After a portion of an under-construction Khagaria-Aguwani bridge in the eastern Indian state of Bihar collapsed on Sunday (June 4), Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav has said it was a planned demolition as experts had discovered 'serious defects' in the design.

After a portion of an under-construction Khagaria-Aguwani bridge in the eastern Indian state of Bihar collapsed on Sunday (June 4), Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav has said it was a planned demolition as experts had discovered 'serious defects' in the design. Addressing a hurried press conference after the accident, Yadav appeared alongside the additional chief secretary of road construction department, Pratyay Amrit and made the statement. "It may be recalled that a portion of this bridge had collapsed on April 30 last year. I strongly raised it in my capacity as the then Leader of the Opposition," said Yadav. "Upon coming to power, we ordered an inquiry and sought expert opinion...approached IIT-Roorkee, which is esteemed for its expertise in construction matters, to conduct a study. It is yet to come up with a final report but experts who had studied the structure had informed us that there were serious defects." Yadav disclosed that several 'vulnerable' parts of the bridge had already been pulled down due to structural flaws. He added that Sunday's incident confirmed the government's "worst apprehensions". Meanwhile, Amrit, confirmed that parts of bridges were pulled out. "It was decided that we must not take any chance and wait for a final report. So we went ahead with pulling down parts of the bridge." Watch: Thieves steal 29-foot tall mobile tower in Indian state of Bihar × According to reports, the state government is waiting for the final report to come before taking action such as lodging an FIR and blacklisting the company which was awarded the contract. Yadav added that his government remained committed to building the bridge which was an important infrastructure project for the people of north Bihar. "This bridge is of great importance for north Bihar where connectivity will greatly improve once it begins to function. We are committed to completing the project after setting right everything that has been wrong." Aguwani-Sultanganj bridge and its history Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar laid the foundation of the bridge in 2015, and its construction was scheduled to be completed within five years. However, the bridge remained under construction with the latest deadline promising completion by December 2023. Watch: Another under-construction bridge collapses in India’s Bihar The proposed bridge was expected to significantly shorten the distance between Mithulanchal and Kosi region, as well as between Munger and Khagaria. Upon completion, the distance between Mithulanchal and Kosi will be reduced by 50 km, while the distance between Munger and Khagaria will be reduced to 35 km. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Bihar bridge collapse: Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav says ‘serious defects found’

The guard, who was reportedly stationed near the bridge that collapsed within seconds like a 'house of cards' in the Indian state of Bihar, has gone missing and efforts are being made to trace him.&nbsp;

A war of words has started between the state government and the opposition BJP over the sudden collapse of the under-construction bridge in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. Hours after the collapse of the four-lane bridge on Sunday, the government of Bihar told media officials that there were "serious defects" in the structure and that someone had deliberately destroyed its portions in a planned fashion.

"It may be recalled that a portion of this bridge had collapsed on April 30 last year. We had, thereafter, approached IIT-Roorkee, which is esteemed for its expertise in construction matters, to conduct a study. It is yet to come up with a final report but experts who had studied the structure had informed us that there were serious defects," said state's Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, during the press conference.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bridge-collapse-deputy-cm-tejashwi-yadav-says-serious-defects-found-600708">Bihar bridge collapse: Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav says ‘serious defects found’</a>

Speaking at the press conference, a government official stated that they did not want to take any chance and hence, went forward with pulling down parts of the bridge.

The bridge was reported to have cost approximately ₹1,700 crore ($212 million).&nbsp;

<h2>Strict action against erring officials</h2>

An inquiry was ordered by the government into the incident that occurred on Sunday and stated that strict action needs to be taken against the erring officials.

Yadav said that "many structural defects have been pointed out by experts and we have already pulled down many portions which have been flagged as particularly vulnerable. Today's incident confirms our worst apprehensions".

He added that the guard who was working near the bridge has been missing, and rescue officials are making efforts to trace him.

"After the bridge collapse, a person working as a guard with SP Singla Company is said to be missing. His body has not been recovered yet. Search by SDRF and NDRF teams is underway to trace him," stated Chandan Kumar, Circle Officer, Parbatta, Bihar.

WATCH |&nbsp;Bhagalpur Bridge Collapse: CM Nitish Kumar acknowledges fault in design of the bridge | India

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Meanwhile, BJP state president Samrat Choudhary has demanded the resignation of the state's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who had cut ties with the party in August last year.

Fellow BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, who was a former MP of Bhagalpur, also issued a statement and blamed the mishap on "corruption" and demanded a "high-level inquiry" into the incident.

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The guard, who was reportedly stationed near the bridge that collapsed within seconds like a 'house of cards' in the Indian state of Bihar, has gone missing and efforts are being made to trace him.

The guard, who was reportedly stationed near the bridge that collapsed within seconds like a 'house of cards' in the Indian state of Bihar, has gone missing and efforts are being made to trace him. A war of words has started between the state government and the opposition BJP over the sudden collapse of the under-construction bridge in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. Hours after the collapse of the four-lane bridge on Sunday, the government of Bihar told media officials that there were "serious defects" in the structure and that someone had deliberately destroyed its portions in a planned fashion. "It may be recalled that a portion of this bridge had collapsed on April 30 last year. We had, thereafter, approached IIT-Roorkee, which is esteemed for its expertise in construction matters, to conduct a study. It is yet to come up with a final report but experts who had studied the structure had informed us that there were serious defects," said state's Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, during the press conference. ALSO READ | Bihar bridge collapse: Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav says ‘serious defects found’ Speaking at the press conference, a government official stated that they did not want to take any chance and hence, went forward with pulling down parts of the bridge. The bridge was reported to have cost approximately ₹1,700 crore ($212 million). Strict action against erring officials An inquiry was ordered by the government into the incident that occurred on Sunday and stated that strict action needs to be taken against the erring officials. Yadav said that "many structural defects have been pointed out by experts and we have already pulled down many portions which have been flagged as particularly vulnerable. Today's incident confirms our worst apprehensions". He added that the guard who was working near the bridge has been missing, and rescue officials are making efforts to trace him. "After the bridge collapse, a person working as a guard with SP Singla Company is said to be missing. His body has not been recovered yet. Search by SDRF and NDRF teams is underway to trace him," stated Chandan Kumar, Circle Officer, Parbatta, Bihar. WATCH | Bhagalpur Bridge Collapse: CM Nitish Kumar acknowledges fault in design of the bridge | India Meanwhile, BJP state president Samrat Choudhary has demanded the resignation of the state's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who had cut ties with the party in August last year. Fellow BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, who was a former MP of Bhagalpur, also issued a statement and blamed the mishap on "corruption" and demanded a "high-level inquiry" into the incident. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Guard missing after under-construction bridge collapses like a 'house of cards' in Bihar

The guard, who was reportedly stationed near the bridge that collapsed within seconds like a 'house of cards' in the Indian state of Bihar, has gone missing and efforts are being made to trace him.&nbsp;

A war of words has started between the state government and the opposition BJP over the sudden collapse of the under-construction bridge in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. Hours after the collapse of the four-lane bridge on Sunday, the government of Bihar told media officials that there were "serious defects" in the structure and that someone had deliberately destroyed its portions in a planned fashion.

"It may be recalled that a portion of this bridge had collapsed on April 30 last year. We had, thereafter, approached IIT-Roorkee, which is esteemed for its expertise in construction matters, to conduct a study. It is yet to come up with a final report but experts who had studied the structure had informed us that there were serious defects," said state's Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, during the press conference.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bridge-collapse-deputy-cm-tejashwi-yadav-says-serious-defects-found-600708">Bihar bridge collapse: Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav says ‘serious defects found’</a>

Speaking at the press conference, a government official stated that they did not want to take any chance and hence, went forward with pulling down parts of the bridge.

The bridge was reported to have cost approximately ₹ 1,700 crore ($212 million).&nbsp;

<h2>Strict action against erring officials</h2>

An inquiry was ordered by the government into the incident that occurred on Sunday and stated that strict action needs to be taken against the erring officials.

Yadav said that "many structural defects have been pointed out by experts and we have already pulled down many portions which have been flagged as particularly vulnerable. Today's incident confirms our worst apprehensions".

He added that the guard who was working near the bridge has been missing, and rescue officials are making efforts to trace him.

"After the bridge collapse, a person working as a guard with SP Singla Company is said to be missing. His body has not been recovered yet. Search by SDRF and NDRF teams is underway to trace him," stated Chandan Kumar, Circle Officer, Parbatta, Bihar.

WATCH |&nbsp;Bhagalpur Bridge Collapse: CM Nitish Kumar acknowledges fault in design of the bridge | India

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Meanwhile, state BJP president Samrat Choudhary demanded the resignation of the state's Nitish Kumar, who had cut his ties with the party in August last year.

Fellow BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, who was a former MP of Bhagalpur, also issued a statement and blamed the mishap on "corruption" and demanded a "high-level inquiry" into the incident.

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The guard, who was reportedly stationed near the bridge that collapsed within seconds like a 'house of cards' in the Indian state of Bihar, has gone missing and efforts are being made to trace him. A war of words has started between the state government and the opposition BJP over the sudden collapse of the under-construction bridge in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. Hours after the collapse of the four-lane bridge on Sunday, the government of Bihar told media officials that there were "serious defects" in the structure and that someone had deliberately destroyed its portions in a planned fashion. "It may be recalled that a portion of this bridge had collapsed on April 30 last year. We had, thereafter, approached IIT-Roorkee, which is esteemed for its expertise in construction matters, to conduct a study. It is yet to come up with a final report but experts who had studied the structure had informed us that there were serious defects," said state's Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, during the press conference. ALSO READ | Bihar bridge collapse: Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav says ‘serious defects found’ Speaking at the press conference, a government official stated that they did not want to take any chance and hence, went forward with pulling down parts of the bridge. The bridge was reported to have cost approximately ₹ 1,700 crore ($212 million). Strict action against erring officials An inquiry was ordered by the government into the incident that occurred on Sunday and stated that strict action needs to be taken against the erring officials. Yadav said that "many structural defects have been pointed out by experts and we have already pulled down many portions which have been flagged as particularly vulnerable. Today's incident confirms our worst apprehensions". He added that the guard who was working near the bridge has been missing, and rescue officials are making efforts to trace him. "After the bridge collapse, a person working as a guard with SP Singla Company is said to be missing. His body has not been recovered yet. Search by SDRF and NDRF teams is underway to trace him," stated Chandan Kumar, Circle Officer, Parbatta, Bihar. WATCH | Bhagalpur Bridge Collapse: CM Nitish Kumar acknowledges fault in design of the bridge | India Meanwhile, state BJP president Samrat Choudhary demanded the resignation of the state's Nitish Kumar, who had cut his ties with the party in August last year. Fellow BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, who was a former MP of Bhagalpur, also issued a statement and blamed the mishap on "corruption" and demanded a "high-level inquiry" into the incident. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Guard goes ‘missing’ after bridge like 'house of cards' in Bihar

One day after a bridge crossing the Ganga under construction in the Indian state of Bihar collapsed, the state's chief minister, Nitish Kumar, acknowledged the bridge's poor design. He claimed that the bridge in the district of Bhagalpur was improperly built and that it had also collapsed the previous year. He promised to take action against those responsible.

Bhagalpur Bridge Collapse: CM Nitish Kumar acknowledges fault in design of the bridge | India

A portion of the under-construction Khagaria-Aguwani bridge collapsed in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Sunday, June 4. People present at the site recorded the visuals on their smartphones, which showed two parts of the bridge collapsing one after another.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> a portion of under construction bridge over Ganga river collapsed today. The Aguanhighat Sultanganj bridge will connect Khagaria and Bhagalpur districts. <a href="https://t.co/7DLTQszso7">pic.twitter.com/7DLTQszso7</a>
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/1665356191453544448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had laid the foundation of the bridge in 2015, and its construction was scheduled to be completed within five years. However, the under-construction bridge remains in a miserable condition even after seven years. The cost of the bridge is estimated to be Rs 1,700 crore.

