Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday defended firecracker celebrations during Diwali, questioning why people were criticised over pollution while those responsible for wider damage to the system faced no similar scrutiny.&nbsp;Speaking at an appointment letter distribution programme, Adityanath said pollution caused by bursting crackers could be addressed and argued that people should be allowed to celebrate festivals without restrictions.&nbsp;"You celebrated Diwali and several people are saying that it caused pollution. I said, 'Don't worry; pollution would be mitigated as well'," he said.&nbsp;"Nobody says anything to those who polluted the entire system with their corrupt misdeeds. But if the public burst crackers one day, it created pollution. If pollution happened, it would be mitigated as well. No problem."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/certainly-god-is-good-11-month-old-us-baby-found-alive-after-being-buried-in-dog-crate-for-24-hours-1794385044157">‘Certainly God is good’: 11-month-old US baby found alive after being buried in dog crate for 24 hours</a>&nbsp;He added that people had celebrated Diwali with "dhoom-dhadaka" and said his government had decided against imposing restrictions. "I, too, was in the middle of fireworks in Ayodhya," he said.The chief minister also targeted previous governments, claiming that festivals were often accompanied by communal riots before 2017.&nbsp;"But this was not possible before 2017. Before 2017 whenever any festival arrived—whether it was Holi, Diwali, Vijayadashami, Janmashtami, Shivratri, Christmas, Eid, Guru Parv, or Makar Sankranti—riots would break out right before all of them," he said.&nbsp;The remarks came during an event where Adityanath distributed appointment letters to 1,146 newly recruited junior assistants. He also released ₹215 crore in financial assistance to 4,300 beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Kisan Durghatna Kalyan Yojana.&nbsp;Speaking about employment, he said talented young people had earlier been forced to leave Uttar Pradesh because they could not find suitable opportunities.&nbsp;"When talent did not find suitable opportunities, it would migrate elsewhere. The youth of Uttar Pradesh contributed their hard work to the nation and the world, yet UP remained impoverished—simply because they could not secure honest employment within the state," he said.&nbsp;The comments come amid worsening air quality across several Indian cities ahead of Diwali on November 8. Thick smog covered Delhi and neighbouring areas, including Noida and Gurugram, with more than half of the capital's monitoring stations recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400, in the severe category.

Yogi Adityanath defended Diwali firecracker celebrations amid pollution concerns, questioned criticism of festival celebrations and targeted previous governments over law and order.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday defended firecracker celebrations during Diwali, questioning why people were criticised over pollution while those responsible for wider damage to the system faced no similar scrutiny. Speaking at an appointment letter distribution programme, Adityanath said pollution caused by bursting crackers could be addressed and argued that people should be allowed to celebrate festivals without restrictions. "You celebrated Diwali and several people are saying that it caused pollution. I said, 'Don't worry; pollution would be mitigated as well'," he said. "Nobody says anything to those who polluted the entire system with their corrupt misdeeds. But if the public burst crackers one day, it created pollution. If pollution happened, it would be mitigated as well. No problem." Also Read: ‘Certainly God is good’: 11-month-old US baby found alive after being buried in dog crate for 24 hours He added that people had celebrated Diwali with "dhoom-dhadaka" and said his government had decided against imposing restrictions. "I, too, was in the middle of fireworks in Ayodhya," he said. The chief minister also targeted previous governments, claiming that festivals were often accompanied by communal riots before 2017. "But this was not possible before 2017. Before 2017 whenever any festival arrived—whether it was Holi, Diwali, Vijayadashami, Janmashtami, Shivratri, Christmas, Eid, Guru Parv, or Makar Sankranti—riots would break out right before all of them," he said. The remarks came during an event where Adityanath distributed appointment letters to 1,146 newly recruited junior assistants. He also released ₹215 crore in financial assistance to 4,300 beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Kisan Durghatna Kalyan Yojana. Speaking about employment, he said talented young people had earlier been forced to leave Uttar Pradesh because they could not find suitable opportunities. "When talent did not find suitable opportunities, it would migrate elsewhere. The youth of Uttar Pradesh contributed their hard work to the nation and the world, yet UP remained impoverished—simply because they could not secure honest employment within the state," he said. The comments come amid worsening air quality across several Indian cities ahead of Diwali on November 8. Thick smog covered Delhi and neighbouring areas, including Noida and Gurugram, with more than half of the capital's monitoring stations recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400, in the severe category.

Yogi Adityanath defended Diwali firecracker celebrations amid pollution concerns, questioned criticism of festival celebrations and targeted previous governments over law and order.

‘If pollution has increased, it will subside’: Yogi Adityanath defends bursting of firecrackers on Diwali

The Uttar Pradesh government has tightened the rules for character verification of candidates selected for government jobs, making those involved in “violent activities aimed at changing the existing political order” ineligible for appointment.&nbsp;The move comes amid calls for “regime change” during a recent protest and has drawn criticism from the Opposition Samajwadi Party and the Congress.&nbsp;&nbsp;The fresh guidelines, issued by M Devaraj, Principal Secretary in the Appointment and Personnel Department, follow directions from the Allahabad High Court, and apply to direct recruitment across state government departments, corporations, councils and local bodies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-will-celebrate-piyush-goyal-says-india-will-have-strong-comparative-advantage-after-us-trade-deal-1793278798694">‘People will celebrate’: Piyush Goyal says India will have ‘strong comparative advantage’ after US trade deal</a>&nbsp;The decision comes against the backdrop of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent remarks warning of attempts by unnamed groups to destabilise the country and trigger political upheaval similar to Bangladesh, where mass protests brought down Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024.&nbsp;In a post on X, Adityanath said in a democracy, political power must be won through the people’s mandate rather than chaos.&nbsp;Under the revised guidelines, membership of an organisation that advocates changing the existing order through violent means may be grounds for disqualification.Participation in such activities within the three years preceding character verification, after the candidate has turned 21, may be treated as an indication of continued involvement. However, this presumption can be reconsidered if there is concrete evidence of a change in the candidate’s conduct.&nbsp;The state government has clarified that political ideology alone cannot be a reason to deny someone a government job. Nor will the mere registration of an FIR or a pending investigation automatically disqualify a candidate.&nbsp;The revised rules also permanently disqualify candidates implicated in serious offences, including murder, dacoity, rape, outraging modesty, corruption, acts of terror, recruitment examination paper leaks and organised “solver gang” rackets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ra-amgate-an-earthquake-arab-parties-want-islamisation-of-israel-says-netanyahu-1793270521942">‘Ra’amgate an earthquake. Arab parties want Islamisation of Israel,’ says Netanyahu</a><h2>FIRs alone will not disqualify applicants</h2>&nbsp;The revised rules state that candidates will not automatically be barred from government employment merely because an FIR has been registered against them or an investigation remains pending. Acquittals, cases settled through compromise and matters covered under juvenile justice law will also not lead to automatic disqualification under the guidelines.&nbsp;A pending character verification report need not necessarily hold up an appointment letter.&nbsp;Authorities may issue a provisional appointment after obtaining the candidate’s self-declaration and prescribed documents. However, if verification establishes that a candidate is ineligible or has submitted false information, the appointment can be cancelled and legal action initiated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ally-fla-vio-bolsonaro-arrives-in-miami-with-family-after-fleeing-brazil-1793204345550">Trump ally Flávio Bolsonaro arrives in Miami with family after fleeing Brazil</a>&nbsp;The guidelines also set a 30-day deadline for district police and the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) to submit verification reports after receiving a request.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Home Department will monitor delays. Police and LIU personnel will not be required to visit a candidate’s residence, and the candidate’s physical presence will not be mandatory.&nbsp;If a report is adverse, the district magistrate must give the candidate an opportunity to present their case, either online or in person, before forwarding a recommendation.

The fresh guidelines, issued by M Devaraj, Principal Secretary in the Appointment and Personnel Department, follow directions from the Allahabad High Court, and apply to direct recruitment across state government departments, corporations, councils and local bodies.

The Uttar Pradesh government has tightened the rules for character verification of candidates selected for government jobs, making those involved in “violent activities aimed at changing the existing political order” ineligible for appointment. The move comes amid calls for “regime change” during a recent protest and has drawn criticism from the Opposition Samajwadi Party and the Congress. The fresh guidelines, issued by M Devaraj, Principal Secretary in the Appointment and Personnel Department, follow directions from the Allahabad High Court, and apply to direct recruitment across state government departments, corporations, councils and local bodies. Also Read: ‘People will celebrate’: Piyush Goyal says India will have ‘strong comparative advantage’ after US trade deal The decision comes against the backdrop of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent remarks warning of attempts by unnamed groups to destabilise the country and trigger political upheaval similar to Bangladesh, where mass protests brought down Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024. In a post on X, Adityanath said in a democracy, political power must be won through the people’s mandate rather than chaos. Under the revised guidelines, membership of an organisation that advocates changing the existing order through violent means may be grounds for disqualification. Participation in such activities within the three years preceding character verification, after the candidate has turned 21, may be treated as an indication of continued involvement. However, this presumption can be reconsidered if there is concrete evidence of a change in the candidate’s conduct. The state government has clarified that political ideology alone cannot be a reason to deny someone a government job. Nor will the mere registration of an FIR or a pending investigation automatically disqualify a candidate. The revised rules also permanently disqualify candidates implicated in serious offences, including murder, dacoity, rape, outraging modesty, corruption, acts of terror, recruitment examination paper leaks and organised “solver gang” rackets. Also Read: ‘Ra’amgate an earthquake. Arab parties want Islamisation of Israel,’ says Netanyahu FIRs alone will not disqualify applicants The revised rules state that candidates will not automatically be barred from government employment merely because an FIR has been registered against them or an investigation remains pending. Acquittals, cases settled through compromise and matters covered under juvenile justice law will also not lead to automatic disqualification under the guidelines. A pending character verification report need not necessarily hold up an appointment letter. Authorities may issue a provisional appointment after obtaining the candidate’s self-declaration and prescribed documents. However, if verification establishes that a candidate is ineligible or has submitted false information, the appointment can be cancelled and legal action initiated. Also Read: Trump ally Flávio Bolsonaro arrives in Miami with family after fleeing Brazil The guidelines also set a 30-day deadline for district police and the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) to submit verification reports after receiving a request. The Home Department will monitor delays. Police and LIU personnel will not be required to visit a candidate’s residence, and the candidate’s physical presence will not be mandatory. If a report is adverse, the district magistrate must give the candidate an opportunity to present their case, either online or in person, before forwarding a recommendation.

