mishra, Sub-Inspector Baisalini Panda, Assistant Sub-Inspectors Salilamayee Sahoo and Sagarika Rath, and Constable Balaram Handa. The statement said that during their suspension, the officers would remain "under the disciplinary control of the Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar-Cuttack, and will receive subsistence and dearness allowances in accordance with Rule 90 of the Odisha Service Code." The brutality against the army officer, his fiancée The incident came to light when the army officer and his fiancée were allegedly assaulted at the Bharatpur Police Station after attempting to report a road rage incident, a report by India Today said. The couple said that they were harassed by some people while driving. The report said that upon reaching the police station to file a complaint, they were allegedly mistreated, with the officer being detained and his fiancée sexually assaulted. The woman said that a male officer sexually assaulted her, followed by further harassment from the IIC. She further alleged that a female constable verbally abused them when they attempted to file their complaint. The woman was also subjected to beatings and was tied up. The Crime Branch launched an investigation into the incident. Three officers transferred earlier The suspension of the five police officers came after IIC Mishra and two other officers from Bharatpur Police Station to ensure an impartial probe. The India Today report said that Mishra was reassigned to the Deputy Commissioner of Police's office in Bhubaneswar, while ASI Sahoo and Constable Handa were sent to the DCP office and Reserve Office. (With inputs from agencies)

Five Odisha cops suspended for alleged brutality against Indian Army officer, his fiancée

The video of a horrific wrong-way crash that happened in Gurugram, India, last week has gone viral. A 23-year-old biker died in the accident after an SUV coming from the wrong direction hit him. The incident happened on the Golf Course Road near Belvedere Park, DLF Phase II.

A friend of the victim was also driving alongside him and the shocking video was captured on his GoPro camera.

The victim has been identified as Akshat Garg and the video shows him driving on the wide road sometime early in the morning. He makes a right turn and immediately collides with the Mahindra XUV 300 car which was being driven in the wrong direction. The impact throws Garg off his bike and behind the car.

The police stated that the incident happened at 5:45 am on Sunday. Garg and his friend, both driving different bikes, were coming from DLF Downtown and were going to meet a group of riders at Ambience Mall. His friend was about 100 feet behind him.&nbsp;

They added that Garg was wearing a helmet and gloves.

“Neither the car driver nor Garg had any chance to avoid the collision…The impact flung Garg above the car, and his motorcycle was mangled beyond recognition,” a police officer said.

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Not an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Accident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Accident</a>, It’s Murder 
 
On Sunday night, young biker <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AkshatGarg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AkshatGarg</a> lost his life when a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahindra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahindra</a> 3XO, driven recklessly in the wrong direction, hit him. His friend Pradyumn, who witnessed the incident, says that the driver, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KuldeepThakur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KuldeepThakur</a>, was speeding against traffic.… <a href="https://t.co/Uasr1PvwvC">pic.twitter.com/Uasr1PvwvC</a>
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&nbsp;

Other commuters in the region immediately gathered and informed emergency services about the accident. Garg was rushed to a hospital but was declared brought dead.&nbsp;

<h2>Car driver granted bail, friend accuses&nbsp;police of not taking the GoPro video&nbsp;</h2>

The police said that the car had a political party sticker on it. The driver, identified as Kuldeep Kumar Thakur, was arrested on the spot. The police further informed that the accused lives in Delhi and runs a firm that handles social media campaigns for elections. Thakur, who was granted bail, said that he was following Google Maps.&nbsp;

An FIR was registered against Thakur under several sections, including 106 (causing death by negligence), 281 (rash driving), 324(4) (mischief causing damage of over ₹20,000), and 166 (compensation after a motor vehicle accident) of the Motor Vehicles Act at DLF Phase-II police station.

His friend said that the car was being driven in the lane meant for fast-moving vehicles. He checked on his friend but he did not respond.

“There were two men in their mid-20s and a dog inside the car. Commuters apprehended them and handed them over to the police. Unfortunately, my friend became unresponsive within seconds after I tried to open his helmet,” Garg's friend said.

He added that the GoPro camera fixed on his helmet recorded the entire incident, but the police did not take a copy of the footage.&nbsp;

“My GoPro camera, fixed on my helmet, recorded the entire accident. But the police didn’t take a copy of the footage, even after seeing it…Later, I found out the car driver was released from the police station,” he said.

The video of a horrific wrong-way crash that happened in Gurugram, India, last week has gone viral. A 23-year-old biker died in the accident after an SUV coming from the wrong direction hit him.

The video of a horrific wrong-way crash that happened in Gurugram, India, last week has gone viral. A 23-year-old biker died in the accident after an SUV coming from the wrong direction hit him. The incident happened on the Golf Course Road near Belvedere Park, DLF Phase II. A friend of the victim was also driving alongside him and the shocking video was captured on his GoPro camera. The victim has been identified as Akshat Garg and the video shows him driving on the wide road sometime early in the morning. He makes a right turn and immediately collides with the Mahindra XUV 300 car which was being driven in the wrong direction. The impact throws Garg off his bike and behind the car. The police stated that the incident happened at 5:45 am on Sunday. Garg and his friend, both driving different bikes, were coming from DLF Downtown and were going to meet a group of riders at Ambience Mall. His friend was about 100 feet behind him. They added that Garg was wearing a helmet and gloves. “Neither the car driver nor Garg had any chance to avoid the collision…The impact flung Garg above the car, and his motorcycle was mangled beyond recognition,” a police officer said. Not an #Accident, It’s Murder On Sunday night, young biker #AkshatGarg lost his life when a #Mahindra 3XO, driven recklessly in the wrong direction, hit him. His friend Pradyumn, who witnessed the incident, says that the driver, #KuldeepThakur, was speeding against traffic.… pic.twitter.com/Uasr1PvwvC — Akassh Ashok Gupta (@peepoye_) September 19, 2024 × Other commuters in the region immediately gathered and informed emergency services about the accident. Garg was rushed to a hospital but was declared brought dead. Car driver granted bail, friend accuses police of not taking the GoPro video The police said that the car had a political party sticker on it. The driver, identified as Kuldeep Kumar Thakur, was arrested on the spot. The police further informed that the accused lives in Delhi and runs a firm that handles social media campaigns for elections. Thakur, who was granted bail, said that he was following Google Maps. An FIR was registered against Thakur under several sections, including 106 (causing death by negligence), 281 (rash driving), 324(4) (mischief causing damage of over ₹20,000), and 166 (compensation after a motor vehicle accident) of the Motor Vehicles Act at DLF Phase-II police station. His friend said that the car was being driven in the lane meant for fast-moving vehicles. He checked on his friend but he did not respond. “There were two men in their mid-20s and a dog inside the car. Commuters apprehended them and handed them over to the police. Unfortunately, my friend became unresponsive within seconds after I tried to open his helmet,” Garg's friend said. He added that the GoPro camera fixed on his helmet recorded the entire incident, but the police did not take a copy of the footage. “My GoPro camera, fixed on my helmet, recorded the entire accident. But the police didn’t take a copy of the footage, even after seeing it…Later, I found out the car driver was released from the police station,” he said.

Gurugram accident: Horrific video shows bike crashing into SUV coming from wrong side

The Bombay High Court on Friday (Sep 20) struck down the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules which sought to identify fake and false content on social media against the government by terming it 'unconstitutional'. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The matter was assigned to Justice AS Chandurkar as ‘tie-breaker judge’, after a division bench in January 2024 delivered a split verdict on the petitions challenging the amended IT rules.

