An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Jharkhand's Kuchai area of Saraikella on early Tuesday, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

As per reports, the blast occurred at around 4:53 am and targeted&nbsp;the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police.

The security forces were out on special operations when the explosion took place.

As many as 8 CoBRA personnel and 3 Jharkhand Police personnel have been injured. There is no word on any loss of life, more details are awaited.&nbsp;

The 11 injured jawans were airlifted for Ranchi at 6:52 am.

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An Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) exploded at 4:53 am in Kuchai area of Saraikella on the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand police who were out on special operations. 8 CoBRA personnel &amp; 3 Jharkhand police personnel injured. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jharkhand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jharkhand</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1133178845798912000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This comes a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-diffuses-ied-bomb-recovered-on-jammu-poonch-highway-221895">Indian Army on Monday diffused an IED bomb</a> which was recovered near Kallar area on the Jammu-Poonch Highway, ANI reported.&nbsp;

The bomb disposal squad of the Army reached the spot and the area was cordoned off.<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ied-blast-rocks-jharkhands-saraikela-left-11-security-personnels-injured-222114/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were also present at the spot.

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Jharkhand's Kuchai area of Saraikella on early Tuesday, news agency ANI reported. As per reports, the blast occurred at around 4:53 am and targeted the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police.

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Jharkhand's Kuchai area of Saraikella on early Tuesday, news agency ANI reported. As per reports, the blast occurred at around 4:53 am and targeted the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police. The security forces were out on special operations when the explosion took place. As many as 8 CoBRA personnel and 3 Jharkhand Police personnel have been injured. There is no word on any loss of life, more details are awaited. The 11 injured jawans were airlifted for Ranchi at 6:52 am. An Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) exploded at 4:53 am in Kuchai area of Saraikella on the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand police who were out on special operations. 8 CoBRA personnel & 3 Jharkhand police personnel injured. #Jharkhand — ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 × This comes a day after Indian Army on Monday diffused an IED bomb which was recovered near Kallar area on the Jammu-Poonch Highway, ANI reported. The bomb disposal squad of the Army reached the spot and the area was cordoned off. The officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were also present at the spot.

IED blast wounds 11 security personnel in Jharkhand

An IED blast rocks Jharkhand's Saraikela district early this morning. The blast injures 11 security personnels of Jharkhand police that was rushed to the nearest hospital then. Till now no one has claimed the ressponsibility for the blast.

IED blast rocks Jharkhand's Saraikela; Left 11 security personnels injured

Taking responsibility of the party's debacle in the recently held Lok Sabha elections, Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Ajoy Kumar Monday resigned from his post.

Ajoy Kumar handed over his resignation letter to the party's state unit in-charge R P N Singh.

"I have handed over my resignation letter to R P N Singh, party's state unit in-charge in the state, taking personal responsibility for the election results," Kumar told PTI over the phone.

It is not immediately known whether his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/punjab-congress-chief-sunil-jakhar-resigns-after-defeat-221988">resignation letter</a> was accepted.

The Congress, which led the 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in the state, contested the Lok Sabha polls from seven out of 14 seats.

Watch:&nbsp;Why did Congress' strategy fail?

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But the party could win only one seat - Singhbhum(ST) - where former chief minister Madhu Koda's wife, Gita Koda, defeated BJP's state unit president Laxman Gilua. The JMM contested four seats and won only one seat, while Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) contested two seats and lost both.

On the other side, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) failed to open its account, though it had contested the Lok Sabha polls from Palamau (SC) and Chatra constituencies. The BJP-Ajsu Party alliance won 12 of the total 14 Lok Sabha seats in Jharkhand.

According to the pre-poll alliance, seat-sharing arrangement of the 'Mahagathbandhan', the Congress had been given the charge to head the grand alliance in Lok Sabha, while the JMM would be given responsibility during the assembly polls to be held later this year.

Taking responsibility of the party's debacle in the recently held Lok Sabha elections, Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Ajoy Kumar Monday resigned from his post.