The fresh guidelines, issued by M Devaraj, Principal Secretary in the Appointment and Personnel Department, follow directions from the Allahabad High Court, and apply to direct recruitment across state government departments, corporations, councils and local bodies.

No state govt jobs in UP for those involved in violent activities seeking ‘regime change’

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday (October 9) announced that the Noida International Airport in Jewar will be renamed after Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The decision comes as the state Cabinet marks Modi's completion of 25 years of continuous public service as the head of a government.&nbsp;Announcing the decision, Yogi said the airport would become Uttar Pradesh's largest airport and could eventually emerge as the country's biggest aviation hub.&nbsp;"The Uttar Pradesh Council of Ministers is grateful to the Prime Minister for gifting the state the Noida International Airport (Jewar); this is set to become Uttar Pradesh's largest airport and, in the future, the country's largest aviation hub," the Chief Minister said.&nbsp;He added that the Cabinet had approved a proposal to name the facility Narendra Modi International Airport, Noida-Jewar.<h2>UP Cabinet congratulates PM Modi on 25 years in public service</h2>The Cabinet also passed a resolution congratulating Modi on completing 25 years as the head of a government. His journey began on October 7, 2001, when he took charge as Gujarat Chief Minister, before becoming Prime Minister in 2014.&nbsp;"The Cabinet has resolved that October 7th marks a glorious chapter in the nation's history. The Council of Ministers of UP extends its heartfelt congratulations to PM Modi on the completion of 25 years of continuous, dedicated service as the Head of Government," Yogi said.&nbsp;He described the milestone as a moment of pride for Uttar Pradesh, noting that Modi represents the state as a Member of Parliament.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-not-stop-it-altogether-sc-asks-centre-to-review-delhi-metro-curbs-ahead-of-oct-10-protests-1791541751330">'Do not stop it altogether': SC asks Centre to review Delhi Metro curbs ahead of Oct 10 protests</a><h2>Yogi credits PM Modi's leadership for UP's development</h2>Yogi said Uttar Pradesh had entered a new phase of development under Modi's leadership, with the state focusing on its heritage alongside development.&nbsp;"Under his leadership, India has established a new identity on the global stage while preserving its civilizational values; simultaneously, UP has entered a new era where heritage and development go hand in hand. The bond between PM Modi and Uttar Pradesh is deeply personal," he said.&nbsp;The Chief Minister described the Prime Minister as a "Karmayogi" and credited his leadership with driving Uttar Pradesh's development and boosting the state's confidence.&nbsp;"Under the guidance of 'Karmayogi' PM Modi, Uttar Pradesh is scaling new heights of all-round progress with renewed self-confidence. The UP Council of Ministers will always remain grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for consistently prioritising the state's development," he added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a proposal to rename Jewar Airport after PM Modi as the Prime Minister completed 25 years as the head of a government.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday (October 9) announced that the Noida International Airport in Jewar will be renamed after Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The decision comes as the state Cabinet marks Modi's completion of 25 years of continuous public service as the head of a government. Announcing the decision, Yogi said the airport would become Uttar Pradesh's largest airport and could eventually emerge as the country's biggest aviation hub. "The Uttar Pradesh Council of Ministers is grateful to the Prime Minister for gifting the state the Noida International Airport (Jewar); this is set to become Uttar Pradesh's largest airport and, in the future, the country's largest aviation hub," the Chief Minister said. He added that the Cabinet had approved a proposal to name the facility Narendra Modi International Airport, Noida-Jewar. UP Cabinet congratulates PM Modi on 25 years in public service The Cabinet also passed a resolution congratulating Modi on completing 25 years as the head of a government. His journey began on October 7, 2001, when he took charge as Gujarat Chief Minister, before becoming Prime Minister in 2014. "The Cabinet has resolved that October 7th marks a glorious chapter in the nation's history. The Council of Ministers of UP extends its heartfelt congratulations to PM Modi on the completion of 25 years of continuous, dedicated service as the Head of Government," Yogi said. He described the milestone as a moment of pride for Uttar Pradesh, noting that Modi represents the state as a Member of Parliament. Also Read: 'Do not stop it altogether': SC asks Centre to review Delhi Metro curbs ahead of Oct 10 protests Yogi credits PM Modi's leadership for UP's development Yogi said Uttar Pradesh had entered a new phase of development under Modi's leadership, with the state focusing on its heritage alongside development. "Under his leadership, India has established a new identity on the global stage while preserving its civilizational values; simultaneously, UP has entered a new era where heritage and development go hand in hand. The bond between PM Modi and Uttar Pradesh is deeply personal," he said. The Chief Minister described the Prime Minister as a "Karmayogi" and credited his leadership with driving Uttar Pradesh's development and boosting the state's confidence. "Under the guidance of 'Karmayogi' PM Modi, Uttar Pradesh is scaling new heights of all-round progress with renewed self-confidence. The UP Council of Ministers will always remain grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for consistently prioritising the state's development," he added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a proposal to rename Jewar Airport after PM Modi as the Prime Minister completed 25 years as the head of a government.

Jewar airport in Noida to be renamed Narendra Modi International Airport: CM Yogi

&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Friday that the Uttar Pradesh government has zero tolerance towards anyone attempting to exploit Sanatan values and the faith of devotees and promised strict action against those accused in the alleged theft of donations received at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. CM Yogi also attacked the opposition parties for trying to politicise the issue.&nbsp;Addressing a public meeting in Deoria, the chief minister said no one would be allowed to play with the faith of devotees and warned of strict action against those found guilty.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Deoria, UP: CM Yogi Adityanath says, &quot;I was on a visit to Ayodhya on June 19th. Even then, I had said that Ayodhya is a symbol of our unity, a symbol of the unity of India&#39;s Sanatan Dharma. Do not cast aspersions on Ayodhya; learn to follow the dignity of lord Ram.… <a href="https://t.co/MqUYowjpYv">pic.twitter.com/MqUYowjpYv</a>&mdash; ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://x.com/ANINewsUP/status/2070411251856110009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“Playing with public sentiment is unacceptable. Whoever tampers with the faith of Sanatan Dharma will have to face the consequences,” he said, while asserting that those found guilty would not be spared.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fir-registered-in-ram-temple-donation-row-case-on-trust-member-s-complaint-1782397111943">FIR registered in Ram Temple donation row case; all 8 named accused in custody</a>&nbsp;Yogi further said, “Ayodhya is a symbol of faith for all of us and of Sanatan Dharma. Do not cast an evil eye on Ayodhya. Learn to uphold the dignity of Lord Ram. We had said an SIT had been constituted and that action would begin as soon as its report was received.”“The SIT report came, and action started immediately,” he said.&nbsp;Yogi further said that he had made his position clear during his June 19 visit to Ayodhya, where he warned against bringing disrepute to a place that holds deep religious significance for millions.<h2>All eight named accused in the FIR arrested</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, all the eight persons named in an FIR over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the temple have been arrested, senior officials said on Friday.The arrests came after Uttar Pradesh Police registered an FIR on a complaint filed by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the temple.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-ram-temple-donation-controversy-timeline-allegations-and-investigation-1782300937489">Ram temple donation controversy: Timeline, allegations and investigation</a>&nbsp;The FIR named eight people, including trust general secretary Champat Rai’s aide Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu, Anukalp Mishra, Avinash Shukla, Karunesh Pandey, Manish Yadav, Lavkush Mishra, Ramashankar Mishra and Subhash Srivastava.The case was registered after a three-member SIT submitted its preliminary report recommending criminal action.&nbsp;<h2>CM Yogi accuses opposition of trying to politicise the issue</h2>&nbsp;Targeting opposition, CM Yogi said there are people who are trying to raise this issue today, and they are the same people who once denied the existence of Lord Ram.&nbsp;Yogi accused the opposition of trying to politicise the issue and said, “One side used to say that Lord Ram doesn’t even exist, meaning these people wanted to deny Ayodhya itself. They kept fighting the case in court, kept fielding armies of lawyers against the construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, and the other side is the one that would wield sticks and fire bullets at those chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’.“Those who would fire bullets at the mere mention of Lord Ram’s name are now saying that there has been tampering with faith,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-drop-to-pre-war-level-as-oman-affirms-no-transit-fees-for-crossing-hormuz-1782395148857">Oil prices drop to pre-war level as Oman affirms no transit fees for crossing Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Taking aim at the Congress, Yogi accused the party of institutionalising corruption and dishonesty and said attempts were being made to distract attention from the investigation.&nbsp;“Remember, the Congress did not merely indulge in corruption but also weakened the country. The same people who set records in dishonesty and corruption are now casting aspersions on Ayodhya — and that is unacceptable,” he said.&nbsp;The FIR also mentions unidentified persons and invokes provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to theft, criminal breach of trust, conspiracy and corruption-related offences.&nbsp;<h2>SIT detects multiple operational lapses</h2>&nbsp;According to sources, the investigation identified multiple operational lapses in the donation management system, including weaknesses in cash handling, employee verification, CCTV monitoring and procedures governing the transfer of offerings from the temple premises to trust offices and banks.As per reports, the probe found that workers involved in counting donation cash were engaged through a private agency but recruited locally, allegedly on recommendations of individuals linked to temple operations.The SIT has also scrutinised records related to gold, silver and other valuables offered by devotees and examined documentation and inventory practices.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amazon-ceo-meets-pm-modi-says-e-com-giant-to-invest-48bn-in-india-by-2030-expand-ai-cloud-infra-1782387595374">Amazon CEO meets PM Modi, says e-com giant to invest $48bn in India by 2030, expand AI, cloud infra</a><h2>Cong demands dissolution of trust, SC-monitored probe</h2>&nbsp;The Congress party on Friday demanded the dissolution of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and a Supreme Court-monitored probe of the alleged theft of donations received at the Ram temple.Hitting out at the BJP-RSS, Congress said the “self-proclaimed protectors of Hinduism” have been completely exposed with the revelations of the theft of donations.Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said that after using Ayodhya for their divisive politics, the BJP-RSS “looted” from donations of ordinary devotees and made a complete mockery of their sentiments.

The SIT investigation identified multiple operational lapses in the donation management system, including weaknesses in cash handling, employee verification, CCTV monitoring and procedures governing the transfer of offerings from the temple premises to trust offices and banks.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Friday that the Uttar Pradesh government has zero tolerance towards anyone attempting to exploit Sanatan values and the faith of devotees and promised strict action against those accused in the alleged theft of donations received at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. CM Yogi also attacked the opposition parties for trying to politicise the issue. Addressing a public meeting in Deoria, the chief minister said no one would be allowed to play with the faith of devotees and warned of strict action against those found guilty.