Justice Chandurkar on Friday held that the rules violated constitutional provisions.

"I have considered the matter extensively. The impugned rules are violative of Article 14 (right to equality), 19 (freedom of speech and expression) and 19(1)(g) (freedom and right to profession) of the Constitution of India," the judge said.

The expression "fake, false and misleading" in the Rules was "vague and hence wrong" in the absence of any definition, he added.

With this ruling, the High Court allowed the petitions filed by stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra and others challenging the new rules, including the provision to set up a Fact Checking Unit (FCU) to identify fake or false content about the government.

The petitions against the IT Rules were referred to Justice Chandurkar after a division bench of Justices Gautam Patel and Neela Gokhale delivered a split verdict in January.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/anti-india-campaign-in-bangladesh-new-delhi-fact-checks-flooding-claim-752465">Watch |&nbsp;Anti-India Campaign in Bangladesh: New Delhi Fact Checks Flooding Claim</a>

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While Justice Patel struck down the Rules, Justice Gokhale upheld them.

Justice Patel had said the Rules amounted to censorship, but Justice Gokhale had opined they did not have any 'chilling effect' on free speech as argued.

Justice Chandurkar on Friday said he agreed with the opinion given by Justice Patel (now retired).

On April 6, 2023, the Union government promulgated amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, including a provision for an FCU to flag fake, false or misleading online content related to the government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-stays-indian-governments-notification-of-fact-check-unit-702602">Also read |&nbsp;Supreme Court stays Indian government's notification of Fact Check Unit</a>

Under the IT Rules, if the FCU comes across any posts that are fake, false, and contain misleading facts about the business of the government, it would flag the same to social media intermediaries.

Once such a post is flagged, the intermediary has the option of either taking down the post or putting a disclaimer on the same.

In taking the second option, the intermediary loses its safe harbour/immunity and stands liable for legal action.

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.

The Bombay High Court on Friday (Sep 20) struck down the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules which sought to identify fake and false content on social media against the government by terming it 'unconstitutional'.

The Bombay High Court on Friday (Sep 20) struck down the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules which sought to identify fake and false content on social media against the government by terming it 'unconstitutional'. The matter was assigned to Justice AS Chandurkar as ‘tie-breaker judge’, after a division bench in January 2024 delivered a split verdict on the petitions challenging the amended IT rules. Justice Chandurkar on Friday held that the rules violated constitutional provisions. "I have considered the matter extensively. The impugned rules are violative of Article 14 (right to equality), 19 (freedom of speech and expression) and 19(1)(g) (freedom and right to profession) of the Constitution of India," the judge said. The expression "fake, false and misleading" in the Rules was "vague and hence wrong" in the absence of any definition, he added. With this ruling, the High Court allowed the petitions filed by stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra and others challenging the new rules, including the provision to set up a Fact Checking Unit (FCU) to identify fake or false content about the government. The petitions against the IT Rules were referred to Justice Chandurkar after a division bench of Justices Gautam Patel and Neela Gokhale delivered a split verdict in January. Watch | Anti-India Campaign in Bangladesh: New Delhi Fact Checks Flooding Claim × While Justice Patel struck down the Rules, Justice Gokhale upheld them. Justice Patel had said the Rules amounted to censorship, but Justice Gokhale had opined they did not have any 'chilling effect' on free speech as argued. Justice Chandurkar on Friday said he agreed with the opinion given by Justice Patel (now retired). On April 6, 2023, the Union government promulgated amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, including a provision for an FCU to flag fake, false or misleading online content related to the government. Also read | Supreme Court stays Indian government's notification of Fact Check Unit Under the IT Rules, if the FCU comes across any posts that are fake, false, and contain misleading facts about the business of the government, it would flag the same to social media intermediaries. Once such a post is flagged, the intermediary has the option of either taking down the post or putting a disclaimer on the same. In taking the second option, the intermediary loses its safe harbour/immunity and stands liable for legal action. 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.

Bombay HC quashes Indian government's bid to establish Fact-Checking Units

PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21)&nbsp;to Monday (Sep 23)&nbsp;where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.

PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Biden as well as other&nbsp;leaders of the powerful alliance.&nbsp;

"There will be an opportunity to have a substantive engagement between the prime minister and President Biden, where they will have the opportunity to review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a media briefing.&nbsp;

After a day of meetings, PM Modi will attend an evening reception before jetting off to New York from&nbsp;Philadelphia International Airport&nbsp;at night. Once in the Big Apple, PM Modi will rest and recover&nbsp;before addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora on Sunday (Sep 22) at the&nbsp;Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, Nassau County on Long Island.&nbsp;

Later in the evening, he will hold a roundtable with the CEOs of the top companies, as has been the trend in his previous US visits. Building better entrepreneur connections has been one of the cornerstones of PM Modi's leadership in the last decade.

“PM Modi will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology,” the MEA&nbsp;said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-to-meet-pm-modi-during-us-visit-calls-him-a-fantastic-man-759800">Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump to Meet PM Modi During US Visit, Calls Him 'A Fantastic Man'</a>

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<h2>UNGA address&nbsp;</h2>

A day later, he will address the&nbsp;‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The theme of the Summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'. A few more bilateral meetings have also been fixed for PM Modi on the day, the details of which are yet to be provided.&nbsp;

Although it has not been confirmed by the MEA, it is believed that former US President Donald Trump will be meeting the Indian PM.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-vows-to-restore-jks-statehood-promises-monetary-assistance-to-farmers-women-760118">Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi vows to restore J&amp;K's statehood, promises monetary assistance to farmers, women</a>

The Republican leader earlier this week made the announcement while&nbsp;campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties.

"So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic."

After concluding the meetings, PM Modi will depart for New Delhi from the JFK International Airport on Monday evening, reaching the national capital on Tuesday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.

PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware. PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Biden as well as other leaders of the powerful alliance. "There will be an opportunity to have a substantive engagement between the prime minister and President Biden, where they will have the opportunity to review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a media briefing. After a day of meetings, PM Modi will attend an evening reception before jetting off to New York from Philadelphia International Airport at night. Once in the Big Apple, PM Modi will rest and recover before addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora on Sunday (Sep 22) at the Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, Nassau County on Long Island. Later in the evening, he will hold a roundtable with the CEOs of the top companies, as has been the trend in his previous US visits. Building better entrepreneur connections has been one of the cornerstones of PM Modi's leadership in the last decade. “PM Modi will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology,” the MEA said. Watch | Donald Trump to Meet PM Modi During US Visit, Calls Him 'A Fantastic Man' × UNGA address A day later, he will address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The theme of the Summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'. A few more bilateral meetings have also been fixed for PM Modi on the day, the details of which are yet to be provided. Although it has not been confirmed by the MEA, it is believed that former US President Donald Trump will be meeting the Indian PM. Also read | PM Modi vows to restore J&K's statehood, promises monetary assistance to farmers, women The Republican leader earlier this week made the announcement while campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties. "So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic." After concluding the meetings, PM Modi will depart for New Delhi from the JFK International Airport on Monday evening, reaching the national capital on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like

In a significant remark, Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong has stated that relations between India and China are at a "crucial stage of improvement."&nbsp;

His comments follow recent high-level meetings between top ministers from both nations, signalling potential progress in their bilateral relationship.&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar twice in the past two months and met with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval a few days ago.&nbsp;

The Chinese ambassador explained that they "had in-depth communication" and reached "important consensus on the improvement" of bilateral relations. He added, "We are fully confident about the future of our bilateral relations."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-china-concerns-us-and-india-to-cooperate-in-indian-ocean-759974">Also read:&nbsp;Amid China concerns, US and India to cooperate in Indian Ocean</a>

Ties between the two neighbours have been strained since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Both sides also held a Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, with a focus on narrowing down the differences and finding early resolution of border issues.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar recently pointed out that 75 per cent of disengagement at the border has been achieved.&nbsp;

Following the remarks by EAM Jaishankar, the Chinese restated that disengagement has been achieved in four&nbsp;areas in the western sector, including Galwan. The disengagement in these areas has been public knowledge for some time now.