Taking responsibility of the party's debacle in the recently held Lok Sabha elections, Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Ajoy Kumar Monday resigned from his post. Ajoy Kumar handed over his resignation letter to the party's state unit in-charge R P N Singh. "I have handed over my resignation letter to R P N Singh, party's state unit in-charge in the state, taking personal responsibility for the election results," Kumar told PTI over the phone. It is not immediately known whether his resignation letter was accepted. The Congress, which led the 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in the state, contested the Lok Sabha polls from seven out of 14 seats. Watch: Why did Congress' strategy fail? But the party could win only one seat - Singhbhum(ST) - where former chief minister Madhu Koda's wife, Gita Koda, defeated BJP's state unit president Laxman Gilua. The JMM contested four seats and won only one seat, while Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) contested two seats and lost both. On the other side, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) failed to open its account, though it had contested the Lok Sabha polls from Palamau (SC) and Chatra constituencies. The BJP-Ajsu Party alliance won 12 of the total 14 Lok Sabha seats in Jharkhand. According to the pre-poll alliance, seat-sharing arrangement of the 'Mahagathbandhan', the Congress had been given the charge to head the grand alliance in Lok Sabha, while the JMM would be given responsibility during the assembly polls to be held later this year.

Jharkhand Congress president  Ajoy Kumar resigns from post

Voter turnout till 1:45 PM: Uttar Pradesh- 37 %, West Bengal- 49.79%, Jharkhand 52.89%. Watch the latest updates for the last phase polling.

Voter turnout till 1:45 PM: Uttar Pradesh- 37 %, West Bengal- 49.79%, Jharkhand 52.89%

The electoral fortunes of 42 candidates including that of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shibu Soren will be decided on Sunday in the final phase of the general elections in Jharkhand.

Elections will be held in three seats - Dumka, Rajmahal and Godda on Sunday.

Soren, the chief of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and an 8th term sitting MP is in the fray from Dumka seat once again. He is crossing swords with BJP's Sunil Soren. The JMM leader had defeated his BJP challenger twice in 2009 and 2014.

Altogether 45,64,681 electors, including 22,00,119 female and 21 third gender voters are eligible to exercise their franchise, an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/election-commission-issues-notice-to-sunny-deol-for-violating-poll-code-219547">Election Commission </a>release said.

While 15 candidates are in the fray in Dumka, 14 are trying their luck from Rajmahal and 13 in Godda.

The JMM, the Congress and the JVM of former chief minister Babulal Marandi have formed 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), putting up candidates against the BJP nominees in the 14 seats of the state.

JMM's sitting MP, Vijay Kumar Hansda, is facing a tough challenge from BJP's Hemlal Murmu from Rajmahal seat. Hansda had defeated Murmu in 2014.

Murmu, who was a four-time MLA and had won the Rajmahal Lok Sabha seat in 2004 as JMM candidate, joined the BJP in 2014.

Sitting BJP MP Nishikant Dubey is also facing a fight from JVM MLA Pradip Yadav from Godda seat.

Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Ajsu party president Sudesh Mahto camped in the Santhal Pargana region for several days, campaigning for the BJP candidates.

This is the first time that Ajsu party has an alliance with the BJP in any Lok Sabha elections with the party getting the lone Giridih seat as per the seat sharing arrangement.

Chief Electorate Officer L Khiangte said that 6,258 control units, as many ballot units and 6,258 VVPATs have been set up in the three constituencies, besides keeping 1,260 control units, as many ballot units and 1,884 VVPATs in reserve.

There are 6,258 polling stations with 27,536 polling personnel manning them.

A total of 589 polling stations will have webcasting facility while 137 polling stations will be manned by only women polling personnel.

Inspector General of Police (Operation) Ashish Batra said that 37,398 security personnel have been deployed across the three constituencies as part of security arrangements.

An Air ambulance will be available for emergency services, he said, adding locations of sensitive booths will be under helicopter surveillance.

Polling personnel of seven polling stations will be dropped by helicopter, he said.&nbsp;

The electoral fortunes of 42 candidates including that of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shibu Soren will be decided on Sunday in the final phase of the general elections in Jharkhand.