The SIT investigation identified multiple operational lapses in the donation management system, including weaknesses in cash handling, employee verification, CCTV monitoring and procedures governing the transfer of offerings from the temple premises to trust offices and banks.

‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday ordered the constitution of a two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the Aliganj fire tragedy in Lucknow. The probe panel will be led by Amrit Abhijat, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs, and will include Praveen Kumar, Additional Director General of Police, Lucknow Zone.&nbsp;The CM took the decision at a high-level review meeting in the aftermath of the Lucknow fire tragedy. The state government has directed the SIT to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all aspects of the incident, including the cause of the fire, adherence to safety norms, statutory approvals granted to the building and any possible negligence. The SIT has been directed to identify the role of individuals and institutions linked to the incident and submit a detailed report to the state government within seven days.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/14-students-killed-in-fire-at-animation-centre-in-lucknow-many-jump-from-1st-floor-1782130828955">15 killed in fire at animation centre in Lucknow; many jump off 1st floor</a><h2>All 15 killed, 9 injured in fire identified</h2>&nbsp;15 people were killed, and nine others sustained injuries after a massive fire engulfed a three-storey commercial building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area on Monday. The victims were between 20 and 28 years of age. Most of the deaths were reportedly caused by suffocation due to heavy smoke.The building housed an animation training institute and a pet shop, with most of the victims reported to be young students.The students were trapped in the animation training institute on the second floor as the fire spread rapidly.&nbsp;&nbsp;The identities of the 15 people who lost their lives in the fire and those injured have been released by authorities.&nbsp;The deceased have been identified as Sagar, Nilesh, Anamika, Sanyam, Anuchha, Sukhmani, Aditya Srivastava, Jyoti, Bhavishya, Abdul Rahman, Suraj Shah, &nbsp;Shahjan, Jaynil Chakravarti, Mohammad Ammar, and&nbsp;Sumalya.&nbsp;The injured have been identified as Jayant, Lovepreet, &nbsp; Mohammad Asif, Bhuvan Srivastava, Pankaj, Shailendra, Abhishek, Pankaj Joshi and Gaurav Kumar.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vance-says-iran-has-agreed-to-resume-iaea-nuclear-inspections-probably-by-this-week-1782143460029">Vance says Iran has agreed to resume IAEA nuclear inspections, probably by ‘this week’</a><h2>Police lodge FIR, arrest 3 accused</h2>&nbsp;The police have registered an FIR under Sections 110, 105, 125 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 6 and 10 of the Uttar Pradesh Fire Service Act, against four named accused and other responsible persons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police have also arrested three persons, including building owner Virendra Shukla (62), gaming and animation zone operator Tushank Krishna Jaiswal (31), and software developer Ramakrishna Upadhyay (43).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Lucknow fire incident | Lucknow Police bring the three accussed arrested in the matter, Virendra Prasad Shukla, Tushak Krishna Jaiswal, and Ramkrishna Upadhyay, to the Aliganj Police Station. <a href="https://t.co/K3GRJc8ogF">pic.twitter.com/K3GRJc8ogF</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2069143997801697424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/cred-founder-kunal-shah-becomes-global-ceo-of-whatsapp-meta-invests-900-million-in-fintech-startup-1782137297377">CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup</a><h2>Four officials suspended with immediate effect</h2>&nbsp;Four officials have been suspended with immediate effect on the chief minister’s directions. They are Gaurav Kumar, Executive Engineer (Collection), Jankipuram; Kamlendra Kumar Singh, Fire Safety Station Officer (FSSO), Indira Nagar; Anil Kumar, Assistant Engineer (AE), and Pramod Pandey, Junior Engineer (JE).&nbsp;The building had received approval for a residential layout plan on August 20, 2014. The approved construction area was 1,992 square feet. In 2016, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) registered a case over allegations of unauthorised construction, and after proceedings, the competent authority passed a demolition order on May 10, 2016.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-shiv-sena-ubt-rebel-mps-join-eknath-shinde-s-shiv-sena-1782129323513">6 Shiv Sena (UBT) rebel MPs join Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena</a>&nbsp;However, the demolition order was subsequently cancelled on July 5, 2016 after it was argued that the affected party had not been given a proper hearing and that the construction had been carried out in accordance with the approved building plan.The building, located at 102/D in Sector D of the Aliganj Scheme, was originally allotted through a lottery system in 1980 and was transferred to Vijay Kumar and Usha through a sale deed in 2005. In 2013, the building was sold to Virendra Pratap Shukla and Surendra Pratap Shukla. The development authority officially mutated the property in the names of the new owners on August 7, 2014.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alan-greenspan-architect-of-modern-us-economy-and-fed-chair-under-4-presidents-dies-at-100-1782148833171">Alan Greenspan, architect of modern US economy and Fed chair under 4 presidents, dies at 100</a>&nbsp;<h2>CM Yogi announces ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased</h2>&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. The CM also declared financial assistance of Rs 50,000 each for the injured. CM Yogi also visited King George’s Medical University (KGMU) and met families of victims and assured strict action against those found responsible.

The two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up to investigate the Aliganj fire tragedy in Lucknow will be led by Amrit Abhijat, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs, and will include Praveen Kumar, Additional Director General of Police, Lucknow Zone.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday ordered the constitution of a two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the Aliganj fire tragedy in Lucknow. The probe panel will be led by Amrit Abhijat, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs, and will include Praveen Kumar, Additional Director General of Police, Lucknow Zone. The CM took the decision at a high-level review meeting in the aftermath of the Lucknow fire tragedy. The state government has directed the SIT to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all aspects of the incident, including the cause of the fire, adherence to safety norms, statutory approvals granted to the building and any possible negligence. The SIT has been directed to identify the role of individuals and institutions linked to the incident and submit a detailed report to the state government within seven days. Also Read: 15 killed in fire at animation centre in Lucknow; many jump off 1st floor All 15 killed, 9 injured in fire identified 15 people were killed, and nine others sustained injuries after a massive fire engulfed a three-storey commercial building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area on Monday. The victims were between 20 and 28 years of age. Most of the deaths were reportedly caused by suffocation due to heavy smoke. The building housed an animation training institute and a pet shop, with most of the victims reported to be young students. The students were trapped in the animation training institute on the second floor as the fire spread rapidly. The identities of the 15 people who lost their lives in the fire and those injured have been released by authorities. The deceased have been identified as Sagar, Nilesh, Anamika, Sanyam, Anuchha, Sukhmani, Aditya Srivastava, Jyoti, Bhavishya, Abdul Rahman, Suraj Shah, Shahjan, Jaynil Chakravarti, Mohammad Ammar, and Sumalya. The injured have been identified as Jayant, Lovepreet, Mohammad Asif, Bhuvan Srivastava, Pankaj, Shailendra, Abhishek, Pankaj Joshi and Gaurav Kumar. Also Read: Vance says Iran has agreed to resume IAEA nuclear inspections, probably by ‘this week’ Police lodge FIR, arrest 3 accused The police have registered an FIR under Sections 110, 105, 125 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 6 and 10 of the Uttar Pradesh Fire Service Act, against four named accused and other responsible persons. Police have also arrested three persons, including building owner Virendra Shukla (62), gaming and animation zone operator Tushank Krishna Jaiswal (31), and software developer Ramakrishna Upadhyay (43).

The two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up to investigate the Aliganj fire tragedy in Lucknow will be led by Amrit Abhijat, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs, and will include Praveen Kumar, Additional Director General of Police, Lucknow Zone.

Lucknow fire tragedy: 3 arrested; 4 officials suspended; SIT set up for probe

A crisis is not limited only to an economic slowdown or a shortage of revenue. A crisis means increasing pressure on resources, growing needs of the population, additional burden on infrastructure, and uncertainty in global conditions. In such times, the biggest test before governance is not of its policies, but of its restraint. Because when resources are limited and expectations are limitless, balance itself becomes the biggest proof of good governance. There is no alternative to the prudent use of resources.&nbsp;In any democratic system, a government does not merely formulate policies; it also sets an example. When the top leadership itself demonstrates frugality in its conduct, its impact spreads from the administrative structure to the behaviour of common citizens.Considering the current global crisis arising from the prolonged war in the Middle East, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has decided to take steps such as reducing the government fleet, controlling unnecessary travel, and maximising the use of digital media, thereby presenting such an example of financial discipline that will become a model for other states to emulate. Such decisions do not remain merely technical or administrative reforms, but become a cultural message that the state itself is practising restraint.&nbsp;Every single penny of the state treasury accumulated from the hard-earned money of the people is a public asset. Today, when the slowing pace of the world economy and inflation due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East have made a shortage of resources a real challenge for state governments, a reduction in government expenditure is not merely an administrative decision, but a deep moral responsibility.&nbsp;In Uttar Pradesh, the 50 per cent reduction in the fleet of the Chief Minister and ministers, encouragement of the work-from-home culture, discouraging unnecessary purchase of gold, emphasis on the use of PNG, Metro, and public transport, and the initiative to organise government meetings, conferences, and seminars through virtual mediums reflect this moral outlook.&nbsp;This is not merely an exercise in saving money; it is also a new work culture. When the Chief Minister himself conducts conferences virtually, every officer and employee automatically understands that today’s era is digital, and in this era, minimising expenditure on travel, events, and display is not only possible, but necessary as well. This proper use of technology serves multiple objectives simultaneously, saving time and resources and reducing pressure on the environment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-health-secretary-wes-streeting-resigns-says-he-has-lost-confidence-in-pm-s-leadership-1778761653192">UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigns, says he has ‘lost confidence’ in PM’s leadership</a>&nbsp;It would be wrong to think that these measures are only economic. They also have a deep social and psychological dimension. When a common citizen sees that his leader talks about public transport, he begins to view his everyday difficulties differently. When he knows that the hands steering the governance machinery also follow the same principles expected from ordinary citizens, a sense of trust towards the government develops in his mind.&nbsp;That trust is the real strength of democracy. When frugality begins from the top, it naturally flows downward. This is the difference between imposed austerity and austerity adopted voluntarily.&nbsp;During times of crisis, both society and governance are tested. If one turns the pages of history, it becomes evident that the nations which displayed patience, restraint, and collective discipline during adverse circumstances became prosperous and strong in the long run. Whether it is the story of Japan’s recovery or Singapore’s rise, all of them share a common thread.&nbsp;During crises, the government first disciplined itself and only then expected sacrifice from the people. The decisions taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath belong to the same tradition. What the Chief Minister has done carries a deep practical impact. The funds saved through a 50 per cent reduction in vehicles can be utilised for the education of a poor child, a village road, or medicines in a hospital.&nbsp;The time and money saved through virtual meetings can be invested in policy-making and implementation. This is not merely a reduction in expenditure; it is a redefinition of priorities. During the COVID period, Uttar Pradesh followed its priorities with patience, and there is no doubt that the state can continue to do so even now.&nbsp;Today, when the younger generation seeks ideals in its leaders, and when the public demands transparency and accountability, such decisions send a positive message. It proves that self-discipline is possible even in politics. In a financial crisis, a responsible government does what a responsible family does: first reduce expenses, then think of ways to increase income.&nbsp;However, it is also a bitter truth that the success of the Chief Minister’s decisions will now depend on how deeply this sentiment permeates the entire administrative machinery. From ministers to clerks, from the Secretariat to the tehsil level, if this resolve of frugality takes the form of a mass movement, then its outcomes will not only be fiscal, but social as well. Such a state will not only become economically stronger, but will also earn the trust of its citizens.&nbsp;It would not be an exaggeration to say that this decision of frugality is not merely an administrative measure; it is a philosophy, a value system. Restraint during crisis, wisdom during adversity, and the resolve to provide limitless service with limited resources.... This is the foundation upon which trustworthy governance stands.&nbsp;When the public sees that its leader first implements tough decisions on himself and only then expects others to follow, people themselves become willing to join that journey.This is the true strength of democracy and also the greatest need of the present time.&nbsp;There is an old saying that the boat which understands its own burden remains steady even during storms. A state, too, is a vast system, and its stability depends upon its balance. If expenditure becomes uncontrolled, it turns into a burden on the system, but if it is controlled and purpose-oriented, it becomes the basis of development, and this is exactly what Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is trying to achieve.&nbsp;(Author Dr Shirish Mishra is a Professor in the Department of Commerce at Central University, Motihari.)&nbsp;------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of WION.