<h2>Why the Khagaria-Aguwani bridge is essential for Bihar?</h2>

The proposed bridge will significantly shorten the distance between Mithulanchal and Kosi region, as well as between Munger and Khagaria. Upon completion, the distance between Mithulanchal and Kosi will be reduced by 50km, while the distance between Munger and Khagaria will be reduced to 35km.&nbsp;

Watch: Thieves steal 29-foot tall mobile tower in Indian state&nbsp;of Bihar

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The primary objective of constructing this bridge is to decrease overall travel time, alleviate traffic congestion, provide smoother connectivity, and offer an alternative route to the existing Vikramshila Setu.

<h2>Previous instances of bridge collapse in Bihar</h2>

In Bihar’s Begusarai district, a portion of a bridge collapsed on December 18, 2022, before its official inauguration. Constructed under the Chief Minister NABARD scheme (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), the bridge was not inaugurated due to the absence of an approach road.

The collapsed bridge, spanning 206 metres over the Budhi Gandak river between Aakriti Tola Chowki and Bishanpur, was built in 2017 at a cost of over Rs 13 crore. Fortunately, there were no casualties in the incident, which involved the front portion of the bridge collapsing between pillars numbers 2 and 3, resulting in its submersion into the river.&nbsp;

Local villagers expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that a crack had previously been observed in the front portion of the bridge, but no remedial action was taken by the concerned officials.

Despite not being inaugurated due to the lack of an approach road, the bridge had occasionally been used by tractors and heavy vehicles, further exacerbating the risks associated with its compromised structural integrity.

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A portion of the under-construction Khagaria-Aguwani bridge collapsed in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Sunday, June 4. People present at the site recorded the visuals on their smartphones, which showed two parts of the bridge collapsing one after another.

A portion of the under-construction Khagaria-Aguwani bridge collapsed in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Sunday, June 4. People present at the site recorded the visuals on their smartphones, which showed two parts of the bridge collapsing one after another. #Bihar a portion of under construction bridge over Ganga river collapsed today. The Aguanhighat Sultanganj bridge will connect Khagaria and Bhagalpur districts. pic.twitter.com/7DLTQszso7 — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) June 4, 2023 × Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had laid the foundation of the bridge in 2015, and its construction was scheduled to be completed within five years. However, the under-construction bridge remains in a miserable condition even after seven years. The cost of the bridge is estimated to be Rs 1,700 crore. Why the Khagaria-Aguwani bridge is essential for Bihar? The proposed bridge will significantly shorten the distance between Mithulanchal and Kosi region, as well as between Munger and Khagaria. Upon completion, the distance between Mithulanchal and Kosi will be reduced by 50km, while the distance between Munger and Khagaria will be reduced to 35km. Watch: Thieves steal 29-foot tall mobile tower in Indian state of Bihar × The primary objective of constructing this bridge is to decrease overall travel time, alleviate traffic congestion, provide smoother connectivity, and offer an alternative route to the existing Vikramshila Setu. Previous instances of bridge collapse in Bihar In Bihar’s Begusarai district, a portion of a bridge collapsed on December 18, 2022, before its official inauguration. Constructed under the Chief Minister NABARD scheme (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), the bridge was not inaugurated due to the absence of an approach road. The collapsed bridge, spanning 206 metres over the Budhi Gandak river between Aakriti Tola Chowki and Bishanpur, was built in 2017 at a cost of over Rs 13 crore. Fortunately, there were no casualties in the incident, which involved the front portion of the bridge collapsing between pillars numbers 2 and 3, resulting in its submersion into the river. Local villagers expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that a crack had previously been observed in the front portion of the bridge, but no remedial action was taken by the concerned officials. Despite not being inaugurated due to the lack of an approach road, the bridge had occasionally been used by tractors and heavy vehicles, further exacerbating the risks associated with its compromised structural integrity. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Another under-construction bridge collapses in India’s Bihar

Ruckus was created at a government school in the Araria district of India's Bihar after a snake was found in the mid-day meal served to the children on Saturday. According to the school officials, the children were being served ‘khichdi’ (a dish traditionally made&nbsp;of rice and lentils)&nbsp;prepared by an NGO when a snake was found in one of the plates.

Around 100 children had already consumed the meal before the incident was brought to light. Many of them started vomiting, and the rest were nauseated, after which they were immediately taken to Forbesganj's sub-divisional hospital for treatment. However, the school education authority claims that only 22 children fell ill as a result of consuming the food.&nbsp;

After the incident was brought to light, local officials, including the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) and the Deputy Superintendent of Police&nbsp;(DSP) reached the spot to take stock of the situation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/symbol-of-aspiration-for-140cr-people-indian-pm-modi-during-his-opening-speech-in-new-parliament-597431">'Symbol of aspiration for 140cr people': Indian PM Modi during his opening speech in new parliament</a>

SDO of Forbesganj, Surendra Albela announced that a probe had been launched and action will be taken accordingly. MLA of Araria, who also reached the hospital to take stock of the health of children admitted there, claimed that it shall be probed if it is an accident or a conspiracy.&nbsp;

"The kids are completely fine and healthy. However, it is a matter of investigation as to how the snake got in the food,"&nbsp;said Manchan Kesari, MLA of Araria.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-expats-among-injured-cyclists-in-kuwait-hit-and-run-tragedy-597443">Indian expats among injured cyclists in Kuwait hit-and-run tragedy</a>

After the incident was reported, a huge mob of villagers and parents and guardians of the children rushed to the school and protested. They showed their agitation towards the school authorities and,&nbsp;according to the police, some even assaulted a few school staff members, including the headmaster of the school.&nbsp;

This is not the first time when such an incident has been reported from the state of Bihar. Earlier in 2014, a snake was found in the mid-day meal of a school in Bihar's Sitamarhi district, where 54 students fell sick after consuming the food. In another incident, insects were found in the eggs served with the mid-day meals in Bihar's Siwan district.&nbsp;

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Ruckus was created at a government school in the Araria district of India's Bihar after a snake was found in the mid-day meal served to the children on Saturday.

Ruckus was created at a government school in the Araria district of India's Bihar after a snake was found in the mid-day meal served to the children on Saturday. According to the school officials, the children were being served ‘khichdi’ (a dish traditionally made of rice and lentils) prepared by an NGO when a snake was found in one of the plates. Around 100 children had already consumed the meal before the incident was brought to light. Many of them started vomiting, and the rest were nauseated, after which they were immediately taken to Forbesganj's sub-divisional hospital for treatment. However, the school education authority claims that only 22 children fell ill as a result of consuming the food. After the incident was brought to light, local officials, including the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) and the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) reached the spot to take stock of the situation. Also read | 'Symbol of aspiration for 140cr people': Indian PM Modi during his opening speech in new parliament SDO of Forbesganj, Surendra Albela announced that a probe had been launched and action will be taken accordingly. MLA of Araria, who also reached the hospital to take stock of the health of children admitted there, claimed that it shall be probed if it is an accident or a conspiracy. "The kids are completely fine and healthy. However, it is a matter of investigation as to how the snake got in the food," said Manchan Kesari, MLA of Araria. Also read | Indian expats among injured cyclists in Kuwait hit-and-run tragedy After the incident was reported, a huge mob of villagers and parents and guardians of the children rushed to the school and protested. They showed their agitation towards the school authorities and, according to the police, some even assaulted a few school staff members, including the headmaster of the school. This is not the first time when such an incident has been reported from the state of Bihar. Earlier in 2014, a snake was found in the mid-day meal of a school in Bihar's Sitamarhi district, where 54 students fell sick after consuming the food. In another incident, insects were found in the eggs served with the mid-day meals in Bihar's Siwan district. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Many students fall sick after snake found in Bihar school's mid-day meal

At least 16 people&nbsp;were reported dead and over 48 hospitalised after drinking spurious alcohol in India’s Bihar state, where alcohol has been banned since 2016. The death toll is expected to rise further as most of those hospitalised are in critical condition.

The tragedy was reported in various villages such as Lakshmipur, Paharpur, and Harsiddhi. They all fall under Motihari district, which is around 150 kilometres northwest of the state capital Patna.

The incident was first reported on Friday evening in Lakshmipur. Local news reported that&nbsp;12 others have also complained of serious health issues and were rushed to a hospital.

According to local media reports, a special team of the Prohibition Unit from Patna has been despatched to Motihari to investigate the matter. The special team consists of five police officers,&nbsp;two DSPs and three inspectors.

Seven persons have been detained by the police as part of the investigation into the incident, a Bihar police headquarters statement said here.

Four deceased have been identified as Tuntun Singh (35), Bhutan Manjhi (40), Chotu Paswan (25) and Ashok Paswan (45), the police said.

"The district police are investigating the matter and trying to ascertain those involved in the illegal liquor trade. Excise department officials are also probing the incident,"&nbsp;the Bihar police report said.

Responding to the incident, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, "It is a sad incident. I have asked for all information on it."&nbsp;

In 2016, the state government enacted the&nbsp;Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act,&nbsp;after massive protests by women and social activists to ban all types of alcohol in the state. In implementing this rule, Bihar became the second dry state in India after Gujarat—where India's founding father&nbsp;Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's hometown&nbsp;Porbandar is located.

However, cases of illicit liquor consumption have been surging in the state. The opposition parties have been urging Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to ease the draconian liquor rule.

The state leader has remained steadfast in his resolve as he had propelled to electoral victory in 2015 by promising to ban booze in the state. It is believed that the votes of the women, who pressed Kumar to bring the rule,&nbsp;were the deciding factor for his JD(U) party in clinching the state polls.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
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At least 16 people were reported dead and over 48 hospitalised after drinking spurious alcohol in India’s Bihar state, where alcohol has been banned since 2016. The death toll is expected to rise further as most of those hospitalised are in critical condition.

At least 16 people were reported dead and over 48 hospitalised after drinking spurious alcohol in India’s Bihar state, where alcohol has been banned since 2016. The death toll is expected to rise further as most of those hospitalised are in critical condition. The tragedy was reported in various villages such as Lakshmipur, Paharpur, and Harsiddhi. They all fall under Motihari district, which is around 150 kilometres northwest of the state capital Patna. The incident was first reported on Friday evening in Lakshmipur. Local news reported that 12 others have also complained of serious health issues and were rushed to a hospital. According to local media reports, a special team of the Prohibition Unit from Patna has been despatched to Motihari to investigate the matter. The special team consists of five police officers, two DSPs and three inspectors. Seven persons have been detained by the police as part of the investigation into the incident, a Bihar police headquarters statement said here. Four deceased have been identified as Tuntun Singh (35), Bhutan Manjhi (40), Chotu Paswan (25) and Ashok Paswan (45), the police said. "The district police are investigating the matter and trying to ascertain those involved in the illegal liquor trade. Excise department officials are also probing the incident," the Bihar police report said. Responding to the incident, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, "It is a sad incident. I have asked for all information on it." In 2016, the state government enacted the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, after massive protests by women and social activists to ban all types of alcohol in the state. In implementing this rule, Bihar became the second dry state in India after Gujarat—where India's founding father Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's hometown Porbandar is located. However, cases of illicit liquor consumption have been surging in the state. The opposition parties have been urging Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to ease the draconian liquor rule. The state leader has remained steadfast in his resolve as he had propelled to electoral victory in 2015 by promising to ban booze in the state. It is believed that the votes of the women, who pressed Kumar to bring the rule, were the deciding factor for his JD(U) party in clinching the state polls. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

16 die, 48 hospitalised after consuming spurious liquor in India’s Bihar

India's Bihar state was hit by an earthquake on the morning of Wednesday, April 12. The earthquake occurred at around 5:35 PM on Wednesday, April 12, about 320 km east of state capital Patna and over 1300 km east of New Delhi.&nbsp;The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km and was marked at 4.3&nbsp;on Richter scale.&nbsp;

India's National Center for Seismology informed of the earthquake in a tweet on Wednesday morning.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Deadly earthquake kills thousands in Turkiye

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The official media handle of the National Centre for Seismology took to Twitter and said, “Earthquake of Magnitude:4.3, Occurred on 12-04-2023, 05:35:10 IST, Lat: 25.98 &amp; Long: 87.26, Depth: 10 Km, Location: 140 km SW of Siliguri, West Bengal”.