Watch |&nbsp;India-China direct passenger flights set to resume after more than 4 years

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Not only the border, India's big worry also remains the huge trade deficit with China. The Chinese ambassador stated, "The economic and trade structures of China and India are highly complementary. We welcome more Indian commodities to enter the Chinese market, and more Indian enterprises to invest in China."

In October, Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be attending the BRICS summit in Russia's Kazan. While it is too early to say if both sides will hold any formal meeting, at last year's summit in South Africa, the Indian and the Chinese leaders had a brief conversation.&nbsp;

In a significant remark, Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong has stated that relations between India and China are at a "crucial stage of improvement." His comments follow recent high-level meetings between top ministers from both nations, signalling potential progress in their bilateral relationship.

In a significant remark, Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong has stated that relations between India and China are at a "crucial stage of improvement." His comments follow recent high-level meetings between top ministers from both nations, signalling potential progress in their bilateral relationship. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar twice in the past two months and met with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval a few days ago. The Chinese ambassador explained that they "had in-depth communication" and reached "important consensus on the improvement" of bilateral relations. He added, "We are fully confident about the future of our bilateral relations." Also read: Amid China concerns, US and India to cooperate in Indian Ocean Ties between the two neighbours have been strained since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Both sides also held a Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, with a focus on narrowing down the differences and finding early resolution of border issues. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar recently pointed out that 75 per cent of disengagement at the border has been achieved. Following the remarks by EAM Jaishankar, the Chinese restated that disengagement has been achieved in four areas in the western sector, including Galwan. The disengagement in these areas has been public knowledge for some time now. Watch | India-China direct passenger flights set to resume after more than 4 years × Not only the border, India's big worry also remains the huge trade deficit with China. The Chinese ambassador stated, "The economic and trade structures of China and India are highly complementary. We welcome more Indian commodities to enter the Chinese market, and more Indian enterprises to invest in China." In October, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be attending the BRICS summit in Russia's Kazan. While it is too early to say if both sides will hold any formal meeting, at last year's summit in South Africa, the Indian and the Chinese leaders had a brief conversation.

China-India ties at crucial stage of improvement: Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has responded to the allegations that during&nbsp;his tenure, animal fat, including beef tallow was used to make&nbsp;Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering.&nbsp;

Reddy called the lab report false and accused Telugu Desam Party&nbsp;(TDP) leader and incumbent CM Chandrababu Naidu of using "faith for politics". The YSR Congress Party leader added that the contentious products were found in the offering when Naidu&nbsp;was already the CM of the state.&nbsp;

"We got to know that the quality of ghee was bad and immediately informed the Chief Minister Naidu," Reddy said.&nbsp;

"The tender process occurs every six months, and the qualification criteria has not changed for decades. Suppliers must provide an NABL certificate and a product quality certificate. TTD collects samples from the ghee, and only products that pass certification are used. TDP is politicising religious matters. We have rejected the products in our regime 18 times," he further explained.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ncbn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ncbn</a> 100 రోజుల అసమర్థ పాలనపై అందరూ దృష్టి పెట్టేసరికి.. నెయ్యి కల్తీ అంటూ డైవర్షన్ పాలిటిక్స్‌ను స్టార్ట్ చేశాడు 
 
దేవుడిని కూడా రాజకీయాల కోసం ఉపయోగించుకోవాలనే దుర్మార్గమైన మనస్తత్వం ఈ ప్రపంచ చరిత్రలో ఒక్క చంద్రబాబుకి మాత్రమే ఉంది 
 
-<a href="https://twitter.com/ysjagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ysjagan</a> గారు, వైయస్‌ఆర్‌సీపీ అధ్యక్షులు… <a href="https://t.co/tL4WBFaKN1">pic.twitter.com/tL4WBFaKN1</a>
— YSR Congress Party (@YSRCParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/YSRCParty/status/1837079271765848459?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Reddy said he was writing a letter to the PM and Chief Justice of India&nbsp;to plead his case. 

"Ultimately, at the end of the day, I myself am writing a letter to the Prime Minister. I am also writing a letter to the Chief Justice of India. I am explaining to them as to how Chandrababu Naidu twisted the facts and why action should be taken against him for having done so."

<h2>What is the 'laddoo' controversy?</h2>

The controversy erupted after Naidu on Wednesday (Sep 18) alleged that the Reddy-led government allowed the use of substandard ingredients in the preparation of laddus, which included animal fat and fish oil.

On Thursday (Sep 19), a lab report from&nbsp;Gujarat’s NDDB CALF lab, which confirmed the presence of lard, beef tallow and fish oil in ghee samples went viral on social media.&nbsp;

The report, dated July 16, 2024, was presented by TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy in a press conference.

"The lab reports of samples that were sent for testing to the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat certify that beef tallow and animal fat, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of ghee that was supplied to Tirumala and also the S value is only 19.7," Reddy said in a press conference.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tirupati-prasadam-row-indian-minister-calls-for-detailed-probe-into-andhra-cm-naidus-allegation-760385">Also read |&nbsp;Indian minister calls for detailed probe into Andhra CM Naidu's allegation</a>

The uproar has led to&nbsp;Indian Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi calling for a detailed probe into the allegations.&nbsp;

"Whatever the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister said is a very serious matter, it should be investigated in detail and whoever is guilty should be punished," said&nbsp;Joshi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has responded to the allegations that during his tenure, animal fat, including beef tallow was used to make Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering.

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has responded to the allegations that during his tenure, animal fat, including beef tallow was used to make Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering. Reddy called the lab report false and accused Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader and incumbent CM Chandrababu Naidu of using "faith for politics". The YSR Congress Party leader added that the contentious products were found in the offering when Naidu was already the CM of the state. "We got to know that the quality of ghee was bad and immediately informed the Chief Minister Naidu," Reddy said. "The tender process occurs every six months, and the qualification criteria has not changed for decades. Suppliers must provide an NABL certificate and a product quality certificate. TTD collects samples from the ghee, and only products that pass certification are used. TDP is politicising religious matters. We have rejected the products in our regime 18 times," he further explained. .@ncbn 100 రోజుల అసమర్థ పాలనపై అందరూ దృష్టి పెట్టేసరికి.. నెయ్యి కల్తీ అంటూ డైవర్షన్ పాలిటిక్స్‌ను స్టార్ట్ చేశాడు దేవుడిని కూడా రాజకీయాల కోసం ఉపయోగించుకోవాలనే దుర్మార్గమైన మనస్తత్వం ఈ ప్రపంచ చరిత్రలో ఒక్క చంద్రబాబుకి మాత్రమే ఉంది -@ysjagan గారు, వైయస్‌ఆర్‌సీపీ అధ్యక్షులు… pic.twitter.com/tL4WBFaKN1 — YSR Congress Party (@YSRCParty) September 20, 2024 × Reddy said he was writing a letter to the PM and Chief Justice of India to plead his case. "Ultimately, at the end of the day, I myself am writing a letter to the Prime Minister. I am also writing a letter to the Chief Justice of India. I am explaining to them as to how Chandrababu Naidu twisted the facts and why action should be taken against him for having done so." What is the 'laddoo' controversy? The controversy erupted after Naidu on Wednesday (Sep 18) alleged that the Reddy-led government allowed the use of substandard ingredients in the preparation of laddus, which included animal fat and fish oil. On Thursday (Sep 19), a lab report from Gujarat’s NDDB CALF lab, which confirmed the presence of lard, beef tallow and fish oil in ghee samples went viral on social media. The report, dated July 16, 2024, was presented by TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy in a press conference. "The lab reports of samples that were sent for testing to the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat certify that beef tallow and animal fat, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of ghee that was supplied to Tirumala and also the S value is only 19.7," Reddy said in a press conference. Also read | Indian minister calls for detailed probe into Andhra CM Naidu's allegation The uproar has led to Indian Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi calling for a detailed probe into the allegations. "Whatever the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister said is a very serious matter, it should be investigated in detail and whoever is guilty should be punished," said Joshi. (With inputs from agencies)