That trust is the real strength of democracy. When frugality begins from the top, it naturally flows downward. This is the difference between imposed austerity and austerity adopted voluntarily.

A crisis is not limited only to an economic slowdown or a shortage of revenue. A crisis means increasing pressure on resources, growing needs of the population, additional burden on infrastructure, and uncertainty in global conditions. In such times, the biggest test before governance is not of its policies, but of its restraint. Because when resources are limited and expectations are limitless, balance itself becomes the biggest proof of good governance. There is no alternative to the prudent use of resources. In any democratic system, a government does not merely formulate policies; it also sets an example. When the top leadership itself demonstrates frugality in its conduct, its impact spreads from the administrative structure to the behaviour of common citizens. Considering the current global crisis arising from the prolonged war in the Middle East, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has decided to take steps such as reducing the government fleet, controlling unnecessary travel, and maximising the use of digital media, thereby presenting such an example of financial discipline that will become a model for other states to emulate. Such decisions do not remain merely technical or administrative reforms, but become a cultural message that the state itself is practising restraint. Every single penny of the state treasury accumulated from the hard-earned money of the people is a public asset. Today, when the slowing pace of the world economy and inflation due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East have made a shortage of resources a real challenge for state governments, a reduction in government expenditure is not merely an administrative decision, but a deep moral responsibility. In Uttar Pradesh, the 50 per cent reduction in the fleet of the Chief Minister and ministers, encouragement of the work-from-home culture, discouraging unnecessary purchase of gold, emphasis on the use of PNG, Metro, and public transport, and the initiative to organise government meetings, conferences, and seminars through virtual mediums reflect this moral outlook. This is not merely an exercise in saving money; it is also a new work culture. When the Chief Minister himself conducts conferences virtually, every officer and employee automatically understands that today’s era is digital, and in this era, minimising expenditure on travel, events, and display is not only possible, but necessary as well. This proper use of technology serves multiple objectives simultaneously, saving time and resources and reducing pressure on the environment. Also Read: UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigns, says he has ‘lost confidence’ in PM’s leadership It would be wrong to think that these measures are only economic. They also have a deep social and psychological dimension. When a common citizen sees that his leader talks about public transport, he begins to view his everyday difficulties differently. When he knows that the hands steering the governance machinery also follow the same principles expected from ordinary citizens, a sense of trust towards the government develops in his mind. That trust is the real strength of democracy. When frugality begins from the top, it naturally flows downward. This is the difference between imposed austerity and austerity adopted voluntarily. During times of crisis, both society and governance are tested. If one turns the pages of history, it becomes evident that the nations which displayed patience, restraint, and collective discipline during adverse circumstances became prosperous and strong in the long run. Whether it is the story of Japan’s recovery or Singapore’s rise, all of them share a common thread. During crises, the government first disciplined itself and only then expected sacrifice from the people. The decisions taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath belong to the same tradition. What the Chief Minister has done carries a deep practical impact. The funds saved through a 50 per cent reduction in vehicles can be utilised for the education of a poor child, a village road, or medicines in a hospital. The time and money saved through virtual meetings can be invested in policy-making and implementation. This is not merely a reduction in expenditure; it is a redefinition of priorities. During the COVID period, Uttar Pradesh followed its priorities with patience, and there is no doubt that the state can continue to do so even now. Today, when the younger generation seeks ideals in its leaders, and when the public demands transparency and accountability, such decisions send a positive message. It proves that self-discipline is possible even in politics. In a financial crisis, a responsible government does what a responsible family does: first reduce expenses, then think of ways to increase income. However, it is also a bitter truth that the success of the Chief Minister’s decisions will now depend on how deeply this sentiment permeates the entire administrative machinery. From ministers to clerks, from the Secretariat to the tehsil level, if this resolve of frugality takes the form of a mass movement, then its outcomes will not only be fiscal, but social as well. Such a state will not only become economically stronger, but will also earn the trust of its citizens. It would not be an exaggeration to say that this decision of frugality is not merely an administrative measure; it is a philosophy, a value system. Restraint during crisis, wisdom during adversity, and the resolve to provide limitless service with limited resources.... This is the foundation upon which trustworthy governance stands. When the public sees that its leader first implements tough decisions on himself and only then expects others to follow, people themselves become willing to join that journey. This is the true strength of democracy and also the greatest need of the present time. There is an old saying that the boat which understands its own burden remains steady even during storms. A state, too, is a vast system, and its stability depends upon its balance. If expenditure becomes uncontrolled, it turns into a burden on the system, but if it is controlled and purpose-oriented, it becomes the basis of development, and this is exactly what Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is trying to achieve. (Author Dr Shirish Mishra is a Professor in the Department of Commerce at Central University, Motihari.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of WION.

That trust is the real strength of democracy. When frugality begins from the top, it naturally flows downward. This is the difference between imposed austerity and austerity adopted voluntarily.

Yogi emerges as a role model of financial discipline

Over a period of time, a perception was prevalent about Uttar Pradesh that its youth were forced to migrate to big cities and even other states to seek employment. Some critics argued that the state budget lacked a clear roadmap for job creation and that the issue of educated unemployment was being overlooked. Concerns over urban and semi-urban youth were frequently highlighted in this context.&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2><h2>Self-reliant youth through self-employment&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh’s 2026–27 Budget and the policy initiatives of recent years suggest that the youth are not only gaining employment opportunities within their own cities, villages, and nearby areas but are also becoming independent through self-employment. In the process, more job opportunities are being created for others. From a job-seeking state to a job-creating state, UP is changing the lives of the youth.&nbsp;<h2>Some fall in unemployment rate, rise in income&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;To understand this impact, it is important to first look at the basic indicators. UP’s unemployment rate stands at 2.24%. This figure suggests that the work towards job creation is yielding better results.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, per capita income is estimated to reach approximately Rs 1.20 lakh in 2025–26, showing wider growth than previous years. This higher income is not limited to government employees but is the outcome of a broader expansion in economic activities across the state.&nbsp;<h2>Employment through capital expenditure: Not direct, but broad-based impact&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Opposition often argues that the Yogi government is not conducting large-scale recruitments and so lacks a clear employment roadmap. But they overlook the current conditions, according to which government jobs are limited in number.&nbsp;&nbsp;A stable employment generation is now rooted in the expansion of the private sector, manufacturing, services, and construction activities. Higher capital expenditure opens up&nbsp;&nbsp;Opportunities for development of roads, industrial parks, logistics networks, data centers, and urban infrastructure and lead to job creation across sectors like construction, supply chains, manufacturing, and services. Uttar Pradesh has adopted this very model to drive job creation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;Higher investment = Employment Generation&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;CM Yogi Adityanath signed MoUs worth nearly Rs 50 lakh crore during the Investors Summit and Global Investors Summit organised by the government. After this, around 10 lakh jobs are expected to be generated. This is an investment-led development.&nbsp;&nbsp;Under the Defence Industrial Corridor project, with an investment of Rs 35,280 crore, an estimated 53,263 people will get direct employment. The presence of large industries in UP leads to the development of auxiliary industries and the service sector. Tourism among others sectors have been opened for employment. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Skills and Employment: Investing in the Potential of Youth&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Employment is not just creating jobs but also a parameter for assessing the potential of the youth. Over the past five years, around 9.25 lakh youth have been trained due to the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission, out of which 4.22 lakh youth have been employed in various well-known companies. This is due to the government’s push for a skill-based employment model.&nbsp;&nbsp;The formation of the Uttar Pradesh Employment Mission has also been aimed at providing employment opportunities at both national and international levels. Government recruitments are ongoing, and in the state, the Yogi government is ensuring a pathway for providing employment opportunities to youth in the public sector as well. Since 2017, more than 2,19,000 positions have been filled in the police department. Under the Employment Mission, the process of 8,966 appointments in government secondary schools has been completed, and 34,074 teachers have been selected in aided non-government secondary schools. &nbsp;&nbsp;These figures indicate that wherever there is a need, appointments have been made. Self-employment and Entrepreneurship: The most powerful model of employment towards self-reliance is one in which youth become entrepreneurs themselves. Under the Chief Minister's Youth Entrepreneur Development Campaign, the goal has been set to establish 100,000 new micro-enterprises every year. The MSME sector is already providing employment to approximately 31.1 million people. In the textile industry, a target of creating 30,000 jobs by 2026-27 has been set. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Opportunities Expanding in Rural Areas&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;In rural areas as well, opportunities are increasing. Under MGNREGA, more than 20 crore person-days of employment were generated in the financial year 2025–26, benefiting around 4.711 million (47.11 lakh) families. This reflects the strengthening of the rural economy. When income opportunities grow in villages, the compulsion to migrate to cities declines. The initiative is now being further shaped through VB-GIRAM (as referenced) to provide new direction to the rural economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Future Technology and the New Economy&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The government is not limiting itself to traditional sectors alone. Efforts are also being made in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through programs like AI Pragya, steps are being taken to build a workforce of AI-skilled youth in the state. Investments in data centres, digital infrastructure, and the IT sector aim to align Uttar Pradesh with the demands of the future economy. This approach is designed not only to address present needs but also to secure employment opportunities for the coming decade.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Changing Perception, Transforming State&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The opposition needs to recognize that Uttar Pradesh is no longer a state waiting solely for government jobs. Investments are flowing in, industries are being established, youth are being trained and employed, self-employment is being encouraged, and the state is carving out a place in future technologies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, the compulsion to migrate in search of jobs is gradually decreasing, as opportunities are becoming available within cities, districts, and nearby regions. This transformation has not occurred overnight; it is the result of well-planned policies, capital investment, and coordinated efforts in skill development. Uttar Pradesh’s employment landscape is changing — and this shift is steadily becoming its new identity.&nbsp;

From a job-seeking state to a job-creating state, now Uttar Pradesh is changing the lives of the youth.