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Earthquake of Magnitude:4.3, Occurred on 12-04-2023, 05:35:10 IST, Lat: 25.98 &amp; Long: 87.26, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: 140km SW of Siliguri, West Bengal, India for more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/bJLzKnE97i">https://t.co/bJLzKnE97i</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiametdept</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://t.co/xvBkJ6sW0a">pic.twitter.com/xvBkJ6sW0a</a>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1645945457829617665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on April 9, an earthquake of magnitude 5.3 on the Richter scale occurred at a depth of 10 km in Nicobar Island on Sunday, according to the National Center for Seismology.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/small-earthquakes-hit-nicobar-island-and-mizoram-581020">Small earthquakes hit Nicobar Island and Mizoram</a>

The border between India's Bihar state and Nepal is considered particularly prone to earthquakes.&nbsp;

In one of the worst earthquake tragedies on Indian subcontinent, the 1934 Bihar–Nepal earthquake led to widespread destruction in the towns of Munger and Muzaffarpur.&nbsp;

The number of deaths due to 1934 earthquake&nbsp;was estimated between 10,700–12,000 with more than 7,000 recorded in Bihar.

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India's Bihar state was hit by an earthquake on the morning of Wednesday, April 12. The earthquake occurred at around 5:35 PM on Wednesday, April 12, about 320 km east of state capital Patna and over 1300 km east of New Delhi.

India's Bihar state was hit by an earthquake on the morning of Wednesday, April 12. The earthquake occurred at around 5:35 PM on Wednesday, April 12, about 320 km east of state capital Patna and over 1300 km east of New Delhi. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km and was marked at 4.3 on Richter scale. India's National Center for Seismology informed of the earthquake in a tweet on Wednesday morning. ALSO WATCH | Deadly earthquake kills thousands in Turkiye × The official media handle of the National Centre for Seismology took to Twitter and said, “Earthquake of Magnitude:4.3, Occurred on 12-04-2023, 05:35:10 IST, Lat: 25.98 & Long: 87.26, Depth: 10 Km, Location: 140 km SW of Siliguri, West Bengal”. Earthquake of Magnitude:4.3, Occurred on 12-04-2023, 05:35:10 IST, Lat: 25.98 & Long: 87.26, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: 140km SW of Siliguri, West Bengal, India for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/bJLzKnE97i@Indiametdept @ndmaindia @Dr_Mishra1966 pic.twitter.com/xvBkJ6sW0a — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) April 12, 2023 × Earlier on April 9, an earthquake of magnitude 5.3 on the Richter scale occurred at a depth of 10 km in Nicobar Island on Sunday, according to the National Center for Seismology. ALSO READ | Small earthquakes hit Nicobar Island and Mizoram The border between India's Bihar state and Nepal is considered particularly prone to earthquakes. In one of the worst earthquake tragedies on Indian subcontinent, the 1934 Bihar–Nepal earthquake led to widespread destruction in the towns of Munger and Muzaffarpur. The number of deaths due to 1934 earthquake was estimated between 10,700–12,000 with more than 7,000 recorded in Bihar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Bihar state hit by earthquake, no casualties so far

More than 150 litres of liquor was found hidden inside a pond in the Indian state of Bihar&nbsp;on Friday (March 3), said the local police, as per news agency ANI. According to the Bihar police, at least 17 cartons of liquor marked “Holi special” were found hidden in the state’s Vaishali district.&nbsp;

“Further action will be taken by registering an FIR in the matter,” said Suresh Prasad Chowdhary, the police station in charge, Vaishali. The liquor was brought from Haryana for Holi celebrations in the state, said local police sources. Meanwhile, the officer in charge also spoke about how the liquor mafia has become active in the Vaishali district ahead of Holi and adopting various tactics to hoodwink the police.

“But the team of excise department has been successful in recovering liquor worth lakhs of rupees hidden in a fish pond,” he added. The operation was conducted after the excise department team received a tip-off that a large quantity of foreign liquor has been hidden underwater in a pond located in Harpur village of the Mahua police station area.&nbsp;

The liquor was supposed to be consumed during the festival of Holi in the next week in the state of Bihar where it is banned since 2016. “Action will be taken soon by identifying the people involved in hiding the liquor,” said Chowdhary.&nbsp;

While the state has prohibited liquor sales, it has repeatedly come under fire for failure to implement the law which was imposed in a bid to curb alcoholism. The law sometimes also included holding the entire family liable to imprisonment if any one member is found violating the ban and in some cases even imposing a collective fine on the whole village.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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More than 150 litres of liquor was found hidden inside a pond in the Indian state of Bihar on Friday (March 3), said the local police, as per news agency ANI. According to the Bihar police, at least 17 cartons of liquor marked “Holi special” were found hidden in the state’s Vaishali district.

More than 150 litres of liquor was found hidden inside a pond in the Indian state of Bihar on Friday (March 3), said the local police, as per news agency ANI. According to the Bihar police, at least 17 cartons of liquor marked “Holi special” were found hidden in the state’s Vaishali district. “Further action will be taken by registering an FIR in the matter,” said Suresh Prasad Chowdhary, the police station in charge, Vaishali. The liquor was brought from Haryana for Holi celebrations in the state, said local police sources. Meanwhile, the officer in charge also spoke about how the liquor mafia has become active in the Vaishali district ahead of Holi and adopting various tactics to hoodwink the police. “But the team of excise department has been successful in recovering liquor worth lakhs of rupees hidden in a fish pond,” he added. The operation was conducted after the excise department team received a tip-off that a large quantity of foreign liquor has been hidden underwater in a pond located in Harpur village of the Mahua police station area. The liquor was supposed to be consumed during the festival of Holi in the next week in the state of Bihar where it is banned since 2016. “Action will be taken soon by identifying the people involved in hiding the liquor,” said Chowdhary. While the state has prohibited liquor sales, it has repeatedly come under fire for failure to implement the law which was imposed in a bid to curb alcoholism. The law sometimes also included holding the entire family liable to imprisonment if any one member is found violating the ban and in some cases even imposing a collective fine on the whole village. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Police find more than 150 litres of ‘Holi special’ liquor hidden inside a pond in Bihar

Let's take a look at what's trending across the news - A rare theft scene has gone viral in India where a group of robbers posing as telecom company employees uprooted a 29-foot-long mobile tower in Patna's Sabzibagh and took off.

Trending on WION: Thieves steal 29-foot tall mobile tower in Indian states of Bihar

A senior medical officer of Gaya, Bihar&nbsp;confirmed on Monday that samples of four foreigners who tested positive for Covid-19 at the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Gaya were sent for genome sequencing on Sunday. As stated by the official, a second person, a 60-year-old British woman, also tested positive last week before the central government formally requested that states amplify their analysis of positive Covid-19 cases in order to find new coronavirus variants amid a wave that was spiralling out of control in China. As per Gaya civil surgeon Dr Ranjan Kumar Singh, she has returned to her native country.

Four foreigners tested positive on Sunday, three of them from Thailand and one from Myanmar.

The five were asymptomatic when they undertook random testing at the Gaya international airport last week, according to Dr Singh.

“We have isolated two foreigners (from Thailand) at their hotel rooms at Bodh Gaya,” the medical officer said. The administration has not been able to track down the third person from Thailand since the person’s mobile phone number was switched off.

Prior to receiving the test results, the resident of Myanmar departed Gaya for Srinagar through Delhi. As soon as the results of the confirmatory test were received, according to Dr Singh, the airport personnel was made aware of his Covid-19 status.

Following a positive test from a Thai national on December 23, the district administration said that tests were also conducted on around 27 additional travellers in the same travel group. As a result of the contact tracing inquiry, two additional people had positive tests.

Prior to the Dalai Lama's discourse&nbsp;which is expected to draw approximately 100,000 followers and is set to take place from December 29 to 31, incidences of Covid-19 have been discovered. Around 20,000 worshippers from 50 nations have registered online for the event, according to those with knowledge of the situation.

The Gaya district magistrate Thiyagarajan SM has advised people to wear masks and follow&nbsp;Covid protocols, particularly by keeping a distance from others. Additionally, he has requested that only those who test negative be permitted to meet the Dalai Lama.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A senior medical officer of Gaya, Bihar confirmed on Monday that samples of four foreigners who tested positive for Covid-19 at the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Gaya were sent for genome sequencing on Sunday.

A senior medical officer of Gaya, Bihar confirmed on Monday that samples of four foreigners who tested positive for Covid-19 at the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Gaya were sent for genome sequencing on Sunday. As stated by the official, a second person, a 60-year-old British woman, also tested positive last week before the central government formally requested that states amplify their analysis of positive Covid-19 cases in order to find new coronavirus variants amid a wave that was spiralling out of control in China. As per Gaya civil surgeon Dr Ranjan Kumar Singh, she has returned to her native country. Four foreigners tested positive on Sunday, three of them from Thailand and one from Myanmar. The five were asymptomatic when they undertook random testing at the Gaya international airport last week, according to Dr Singh. “We have isolated two foreigners (from Thailand) at their hotel rooms at Bodh Gaya,” the medical officer said. The administration has not been able to track down the third person from Thailand since the person’s mobile phone number was switched off. Prior to receiving the test results, the resident of Myanmar departed Gaya for Srinagar through Delhi. As soon as the results of the confirmatory test were received, according to Dr Singh, the airport personnel was made aware of his Covid-19 status. Following a positive test from a Thai national on December 23, the district administration said that tests were also conducted on around 27 additional travellers in the same travel group. As a result of the contact tracing inquiry, two additional people had positive tests. Prior to the Dalai Lama's discourse which is expected to draw approximately 100,000 followers and is set to take place from December 29 to 31, incidences of Covid-19 have been discovered. Around 20,000 worshippers from 50 nations have registered online for the event, according to those with knowledge of the situation. The Gaya district magistrate Thiyagarajan SM has advised people to wear masks and follow Covid protocols, particularly by keeping a distance from others. Additionally, he has requested that only those who test negative be permitted to meet the Dalai Lama. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Bihar: Five foreigners test positive for COVID-19 at Gaya, four samples sent for genome sequencing

More than 80 people died on Saturday after consuming poisonous alcohol in India’s eastern state of Bihar.

The sale and consumption of alcohol was banned in Bihar in April 2016. As a result, a lot of illegal toddy liquor shops sprang up in the state. The policy was one of the major poll planks in the state elections that year, propelling incumbent Nitish Kumar to victory.

Saran district recorded the highest number of deaths at 66, followed by six in the adjoining Siwan district, while Begusarai witnessed two other deaths.

Earlier, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said no compensation will be provided if a person dies after consuming spurious liquor. The remark was met with severe criticism from the opposition, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav said that action is being taken where incidents of consumption of liquor are being reported in the state and alleged that most of the liquor supply is from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana states.

"Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has already given his statement. The probe is underway. Most of the liquor supply is from UP and Haryana where BJP is in power and they're not conducting any probe. Got to know that from the home of LoP V Sinha's kin, 108 cartons of liquor bottles were recovered," Tejashwi said, reports ANI news agency.

Earlier in the day, the police recovered several cartons of liquor from a truck in Sadar police station area in Muzaffarpur district. The cartons were hidden below wooden planks.

Meanwhile, the National&nbsp;Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued notices to the Bihar government and the state's police chief over the hooch tragedy on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than 80 people died on Saturday after consuming poisonous alcohol in India’s eastern state of Bihar. The sale and consumption of alcohol was banned in Bihar in April 2016.