Tirupati Prasadam row: Ex-Andhra CM Jagan Reddy says lab report false, blames Naidu for playing faith politics

The YouTube channel of the Indian Supreme Court was hacked on Friday (Sep&nbsp;20). A report by Bar and Bench said that the channel was showing videos promoting XRP, a cryptocurrency developed by US-based company&nbsp;Ripple Labs.

The Supreme Court has been using YouTube&nbsp;to stream hearings of cases listed before Constitution Benches and matters involving public interest.&nbsp;Videos of earlier hearings have apparently been made private by the hackers, the report said.

<h2>What is the hacked channel showing?</h2>

A blank video with the title&nbsp;"Brad Garlinghouse: Ripple Responds To The SEC's $2 Billion Fine! XRP PRICE PREDICTION"&nbsp;is live at present on the hacked channel, the report added.&nbsp;

Officials told the publication that they were looking&nbsp;into the hacking of the YouTube channel.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-voices-concern-over-atrocious-social-media-trolling-even-judges-are-not-immune-755326">Supreme Court voices concern over ‘atrocious’ social media trolling: Even judges are not immune</a>

In a unanimous decision taken by the recent full court meeting headed by then CJI Uday Lalit, the top court decided to live-stream proceedings of all constitution bench hearings following a path-breaking verdict on the matter in 2018.&nbsp;

<h2>Channel taken down, says top court</h2>

In a statement, the apex court said that its YouTube channel had been taken down. The court added that services on the channel would resume shortly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The YouTube channel of the Indian Supreme Court was hacked on Friday (Sep 20). A report by Bar and Bench said that the channel was showing videos promoting XRP, a cryptocurrency developed by US-based company Ripple Labs.

The YouTube channel of the Indian Supreme Court was hacked on Friday (Sep 20). A report by Bar and Bench said that the channel was showing videos promoting XRP, a cryptocurrency developed by US-based company Ripple Labs. The Supreme Court has been using YouTube to stream hearings of cases listed before Constitution Benches and matters involving public interest. Videos of earlier hearings have apparently been made private by the hackers, the report said. What is the hacked channel showing? A blank video with the title "Brad Garlinghouse: Ripple Responds To The SEC's $2 Billion Fine! XRP PRICE PREDICTION" is live at present on the hacked channel, the report added. Officials told the publication that they were looking into the hacking of the YouTube channel. Also read | Supreme Court voices concern over ‘atrocious’ social media trolling: Even judges are not immune In a unanimous decision taken by the recent full court meeting headed by then CJI Uday Lalit, the top court decided to live-stream proceedings of all constitution bench hearings following a path-breaking verdict on the matter in 2018. Channel taken down, says top court In a statement, the apex court said that its YouTube channel had been taken down. The court added that services on the channel would resume shortly. (With inputs from agencies)

YouTube channel of Indian Supreme Court hacked, showing videos promoting crypto

Congress leader Rashid Alvi on Friday launched a scathing attack on both the Andhra Pradesh government and the BJP over allegations that beef fat was used to make laddus at the Tirupati temple.

He said, "Today, the Andhra Pradesh government and BJP are together. BJP does not have any interest in beef or Dharma. BJP plays with the feelings of the people."

"If beef grease is used at such a pious place to make laddus, I would say that PM Modi and the CM should resign. This is about the faith of crores of people", Alvi added.

Alvi also highlighted the ongoing tensions. He said, "Whichever government it is, it has been in collusion with the Bharatiya Janata Party." He claimed that the BJP is 'playing with the sentiments of the people of the country' and further insisted that if beef fat is indeed being mixed into laddus, "the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister do not get any right to be in the government."

"India is one of the countries that exports the most beef in the world... the amount of beef export happening under BJP, it has never happened before", said the congress leader.

Earlier, BJP leader Bhanuprakash Reddy condemned the alleged use of animal fat in the 'Tirupati Prasadam' sweets. Reddy also said that they plan to file a complaint against the previous YSRCP government led by former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy.

He claimed, "During the tenure of Jagan Mohan Reddy, from 2019 to 2024, TTD used pure cow ghee to prepare laddu," adding that the laddu was later adulterated. "We got a report that vegetable oil and animal fat were mixed in it," he said.

Reddy added, "It is a very bad thing that happened in the history of Tirumala... Jagan Mohan Reddy's government wantedly damaged the sentiment of Hindu pilgrims, especially Balaji's devotees." He announced that they are filing a complaint against several officials, including TTD Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made a serious allegation, claiming that the previous YSR Congress government used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam. In a post on X, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a video clip of Naidu, who said, "I am shocked to learn that the YS&nbsp;jagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam."

YSRCP Leader and former TTD Chairman YV Subbareddy however denies the charge claiming that only organic materials had been used to prepare the Prasadam.

"All the ingredients used for Swami's offerings from last three 3 years are all organic ingredients including ghee. This is a very vile allegation that our government and our party, which have done so many programs while protecting the sanctity of Swami, are doing so many programs to mislead the people," he said.

The Tirupati temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, is a very important place of worship, known for its importance among Hindu pilgrims.&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&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Congress leader Rashid Alvi on Friday launched a scathing attack on both the Andhra Pradesh government and the BJP over allegations that beef fat was used to make laddus at the Tirupati temple.

Congress leader Rashid Alvi on Friday launched a scathing attack on both the Andhra Pradesh government and the BJP over allegations that beef fat was used to make laddus at the Tirupati temple. He said, "Today, the Andhra Pradesh government and BJP are together. BJP does not have any interest in beef or Dharma. BJP plays with the feelings of the people." "If beef grease is used at such a pious place to make laddus, I would say that PM Modi and the CM should resign. This is about the faith of crores of people", Alvi added. Alvi also highlighted the ongoing tensions. He said, "Whichever government it is, it has been in collusion with the Bharatiya Janata Party." He claimed that the BJP is 'playing with the sentiments of the people of the country' and further insisted that if beef fat is indeed being mixed into laddus, "the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister do not get any right to be in the government." "India is one of the countries that exports the most beef in the world... the amount of beef export happening under BJP, it has never happened before", said the congress leader. Earlier, BJP leader Bhanuprakash Reddy condemned the alleged use of animal fat in the 'Tirupati Prasadam' sweets. Reddy also said that they plan to file a complaint against the previous YSRCP government led by former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy. He claimed, "During the tenure of Jagan Mohan Reddy, from 2019 to 2024, TTD used pure cow ghee to prepare laddu," adding that the laddu was later adulterated. "We got a report that vegetable oil and animal fat were mixed in it," he said. Reddy added, "It is a very bad thing that happened in the history of Tirumala... Jagan Mohan Reddy's government wantedly damaged the sentiment of Hindu pilgrims, especially Balaji's devotees." He announced that they are filing a complaint against several officials, including TTD Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made a serious allegation, claiming that the previous YSR Congress government used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam. In a post on X, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a video clip of Naidu, who said, "I am shocked to learn that the YS jagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam." YSRCP Leader and former TTD Chairman YV Subbareddy however denies the charge claiming that only organic materials had been used to prepare the Prasadam. "All the ingredients used for Swami's offerings from last three 3 years are all organic ingredients including ghee. This is a very vile allegation that our government and our party, which have done so many programs while protecting the sanctity of Swami, are doing so many programs to mislead the people," he said. The Tirupati temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, is a very important place of worship, known for its importance among Hindu pilgrims. 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.