Over a period of time, a perception was prevalent about Uttar Pradesh that its youth were forced to migrate to big cities and even other states to seek employment. Some critics argued that the state budget lacked a clear roadmap for job creation and that the issue of educated unemployment was being overlooked. Concerns over urban and semi-urban youth were frequently highlighted in this context. Self-reliant youth through self-employment Uttar Pradesh’s 2026–27 Budget and the policy initiatives of recent years suggest that the youth are not only gaining employment opportunities within their own cities, villages, and nearby areas but are also becoming independent through self-employment. In the process, more job opportunities are being created for others. From a job-seeking state to a job-creating state, UP is changing the lives of the youth. Some fall in unemployment rate, rise in income To understand this impact, it is important to first look at the basic indicators. UP’s unemployment rate stands at 2.24%. This figure suggests that the work towards job creation is yielding better results. Also, per capita income is estimated to reach approximately Rs 1.20 lakh in 2025–26, showing wider growth than previous years. This higher income is not limited to government employees but is the outcome of a broader expansion in economic activities across the state. Employment through capital expenditure: Not direct, but broad-based impact Opposition often argues that the Yogi government is not conducting large-scale recruitments and so lacks a clear employment roadmap. But they overlook the current conditions, according to which government jobs are limited in number. A stable employment generation is now rooted in the expansion of the private sector, manufacturing, services, and construction activities. Higher capital expenditure opens up Opportunities for development of roads, industrial parks, logistics networks, data centers, and urban infrastructure and lead to job creation across sectors like construction, supply chains, manufacturing, and services. Uttar Pradesh has adopted this very model to drive job creation. Higher investment = Employment Generation CM Yogi Adityanath signed MoUs worth nearly Rs 50 lakh crore during the Investors Summit and Global Investors Summit organised by the government. After this, around 10 lakh jobs are expected to be generated. This is an investment-led development. Under the Defence Industrial Corridor project, with an investment of Rs 35,280 crore, an estimated 53,263 people will get direct employment. The presence of large industries in UP leads to the development of auxiliary industries and the service sector. Tourism among others sectors have been opened for employment. Skills and Employment: Investing in the Potential of Youth Employment is not just creating jobs but also a parameter for assessing the potential of the youth. Over the past five years, around 9.25 lakh youth have been trained due to the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission, out of which 4.22 lakh youth have been employed in various well-known companies. This is due to the government’s push for a skill-based employment model. The formation of the Uttar Pradesh Employment Mission has also been aimed at providing employment opportunities at both national and international levels. Government recruitments are ongoing, and in the state, the Yogi government is ensuring a pathway for providing employment opportunities to youth in the public sector as well. Since 2017, more than 2,19,000 positions have been filled in the police department. Under the Employment Mission, the process of 8,966 appointments in government secondary schools has been completed, and 34,074 teachers have been selected in aided non-government secondary schools. These figures indicate that wherever there is a need, appointments have been made. Self-employment and Entrepreneurship: The most powerful model of employment towards self-reliance is one in which youth become entrepreneurs themselves. Under the Chief Minister's Youth Entrepreneur Development Campaign, the goal has been set to establish 100,000 new micro-enterprises every year. The MSME sector is already providing employment to approximately 31.1 million people. In the textile industry, a target of creating 30,000 jobs by 2026-27 has been set. Opportunities Expanding in Rural Areas In rural areas as well, opportunities are increasing. Under MGNREGA, more than 20 crore person-days of employment were generated in the financial year 2025–26, benefiting around 4.711 million (47.11 lakh) families. This reflects the strengthening of the rural economy. When income opportunities grow in villages, the compulsion to migrate to cities declines. The initiative is now being further shaped through VB-GIRAM (as referenced) to provide new direction to the rural economy. Future Technology and the New Economy The government is not limiting itself to traditional sectors alone. Efforts are also being made in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through programs like AI Pragya, steps are being taken to build a workforce of AI-skilled youth in the state. Investments in data centres, digital infrastructure, and the IT sector aim to align Uttar Pradesh with the demands of the future economy. This approach is designed not only to address present needs but also to secure employment opportunities for the coming decade. Changing Perception, Transforming State The opposition needs to recognize that Uttar Pradesh is no longer a state waiting solely for government jobs. Investments are flowing in, industries are being established, youth are being trained and employed, self-employment is being encouraged, and the state is carving out a place in future technologies. Today, the compulsion to migrate in search of jobs is gradually decreasing, as opportunities are becoming available within cities, districts, and nearby regions. This transformation has not occurred overnight; it is the result of well-planned policies, capital investment, and coordinated efforts in skill development. Uttar Pradesh’s employment landscape is changing — and this shift is steadily becoming its new identity.

From a job-seeking state to a job-creating state, now Uttar Pradesh is changing the lives of the youth.

Uttar Pradesh emerges as ‘land of opportunities’ on employment map, turning migration into youth progress

In the wake of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, which is set to take place on January 22 in India's temple city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the state's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered all the liquor shops to remain closed and all educational institutions to be shut. 
 
Earlier, the chief minister had stated that the entire 84-Kosi Parikrama, which is an area around the temple premises, will be declared as a “no liquor zone”.

<h2 lang="en-US">Meat shops closed in Lucknow</h2>

Meanwhile, All India Jamiatul Quresh – a Muslim organisation – announced that all the meat shops will remain shut in Lucknow on January 22, when the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple will take place. The businesses of all the meat traders, who are functioning in the Bilochpura, Sadar Cantt, Fatehganj and Latouche Road areas, will be closed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-temple-first-majestic-golden-door-installed-42-out-of-46-to-be-coated-with-gold-678485">Ayodhya Ram Temple: First majestic golden door installed, 42 out of 46 to be coated with gold</a>

“We all are Awadh residents. Keeping in mind the goodwill on the 'Pran Pratishtha' in Ayodhya, it has been decided unanimously that on January 22, 2024, all the meat traders of Bilochpura, Sadar Cantt, Fatehganj, and Latouche Road areas will keep their businesses closed," said Shahabuddin Qureshi, national secretary of All India Jamiatul Quresh. 
 
The governments of Chhattisgarh and Assam have also decided to mark January 22 as a dry day. Lord Ram's sacred seating in the temple is scheduled to be held between 12:15 pm to 12:45 pm on January 22, 2024, which will coincide with the Mrigasira Nakshatra. 
 
According to Indian news agency ANI, India's ruling Bharatiya Janta Party announced that it has planned to live telecast the temple's consecration ceremony at booth levels across the entire nation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also set to address the country on the occasion.

Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Preparation in full swing for Ram Temple inauguration

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-preparation-in-full-swing-for-ram-temple-inauguration-678543/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

From January 16, the Vedic rituals for Lord Ram's pran-pratishtha (consecration) ceremony in Ayodhya will start and different rituals will be conducted throughout the week. 
 
As per the official sources, invitation cards for the Ram temple's consecration ceremony in Ayodhya are being "hand-delivered to all the guests” by the temple trust's representatives as well as a large number of volunteers. 
 
Also, different representatives of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and their allies are also assisting in hand-delivering the invitations. The invitation cards for the consecration ceremony have already been sent to some of the guests.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, which is set to take place on January 22 in India's temple city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the state's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered all the liquor shops to remain closed and all educational institutions to be shut.

In the wake of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, which is set to take place on January 22 in India's temple city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the state's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered all the liquor shops to remain closed and all educational institutions to be shut. Earlier, the chief minister had stated that the entire 84-Kosi Parikrama, which is an area around the temple premises, will be declared as a “no liquor zone”. Meat shops closed in Lucknow Meanwhile, All India Jamiatul Quresh – a Muslim organisation – announced that all the meat shops will remain shut in Lucknow on January 22, when the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple will take place. The businesses of all the meat traders, who are functioning in the Bilochpura, Sadar Cantt, Fatehganj and Latouche Road areas, will be closed. Also read: Ayodhya Ram Temple: First majestic golden door installed, 42 out of 46 to be coated with gold “We all are Awadh residents. Keeping in mind the goodwill on the 'Pran Pratishtha' in Ayodhya, it has been decided unanimously that on January 22, 2024, all the meat traders of Bilochpura, Sadar Cantt, Fatehganj, and Latouche Road areas will keep their businesses closed," said Shahabuddin Qureshi, national secretary of All India Jamiatul Quresh. The governments of Chhattisgarh and Assam have also decided to mark January 22 as a dry day. Lord Ram's sacred seating in the temple is scheduled to be held between 12:15 pm to 12:45 pm on January 22, 2024, which will coincide with the Mrigasira Nakshatra. According to Indian news agency ANI, India's ruling Bharatiya Janta Party announced that it has planned to live telecast the temple's consecration ceremony at booth levels across the entire nation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also set to address the country on the occasion. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Preparation in full swing for Ram Temple inauguration From January 16, the Vedic rituals for Lord Ram's pran-pratishtha (consecration) ceremony in Ayodhya will start and different rituals will be conducted throughout the week. As per the official sources, invitation cards for the Ram temple's consecration ceremony in Ayodhya are being "hand-delivered to all the guests” by the temple trust's representatives as well as a large number of volunteers. Also, different representatives of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and their allies are also assisting in hand-delivering the invitations. The invitation cards for the consecration ceremony have already been sent to some of the guests. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir inauguration: No alcohol on Jan 22 in UP, schools and colleges to be shut, says UP CM Yogi