More than 80 people died on Saturday after consuming poisonous alcohol in India’s eastern state of Bihar. The sale and consumption of alcohol was banned in Bihar in April 2016. As a result, a lot of illegal toddy liquor shops sprang up in the state. The policy was one of the major poll planks in the state elections that year, propelling incumbent Nitish Kumar to victory. Saran district recorded the highest number of deaths at 66, followed by six in the adjoining Siwan district, while Begusarai witnessed two other deaths. Earlier, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said no compensation will be provided if a person dies after consuming spurious liquor. The remark was met with severe criticism from the opposition, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav said that action is being taken where incidents of consumption of liquor are being reported in the state and alleged that most of the liquor supply is from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana states. "Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has already given his statement. The probe is underway. Most of the liquor supply is from UP and Haryana where BJP is in power and they're not conducting any probe. Got to know that from the home of LoP V Sinha's kin, 108 cartons of liquor bottles were recovered," Tejashwi said, reports ANI news agency. Earlier in the day, the police recovered several cartons of liquor from a truck in Sadar police station area in Muzaffarpur district. The cartons were hidden below wooden planks. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued notices to the Bihar government and the state's police chief over the hooch tragedy on Friday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Over 80 people die after consuming toxic alcohol in India’s Bihar

The death toll due to the consumption of spurious liquor in the Indian state of Bihar has risen to 70. The incident took place on Wednesday after reports said that a group of men in Bihar's Saran district started vomiting when they consumed the locally-made liquor called Hooch.

Bihar liquor tragedy: Death toll rises to 70; four suppliers arrested including 123 others

A special investigation team has been set up to crack the hooch case in Saran district of Bihar, where 39 people have died and at least 12 others have taken ill. Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch | Bihar Hooch Tragedy: At least 39 killed after consuming illicit liquor

A&nbsp;complete diesel engine was stolen piece by piece from a railway yard in the Begusarai region of Bihar. The complete engine that had been brought there for maintenance was allegedly systematically destroyed by the thieves after they constructed a tunnel to the yard and began collecting parts.&nbsp;

As reported by PTI, PS Dubey, an inspector of the Muzaffarpur station of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), said, "Last week, a case was registered at the Barauni police station for the theft of a diesel engine brought for repairs to the Garhara yard. In the course of the investigation, three people were arrested."&nbsp;

Searches were carried out in a scrap godown in the Prabhat Nagar region of the Muzaffarpur district based on the details they provided when questioned, and 13 sacks full of railway parts were discovered, he claimed.&nbsp;

"A search is on for the owner of the scrap yard, he added. Recovered items include engine parts, wheels from vintage train engines, and railroad parts made of heavy iron, he said. They had dug a tunnel to the railroad yard, and through it, they used to carry the locomotive parts and other items in sacks," said Dubey.

Also Read:&nbsp;India: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jama-masjid-rolls-back-order-barring-unaccompanied-women-from-entering-mosque-537215">Jama Masjid rolls back order telling women to be accompanied by relatives for entering</a>

According to him, the gang also steals the components from steel bridges that have been unbolted. An antique steam engine kept on the grounds of the Purnea Court was allegedly sold off by a railway engineer working at Samastipur Loco Diesel Shed last year, leading to his suspension.&nbsp;

In collusion with other railway officials and security personnel, the engineer allegedly sold the engine using a falsified letter from the divisional mechanical engineer of Samastipur.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A complete diesel engine was stolen piece by piece from a railway yard in the Begusarai region of Bihar. The complete engine that had been brought there for maintenance was allegedly systematically destroyed by the thieves after they constructed a tunnel to the yard and began collecting parts.

A complete diesel engine was stolen piece by piece from a railway yard in the Begusarai region of Bihar. The complete engine that had been brought there for maintenance was allegedly systematically destroyed by the thieves after they constructed a tunnel to the yard and began collecting parts. As reported by PTI, PS Dubey, an inspector of the Muzaffarpur station of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), said, "Last week, a case was registered at the Barauni police station for the theft of a diesel engine brought for repairs to the Garhara yard. In the course of the investigation, three people were arrested." Searches were carried out in a scrap godown in the Prabhat Nagar region of the Muzaffarpur district based on the details they provided when questioned, and 13 sacks full of railway parts were discovered, he claimed. "A search is on for the owner of the scrap yard, he added. Recovered items include engine parts, wheels from vintage train engines, and railroad parts made of heavy iron, he said. They had dug a tunnel to the railroad yard, and through it, they used to carry the locomotive parts and other items in sacks," said Dubey. Also Read: India: Jama Masjid rolls back order telling women to be accompanied by relatives for entering According to him, the gang also steals the components from steel bridges that have been unbolted. An antique steam engine kept on the grounds of the Purnea Court was allegedly sold off by a railway engineer working at Samastipur Loco Diesel Shed last year, leading to his suspension. In collusion with other railway officials and security personnel, the engineer allegedly sold the engine using a falsified letter from the divisional mechanical engineer of Samastipur. (with inputs from agencies)

Thieves steal entire train engine by digging tunnel in railway yard in Bihar

A combination of sheer arrogance and negligence&nbsp;has led to the death of four people on the Purvanchal Expressway in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the four friends were travelling in a BMW car at speeds as high as 230 km/hr to Delhi when they rammed into a container truck. One of the co-passenger in the car started a Facebook Live where he showed the&nbsp;car racing through the highway with others excitedly saying that the speedometer may next breach the 300 km/hr mark.

The friends constantly egged the driver to chase the 300&nbsp;km/hr mark and told him to not brake and keep at it.&nbsp;

However, in what can be termed as a prophecy coming true, moments before the disaster, one of the friends can he heard saying "charo marenge (all four of us will die)". Soon enough, tragedy strikes and the four men die on the spot.

After the news of the accident was communicated, the police and&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) officials reached the spot, only to find the&nbsp;pummeled car in a heap and the blood-smeared bodies of the passengers and driver, squished beyond range for a naked-eye identification.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/4-killed-as-truck-bmw-collide-on-purvanchal-expressway-526069">WATCH |&nbsp;4 killed as truck, BMW collide on Purvanchal Expressway</a>

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&nbsp;

So far, the authorities have identified three of the four people. The car was reportedly being driven by 35-year-old Dr Anand Prakash who was a professor in a medical college in the Eastern Indian state of Bihar and resided in the city of Dehri. Akhilesh Singh (35), and Deepak Kumar (37) are the other two deceased while the identity of the fourth is yet to be confirmed.&nbsp;

According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, deaths by road accidents in India have increased by almost 17 per cent in 2021 compared to 2020.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncrb-report-terms-delhi-as-the-most-unsafe-metropolitan-city-for-women-511482">India: NCRB report terms Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city for women</a>

In 2021, 155,000&nbsp;died in accidents on Indian roads, up from 133,000 in 2020, when much of the year saw a nationwide lockdown. Total&nbsp;road accidents reported were 403,000 in 2021, up from 354,000 the year before.

The highest number of road accidents every year is attributed to negligent driving and speeding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A combination of sheer arrogance and negligence has led to the death of four people on the Purvanchal Expressway in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Reportedly, the four friends were travelling in a BMW car at speeds as high as 230 km/hr to Delhi when they rammed into a container truck.

A combination of sheer arrogance and negligence has led to the death of four people on the Purvanchal Expressway in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Reportedly, the four friends were travelling in a BMW car at speeds as high as 230 km/hr to Delhi when they rammed into a container truck. One of the co-passenger in the car started a Facebook Live where he showed the car racing through the highway with others excitedly saying that the speedometer may next breach the 300 km/hr mark. The friends constantly egged the driver to chase the 300 km/hr mark and told him to not brake and keep at it. However, in what can be termed as a prophecy coming true, moments before the disaster, one of the friends can he heard saying "charo marenge (all four of us will die)". Soon enough, tragedy strikes and the four men die on the spot. After the news of the accident was communicated, the police and Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) officials reached the spot, only to find the pummeled car in a heap and the blood-smeared bodies of the passengers and driver, squished beyond range for a naked-eye identification. WATCH | 4 killed as truck, BMW collide on Purvanchal Expressway × So far, the authorities have identified three of the four people. The car was reportedly being driven by 35-year-old Dr Anand Prakash who was a professor in a medical college in the Eastern Indian state of Bihar and resided in the city of Dehri. Akhilesh Singh (35), and Deepak Kumar (37) are the other two deceased while the identity of the fourth is yet to be confirmed. According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, deaths by road accidents in India have increased by almost 17 per cent in 2021 compared to 2020. Read more: India: NCRB report terms Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city for women In 2021, 155,000 died in accidents on Indian roads, up from 133,000 in 2020, when much of the year saw a nationwide lockdown. Total road accidents reported were 403,000 in 2021, up from 354,000 the year before. The highest number of road accidents every year is attributed to negligent driving and speeding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Four die in a car accident trying to breach the 300 kmph speed barrier

A tiger that killed nine humans in the last 26 days was shot dead by forest officials in India’s West Chamara district, Bihar.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the State’s additional principal chief conservator of forest-cum-wildlife warden had issued a ‘shoot-at-sight’ order for the big cat following protest from the people living around the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in Bagaha.

“An order has been issued to kill the tiger that has caused death to common life. The order has been issued by the department’s additional principal chief conservator of forest-cum-chief wildlife warden, Bihar Shri Prabhat Kumar Gupta in which it has been considered necessary to kill the tiger in view of all the circumstances”, said the government release.

A special team of forest personnel was brought in from southern Hyderabad state and from Bihar’s Patna capital city, Chief Wildlife Warden Prabhat Kumar Gupta said.

“Forest personnel have been trying to cage the tiger that strayed out of the VTR area. The order for the killing was issued as per procedure when it was established that the tiger was accustomed to living in human habitation,” PTI news agency quoted Gupta as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/microplastics-detected-in-human-breastmilk-for-first-time-scientists-startled-523920" hreflang="en">Microplastics detected in human breast milk for first time, scientists startled</a>

VTR director Nesamani K said the final hunt for the male tiger began on Saturday after news emerged that a mother and her child had been killed in a tiger attack.

"It was a sleepless night for the whole village," Paltu Mahato told the Hindustan Times.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/523478" hreflang="en">Bus catches fire after ramming truck in Nashik, leaves 11 dead, 24 injured</a>

"While some of us kept banging stones against each other, others kept beating tin containers to shoo away the tiger."

A senior district official said that the carcass of the tiger was sent for post-mortem, following which it will be cremated after completion of the formalities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A tiger that killed nine humans in the last 26 days was shot dead by forest officials in India’s West Chamara district, Bihar. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the State’s additional principal chief conservator of forest-cum-wildlife warden had issued a ‘shoot-at-sight’ order for the big cat following protest from the people living around the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in Bagaha.

A tiger that killed nine humans in the last 26 days was shot dead by forest officials in India’s West Chamara district, Bihar. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the State’s additional principal chief conservator of forest-cum-wildlife warden had issued a ‘shoot-at-sight’ order for the big cat following protest from the people living around the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in Bagaha. “An order has been issued to kill the tiger that has caused death to common life. The order has been issued by the department’s additional principal chief conservator of forest-cum-chief wildlife warden, Bihar Shri Prabhat Kumar Gupta in which it has been considered necessary to kill the tiger in view of all the circumstances”, said the government release. A special team of forest personnel was brought in from southern Hyderabad state and from Bihar’s Patna capital city, Chief Wildlife Warden Prabhat Kumar Gupta said. “Forest personnel have been trying to cage the tiger that strayed out of the VTR area. The order for the killing was issued as per procedure when it was established that the tiger was accustomed to living in human habitation,” PTI news agency quoted Gupta as saying. Also read | Microplastics detected in human breast milk for first time, scientists startled VTR director Nesamani K said the final hunt for the male tiger began on Saturday after news emerged that a mother and her child had been killed in a tiger attack. "It was a sleepless night for the whole village," Paltu Mahato told the Hindustan Times. Also read | Bus catches fire after ramming truck in Nashik, leaves 11 dead, 24 injured "While some of us kept banging stones against each other, others kept beating tin containers to shoo away the tiger." A senior district official said that the carcass of the tiger was sent for post-mortem, following which it will be cremated after completion of the formalities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Male tiger that killed nine in Bihar shot dead

Authorities in India's western state of Bihar reported that an overloaded boat carrying 55 people sank near the Shahpur police station area.