Tirupati Prasadam row: 'Modi, Naidu should resign if...,' says Congress leader

Indian Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Friday (Sept 20) called for a detailed probe into Andhra Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's allegation that the previous state government used substandard ingredients and animal fat in making Tirupati laddu, a consecrated sweet.

Indian Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Friday (Sept 20) called for a detailed probe into Andhra Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's allegation that the previous state government used substandard ingredients and animal fat in making Tirupati laddu, a consecrated sweet. Addressing a press conference, Consumer Affairs Minister Joshi said, "Whatever the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister said is a very serious matter, it should be investigated in detail and whoever is guilty should be punished." What did Chandrababu Naidu say? On Thursday, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a video clip of Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Naidu saying that previously animal fat was used in consecrated sweets--'Tirupati Prasadam' instead of 'Ghee' at Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. Also read | Pawan Khera blames BJP for creating 'conspiracy theories' around Tirupati Prasadam row "The Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the YS Jagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam," State Minister Lokesh said in a post on X. The lord venkateswara swamy temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the @ysjagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the tirupati Prasadam. Shame on @ysjagan and the @ysrcparty government that couldn’t respect the religious… pic.twitter.com/UDFC2WsoLP — Lokesh Nara (@naralokesh) September 18, 2024 × "Shame on YS Jagan and the YSR party government that couldn't respect the religious sentiments of crores of devotees," he added. The charges of Naidu have been denied by former TDP Chairman and YSRCP leader YV Subbareddy who claimed that only organic ingredients were used in the preparation of Prasadam. "All the ingredients used for Swami's offerings from the last three 3 years are all organic ingredients including ghee. This is a very vile allegation that our government and our party, which have done so many programs while protecting the sanctity of Swami, are doing so many programs to mislead the people," he said. 'Beef tallow, animal fat used in preparation of ghee' Earlier, TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy cited a lab report which said that "beef tallow and animal fat--lard and fish oil--were used in the preparation of ghee, which was supplied to Tirumala." "The lab reports of samples that were sent for testing to the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat certify that beef tallow and animal fat, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of ghee that was supplied to Tirumala and also the S value is only 19.7," Reddy said. "The Hindu religion is offended by this. The 'prasadam' which is offered to the Lord thrice a day has been mixed with this ghee," he added.

Tirupati Prasadam row: Indian minister calls for detailed probe into Andhra CM Naidu's allegation

Amid the raging row over “adulteration” of the ‘prasadam’ at the globally renowned Tirupati temple, Congress leader Pawan Khera on Friday trained guns on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and accused it of “polarising” the discourse in an election season.

Khera, the Congress national spokesperson, alleged that BJP is trying to gain political mileage by allowing conspiracy theories to fly thick in the air, even as the startling claims about Tirupati laddus remain to be substantiated.

He, however, said that if the claims of desecration of Tirupati Laddus are proven right, a full-fledged inquiry must identify the guilty and the strictest possible punishment must be meted out.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-judge-faces-scs-ire-after-calling-muslim-majority-area-mini-pakistan-760326">Karnataka judge faces SC's ire after calling Muslim-majority area 'mini-Pakistan'</a>

“If the claims are wrong or motivated, millions of Tirupati devotees will not forgive those playing with their faith. Until then, it suits the BJP to allow polarising conspiracy theories to fly thick in the air in election season,” Khera wrote on social media platform X.

The massive row over the “desecration” of Tirupati temple prasadam broke out after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made startling claims about how the laddus were adulterated under the regime of the YSR Congress led by Jagan Mohan Reddy.

Watch |&nbsp;Chandrababu Naidu Alleges Animal Fat In Tirupati Laddoo, YSR Congress Refutes Claim

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He said that animal fat including “beef tallow” was being used in Tirupati ‘prasadam’ instead of ghee at the famed Sri Venkateswara temple, hurting the religious sentiments of crores of Lord’s devotees.

While the allegations triggered a political slugfest, with TDP and YSR Congress taking shots at each other, a laboratory report emerged on Thursday evening, corroborating the allegations.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tirupati-prasad-row-ysrcp-moves-andhra-high-court-after-cm-naidus-allegation-of-adulteration-760344">Tirupati Prasad row: YSRCP moves Andhra High Court after CM Naidu's allegation of adulteration</a>

It confirmed the use of beef tallow, fish oil and tard (related to pig fat) in the laddus distributed to crores of devotees at Tirupati.

A couple of YSR Congress spokespersons dismissed it as a ploy by CM Naidu’s TDP to “discredit and malign” former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy and also an attempt to consolidate Hindu votes.

Many BJP leaders, including Union Minister Sanjay Kumar Bandi, have demanded a detailed probe to identify the culprits and strict punishment for the act of “sacrilege” against Lord Venkateswara.

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&nbsp;audience.

Amid the raging row over “adulteration” of the ‘prasadam’ at the globally renowned Tirupati temple, Congress leader Pawan Khera on Friday trained guns on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and accused it of “polarising” the discourse in an election season.

Amid the raging row over “adulteration” of the ‘prasadam’ at the globally renowned Tirupati temple, Congress leader Pawan Khera on Friday trained guns on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and accused it of “polarising” the discourse in an election season. Khera, the Congress national spokesperson, alleged that BJP is trying to gain political mileage by allowing conspiracy theories to fly thick in the air, even as the startling claims about Tirupati laddus remain to be substantiated. He, however, said that if the claims of desecration of Tirupati Laddus are proven right, a full-fledged inquiry must identify the guilty and the strictest possible punishment must be meted out. Also Read | Karnataka judge faces SC's ire after calling Muslim-majority area 'mini-Pakistan' “If the claims are wrong or motivated, millions of Tirupati devotees will not forgive those playing with their faith. Until then, it suits the BJP to allow polarising conspiracy theories to fly thick in the air in election season,” Khera wrote on social media platform X. The massive row over the “desecration” of Tirupati temple prasadam broke out after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made startling claims about how the laddus were adulterated under the regime of the YSR Congress led by Jagan Mohan Reddy. Watch | Chandrababu Naidu Alleges Animal Fat In Tirupati Laddoo, YSR Congress Refutes Claim × He said that animal fat including “beef tallow” was being used in Tirupati ‘prasadam’ instead of ghee at the famed Sri Venkateswara temple, hurting the religious sentiments of crores of Lord’s devotees. While the allegations triggered a political slugfest, with TDP and YSR Congress taking shots at each other, a laboratory report emerged on Thursday evening, corroborating the allegations. Also Read | Tirupati Prasad row: YSRCP moves Andhra High Court after CM Naidu's allegation of adulteration It confirmed the use of beef tallow, fish oil and tard (related to pig fat) in the laddus distributed to crores of devotees at Tirupati. A couple of YSR Congress spokespersons dismissed it as a ploy by CM Naidu’s TDP to “discredit and malign” former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy and also an attempt to consolidate Hindu votes. Many BJP leaders, including Union Minister Sanjay Kumar Bandi, have demanded a detailed probe to identify the culprits and strict punishment for the act of “sacrilege” against Lord Venkateswara. 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.