Five police officers have been suspended over the killing of mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed during custody last Saturday in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Five police officers have been suspended over the killing of mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed during custody last Saturday in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The suspended officers include Station House Officer Ashwani Kumar Singh from the Shahganj police station, two Inspector rank officers and two constables. The five cops have been already questioned by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up by the UP police. The suspension came on the same day as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted a meeting to apprehend Ahmed's wife Shaista Praveen and Guddu Muslim - the other accused in the Umesh Pal murder case. Atiq Ahmed was shot dead on April 16 in Prayagraj while he and his brother Ashraf, both accused in the Umesh Pal murder case were being taken for a medical assessment at the MLN Medical College which comes under the jurisdiction of the Shahganj Police Station. The three assailants, masquerading as reporters managed to spray bullets point blank into the Ahmed brothers while police officers and journalists stood nearby. According to a postmortem report, Atiq was killed after receiving at least nine bullets in his chest and head. The first bullet was fired at his temple which led to instant death. Meanwhile, Ashraf sustained five bullet wounds. One hit him in the face while four entered his body through the back. The autopsy was conducted by a panel of five doctors at the Motilal Nehru Divisional Hospital and matched the visuals of the attack caught on cameras. WATCH | Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP × Assailants sent to judicial custody The assassins identified as Lavlesh Tiwari, Arun Maurya and Sunny threw their weapons after firing over 20 rounds and were instantly apprehended by the police. As of the last update, the three shooters have been sent to a 14-day judicial custody by a court in Prayagraj CM Yogi has ordered the formation of a three-member judicial enquiry committee to prepare a comprehensive report on the killings of Atiq and his brother. Retired Justice Arvind Kumar Tripathi of Allahabad High Court, retired IPC officer Subesh Kumar Singh and retired district judge Brijesh Kumar Soni have been included in the panel and ordered to submit a report in two months. ALSO READ | Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV Ahmed was brought to Prayagraj from Sabarmati jail in the western Indian state of Gujarat for a hearing in the Umesh Pal case. Ahmed and his coterie of gangsters had indulged in the barbaric killing of Pal, who was a key witness in the 2005 Raju Pal murder case, in which he was charge-sheeted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

5 cops suspended after live TV murders of Indian gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed, brother

After Akhilesh Yadav vacated the government bungalow in Uttar Pradesh, SP leader Sunil Yadav has claimed that the damages inside the premise was ordered by CM Yogi Adityanath.

He said the chief minister took the step to malign the image of Akhilesh Yadav.

"After handing over keys of the govt bungalow, the damages inside the premises was ordered by CM Yogi Adityanath himself. This was done just to malign Akhilesh Yadav's image in public because CM is frustrated after losing a series of by polls", Sunil Yadav said.

While UP MInister Swatantra Dev Singh has asked for an investigation into the matter.

Singh said "Removing of ACs & tiles should not have been done because these are govt property. He has violated SC order. Investigation needed."

SP chief and former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh vacated the government bungalow in Uttar Pradesh after the orders of Supreme Court.

The bungalow left by the Yadav was found in a distorted state with damaged floor tiles and laminations, missing electrical switchboards.

In his order last month, the Supreme Court had ordered former chief ministers of the Uttar Pradesh to leave the government accommodation.

After the apex court's order, the state government had issued a notice to six former chief ministers of the state- Narayan Dutt Tiwari, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Kalyan Singh, Mayawati, Rajnath Singh and Akhilesh Yadav.&nbsp;

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Visuals from govt bungalow which was recently vacated by ex-UP CM Akhilesh Yadav in compliance with SC's order. UP Minister Swatantra Dev Singh says,"Removing of ACs & tiles shouldn't have been done because these are govt property. He has violated SC order. Investigation needed." <a href="https://t.co/TowuXMzZWk">pic.twitter.com/TowuXMzZWk</a>
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He said the chief minister took the step to malign the image of Akhilesh Yadav

After Akhilesh Yadav vacated the government bungalow in Uttar Pradesh, SP leader Sunil Yadav has claimed that the damages inside the premise was ordered by CM Yogi Adityanath. He said the chief minister took the step to malign the image of Akhilesh Yadav. "After handing over keys of the govt bungalow, the damages inside the premises was ordered by CM Yogi Adityanath himself. This was done just to malign Akhilesh Yadav's image in public because CM is frustrated after losing a series of by polls", Sunil Yadav said. While UP MInister Swatantra Dev Singh has asked for an investigation into the matter. Singh said "Removing of ACs & tiles should not have been done because these are govt property. He has violated SC order. Investigation needed." SP chief and former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh vacated the government bungalow in Uttar Pradesh after the orders of Supreme Court. The bungalow left by the Yadav was found in a distorted state with damaged floor tiles and laminations, missing electrical switchboards. In his order last month, the Supreme Court had ordered former chief ministers of the Uttar Pradesh to leave the government accommodation. After the apex court's order, the state government had issued a notice to six former chief ministers of the state- Narayan Dutt Tiwari, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Kalyan Singh, Mayawati, Rajnath Singh and Akhilesh Yadav. Visuals from govt bungalow which was recently vacated by ex-UP CM Akhilesh Yadav in compliance with SC's order. UP Minister Swatantra Dev Singh says,"Removing of ACs & tiles shouldn't have been done because these are govt property. He has violated SC order. Investigation needed." pic.twitter.com/TowuXMzZWk — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) June 10, 2018 ×

SP leader Sunil Yadav blames Yogi Adityanath for damages in govt bungalow vacated by Akhilesh Yadav

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-bygones-be-bygones-says-akhilesh-on-past-rivalry-with-bsp-speculation-grows-if-they-will-join-hands-for-2019-35928">Let bygones be bygones, says SP&#39;s Akhilesh on past rivalry with BSP. Speculation grows if they will join forces for 2019</a>

Enthused by his party&#39;s strong showing in the Gorakhpur and Phulpur bypolls, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav indicated today that his party was keen on burying its bitter rivalry with Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party saying sometimes &quot;past incidents have to be forgotten&quot;.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbse-says-paper-not-leaked-have-approached-police-about-fake-news-35918">CBSE says paper not leaked, has approached police about &#39;fake&#39; news</a>

The CBSE today denied allegations of paper leak of its Class 12 Accountancy examination, asserting that all seals were found intact in the examination centres.The board also said that it has approached the police against those spreading &quot;false&quot; news.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/routine-not-recall-mea-on-pak-high-commissioner-to-india-being-called-back-35936">Routine, not recall: MEA on Pak High Commissioner to India being called back</a>

It is pretty normal for any High Commissioner to go back for consultation and &#39;&#39;We have no comments to offer on why he has gone back,&#39;&#39; said Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hillary-clinton-a-series-of-unfortunate-events-in-india-35938">Hillary Clinton: A series of unfortunate events in India</a>

Hillary&#39;s India tour is becoming a series of unfortunate events for her due to one after another injury.In Madhya Pradesh, she had fallen on the steps of a mosque on Monday and after that, She fractured her wrist after she slipped in the bathtub of Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, Rajasthan on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/araria-will-become-hub-for-terrorism-due-to-rjd-win-giriraj-singh-35947">Araria will become </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/araria-will-become-hub-for-terrorism-due-to-rjd-win-giriraj-singh-35947">hub</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/araria-will-become-hub-for-terrorism-due-to-rjd-win-giriraj-singh-35947"> of terrorism: Giriraj Singh&nbsp;</a>

Union minister Giriraj Singh on Thursday claimed that the victory of RJD&#39;s Sarfaraz Alam from Araria Lok Sabha seat would make the place a hub of terrorism, which would be a danger to not only Bihar but also the country.

Let bygones be bygones, says SP's Akhilesh on past rivalry with BSP. Speculation grows if they will join forces for 2019 Enthused by his party's strong showing in the Gorakhpur and Phulpur bypolls, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav indicated today that his party was keen on burying its bitter rivalry with Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party saying sometimes "past incidents have to be forgotten". CBSE says paper not leaked, has approached police about 'fake' news The CBSE today denied allegations of paper leak of its Class 12 Accountancy examination, asserting that all seals were found intact in the examination centres.The board also said that it has approached the police against those spreading "false" news. Routine, not recall: MEA on Pak High Commissioner to India being called back It is pretty normal for any High Commissioner to go back for consultation and ''We have no comments to offer on why he has gone back,'' said Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood. Hillary Clinton: A series of unfortunate events in India Hillary's India tour is becoming a series of unfortunate events for her due to one after another injury.In Madhya Pradesh, she had fallen on the steps of a mosque on Monday and after that, She fractured her wrist after she slipped in the bathtub of Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, Rajasthan on Tuesday. Araria will become hub of terrorism: Giriraj Singh Union minister Giriraj Singh on Thursday claimed that the victory of RJD's Sarfaraz Alam from Araria Lok Sabha seat would make the place a hub of terrorism, which would be a danger to not only Bihar but also the country.

WION Evening News Brief, March 15, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-bypolls-up-shocker-sp-wins-both-yogi-bastion-of-gorakhpur-and-phulpur-seat-35824" target="_blank">Uttar Pradesh </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-bypolls-up-shocker-sp-wins-both-yogi-bastion-of-gorakhpur-and-phulpur-seat-35824" target="_blank">bypolls</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-bypolls-up-shocker-sp-wins-both-yogi-bastion-of-gorakhpur-and-phulpur-seat-35824" target="_blank">: UP shocker; SP wins both Yogi bastion of Gorakhpur and Phulpur seat</a>

The Samajwadi Party&#39;s Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel won the Phulpur Lok Sabha bypoll by 59,613 votes Wednesday evening. The BJP came in second.&nbsp;

In the Gorakhpur bypoll meanwhile, the SP&#39;s Praveen Kumar Nishad won by 21,881 votes

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-accept-the-verdict-of-the-people-yogi-after-deafeat-in-bypolls-35825" target="_blank">Watch: We accept people&#39;s verdict, says Yogi Adityanath after BJP&#39;s defeat in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-accept-the-verdict-of-the-people-yogi-after-deafeat-in-bypolls-35825" target="_blank">bypolls</a>

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has reacted after the shocking defeat of BJP on his home-turf Gorakhpur, and Phulpur &ndash; both seats previously represented by him and his deputy in Uttar Pradesh government Keshav Prasad Maurya respective

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bypolls-rjd-wins-araria-lok-sabha-seat-jehanabad-assembly-seat-and-bjp-retains-bhabua-35816" target="_blank">Bihar </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bypolls-rjd-wins-araria-lok-sabha-seat-jehanabad-assembly-seat-and-bjp-retains-bhabua-35816" target="_blank">bypolls</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-bypolls-rjd-wins-araria-lok-sabha-seat-jehanabad-assembly-seat-and-bjp-retains-bhabua-35816" target="_blank">: RJD wins Araria Lok Sabha seat and Jehanabad assembly seat while BJP retains Bhabua</a>

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on &nbsp;Wednesday won the Jehanabad assembly seat bypoll.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, BJP&#39;s Rinky Rani Pandey has won the Bhabhua Assembly seat in Bihar.&nbsp;

The result of the Araria Lok Sabha constituency is also out, RJD&#39;s Sarfaraz Alam has won the Araria Lok Sabha seat.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-rejects-all-interim-pleas-to-intervene-in-ayodhya-dispute-35810" target="_blank">Supreme Court rejects all interim pleas to intervene in Ayodhya dispute</a>

The Supreme Court today rejected all interim pleas seeking to intervene as parties in the sensitive Babri masjid- Ram temple land dispute case.