The accident happened evening as the labourers, who hail from the Daudpur area of Patna, were&nbsp;ferrying back after&nbsp;work.&nbsp;

The boat got out of control and drowned due to the sudden flow of water in the middle of the river near Sherpur Ghat&nbsp;in the Ganga river.

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Bihar | A boat carrying 55 people sank in the Ganga river near the Shahpur PS area in Danapur 
 
Around 50-54 persons were on the boat. 10 people were reported missing and a search operation was launched to find the missing persons: SDM Danapur (04.09) <a href="https://t.co/Q9sbiCup9l">pic.twitter.com/Q9sbiCup9l</a>
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Highlighting that the boat's capacity was to carry 30 people,&nbsp;Bihar state’s disaster management minister PN Rai said that currently, 10 people are missing.

After the news of the sinking of the boat spread, people gathered around the river in Bihar's Danapur on Sunday.

While a search operation has been launched to find the missing persons, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has ordered an inquiry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in India's western state of Bihar reported that an overloaded boat carrying 55 people sank near the Shahpur police station area. The accident happened evening as the labourers, who hail from the Daudpur area of Patna, were ferrying back after work.

Authorities in India's western state of Bihar reported that an overloaded boat carrying 55 people sank near the Shahpur police station area. The accident happened evening as the labourers, who hail from the Daudpur area of Patna, were ferrying back after work. The boat got out of control and drowned due to the sudden flow of water in the middle of the river near Sherpur Ghat in the Ganga river. Bihar | A boat carrying 55 people sank in the Ganga river near the Shahpur PS area in Danapur Around 50-54 persons were on the boat. 10 people were reported missing and a search operation was launched to find the missing persons: SDM Danapur (04.09) pic.twitter.com/Q9sbiCup9l — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2022 × Highlighting that the boat's capacity was to carry 30 people, Bihar state’s disaster management minister PN Rai said that currently, 10 people are missing. After the news of the sinking of the boat spread, people gathered around the river in Bihar's Danapur on Sunday. While a search operation has been launched to find the missing persons, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has ordered an inquiry. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Bihar: Overloaded boat carrying 55 people sinks in Ganges river

Leaders of the ruling coalition in Bihar demanded on Sunday that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) be stripped of its general authority, claiming that the agency was being used for political ends by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the federal level. The Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946's Section 6 states that the CBI must obtain the appropriate state governments' permission before conducting investigations within their borders.

Nine states have revoked their general approval of the CBI's ability to investigate cases within their borders, including West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Meghalaya.

Leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Shivanand Tiwari, told PTI that the grand coalition government in Bihar must revoke the approval provided to the CBI due to the manner the federal agencies are being abused to target the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-wins-trust-vote-amid-bjp-walkout-509775">BJP's political adversaries</a>.

“Besides, option should also be explored by the state government to approach the judiciary to check the misuse of central agencies,” he said.

“I must say that the central investigative agencies have lost their credibility during the NDA regime,” he said.

Manoj Kumar Jha, a senior RJD politician, told the media that once the BJP's "Maharashtra-like plan" to rule the state through the backdoor failed, it engaged independent agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax.&nbsp;“The BJP is feeling embarrassed after the Gurgaon-based mall and other business establishments raided by the CBI came out with statements denying their links with deputy CM Tejashwi Prasad Yadav,” said Jha.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonali-phogats-death-brother-claims-she-was-murdered-detailed-probe-launched-509940">&nbsp;Sonali Phogat's death: Brother claims she was murdered; detailed probe launched</a>

The Janata Dal (United), the party of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, declared that the moment was right to revoke the CBI's general approval. People in Bihar are paying attention and will respond appropriately when the time is right, according to state minister Madan Sahni. "The way central agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax Department are being misused to ruin the image of opposition leaders, people in Bihar are watching," he added.

He criticized BJP leaders and Union ministers who had disparaged CM Kumar. Sahni stated, "The politicians, who are currently holding good positions in the administration and the party, must remember efforts of the CM in supporting their election success.

Mehboob Alam, a CPIML(L) state legislator, asserted that there was no question the federal government was abusing its power to topple non-BJP state governments.

“All central investigative agencies are working with political motives and they never act against BJP leaders. Our grand alliance government in Bihar should immediately withdraw the general consent granted to the CBI, curtailing the agency’s powers in the state,” he said.

Mehboob Alam, a CPIML(L) state legislator, asserted that there was no question the federal government was abusing its power to topple non-BJP state governments.&nbsp;“The NDA government at the Centre is dictatorial and they try to suppress voices of the opposition by using central agencies. This should stop now and the Bihar government must withdraw its consent to the CBI,” he said.

Under the condition of anonymity, a top RJD official said that the Bihar government has begun taking steps to revoke the approval given to the CBI.

Seven parties make up the "Mahagthbandhan" in Bihar, including the JD(U), RJD, Congress, CPIML (L), CPI, CPI(M), and HAM. Together, these parties have more than 160 MLAs in the 243-member assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-drug-haul-kejriwal-slams-gujarat-government-for-letting-drugs-enter-gujarat-511024">Punjab drug haul: Kejriwal slams Gujarat government for letting drugs enter the state</a>

As part of its investigation into the alleged land-for-jobs fraud that is said to have occurred when Lalu Prasad was the railway minister, the CBI investigated the homes of senior RJD officials in Bihar on Wednesday. The operation happened on a day when the state house was set to vote on the chief minister's trust after he broke with the BJP to form an alliance with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). According to Section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, several state governments have given the CBI broad consent to investigate a specific class of offenses against a specific category of people, allowing the CBI to register and look into such specific problems.

The minister's response states that Mizoram, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Meghalaya have withdrawn or not generally authorized the CBI to investigate matters. According to Section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, the state government must give special approval in states where general consent has not been granted or where the general consent does not apply to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ab-de-villiers-sends-heartfelt-message-to-virat-kohli-ahead-of-former-india-captains-100th-t20i-510887">individual</a> instance.

Extension of the CBI's jurisdiction under the terms of Section 5 of the DSPE Act, 1946, can only be taken into consideration when the state government has given its permission.

The CBI is also given matters by the Supreme Court and high courts for investigation or inquiry, and in these situations, no notification transmitting consent under section 5 or 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946.

(With inputs from agencies)

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Sniffing out the bad guys: Indian army's dog squad carry out anti-terror operations in J&amp;K

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Leaders of the ruling coalition in Bihar demanded on Sunday that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) be stripped of its general authority, claiming that the agency was being used for political ends by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the federal level.

Leaders of the ruling coalition in Bihar demanded on Sunday that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) be stripped of its general authority, claiming that the agency was being used for political ends by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the federal level. The Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946's Section 6 states that the CBI must obtain the appropriate state governments' permission before conducting investigations within their borders. Nine states have revoked their general approval of the CBI's ability to investigate cases within their borders, including West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Meghalaya. Leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Shivanand Tiwari, told PTI that the grand coalition government in Bihar must revoke the approval provided to the CBI due to the manner the federal agencies are being abused to target the BJP's political adversaries. “Besides, option should also be explored by the state government to approach the judiciary to check the misuse of central agencies,” he said. “I must say that the central investigative agencies have lost their credibility during the NDA regime,” he said. Manoj Kumar Jha, a senior RJD politician, told the media that once the BJP's "Maharashtra-like plan" to rule the state through the backdoor failed, it engaged independent agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax. “The BJP is feeling embarrassed after the Gurgaon-based mall and other business establishments raided by the CBI came out with statements denying their links with deputy CM Tejashwi Prasad Yadav,” said Jha. Also read | Sonali Phogat's death: Brother claims she was murdered; detailed probe launched The Janata Dal (United), the party of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, declared that the moment was right to revoke the CBI's general approval. People in Bihar are paying attention and will respond appropriately when the time is right, according to state minister Madan Sahni. "The way central agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax Department are being misused to ruin the image of opposition leaders, people in Bihar are watching," he added. He criticized BJP leaders and Union ministers who had disparaged CM Kumar. Sahni stated, "The politicians, who are currently holding good positions in the administration and the party, must remember efforts of the CM in supporting their election success. Mehboob Alam, a CPIML(L) state legislator, asserted that there was no question the federal government was abusing its power to topple non-BJP state governments. “All central investigative agencies are working with political motives and they never act against BJP leaders. Our grand alliance government in Bihar should immediately withdraw the general consent granted to the CBI, curtailing the agency’s powers in the state,” he said. Mehboob Alam, a CPIML(L) state legislator, asserted that there was no question the federal government was abusing its power to topple non-BJP state governments. “The NDA government at the Centre is dictatorial and they try to suppress voices of the opposition by using central agencies. This should stop now and the Bihar government must withdraw its consent to the CBI,” he said. Under the condition of anonymity, a top RJD official said that the Bihar government has begun taking steps to revoke the approval given to the CBI. Seven parties make up the "Mahagthbandhan" in Bihar, including the JD(U), RJD, Congress, CPIML (L), CPI, CPI(M), and HAM. Together, these parties have more than 160 MLAs in the 243-member assembly. Also read | Punjab drug haul: Kejriwal slams Gujarat government for letting drugs enter the state As part of its investigation into the alleged land-for-jobs fraud that is said to have occurred when Lalu Prasad was the railway minister, the CBI investigated the homes of senior RJD officials in Bihar on Wednesday. The operation happened on a day when the state house was set to vote on the chief minister's trust after he broke with the BJP to form an alliance with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). According to Section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, several state governments have given the CBI broad consent to investigate a specific class of offenses against a specific category of people, allowing the CBI to register and look into such specific problems. The minister's response states that Mizoram, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Meghalaya have withdrawn or not generally authorized the CBI to investigate matters. According to Section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, the state government must give special approval in states where general consent has not been granted or where the general consent does not apply to the individual instance. Extension of the CBI's jurisdiction under the terms of Section 5 of the DSPE Act, 1946, can only be taken into consideration when the state government has given its permission. The CBI is also given matters by the Supreme Court and high courts for investigation or inquiry, and in these situations, no notification transmitting consent under section 5 or 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946. (With inputs from agencies) Also WATCH | Sniffing out the bad guys: Indian army's dog squad carry out anti-terror operations in J&K

Bihar: Ruling alliance requests that CBI universal consent be withdrawn

The Indian state of Bihar is witnessing another political divorce. CM Nitish Kumar has ended Janata Dal (United)'s alliance with BJP & joined hands with RJD. What explains the move? How has Nitish Kumar made a career by switching sides? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Decoding the 'political divorce' in Bihar

Nitish Kumar, leader of Janata Dal (United) (JD-U), took oath as Bihar’s chief minister on Wednesday (August 10) for the eight time after announcing a new ‘grand alliance’ with Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other opposition parties. Tejashwi Yadav has been sworn in as the deputy chief minister. Kumar recently resigned as Bihar’s chief minister after breaking alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). After Kumar’s resignation, Nitish and other leaders addressed a joint press conference and announced their&nbsp;new ‘Mahagathbandhan’ or grand alliance, consisting of seven parties, and claimed support of 165 MLAs, including an Independent.

On a day of quick and sudden political developments in Bihar, Kumar earlier met the governor, Phagu Chauhan, twice: once to submit his resignation as CM, and the second time to stake claim for a new government after being chosen as the leader of the grand alliance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nitish-kumar-resigns-as-bihar-cm-snaps-ties-with-bjp-505166">India politics: Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar chief minister, snaps ties with BJP</a>

BJP&nbsp;attacked Kumar for snapping the pre-poll alliance&nbsp;and accused him of having disrespected the mandate given by the people of Bihar. 
 