Pawan Khera blames BJP for creating 'conspiracy theories' around Tirupati 'prasadam' row

The Indian Supreme Court on Friday (Sep 20) took suo motu cognisance of remarks made by a lower court judge referring to a Muslim-dominated area as ‘mini-Pakistan.’ Karnataka High Court Justice V Srishananda sparked a major controversy during a recent landlord-tenant dispute hearing. Now, the country’s apex court has directed the Karnataka HC to submit a report over the controversial ‘Pakistan’ remarks.

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Bengaluru Police is scared of going into a Muslim dominated area ; Gori Palya to catch criminals, that place is like a mini Pakistan - Karantaka Court Judge 
 
Inclusive Karnataka under Congress rule...<a href="https://t.co/zIcCkTcVy8">pic.twitter.com/zIcCkTcVy8</a>
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrSinha_/status/1836402334248624473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A five-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, along with Justices S Khanna, B R Gavai, S Kant, and H Roy, said there was an urgent need to lay down guidelines for Constitutional judges regarding their remarks during court hearings.

"Attention has been drawn to media reports to the comments made by Justice...of Karnataka High Court during the court proceedings. We request the Karnataka High Court to submit a report after seeking instructions from the Chief Justice of the high court," the CJI said, adding the SC may form some basic guidelines. The matter will now be heard on Wednesday (Sep 25).

<h2>Context</h2>

During a recent hearing, Justice V Srishananda expressed his views on traffic condition near the Mysore Road flyover. The judge said, “Go towards the Mysore Road Flyover, every autorickshaw has got 10 people… The Mysore Road Flyover from the market to Goripalya is in Pakistan, not in India. This is the reality… However strict an officer you send, he will be beaten. This is not on any channel.”

A clip of the judge making these remarks also went viral on social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjU6LSn-9CIAxVgIbkGHeH3EEwQFnoECBYQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/youtube-channel-of-indian-supreme-court-hacked-showing-videos-promoting-crypto-760322" jsname="UWckNb" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/youtube-channel-of-indian-supreme-court-hacked-showing-videos-promoting-crypto-760322&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU6LSn-9CIAxVgIbkGHeH3EEwQFnoECBYQAQ">YouTube channel of Indian Supreme Court hacked</a>

A NDTV report highlighted that the judge previously fuelled controversy by making objectionable comments about a woman lawyer.

Justice Srishanananda reportedly told a woman lawyer that she seemed to know a lot about the "opposition party", so much so that she might be able to reveal the colour of their undergarments.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Supreme Court on Friday (Sep 20) took suo motu cognisance of remarks made by a lower court judge referring to a Muslim-dominated area as ‘mini-Pakistan.

The Indian Supreme Court on Friday (Sep 20) took suo motu cognisance of remarks made by a lower court judge referring to a Muslim-dominated area as ‘mini-Pakistan.’ Karnataka High Court Justice V Srishananda sparked a major controversy during a recent landlord-tenant dispute hearing. Now, the country’s apex court has directed the Karnataka HC to submit a report over the controversial ‘Pakistan’ remarks. Bengaluru Police is scared of going into a Muslim dominated area ; Gori Palya to catch criminals, that place is like a mini Pakistan - Karantaka Court Judge Inclusive Karnataka under Congress rule...pic.twitter.com/zIcCkTcVy8 — Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) September 18, 2024 × A five-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, along with Justices S Khanna, B R Gavai, S Kant, and H Roy, said there was an urgent need to lay down guidelines for Constitutional judges regarding their remarks during court hearings. "Attention has been drawn to media reports to the comments made by Justice...of Karnataka High Court during the court proceedings. We request the Karnataka High Court to submit a report after seeking instructions from the Chief Justice of the high court," the CJI said, adding the SC may form some basic guidelines. The matter will now be heard on Wednesday (Sep 25). Context During a recent hearing, Justice V Srishananda expressed his views on traffic condition near the Mysore Road flyover. The judge said, “Go towards the Mysore Road Flyover, every autorickshaw has got 10 people… The Mysore Road Flyover from the market to Goripalya is in Pakistan, not in India. This is the reality… However strict an officer you send, he will be beaten. This is not on any channel.” A clip of the judge making these remarks also went viral on social media. Also read: YouTube channel of Indian Supreme Court hacked A NDTV report highlighted that the judge previously fuelled controversy by making objectionable comments about a woman lawyer. Justice Srishanananda reportedly told a woman lawyer that she seemed to know a lot about the "opposition party", so much so that she might be able to reveal the colour of their undergarments. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka judge faces SC's ire after calling Muslim-majority area 'mini-Pakistan'

Days after Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu alleged former YSRCP government for adulterating the Tirupati Prasadam with "animal fat," the YSRCP on Friday moved to the Andhra Pradesh High Court demanding an investigation into the claims made by the ruling party.

The lawyers representing the YSRCP, requested the court that either a sitting judge or a committee should be appointed by the High Court to investigate the claims made by the Chief Minister. The bench suggested that a PIL be filed by Wednesday, stating that the arguments would be heard on that day.

Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan urged for the constitution of a 'Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board' to look into issues related to temples across the country.

In a post on X on Friday, Pawan Kalyan assured strict action on the ongoing laddu controversy in Tirupati and added that this matter points to many issues surrounding "desecration of temples, its land issues and other dharmic practices."

The Deputy Chief Minister also called for national-level debate on the matter and urged for a collective fight against "desecration of Sanathana Dharma in any form."

Meanwhile, former TTD Chairman YV Subbareddy denied the TDP claims and said that only organic ingredients were used in the preparations of the Prsadam.

"All the ingredients used for Swami's offerings from last three 3 years are all organic ingredients including ghee. This is a very vile allegation that our&nbsp;government and our party, which have done so many programs while protecting the sanctity of Swami, are doing so many programs to mislead the people," he said.

On Thursday, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a video clip in which Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu was seen saying that&nbsp;previously animal fat was used in consecrated sweets--'Tirupati Prasadam' instead of 'Ghee' at Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. CM Naidu accused the previous YSR Congress-led by Jagan Mohan Reddy in the matter.

In a post on X, Andhra Minister Nara Lokesh said that he was shocked by the findings and added, "The Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the YS Jagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam."

"Shame on YS Jagan and the YSR party government that couldn't respect the religious sentiments of crores of devotees," he added.

Citing a copy of a "lab report," TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy alleged that "beef tallow and animal fat--lard and fish oil--were used in the preparation of ghee, which was supplied to Tirumala."

"The lab reports of samples that were sent for testing to the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat certify that beef tallow and animal fat, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of ghee that was supplied to Tirumala and also the S value is only 19.7. The Hindu religion is offended by this. The 'prasadam' which is offered to the Lord thrice a day has been mixed with this ghee," Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy alleged.

"We hope that justice will be done and Lord Govinda will forgive us for whatever mistakes have been committed," he said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Days after Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu alleged former YSRCP government for adulterating the Tirupati Prasadam with "animal fat," the YSRCP on Friday moved to the Andhra Pradesh High Court demanding an investigation into the claims made by the ruling party.