The court, however, ordered revival of Swamy&#39;s disposed of writ petition in which he had sought enforcement of his fundamental right to worship at Ram temple on the disputed site in Ayodhya.

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-former-wonder-woman-lynda-carter-says-she-was-sexually-harassed-35823" target="_blank">I was sexually harassed too, says Wonder Woman</a>

Former &quot;Wonder Woman&quot; superhero Lynda Carter who played the iconic character in the 1970s TV series revealed that she was sexually harassed during her career.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh bypolls: UP shocker; SP wins both Yogi bastion of Gorakhpur and Phulpur seat The Samajwadi Party's Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel won the Phulpur Lok Sabha bypoll by 59,613 votes Wednesday evening. The BJP came in second. In the Gorakhpur bypoll meanwhile, the SP's Praveen Kumar Nishad won by 21,881 votes Watch: We accept people's verdict, says Yogi Adityanath after BJP's defeat in bypolls Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has reacted after the shocking defeat of BJP on his home-turf Gorakhpur, and Phulpur – both seats previously represented by him and his deputy in Uttar Pradesh government Keshav Prasad Maurya respective Bihar bypolls: RJD wins Araria Lok Sabha seat and Jehanabad assembly seat while BJP retains Bhabua The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Wednesday won the Jehanabad assembly seat bypoll. Meanwhile, BJP's Rinky Rani Pandey has won the Bhabhua Assembly seat in Bihar. The result of the Araria Lok Sabha constituency is also out, RJD's Sarfaraz Alam has won the Araria Lok Sabha seat. Supreme Court rejects all interim pleas to intervene in Ayodhya dispute The Supreme Court today rejected all interim pleas seeking to intervene as parties in the sensitive Babri masjid- Ram temple land dispute case. The court, however, ordered revival of Swamy's disposed of writ petition in which he had sought enforcement of his fundamental right to worship at Ram temple on the disputed site in Ayodhya. I was sexually harassed too, says Wonder Woman Former "Wonder Woman" superhero Lynda Carter who played the iconic character in the 1970s TV series revealed that she was sexually harassed during her career.

WION Evening News Brief, March 14, 2018

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that any criminal in the state will be jailed or killed in police encounters. &nbsp;

Reiterating that the law and order situation in the state is heading in the right direction since BJP came to power in March, the CM&nbsp;while addressing people at the Ramleela Groud Ghaziabad said that the primary task before him when he came to power was to decrease crime in the state and make sure that rule of law remained across the state, media report&nbsp;said quoting the UP CM.&nbsp;

&quot;Hum unka jeena haram kar denge. Uske liye do hi jagah hongi phir. Ya toh pradesh ke jail honge. Ya phir police ki mutbhed mein Yamraj ka ghar uski jagah hogi (We will make it tough for criminals, they will only have two places to go, either they will be sent to jail or killed in police encounters and sent to Yamraj&#39;s house).&quot;

The UP police have declared that a total of&nbsp;420 encounters have taken place in the state, the highest being in Meerut, reports said.&nbsp;

A few days ago, a BJP member and his two associates were shot dead by assailants in Gautam Budh Nagar.

&nbsp;

Adityanath said that the first challenge before him when he took charge as the CM was to control crime in the state

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that any criminal in the state will be jailed or killed in police encounters. Reiterating that the law and order situation in the state is heading in the right direction since BJP came to power in March, the CM while addressing people at the Ramleela Groud Ghaziabad said that the primary task before him when he came to power was to decrease crime in the state and make sure that rule of law remained across the state, media report said quoting the UP CM. "Hum unka jeena haram kar denge. Uske liye do hi jagah hongi phir. Ya toh pradesh ke jail honge. Ya phir police ki mutbhed mein Yamraj ka ghar uski jagah hogi (We will make it tough for criminals, they will only have two places to go, either they will be sent to jail or killed in police encounters and sent to Yamraj's house)." The UP police have declared that a total of 420 encounters have taken place in the state, the highest being in Meerut, reports said. A few days ago, a BJP member and his two associates were shot dead by assailants in Gautam Budh Nagar.

Criminals will be either jailed or killed: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

Tragedy continued to descend upon Gorakhpur&#39;s Baba Raghav Das Medical College hospital, as another child succumbed to encephalitis on Sunday, taking the death toll over 70. 11 children died on Saturday and until Friday the death toll stood at 60.

Dr Kafeel Khan, a paediatrician and the head of the encephalitis ward at the hospital, was removed from his post two days after he saved hundreds of children by collecting oxygen cylinders from various nursing homes. He was removed for failing to take action on a letter by those in charge of oxygen supply, a media report stated citing government sources.

Hospital officials maintain that the deaths were caused by encephalitis and a brief disruption but not lack of oxygen. 
 
Parents, however, have recounted panic and horror as their children suddenly began gasping for air amid an apparent drop in oxygen, and nurses handed out manual pumps to aid their breathing.

&quot;I am a poor man who doesn&#39;t understand what happens here, but it was clear that day the oxygen wasn&#39;t going up. The doctors and other staff here were very worried,&quot; Ram Prasad, sitting by his two-year-old daughter&#39;s bedside, told AFP.&nbsp;

The Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government&nbsp;suspended the head of the state-run BRD Medical College, Rajeev Misra, late on Saturday and ordered an investigation into contracts to supply oxygen.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) said on Sunday that Rajiv Mishra&#39;s suspension was wrong because the tragedy was an administrative failure and everyone should be held accountable.

&quot;The suspension of only the principal is completely wrong. It&#39;s an administrative failure. Everyone should be held accountable. If you&#39;re suspending him, then suspend the local administration too and ban the company,&quot; IMA president KK Aggarwal said.

Media reports said one reason for the deaths was a shortage of oxygen&nbsp;after a private supplier withdrew its equipment over unpaid hospital dues.

The issue of the unpaid bills for oxygen supply has become a flashpoint in relations between the hospital and the state government after the suspended hospital chief on Saturday accused state officials of ignoring his requests for money.

&quot;I wrote at least three letters,&quot; Misra told television reporters on Saturday, adding that he had even flagged the issue in video conference discussions.

Hospital officials have, however, claimed that alternative supplies had been found, and blamed many of the deaths instead on the disease encephalitis and unspecified issues related to the delivery of the infants.

Victims&#39;&nbsp;families have disputed this, describing the panic and chaos as patients began struggling from a sudden lack of oxygen.

&quot;As soon as we reached the hospital, we were handed a small pump and told to keep pumping. I did so for over three-and-a-half hours,&quot; one victim`s father, Shailendra Gupta, was quoted by Sunday&#39;s Indian Express as saying.

&quot;The next day, we were informed that he was dead.&quot;

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath said on Sunday that a probe had been ordered into the death and &quot;if anyone&#39;s negligence caused the death of a person in any part of Uttar Pradesh, he won&#39;t be spared.&quot;

Adityanath, who visited the hospital on Sunday, was accompanied by union health minister JP Nadda.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/30-children-die-in-gorakhpur-hospital-in-a-span-of-48-hours-18913">30 children die in Gorakhpur hospital in a span of 48 hours </a>

&quot;Nobody can be more sensitive towards those children than me,&quot; the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said.

&quot;Those whose sensitivity has died are now trying to add salt to the wound by raising the sensitive issue unnecessarily,&quot; he added.

Adityanath had said on Saturday that &quot;he has asked a team of top ministers to determine if the death of the children was actually due to a disruption in oxygen supply at the hospital and assured to &quot;not spare anyone found guilty&quot;.

He also said, &quot;We have suspended the principal of the BRD Medical College and taking him guilty for his actions and an investigation on him has already been ordered and is underway. Those found guilty won&#39;t be spared.&quot;

Opposition parties have clamoured for the resignation of Yogi Adityanath and the state health minister. &quot;This government is a murderer,&quot; said Raj Babbar, head of the opposition Congress party in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Responding to the suspension of Medical College Principal, senior Congress Party leader and former health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad branded the move as &#39;eyewash&#39;, and demanded that an all-party delegation should look into the matter.

&quot;The administration was notified of the lack of oxygen. Local media reports also hinted at the possibility of a large tragedy in the hospital. It is shocking that nothing was done about it. Suspending the Principal after this and announcing an inquiry into the matter is just an eyewash. There should be an all-party probe into this; the matter should not be submerged at any cost,&quot; said Azad, while addressing a press conference here.

Further, Azad urged the state health minister Siddharth Nath Singh to submit his resignation immediately.

According to data procured from the BRD hospital, in five days - from August 7 to August 11, a total of 60 deaths occurred in the hospital.

The procured data also shows the number of oxygen cylinders sent for refilling each day, showing a clear shortage of liquid oxygen in the hospital.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh health minister has defended the government&#39;s role, saying no issue of unpaid bills had been brought to its attention and all requests for funds were paid promptly.&nbsp;

Gorakhpur is Adityanath&#39;s political base, which elected him to parliament five times before he was made Uttar Pradesh chief minister by Narendra Modi after the BJP government&#39;s landslide BJP election victory in March.

Gorakhpur&#39;s health facilities are seen as deficient, Reuters reported citing a study of government data by nonprofit body Brookings India that says the district has a 26 per cent shortage of primary health centres.