Kumar, who is being trolled on social media for switching sides frequently,&nbsp;had earlier severed ties with the BJP in 2013 but had aligned again with it in 2017. He claimed that the decision to break ties was taken by a unanimous vote. JD-U members&nbsp;claimed that ties with the BJP deteriorated due to a number of instances, including RCP Singh’s exit from the party.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unsc-india-slams-china-pakistan-for-double-standards-on-terrorism-505306">At UNSC, India slams China, Pakistan for double standards on terrorism</a>

In&nbsp;the joint press conference, Tejashwi criticised the BJP and accused it of destroying parties with whom it formed an alliance. He said, “Across the Hindi heartland, BJP does not have any alliance partner. History shows that the BJP destroys the parties with whom it makes alliances. We did see that happening in Punjab and Maharashtra.”

Kumar has worked with the BJP several times in the last 20 years and had even served as a minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government at the Centre in 1996. JD-U is the third major ally to snap ties with the BJP in the last three years&nbsp;after Shiv Sena and Shiromani Akali Dal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nitish Kumar, leader of Janata Dal (United) (JD-U), took oath as Bihar’s chief minister on Wednesday (August 10) for the eight time after announcing a new ‘grand alliance’ with Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other opposition parties.

Nitish Kumar, leader of Janata Dal (United) (JD-U), took oath as Bihar’s chief minister on Wednesday (August 10) for the eight time after announcing a new ‘grand alliance’ with Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other opposition parties. Tejashwi Yadav has been sworn in as the deputy chief minister. Kumar recently resigned as Bihar’s chief minister after breaking alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). After Kumar’s resignation, Nitish and other leaders addressed a joint press conference and announced their new ‘Mahagathbandhan’ or grand alliance, consisting of seven parties, and claimed support of 165 MLAs, including an Independent. On a day of quick and sudden political developments in Bihar, Kumar earlier met the governor, Phagu Chauhan, twice: once to submit his resignation as CM, and the second time to stake claim for a new government after being chosen as the leader of the grand alliance. Also read | India politics: Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar chief minister, snaps ties with BJP BJP attacked Kumar for snapping the pre-poll alliance and accused him of having disrespected the mandate given by the people of Bihar. Kumar, who is being trolled on social media for switching sides frequently, had earlier severed ties with the BJP in 2013 but had aligned again with it in 2017. He claimed that the decision to break ties was taken by a unanimous vote. JD-U members claimed that ties with the BJP deteriorated due to a number of instances, including RCP Singh’s exit from the party. Also read | At UNSC, India slams China, Pakistan for double standards on terrorism In the joint press conference, Tejashwi criticised the BJP and accused it of destroying parties with whom it formed an alliance. He said, “Across the Hindi heartland, BJP does not have any alliance partner. History shows that the BJP destroys the parties with whom it makes alliances. We did see that happening in Punjab and Maharashtra.” Kumar has worked with the BJP several times in the last 20 years and had even served as a minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government at the Centre in 1996. JD-U is the third major ally to snap ties with the BJP in the last three years after Shiv Sena and Shiromani Akali Dal. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nitish Kumar takes oath as Bihar CM for the 8th time, Tejashwi Yadav becomes deputy

At least 20 individuals perished as a result of lightning strikes in the past 24 hours in Bihar, according to government records. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, expressed sorrow over the deaths caused by lightning strikes from Monday evening to Tuesday.

About 150 kilometres from the state capital, in the Kaimur district, seven fatalities were reported; meanwhile, Patna and Bhojpur both reported four. Each of the following reported one death: Jehanabad, Arwal, Rohtas, Aurangabad, and Siwan.

According to a formal press statement, Kumar also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the deceased's surviving relatives and urged people to exercise caution in bad weather.

Over the previous 24 hours, light to moderate rain fell in a few spots over areas of the north-central, south-central, and south-east, according to staff members at the India Meteorological Department's Patna office (IMD).

The IMD has predicted moderate to heavy rain across the state till July 30.&nbsp;

Experts blame Bihar's location in relation to monsoon elements as well as the frequency of lightning strikes. One of the main causes of the frequent lightning strikes, according to them, is Bihar's location close to the Nepalese Terai region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 20 individuals perished as a result of lightning strikes in the past 24 hours in Bihar, according to government records. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, expressed sorrow over the deaths caused by lightning strikes from Monday evening to Tuesday.

At least 20 individuals perished as a result of lightning strikes in the past 24 hours in Bihar, according to government records. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, expressed sorrow over the deaths caused by lightning strikes from Monday evening to Tuesday. About 150 kilometres from the state capital, in the Kaimur district, seven fatalities were reported; meanwhile, Patna and Bhojpur both reported four. Each of the following reported one death: Jehanabad, Arwal, Rohtas, Aurangabad, and Siwan. According to a formal press statement, Kumar also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the deceased's surviving relatives and urged people to exercise caution in bad weather. Over the previous 24 hours, light to moderate rain fell in a few spots over areas of the north-central, south-central, and south-east, according to staff members at the India Meteorological Department's Patna office (IMD). The IMD has predicted moderate to heavy rain across the state till July 30. Experts blame Bihar's location in relation to monsoon elements as well as the frequency of lightning strikes. One of the main causes of the frequent lightning strikes, according to them, is Bihar's location close to the Nepalese Terai region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Twenty people killed by lightning in India in 24 hours

A drone-shot video of a road has been floating on the social media depicting crater-like potholes on a national highway in the state of Bihar in India, which are being compared by netizens to the Japanese TV show Takeshi’s castle’s adventure course.

The video was shot by journalist Praveen Thakur of Dainik Bhaskar depicting the devastating condition of National Highway 227 that passes through the Madhubani area of Bihar. According to a Dainik Bhaskar report, this issue has been raised multiple times in the legislature, but the road has still not been repaired.

Political strategist and an ardent critic of the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar, Prashant Kishore tweeted in Hindi, "Reminiscent of the condition of roads in Bihar in the Jungle Raj of the 90s, this is National Highway 227 (L) of Madhubani district of Bihar. Recently, Nitish Kumar Ji was speaking to the people of the road construction department at an event that they should tell everyone about the good condition of roads in Bihar."

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90 के दशक के जंगलराज में बिहार में सड़कों की स्थिति की याद दिलाता यह बिहार के मधुबनी जिले का नेशनल हाईवे 227 (L) है। 
 
अभी हाल में ही <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nitishkumar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nitishkumar</a> जी एक कार्यक्रम में पथ निर्माण विभाग के लोगों को बोल रहे थे कि बिहार में सड़कों की अच्छी स्थिति के बारे में उन्हें सबको बताना चाहिए। <a href="https://t.co/Qp0ehEluty">pic.twitter.com/Qp0ehEluty</a>
— Prashant Kishor (@PrashantKishor) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrashantKishor/status/1539820377605492736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The leader of the opposition in the Bihar assembly, Tejaswi Yadav also tweeted on the issue, saying, “The BJP government, which won 39 out of 40 Lok Sabha from Bihar, has built a wonderful international road in Bihar, to see which tourists from all over the country are coming to Bihar. Seeing the quality and design of the road in New India, tourists are spontaneously saying Ah! Double engined Jungle Raj! O Vishwaguru!”

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बिहार से 40 में से 39 लोकसभा जीतने वाली बीजेपी सरकार ने बिहार में गज़ब की अंतरराष्ट्रीय सड़क बनवाई है जिसे देखने गुजरात से लेकर देशभर के पर्यटक बिहार आ रहे है। 
 
न्यू इंडिया में सड़क की गुणवत्ता और डिज़ाइन को देखते ही पर्यटक अनायास कह रहे है आह! डबल इंजनधारी जंगलराज! हे विश्वगुरु! <a href="https://t.co/OMsWWy7Hyg">pic.twitter.com/OMsWWy7Hyg</a>
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1540166784765943809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The road is being compared to the Dragon God's Pond adventure course in Takeshi’s Castle, where contestants have to cross a lake via twenty-five stones, five of which are loose and sinking when stepped on.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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A drone-shot video of a road has been floating on the social media depicting crater-like potholes on a national highway in the state of Bihar in India, which are being compared by netizens to the Japanese TV show Takeshi’s castle’s adventure course.

A drone-shot video of a road has been floating on the social media depicting crater-like potholes on a national highway in the state of Bihar in India, which are being compared by netizens to the Japanese TV show Takeshi’s castle’s adventure course. The video was shot by journalist Praveen Thakur of Dainik Bhaskar depicting the devastating condition of National Highway 227 that passes through the Madhubani area of Bihar. According to a Dainik Bhaskar report, this issue has been raised multiple times in the legislature, but the road has still not been repaired. Political strategist and an ardent critic of the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar, Prashant Kishore tweeted in Hindi, "Reminiscent of the condition of roads in Bihar in the Jungle Raj of the 90s, this is National Highway 227 (L) of Madhubani district of Bihar. Recently, Nitish Kumar Ji was speaking to the people of the road construction department at an event that they should tell everyone about the good condition of roads in Bihar." 90 के दशक के जंगलराज में बिहार में सड़कों की स्थिति की याद दिलाता यह बिहार के मधुबनी जिले का नेशनल हाईवे 227 (L) है। अभी हाल में ही #Nitishkumar जी एक कार्यक्रम में पथ निर्माण विभाग के लोगों को बोल रहे थे कि बिहार में सड़कों की अच्छी स्थिति के बारे में उन्हें सबको बताना चाहिए। pic.twitter.com/Qp0ehEluty — Prashant Kishor (@PrashantKishor) June 23, 2022 × The leader of the opposition in the Bihar assembly, Tejaswi Yadav also tweeted on the issue, saying, “The BJP government, which won 39 out of 40 Lok Sabha from Bihar, has built a wonderful international road in Bihar, to see which tourists from all over the country are coming to Bihar. Seeing the quality and design of the road in New India, tourists are spontaneously saying Ah! Double engined Jungle Raj! O Vishwaguru!” बिहार से 40 में से 39 लोकसभा जीतने वाली बीजेपी सरकार ने बिहार में गज़ब की अंतरराष्ट्रीय सड़क बनवाई है जिसे देखने गुजरात से लेकर देशभर के पर्यटक बिहार आ रहे है। न्यू इंडिया में सड़क की गुणवत्ता और डिज़ाइन को देखते ही पर्यटक अनायास कह रहे है आह! डबल इंजनधारी जंगलराज! हे विश्वगुरु! pic.twitter.com/OMsWWy7Hyg — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 24, 2022 × The road is being compared to the Dragon God's Pond adventure course in Takeshi’s Castle, where contestants have to cross a lake via twenty-five stones, five of which are loose and sinking when stepped on. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Netizens compare potholes on Bihar national highway to Takeshi’s castle

Former Indian cricket team skipper MS Dhoni was named in a FIR filed in Bihar’s Begusarai in connection to a bounced cheque given by New Global Produce India Limited. &nbsp;Dhoni, who promoted the New Global Produce India Limited in the past, was named in the FIR along with seven other people and Begusarai’s CJM's court, the bounced cheque was worth Rs 3 million. The initial court hearing took place on Monday in front of Judicial Magistrate Ajay Kumar Mishra with the next hearing taking place on June 28. However, Dhoni has not been summoned for the case as of now.

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The cheque was made out to SK Enterprises after an order of fertilisers worth Rs 3 million. However, most of the product went unsold and NGPIL gave them the cheque as compensation. Later, the cheque given by NGPIL bounced after it was submitted to the bank and that resulted in the FIR.

Neeraj Kumar Nirala, who owns SK Enterprises, went on to register the FIR against Dhoni and seven others after the payment was not completed. But the company has not replied to the legal notice.

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Dhoni just finished representing Chennai Super Kings in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. The veteran wicketkeeper batsman did not have a good outing with his team ending the tournament at the bottom of the points table. Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy ahead of the new season but had to take over the position once again after Ravindra Jadeja stepped down.