Days after Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu alleged former YSRCP government for adulterating the Tirupati Prasadam with "animal fat," the YSRCP on Friday moved to the Andhra Pradesh High Court demanding an investigation into the claims made by the ruling party. The lawyers representing the YSRCP, requested the court that either a sitting judge or a committee should be appointed by the High Court to investigate the claims made by the Chief Minister. The bench suggested that a PIL be filed by Wednesday, stating that the arguments would be heard on that day. Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan urged for the constitution of a 'Sanatana Dharma Rakshana Board' to look into issues related to temples across the country. In a post on X on Friday, Pawan Kalyan assured strict action on the ongoing laddu controversy in Tirupati and added that this matter points to many issues surrounding "desecration of temples, its land issues and other dharmic practices." The Deputy Chief Minister also called for national-level debate on the matter and urged for a collective fight against "desecration of Sanathana Dharma in any form." Meanwhile, former TTD Chairman YV Subbareddy denied the TDP claims and said that only organic ingredients were used in the preparations of the Prsadam. "All the ingredients used for Swami's offerings from last three 3 years are all organic ingredients including ghee. This is a very vile allegation that our government and our party, which have done so many programs while protecting the sanctity of Swami, are doing so many programs to mislead the people," he said. On Thursday, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh shared a video clip in which Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu was seen saying that previously animal fat was used in consecrated sweets--'Tirupati Prasadam' instead of 'Ghee' at Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. CM Naidu accused the previous YSR Congress-led by Jagan Mohan Reddy in the matter. In a post on X, Andhra Minister Nara Lokesh said that he was shocked by the findings and added, "The Lord Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala is our most sacred temple. I am shocked to learn that the YS Jagan administration used animal fat instead of ghee in the Tirupati Prasadam." "Shame on YS Jagan and the YSR party government that couldn't respect the religious sentiments of crores of devotees," he added. Citing a copy of a "lab report," TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy alleged that "beef tallow and animal fat--lard and fish oil--were used in the preparation of ghee, which was supplied to Tirumala." "The lab reports of samples that were sent for testing to the National Dairy Development Board in Gujarat certify that beef tallow and animal fat, lard, and fish oil were used in the preparation of ghee that was supplied to Tirumala and also the S value is only 19.7. The Hindu religion is offended by this. The 'prasadam' which is offered to the Lord thrice a day has been mixed with this ghee," Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy alleged. "We hope that justice will be done and Lord Govinda will forgive us for whatever mistakes have been committed," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tirupati Prasad row: YSRCP moves Andhra High Court after CM Naidu's allegation of adulteration

Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Sep 18) voted in phase one of assembly polls, the first after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The Election Commission of India (ECI) said that the tentative voter turnout across the 24 assembly seats stood at 59 per cent. The turnout was expected to increase as voting was still going on in remote areas of the Pir Panjal Mountain range.

The voting process concluded without any untoward incident or violence. A multi-cornered contest was observed in most of the seats as major local parties as well as Jamaat-e-Islami backed independent candidates entered the electoral fray.

The voter turnout rate didn’t see any major change from the 2014 assembly polls held in the region. As per the data from the ECI, the 2014 polls saw a voter turnout rate of 60.19 per cent.

Interestingly, regions most affected by militancy in the Shopian district recorded higher turnout than the previous elections. However, voter turnout in the neighbouring Pulwama district dropped by a couple of percentage points.

Of all, the biggest drop was witnessed in the Shangus-Anantnag segment where only 52.94 per cent of voters exercised their voting rights. The figure in previous elections 10 years ago stood at 68.78 per cent.

Similarly, in the Damhal Hanjipora segment, just 52.94 per cent of people showed up at the polling booths, against 69 per cent 10 years back.

Kokernag, now designated as a reserved constituency for Scheduled Tribes following the delimitation, experienced a turnout decline of over seven percentage points, with only 58.00 per cent of the electorate participating in the voting process.

The Inderwal segment, however, reported an 80 per cent turnout, an increase from the 75.72 per cent recorded a decade ago. In contrast, the neighbouring Kishtwar constituency saw a decrease in turnout from 78.23 per cent to 75.04 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Sep 18) voted in phase one of assembly polls, the first after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The Election Commission of India (ECI) said that the tentative voter turnout across the 24 assembly seats stood at 59 per cent.

Indian Union Territory Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Sep 18) voted in phase one of assembly polls, the first after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The Election Commission of India (ECI) said that the tentative voter turnout across the 24 assembly seats stood at 59 per cent. The turnout was expected to increase as voting was still going on in remote areas of the Pir Panjal Mountain range. The voting process concluded without any untoward incident or violence. A multi-cornered contest was observed in most of the seats as major local parties as well as Jamaat-e-Islami backed independent candidates entered the electoral fray. The voter turnout rate didn’t see any major change from the 2014 assembly polls held in the region. As per the data from the ECI, the 2014 polls saw a voter turnout rate of 60.19 per cent. Interestingly, regions most affected by militancy in the Shopian district recorded higher turnout than the previous elections. However, voter turnout in the neighbouring Pulwama district dropped by a couple of percentage points. Of all, the biggest drop was witnessed in the Shangus-Anantnag segment where only 52.94 per cent of voters exercised their voting rights. The figure in previous elections 10 years ago stood at 68.78 per cent. Similarly, in the Damhal Hanjipora segment, just 52.94 per cent of people showed up at the polling booths, against 69 per cent 10 years back. Kokernag, now designated as a reserved constituency for Scheduled Tribes following the delimitation, experienced a turnout decline of over seven percentage points, with only 58.00 per cent of the electorate participating in the voting process. The Inderwal segment, however, reported an 80 per cent turnout, an increase from the 75.72 per cent recorded a decade ago. In contrast, the neighbouring Kishtwar constituency saw a decrease in turnout from 78.23 per cent to 75.04 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu-Kashmir assembly polls phase 1: Voter turnout stands at 59%, no violence reported

Aam Aadmi Party on Thursday said that Rajya Sabha MP Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21. "Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21, other ministers will also take their oaths alongside her," the Aam Aadmi Party said in a statement.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, who has staked claim to become the next Delhi Chief Minister, said on Tuesday that she is happy about the trust posed in her by the outgoing CM Arvind Kejriwal but also sad that he has resigned from his post.

Atishi told reporters that she will work to bring back Kejriwal as Chief Minister after the assembly polls, which would be held in the next few months.

"First of all, I would like to thank the popular CM of Delhi, AAP national convener, and my guru - Arvind Kejriwal. He gave me such a huge responsibility and trusted me for it. This can be done only in AAP, only under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, that a first-time politician becomes the CM of a state. I come from an ordinary family. Had I been in any other party, perhaps I would not have been given even an election ticket," Atishi said.

Atishi, 43, will be the third woman chief minister of Delhi after Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. She is a prominent AAP leader and served as Advisor to Manish Sisodia when he was Education Minister. AAP leaders said she played a pivotal role in revamping the state of education in government-run schools in the national capital.

Atishi joined AAP at the time of its inception and was a key member of the Manifesto Drafting Committee of the party for the 2013 Assembly election. She has also served as a party spokesperson.

She represents the Kalkaji constituency in the Delhi Assembly and holds the highest number of portfolios in the Delhi government.

Atishi was appointed to the Delhi cabinet in March 2023 in the face of difficulties faced by AAP following arrest of Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case. He has also been released on bail in the case.

Atishi will have her task cut out as she will be key face of AAP as it prepares for assembly polls with aim to come to power again in the national capital.