Encephalitis outbreaks kill hundreds in India every year, especially during the monsoon season.&nbsp;

Public health accounts for only one per cent of India&#39;s GDP, which is among the world&#39;s lowest.&nbsp;

In recent years, Modi&#39;s government has increased health spending and vowed to make healthcare more affordable.

11 children died on Saturday and until Friday the death toll stood at 60

Tragedy continued to descend upon Gorakhpur's Baba Raghav Das Medical College hospital, as another child succumbed to encephalitis on Sunday, taking the death toll over 70. 11 children died on Saturday and until Friday the death toll stood at 60. Dr Kafeel Khan, a paediatrician and the head of the encephalitis ward at the hospital, was removed from his post two days after he saved hundreds of children by collecting oxygen cylinders from various nursing homes. He was removed for failing to take action on a letter by those in charge of oxygen supply, a media report stated citing government sources. Hospital officials maintain that the deaths were caused by encephalitis and a brief disruption but not lack of oxygen. Parents, however, have recounted panic and horror as their children suddenly began gasping for air amid an apparent drop in oxygen, and nurses handed out manual pumps to aid their breathing. "I am a poor man who doesn't understand what happens here, but it was clear that day the oxygen wasn't going up. The doctors and other staff here were very worried," Ram Prasad, sitting by his two-year-old daughter's bedside, told AFP. The Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government suspended the head of the state-run BRD Medical College, Rajeev Misra, late on Saturday and ordered an investigation into contracts to supply oxygen. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) said on Sunday that Rajiv Mishra's suspension was wrong because the tragedy was an administrative failure and everyone should be held accountable. "The suspension of only the principal is completely wrong. It's an administrative failure. Everyone should be held accountable. If you're suspending him, then suspend the local administration too and ban the company," IMA president KK Aggarwal said. Media reports said one reason for the deaths was a shortage of oxygen after a private supplier withdrew its equipment over unpaid hospital dues. The issue of the unpaid bills for oxygen supply has become a flashpoint in relations between the hospital and the state government after the suspended hospital chief on Saturday accused state officials of ignoring his requests for money. "I wrote at least three letters," Misra told television reporters on Saturday, adding that he had even flagged the issue in video conference discussions. Hospital officials have, however, claimed that alternative supplies had been found, and blamed many of the deaths instead on the disease encephalitis and unspecified issues related to the delivery of the infants. Victims' families have disputed this, describing the panic and chaos as patients began struggling from a sudden lack of oxygen. "As soon as we reached the hospital, we were handed a small pump and told to keep pumping. I did so for over three-and-a-half hours," one victim`s father, Shailendra Gupta, was quoted by Sunday's Indian Express as saying. "The next day, we were informed that he was dead." Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath said on Sunday that a probe had been ordered into the death and "if anyone's negligence caused the death of a person in any part of Uttar Pradesh, he won't be spared." Adityanath, who visited the hospital on Sunday, was accompanied by union health minister JP Nadda. Also read: 30 children die in Gorakhpur hospital in a span of 48 hours "Nobody can be more sensitive towards those children than me," the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said. "Those whose sensitivity has died are now trying to add salt to the wound by raising the sensitive issue unnecessarily," he added. Adityanath had said on Saturday that "he has asked a team of top ministers to determine if the death of the children was actually due to a disruption in oxygen supply at the hospital and assured to "not spare anyone found guilty". He also said, "We have suspended the principal of the BRD Medical College and taking him guilty for his actions and an investigation on him has already been ordered and is underway. Those found guilty won't be spared." Opposition parties have clamoured for the resignation of Yogi Adityanath and the state health minister. "This government is a murderer," said Raj Babbar, head of the opposition Congress party in Uttar Pradesh. Responding to the suspension of Medical College Principal, senior Congress Party leader and former health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad branded the move as 'eyewash', and demanded that an all-party delegation should look into the matter. "The administration was notified of the lack of oxygen. Local media reports also hinted at the possibility of a large tragedy in the hospital. It is shocking that nothing was done about it. Suspending the Principal after this and announcing an inquiry into the matter is just an eyewash. There should be an all-party probe into this; the matter should not be submerged at any cost," said Azad, while addressing a press conference here. Further, Azad urged the state health minister Siddharth Nath Singh to submit his resignation immediately. According to data procured from the BRD hospital, in five days - from August 7 to August 11, a total of 60 deaths occurred in the hospital. The procured data also shows the number of oxygen cylinders sent for refilling each day, showing a clear shortage of liquid oxygen in the hospital. The Uttar Pradesh health minister has defended the government's role, saying no issue of unpaid bills had been brought to its attention and all requests for funds were paid promptly. Gorakhpur is Adityanath's political base, which elected him to parliament five times before he was made Uttar Pradesh chief minister by Narendra Modi after the BJP government's landslide BJP election victory in March. Gorakhpur's health facilities are seen as deficient, Reuters reported citing a study of government data by nonprofit body Brookings India that says the district has a 26 per cent shortage of primary health centres. Encephalitis outbreaks kill hundreds in India every year, especially during the monsoon season. Public health accounts for only one per cent of India's GDP, which is among the world's lowest. In recent years, Modi's government has increased health spending and vowed to make healthcare more affordable.

Gorakhpur hospital tragedy: Death toll at 70 after another child dies, what we know so far

A 2008 gang rape and acid attack victim was again attacked with acid in her home in Lucknow on Saturday.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old was at home in Aligangj when some unidentified men attacked her with acid.&nbsp;

She is reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;

In March this year, she had been forced to drink acid.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath had visited her in Lucknow&#39;s King George Medical College at the time. &nbsp;

Yogi had ordered the police to nab the attackers, assured the victim they would be punished, and announced compensation of Rs 1 lakh for her.&nbsp;

The victim, who is Dalit, was allegedly raped in December 2008.&nbsp;

After learning that she had reported the attack to police, news reports said, her alleged attacker and his brother stabbed her in the stomach.&nbsp;

In 2011, acid was thrown on her three times.&nbsp;

In 2012, she was again gang raped.

In March 2017, she was attacked with acid for a fourth time.&nbsp;

On Saturday, she was attacked with acid for a fifth time.

 
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In March this year, she had been forced to drink acid

A 2008 gang rape and acid attack victim was again attacked with acid in her home in Lucknow on Saturday. The 35-year-old was at home in Aligangj when some unidentified men attacked her with acid. She is reported to be in critical condition. In March this year, she had been forced to drink acid. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath had visited her in Lucknow's King George Medical College at the time. Yogi had ordered the police to nab the attackers, assured the victim they would be punished, and announced compensation of Rs 1 lakh for her. The victim, who is Dalit, was allegedly raped in December 2008. After learning that she had reported the attack to police, news reports said, her alleged attacker and his brother stabbed her in the stomach. In 2011, acid was thrown on her three times. In 2012, she was again gang raped. In March 2017, she was attacked with acid for a fourth time. On Saturday, she was attacked with acid for a fifth time.

UP: Gang rape and acid attack victim attacked with acid for fifth time, critical

On his first visit to Meerut, UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath said that his government will not tolerate incidents of harassment against women. It was for this purpose that his government ordered the constitution of anti-Romeo squads.

He also said that his government will work towards the welfare of farmers.&nbsp;

Talking about the tough action against the illegal slaughterhouses, he said this will continue in future as well.

People resorted to incidents of vandalism and tore Yogi Adityanath&#39;s posters in Meerut&#39;s Sher Garhi area after he didn&#39;t talk about the issue of liquor shops present in the area which is a big problem in there.

(WION)

It was for this purpose that his government ordered constitution of anti-Romeo squads

On his first visit to Meerut, UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath said that his government will not tolerate incidents of harassment against women. It was for this purpose that his government ordered the constitution of anti-Romeo squads. He also said that his government will work towards the welfare of farmers. Talking about the tough action against the illegal slaughterhouses, he said this will continue in future as well. People resorted to incidents of vandalism and tore Yogi Adityanath's posters in Meerut's Sher Garhi area after he didn't talk about the issue of liquor shops present in the area which is a big problem in there. (WION)

Adityanath in Meerut: Will not tolerate harassment against women

An FIR was lodged against Indian filmmaker Shirish Kunder on Friday for a tweet he posted about&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath.

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UP: FIR registered in Hazratganj against filmmaker and Farah Khan&#39;s husband Shirish Kunder for his tweet against UP CM Yogi Adityanath. <a href="https://t.co/X2Kgmds3u3">pic.twitter.com/X2Kgmds3u3</a>
&mdash; ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/845289444194357250">March 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The 43-year-old director had said, &ldquo;Hoping a goon will stop rioting once he is allowed to rule is like expecting a rapist to stop raping once he&rsquo;s allowed to rape.&rdquo;&nbsp;

In the following tweet, he said, &ldquo;Going by the logic of making a goon a CM so he behaves, Dawood [Ibrahim] can be Central Bureau of Investigation&rsquo;s director. And [Vijay] Mallya the Reserve Bank of India governor.&rdquo;

Both the tweets have since been deleted.

He has now publicly apologised for the tweets saying he &ldquo;never meant to hurt anyones feelings&rdquo;.

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I unconditionally apologise. I never meant to hurt anyones feelings or sentiment.
&mdash; Shirish Kunder (@ShirishKunder) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShirishKunder/status/845321257482563585">March 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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(WION)

'Hoping a goon will stop rioting once he is allowed to rule is like expecting a rapist to stop raping once he?s allowed to rape,' he wrote

An FIR was lodged against Indian filmmaker Shirish Kunder on Friday for a tweet he posted about Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath. UP: FIR registered in Hazratganj against filmmaker and Farah Khan's husband Shirish Kunder for his tweet against UP CM Yogi Adityanath. pic.twitter.com/X2Kgmds3u3 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 24, 2017 × The 43-year-old director had said, “Hoping a goon will stop rioting once he is allowed to rule is like expecting a rapist to stop raping once he’s allowed to rape.” In the following tweet, he said, “Going by the logic of making a goon a CM so he behaves, Dawood [Ibrahim] can be Central Bureau of Investigation’s director. And [Vijay] Mallya the Reserve Bank of India governor.” Both the tweets have since been deleted. He has now publicly apologised for the tweets saying he “never meant to hurt anyones feelings”. I unconditionally apologise. I never meant to hurt anyones feelings or sentiment. — Shirish Kunder (@ShirishKunder) March 24, 2017 × (WION)

India: FIR lodged against Indian filmmaker Shirish Kunder for calling Adityanath a goon