Former Indian cricket team skipper MS Dhoni was named in a FIR filed in Bihar’s Begusarai in connection to a bounced cheque given by New Global Produce India Limited.

Former Indian cricket team skipper MS Dhoni was named in a FIR filed in Bihar’s Begusarai in connection to a bounced cheque given by New Global Produce India Limited. Dhoni, who promoted the New Global Produce India Limited in the past, was named in the FIR along with seven other people and Begusarai’s CJM's court, the bounced cheque was worth Rs 3 million. The initial court hearing took place on Monday in front of Judicial Magistrate Ajay Kumar Mishra with the next hearing taking place on June 28. However, Dhoni has not been summoned for the case as of now. Also read | In pics - Shanghai starts coming back to life after two-month long lockdown The cheque was made out to SK Enterprises after an order of fertilisers worth Rs 3 million. However, most of the product went unsold and NGPIL gave them the cheque as compensation. Later, the cheque given by NGPIL bounced after it was submitted to the bank and that resulted in the FIR. Neeraj Kumar Nirala, who owns SK Enterprises, went on to register the FIR against Dhoni and seven others after the payment was not completed. But the company has not replied to the legal notice. Also read | Australia step closer to replacing Queen as it appoints ‘minister for republic’ Dhoni just finished representing Chennai Super Kings in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. The veteran wicketkeeper batsman did not have a good outing with his team ending the tournament at the bottom of the points table. Dhoni stepped down from the captaincy ahead of the new season but had to take over the position once again after Ravindra Jadeja stepped down.

MS Dhoni in legal trouble as FIR filed against former India captain in Bihar

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. This proverb could not be more true in the case of a mechanic in India’s north Bihar state who is being hailed as an ‘artist’.

In order to cash in on the growing frenzy among grooms who seek to hire helicopters to make a grand entry to their wedding venues, Guddu Sharma turned his Tata Nano, a four-seater hatchback, into a chopper.

He used sensors to give desired features to the vehicle.

According to an Indian newspaper, the mechanic spent nearly 200,000 rupees (more than US $2,600) to shape his car into a helicopter.

Guddu said that he saw a huge demand for helicopters during weddings as the prospective grooms wish to bring their bride home, but due to money problems, they can't afford it.

Hence, he converted the vehicle into a helicopter which can be affordable for everyone.

“In the era of Digital India, this invention is a living example of self-reliant India. More than 150,000 rupees is required in making such a ‘helicopter’, whereas it will cost more than 200,000 rupees to give it a hi-tech appearance,” Guddu said.

It seems that his creative invention is already being well received as he said that 19 people have already booked it.

The helicopter can be hired at a price of Rs 15,000 (US $200).

However, he is not the first person to turn his car into a helicopter.

Mithilesh Prasad, from Chhapra in Bihar state, modified his Tata Nano car into a helicopter to achieve his childhood dream of designing a helicopter. It took him seven months to complete the project.

(With inputs from agencies)

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. This proverb could not be more true in the case of a mechanic in India’s north Bihar state who is being hailed as an ‘artist’.

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. This proverb could not be more true in the case of a mechanic in India’s north Bihar state who is being hailed as an ‘artist’. In order to cash in on the growing frenzy among grooms who seek to hire helicopters to make a grand entry to their wedding venues, Guddu Sharma turned his Tata Nano, a four-seater hatchback, into a chopper. He used sensors to give desired features to the vehicle. According to an Indian newspaper, the mechanic spent nearly 200,000 rupees (more than US $2,600) to shape his car into a helicopter. Guddu said that he saw a huge demand for helicopters during weddings as the prospective grooms wish to bring their bride home, but due to money problems, they can't afford it. Hence, he converted the vehicle into a helicopter which can be affordable for everyone. “In the era of Digital India, this invention is a living example of self-reliant India. More than 150,000 rupees is required in making such a ‘helicopter’, whereas it will cost more than 200,000 rupees to give it a hi-tech appearance,” Guddu said. It seems that his creative invention is already being well received as he said that 19 people have already booked it. The helicopter can be hired at a price of Rs 15,000 (US $200). However, he is not the first person to turn his car into a helicopter. Mithilesh Prasad, from Chhapra in Bihar state, modified his Tata Nano car into a helicopter to achieve his childhood dream of designing a helicopter. It took him seven months to complete the project. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian man converts his car into a helicopter, rents it for weddings

Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday congratulated Bihar batter Sakibul Gani for a "solid performance" in his debut Ranji Trophy match.

Sakibul Gani scripted history on Friday as he became the first player to score a triple-century on a first-class debut.

The batter achieved the feat in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Plate Group match against Mizoram here at Jadavpur University Campus 2nd Ground, Kolkata.

Tendulkar praised Sakibul Gani for smashing the triple hundred in his debut Ranji Trophy match.

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"Congratulations to Sakibul Gani for a solid performance in his debut Ranji Trophy match. Keep it up," Tendulkar tweeted.

The batter scored 341 runs off just 405 balls with the help of 56 fours and 2 sixes.

He maintained a strike rate of 84.20. On Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy on Thursday, Ajinkya Rahane scored a century for Mumbai in the match against Saurashtra.

Delhi batter Yash Dhull also registered a ton on his first-class debut against Tamil Nadu in Guwahati.

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The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26.

The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday congratulated Bihar batter Sakibul Gani for a "solid performance" in his debut Ranji Trophy match. Sakibul Gani scripted history on Friday as he became the first player to score a triple-century on a first-class debut.

Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday congratulated Bihar batter Sakibul Gani for a "solid performance" in his debut Ranji Trophy match. Sakibul Gani scripted history on Friday as he became the first player to score a triple-century on a first-class debut. The batter achieved the feat in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Plate Group match against Mizoram here at Jadavpur University Campus 2nd Ground, Kolkata. Tendulkar praised Sakibul Gani for smashing the triple hundred in his debut Ranji Trophy match. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped "Congratulations to Sakibul Gani for a solid performance in his debut Ranji Trophy match. Keep it up," Tendulkar tweeted. The batter scored 341 runs off just 405 balls with the help of 56 fours and 2 sixes. He maintained a strike rate of 84.20. On Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy on Thursday, Ajinkya Rahane scored a century for Mumbai in the match against Saurashtra. Delhi batter Yash Dhull also registered a ton on his first-class debut against Tamil Nadu in Guwahati. ALSO READ: 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26. The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

Sachin Tendulkar lauds Bihar's Ranji Trophy star Sakibul Gani for record-breaking triple ton on debut

Eight people died on Thursday morning and several others fell ill after consuming suspected spurious liquor in West Champaran district of dry Bihar. 
 
Locals claimed that the victims, all residents of Telhua village, had consumed liquor in Chamartoli area on Wednesday evening, but the police did not quite confirm the same as yet. 
 
A senior police officer, however, said all eight deceased have been identified. 
 
Talking to reporters, Superintendent of Police Upendra Nath Verma said, "It is a case of unnatural death and more information will be available only after a preliminary investigation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sends-in-100-tonne-fertiliser-to-sri-lanka-amid-colombos-row-with-china-over-contamination-427106">Also read |&nbsp;India sends in 100 tonne fertiliser to Sri Lanka amid Colombo's row with China over contamination</a> 
 
Senior officials of the district administration and the police are camping in the village to find out details in the case, he added. 
 
A villager, on the condition of anonymity, said, After consuming liquor, people started complaining of uneasiness and were taken to a nearby hospital. All eight of them died this morning. There are others currently undergoing treatment in various local hospitals. 
 
Last month, in a similar incident, eight people died in Muzaffarpur. 
 
The Nitish Kumar government had on April 5, 2016 banned the manufacture, trade, storage, transportation, sale and consumption of liquor in the state. 
 
Kumar had said that "the ban on alcohol has been imposed in the interest of society".

Eight people died on Thursday morning and several others fell ill after consuming suspected spurious liquor in West Champaran district of dry Bihar. Locals claimed that the victims, all residents of Telhua village, had consumed liquor in Chamartoli area on Wednesday evening, but the police did not quite confirm the same as yet.

Eight people died on Thursday morning and several others fell ill after consuming suspected spurious liquor in West Champaran district of dry Bihar. Locals claimed that the victims, all residents of Telhua village, had consumed liquor in Chamartoli area on Wednesday evening, but the police did not quite confirm the same as yet. A senior police officer, however, said all eight deceased have been identified. Talking to reporters, Superintendent of Police Upendra Nath Verma said, "It is a case of unnatural death and more information will be available only after a preliminary investigation." Also read | India sends in 100 tonne fertiliser to Sri Lanka amid Colombo's row with China over contamination Senior officials of the district administration and the police are camping in the village to find out details in the case, he added. A villager, on the condition of anonymity, said, After consuming liquor, people started complaining of uneasiness and were taken to a nearby hospital. All eight of them died this morning. There are others currently undergoing treatment in various local hospitals. Last month, in a similar incident, eight people died in Muzaffarpur. The Nitish Kumar government had on April 5, 2016 banned the manufacture, trade, storage, transportation, sale and consumption of liquor in the state. Kumar had said that "the ban on alcohol has been imposed in the interest of society".

Suspected spurious liquor claims 8 more lives in Indian state, probe initiated

Bihar elections are the first election in India after months of Covid 19 pandemic. While India has greatly returned to normalcy, the months that went by shook the common man and industry. In retrospect, the sudden lockdown looked poorly planned and executed. The pandemic at many levels exposed the inefficiency of public administration. Indians whether farmers, labourers, students, professionals and businessmen suffered through the health crisis, crippling medical system and slower pace of already slowed down the economy.&nbsp;

For many years Bihar elections have been measured through the prism of caste dynamics. Nitish Kumar for the last 15 years was branded as the father of good governance and architect of caste coalition called -maha Dalits. On the other hand, Lalu Yadav’s RJD failed to enlarge its social base or wipe out the tag of corruption and lawlessness, it earned during its 15 years of rule.&nbsp;

The pandemic came as a political disruptor and changed the rules, of the game of throne in Bihar. While Lalu is in jail, his son Tejashvi made a bold move to make unemployment, jobs and backwardness of Bihar the issue. After 15 years, Nitish Kumar looks like a politically exhausted leader. He failed to communicate any fresh ideas or promises that can capture the imagination of people. Modi’s several rallies had little impact on the discourse. The once exciting jungle raj and Yuvraj diatribe had less impact than expected. Nitish and Modi are suffering from triple engine anti-incumbency. Young Tejashvi has smartly disengaged himself from the discourse trap normally the BJP lays for its opponents and have rather got the ruling partners to give explanations to the people of Bihar.&nbsp;

The election outcome will determine if voters have chosen to reward or punish the Bihar Government for the mismanagement of the pandemic. It will also send a message to the BJP of acceptance or rejection of their work. People of Bihar will decide if they will forgive the Lalu Yadav clan and accept Tejashvi as its leader.&nbsp;

Election results in the second most important state in the Hindi heartland will have a cascading effect on Indian politics. If Modi and JDU win, this will be a huge vindication of Modi lead NDA. It will clearly convey that even the pandemic or the management of the economy have not been able to shake Modi.&nbsp; 
 
Modi will remain the unfazed, Mr Invincible. This victory will also give a boost to the ambitions of the BJP to win West Bengal.&nbsp;

If BJP and JDU lose Bihar, nationally it’s an embarrassment for Modi administration. It will be perceived as an astounding statement on Prime Minister’s governance also the political price for a David Vs Goliath battle will be huge. In a strange coincidence, what’s happened in the US has put Prime Minister Modi on the back foot. He had put his personal capital behind his friend Trump and risked diplomatic norms of engagement by campaigning for Trump. From Pennsylvania to Patna if friends and allies lose, the days ahead will be tough.&nbsp;

Whatever the outcome, the US elections have proved that the most invincible can be replaced. Right-wing politics is not here to stay forever and also rekindled hope in change. The pandemic will have its effect on the elections as it directly affected lives and livelihoods. 11th November is not just a test for tall men like Prime Minister Modi or Nitish Kumar. It may establish Tesjashvi as young and promising leader of Bihar. With what’s happening in India and globally, the excitement and interest in a state election has never been so thrilling. More than RJD, it’s crucial for the BJP and JDU to win this election. Mr Modi has a lot at stake!&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do&nbsp;not represent the views of&nbsp;WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse&nbsp;the views of the writer)

Bihar elections are the first election in India after months of Covid 19 pandemic. While India has greatly returned to normalcy, the months that went by shook the common man and industry.