AAP has demanded early polls to the Delhi assembly. The last assembly polls were held in early 2020. Earlier on Tuesday, Kejriwal, who is also Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor, resigned as Delhi Chief Minister.

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. 
&nbsp;

Aam Aadmi Party on Thursday said that Rajya Sabha MP Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21. "Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21, other ministers will also take their oaths alongside her," the Aam Aadmi Party said in a statement.

Aam Aadmi Party on Thursday said that Rajya Sabha MP Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21. "Atishi will take oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21, other ministers will also take their oaths alongside her," the Aam Aadmi Party said in a statement. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, who has staked claim to become the next Delhi Chief Minister, said on Tuesday that she is happy about the trust posed in her by the outgoing CM Arvind Kejriwal but also sad that he has resigned from his post. Atishi told reporters that she will work to bring back Kejriwal as Chief Minister after the assembly polls, which would be held in the next few months. "First of all, I would like to thank the popular CM of Delhi, AAP national convener, and my guru - Arvind Kejriwal. He gave me such a huge responsibility and trusted me for it. This can be done only in AAP, only under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, that a first-time politician becomes the CM of a state. I come from an ordinary family. Had I been in any other party, perhaps I would not have been given even an election ticket," Atishi said. Atishi, 43, will be the third woman chief minister of Delhi after Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. She is a prominent AAP leader and served as Advisor to Manish Sisodia when he was Education Minister. AAP leaders said she played a pivotal role in revamping the state of education in government-run schools in the national capital. Atishi joined AAP at the time of its inception and was a key member of the Manifesto Drafting Committee of the party for the 2013 Assembly election. She has also served as a party spokesperson. She represents the Kalkaji constituency in the Delhi Assembly and holds the highest number of portfolios in the Delhi government. Atishi was appointed to the Delhi cabinet in March 2023 in the face of difficulties faced by AAP following arrest of Manish Sisodia in the excise policy case. He has also been released on bail in the case. Atishi will have her task cut out as she will be key face of AAP as it prepares for assembly polls with aim to come to power again in the national capital. AAP has demanded early polls to the Delhi assembly. The last assembly polls were held in early 2020. Earlier on Tuesday, Kejriwal, who is also Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor, resigned as Delhi Chief Minister. 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.

Atishi to take oath as Chief Minister of Delhi on September 21: AAP

Junior doctors protesting the rape-murder of their colleague in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have called off the month-long strike and will be resuming the emergency services from Saturday (Sep 21).&nbsp;

"On the 41st day of the protest, West Bengal Junior Doctors Front wants to say that we achieved a lot during our agitation, but many things remain unachieved. We made the Kolkata commissioner of police resign and the DME, DHS resign. But this doesn't mean the agitation is over. We will take it forward in a new way," the protesting doctors said.&nbsp;

The decision was taken after a general body meeting was held on Thursday (Sep 19) where the doctors submitted a draft outlining key points from their discussions with the West Bengal government. The state's response is now awaited.

While essential services will be resuming, the Outpatient Department (OPD) and Occupational Therapy (OT) services will remain suspended.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are returning to work on Saturday and will resume essential services. OPD and OT services will remain suspended because we want to ensure that measures are taken to ensure the security of female colleagues," the protesting doctors said.&nbsp;

Notably, the doctors will be organising a rally from Swasthya Bhawan (ground zero of the protests) to the CGO complex on Friday (Sep 20)&nbsp;to end the protest.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-horror-cm-mamata-banerjee-agrees-to-indian-doctors-demands-removes-police-commissioner-759460" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Kolkata Horror: CM Mamata Banerjee agrees to Indian doctors’ demands, removes Police Commissioner</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-horror-cm-mamata-banerjee-agrees-to-indian-doctors-demands-removes-police-commissioner-759460/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The healthcare machinery of the state had been hit badly in the last few weeks, with the doctors demanding justice for the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered last month. However, with the floods aggravating the situation, the Mamata Banerjee government pleaded the doctors to return to work.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the Mamata administration also accepted the&nbsp;resignation of Commissioner of Police, Vineet Goyal, after protesting doctors demanded it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:216,&quot;w&quot;:700,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2093}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-horror-former-rg-kar-principal-sandip-ghoshs-polygraph-results-deceptive-says-cbi-759098">Kolkata horror: Former RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh’s polygraph results 'deceptive', says CBI</a>

The state government has come under heavy scrutiny for its role in the case. 
 
The Supreme Court on&nbsp;Tuesday (Sep 17)&nbsp;said the details submitted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its status report regarding the state's role in the case were "really disturbing" and that the court itself was troubled by it.

“I won’t give details of the day here because it will dislocate the investigation. We don’t want someone to take advantage of it as a technical issue later on. But what the CBI has revealed in its status report is really disturbing," Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud had said while presiding over a three-judge bench.

The CBI report highlighted the series of flaws in the investigation, including the fact that the victim's clothes were not even sent for the post-mortem. The bench came down heavily on the state and raised questions about evidence tampering and police complicity, leading to the arrest of the station house officer (SHO) of the area.

(With inputs from agencies)

Junior doctors protesting the rape-murder of their colleague in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have called off the month-long strike and will be resuming the emergency services from Saturday (Sep 21).

Junior doctors protesting the rape-murder of their colleague in Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have called off the month-long strike and will be resuming the emergency services from Saturday (Sep 21). "On the 41st day of the protest, West Bengal Junior Doctors Front wants to say that we achieved a lot during our agitation, but many things remain unachieved. We made the Kolkata commissioner of police resign and the DME, DHS resign. But this doesn't mean the agitation is over. We will take it forward in a new way," the protesting doctors said. The decision was taken after a general body meeting was held on Thursday (Sep 19) where the doctors submitted a draft outlining key points from their discussions with the West Bengal government. The state's response is now awaited. While essential services will be resuming, the Outpatient Department (OPD) and Occupational Therapy (OT) services will remain suspended. "We are returning to work on Saturday and will resume essential services. OPD and OT services will remain suspended because we want to ensure that measures are taken to ensure the security of female colleagues," the protesting doctors said. Notably, the doctors will be organising a rally from Swasthya Bhawan (ground zero of the protests) to the CGO complex on Friday (Sep 20) to end the protest. Watch | Kolkata Horror: CM Mamata Banerjee agrees to Indian doctors’ demands, removes Police Commissioner The healthcare machinery of the state had been hit badly in the last few weeks, with the doctors demanding justice for the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered last month. However, with the floods aggravating the situation, the Mamata Banerjee government pleaded the doctors to return to work. Earlier this week, the Mamata administration also accepted the resignation of Commissioner of Police, Vineet Goyal, after protesting doctors demanded it. Also read | Kolkata horror: Former RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh’s polygraph results 'deceptive', says CBI The state government has come under heavy scrutiny for its role in the case. The Supreme Court on Tuesday (Sep 17) said the details submitted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its status report regarding the state's role in the case were "really disturbing" and that the court itself was troubled by it. “I won’t give details of the day here because it will dislocate the investigation. We don’t want someone to take advantage of it as a technical issue later on. But what the CBI has revealed in its status report is really disturbing," Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud had said while presiding over a three-judge bench. The CBI report highlighted the series of flaws in the investigation, including the fact that the victim's clothes were not even sent for the post-mortem. The bench came down heavily on the state and raised questions about evidence tampering and police complicity, leading to the arrest of the station house officer (SHO) of the area. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata horror: Doctors call off month-long protest; to resume emergency services from Saturday

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