Bihar elections are the first election in India after months of Covid 19 pandemic. While India has greatly returned to normalcy, the months that went by shook the common man and industry. In retrospect, the sudden lockdown looked poorly planned and executed. The pandemic at many levels exposed the inefficiency of public administration. Indians whether farmers, labourers, students, professionals and businessmen suffered through the health crisis, crippling medical system and slower pace of already slowed down the economy. For many years Bihar elections have been measured through the prism of caste dynamics. Nitish Kumar for the last 15 years was branded as the father of good governance and architect of caste coalition called -maha Dalits. On the other hand, Lalu Yadav’s RJD failed to enlarge its social base or wipe out the tag of corruption and lawlessness, it earned during its 15 years of rule. The pandemic came as a political disruptor and changed the rules, of the game of throne in Bihar. While Lalu is in jail, his son Tejashvi made a bold move to make unemployment, jobs and backwardness of Bihar the issue. After 15 years, Nitish Kumar looks like a politically exhausted leader. He failed to communicate any fresh ideas or promises that can capture the imagination of people. Modi’s several rallies had little impact on the discourse. The once exciting jungle raj and Yuvraj diatribe had less impact than expected. Nitish and Modi are suffering from triple engine anti-incumbency. Young Tejashvi has smartly disengaged himself from the discourse trap normally the BJP lays for its opponents and have rather got the ruling partners to give explanations to the people of Bihar. The election outcome will determine if voters have chosen to reward or punish the Bihar Government for the mismanagement of the pandemic. It will also send a message to the BJP of acceptance or rejection of their work. People of Bihar will decide if they will forgive the Lalu Yadav clan and accept Tejashvi as its leader. Election results in the second most important state in the Hindi heartland will have a cascading effect on Indian politics. If Modi and JDU win, this will be a huge vindication of Modi lead NDA. It will clearly convey that even the pandemic or the management of the economy have not been able to shake Modi. Modi will remain the unfazed, Mr Invincible. This victory will also give a boost to the ambitions of the BJP to win West Bengal. If BJP and JDU lose Bihar, nationally it’s an embarrassment for Modi administration. It will be perceived as an astounding statement on Prime Minister’s governance also the political price for a David Vs Goliath battle will be huge. In a strange coincidence, what’s happened in the US has put Prime Minister Modi on the back foot. He had put his personal capital behind his friend Trump and risked diplomatic norms of engagement by campaigning for Trump. From Pennsylvania to Patna if friends and allies lose, the days ahead will be tough. Whatever the outcome, the US elections have proved that the most invincible can be replaced. Right-wing politics is not here to stay forever and also rekindled hope in change. The pandemic will have its effect on the elections as it directly affected lives and livelihoods. 11th November is not just a test for tall men like Prime Minister Modi or Nitish Kumar. It may establish Tesjashvi as young and promising leader of Bihar. With what’s happening in India and globally, the excitement and interest in a state election has never been so thrilling. More than RJD, it’s crucial for the BJP and JDU to win this election. Mr Modi has a lot at stake! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Why Bihar results are important for India

People of Bihar rejected "goonda raj" and voted for development, BJP President JP Nadda said on Tuesday.

Inaugurating six-party offices in Odisha, Nadda said the people of Bihar gave their "stamp of approval" to the development agenda of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre.

"They strongly supported Narendra Modi's policy of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (with all, development for all)," he said.

The new offices inaugurated by Nadda are located in Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Baripada in Mayurbhanj district, Sundergarh and Bargarh.

Then BJP chief Amit Shah had laid the foundation stone for the party offices on April 5, 2018.

Work for six other new party offices in Odisha will start soon, Nadda announced.

"BJP gives priority to even the construction of party offices. Some parties run offices from home. Thus, they become a family party," he said in an apparent swipe at the Congress.

"For us, our party is our family, while some others use their family as the party," the BJP chief said.

Stating that the BJP prepared an ambitious plan to construct 700 party offices across the country after Narendra Modi became prime minister in 2014, Nadda said 400 of them are ready, while work is in progress for 200 others and the process of land acquisition is on for the rest.

"The party office is a proper place for imparting informal training to the party cadres. It functions as a source of major inspiration," he said.

People of Bihar rejected "goonda raj" and voted for development, BJP President JP Nadda said on Tuesday. Inaugurating six-party offices in Odisha, Nadda said the people of Bihar gave their "stamp of approval" to the development agenda of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre.

People of Bihar rejected "goonda raj" and voted for development, BJP President JP Nadda said on Tuesday. Inaugurating six-party offices in Odisha, Nadda said the people of Bihar gave their "stamp of approval" to the development agenda of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre. "They strongly supported Narendra Modi's policy of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (with all, development for all)," he said. The new offices inaugurated by Nadda are located in Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Baripada in Mayurbhanj district, Sundergarh and Bargarh. Then BJP chief Amit Shah had laid the foundation stone for the party offices on April 5, 2018. Work for six other new party offices in Odisha will start soon, Nadda announced. "BJP gives priority to even the construction of party offices. Some parties run offices from home. Thus, they become a family party," he said in an apparent swipe at the Congress. "For us, our party is our family, while some others use their family as the party," the BJP chief said. Stating that the BJP prepared an ambitious plan to construct 700 party offices across the country after Narendra Modi became prime minister in 2014, Nadda said 400 of them are ready, while work is in progress for 200 others and the process of land acquisition is on for the rest. "The party office is a proper place for imparting informal training to the party cadres. It functions as a source of major inspiration," he said.

Bihar rejected 'goonda raj', voted for development: JP Nadda

Nitish Kumar on Monday was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in two decades.

At the oath-taking ceremony, senior members of the ruling alliance NDA, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda were also present.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nitish-kumar-to-be-bihar-chief-minister-for-4th-term-in-a-row-343271">Nitish Kumar to be Bihar Chief Minister for 4th term in a row</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kumar, who heads the JD(U), was administered the oath of office at Raj Bhavan in Patna by Governor Phagu Chauhan.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-tejashwi-yadav-leader-of-single-largest-party-rjd-demands-recount-342683">Bihar Elections: Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount</a>

BJP's Tarkishore Prasad and Renu Devi, who will most likely become deputy chief ministers of the state, also took the oath.&nbsp;

In the tightly-fought election of the eastern Indian state, NDA won 125 seats in the 243-member house. However, Kumar's JD(U) was able to manage just 43 seats, but its ally BJP managed to win a lion's share, 74 seats.&nbsp;

The main opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) boycotted the event, saying the election was rigged and the mandate was against the NDA.&nbsp;

"The RJD boycotts swearing-in ceremony. The mandate for change is against the NDA. The mandate has been changed on the state's directions. Ask the unemployed, farmers, contract workers and employed teachers of Bihar what is going on with them. The public is agitated by the fraud of the NDA," RJD wrote in a tweet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nitish Kumar on Monday was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in two decades. At the oath-taking ceremony, senior members of the ruling alliance NDA, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda were also present.

Nitish Kumar on Monday was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in two decades. At the oath-taking ceremony, senior members of the ruling alliance NDA, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda were also present. Also read | Nitish Kumar to be Bihar Chief Minister for 4th term in a row Kumar, who heads the JD(U), was administered the oath of office at Raj Bhavan in Patna by Governor Phagu Chauhan. Also read | Bihar Elections: Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount BJP's Tarkishore Prasad and Renu Devi, who will most likely become deputy chief ministers of the state, also took the oath. In the tightly-fought election of the eastern Indian state, NDA won 125 seats in the 243-member house. However, Kumar's JD(U) was able to manage just 43 seats, but its ally BJP managed to win a lion's share, 74 seats. The main opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) boycotted the event, saying the election was rigged and the mandate was against the NDA. "The RJD boycotts swearing-in ceremony. The mandate for change is against the NDA. The mandate has been changed on the state's directions. Ask the unemployed, farmers, contract workers and employed teachers of Bihar what is going on with them. The public is agitated by the fraud of the NDA," RJD wrote in a tweet.

Nitish Kumar sworn in as CM of Bihar for seventh time

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at family-run parties saying they are the biggest threat to the democracy and rued that even a national party had fallen prey to it.

Addressing party workers at a felicitation function after the BJP's victory in Bihar elections and various bypolls, he asserted that the only mantra for his party's victory was "Sabka saath, sabka vikas and sabka vishwas".

Modi said the poll results in Bihar and other bye-elections across the country have made it clear that people will now support only those who work honestly for development.

"People have decided that development alone will be basis of national politics in 21st century," he said.

Modi also said those who cannot fight the BJP democratically have resorted to murdering the party's workers.

"This killing game cannot work in democracy," he said.

Lauding the people of the country for reposing their faith in the BJP, the prime minister also thanked and praised the Election Commission, security forces and administration for peaceful and successful conduct of elections.

These poll results have broadened the outcome of Lok Sabha elections, the prime minister said referring to BJP's success in polls and bypolls across the country.

"BJP is the only national party in which poor, dalits, deprived see their representation; only BJP understands need of every section, region. The poll results have endorsed the way we have tackled COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

Modi also said that women across the country are the 'Silent voters' which support the BJP across all rural and urban regions.

Amid a festival-like atmosphere with the crowd chanting 'Modi hai to mumkin hai (Modi can make it possible), BJP president J P Nadda earlier said at the event that people of Bihar have put their stamp of approval on Modi's work to deal with COVID-19 and help poor during pandemic.

He also said Bihar has chosen 'vikas raaj' over 'goonda raaj', 'DBT raaj' over 'loot raaj' and LED over lantern: J P Nadda to BJP workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at family-run parties saying they are the biggest threat to the democracy and rued that even a national party had fallen prey to it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at family-run parties saying they are the biggest threat to the democracy and rued that even a national party had fallen prey to it. Addressing party workers at a felicitation function after the BJP's victory in Bihar elections and various bypolls, he asserted that the only mantra for his party's victory was "Sabka saath, sabka vikas and sabka vishwas". Modi said the poll results in Bihar and other bye-elections across the country have made it clear that people will now support only those who work honestly for development. "People have decided that development alone will be basis of national politics in 21st century," he said. Modi also said those who cannot fight the BJP democratically have resorted to murdering the party's workers. "This killing game cannot work in democracy," he said. Lauding the people of the country for reposing their faith in the BJP, the prime minister also thanked and praised the Election Commission, security forces and administration for peaceful and successful conduct of elections. These poll results have broadened the outcome of Lok Sabha elections, the prime minister said referring to BJP's success in polls and bypolls across the country. "BJP is the only national party in which poor, dalits, deprived see their representation; only BJP understands need of every section, region. The poll results have endorsed the way we have tackled COVID-19 pandemic," he said. Modi also said that women across the country are the 'Silent voters' which support the BJP across all rural and urban regions. Amid a festival-like atmosphere with the crowd chanting 'Modi hai to mumkin hai (Modi can make it possible), BJP president J P Nadda earlier said at the event that people of Bihar have put their stamp of approval on Modi's work to deal with COVID-19 and help poor during pandemic. He also said Bihar has chosen 'vikas raaj' over 'goonda raaj', 'DBT raaj' over 'loot raaj' and LED over lantern: J P Nadda to BJP workers.

Family-run parties biggest threat to India's democracy: PM Modi after Bihar win

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