The electoral fortunes of 42 candidates including that of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shibu Soren will be decided on Sunday in the final phase of the general elections in Jharkhand. Elections will be held in three seats - Dumka, Rajmahal and Godda on Sunday. Soren, the chief of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and an 8th term sitting MP is in the fray from Dumka seat once again. He is crossing swords with BJP's Sunil Soren. The JMM leader had defeated his BJP challenger twice in 2009 and 2014. Altogether 45,64,681 electors, including 22,00,119 female and 21 third gender voters are eligible to exercise their franchise, an Election Commission release said. While 15 candidates are in the fray in Dumka, 14 are trying their luck from Rajmahal and 13 in Godda. The JMM, the Congress and the JVM of former chief minister Babulal Marandi have formed 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), putting up candidates against the BJP nominees in the 14 seats of the state. JMM's sitting MP, Vijay Kumar Hansda, is facing a tough challenge from BJP's Hemlal Murmu from Rajmahal seat. Hansda had defeated Murmu in 2014. Murmu, who was a four-time MLA and had won the Rajmahal Lok Sabha seat in 2004 as JMM candidate, joined the BJP in 2014. Sitting BJP MP Nishikant Dubey is also facing a fight from JVM MLA Pradip Yadav from Godda seat. Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Ajsu party president Sudesh Mahto camped in the Santhal Pargana region for several days, campaigning for the BJP candidates. This is the first time that Ajsu party has an alliance with the BJP in any Lok Sabha elections with the party getting the lone Giridih seat as per the seat sharing arrangement. Chief Electorate Officer L Khiangte said that 6,258 control units, as many ballot units and 6,258 VVPATs have been set up in the three constituencies, besides keeping 1,260 control units, as many ballot units and 1,884 VVPATs in reserve. There are 6,258 polling stations with 27,536 polling personnel manning them. A total of 589 polling stations will have webcasting facility while 137 polling stations will be manned by only women polling personnel. Inspector General of Police (Operation) Ashish Batra said that 37,398 security personnel have been deployed across the three constituencies as part of security arrangements. An Air ambulance will be available for emergency services, he said, adding locations of sensitive booths will be under helicopter surveillance. Polling personnel of seven polling stations will be dropped by helicopter, he said.

Jharkhand: 42 candidates in fray in three Lok Sabha seats

Watch this segment for top election news story updates.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Latest polling news

The Jharkhand government issued an advisory on Friday, asking all district deputy commissioners to set up control rooms to meet any exigency in the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-in-west-bengal-215767">cyclonic storm 'Fani'</a>.

An official release, quoting the regional meteorological department, said from the afternoon of May 3 to May 4, widespread rains accompanied by strong winds will occur in all the 24 districts of the state.

Several districts are already experiencing rains, officials said.

Meanwhile, a woman died after a wall of her house collapsed, following a sudden storm at Sajwan village in Palamau district, they said.

The woman, identified as Muni Kumari, died on the spot after the mud wall fell on her, the officials said.

The storm was not under the impact of 'Fani', they added.

All educational institutions in Palamau district will remain closed on Saturday, the release said.

Earlier on Friday, cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people.

The Jharkhand government issued an advisory on Friday, asking all district deputy commissioners to set up control rooms to meet any exigency in the wake of the cyclonic storm 'Fani'.

The Jharkhand government issued an advisory on Friday, asking all district deputy commissioners to set up control rooms to meet any exigency in the wake of the cyclonic storm 'Fani'. An official release, quoting the regional meteorological department, said from the afternoon of May 3 to May 4, widespread rains accompanied by strong winds will occur in all the 24 districts of the state. Several districts are already experiencing rains, officials said. Meanwhile, a woman died after a wall of her house collapsed, following a sudden storm at Sajwan village in Palamau district, they said. The woman, identified as Muni Kumari, died on the spot after the mud wall fell on her, the officials said. The storm was not under the impact of 'Fani', they added. All educational institutions in Palamau district will remain closed on Saturday, the release said. Earlier on Friday, cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people.

Jharkhand asks district commissioners to be alert in wake of 'Fani'

Over 45.26 lakh voters will on Monday decide the fate of 59 candidates in the first phase of polls for three Lok Sabha constituencies in Jharkhand.

The three constituencies, all won by the BJP in 2014 elections, are Lohardaga (ST), Palamu (SC) and Chatra.

As there are some Naxal pockets in Palamu and Chatra, the borders with Bihar have been sealed and adequate security arrangements have been made for the polling, a government official said on Saturday.

"All necessary steps have been taken to ensure free and fair voting in the 139 booths," an election official said.

Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Sudarshan Bhagat is seeking re-election from the Lohardaga(ST) seat. He is pitted against Sukhdeo Bhagat, Congress MLA and Mahagathbandhan candidate.

In Palamu, it is a straight contest between the BJP and the 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance). Former Jharkhand police chief and BJP candidate Vishnu Dayal Ram is facing challenge from RJDs Ghuram Ram, supported by the Mahagathbandhan, comprising Congress, JMM and Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik).

The RJD has fielded Subhas Yadav in Chatra, resulting in a friendly fight with the Congress nominee, Manoj Yadav, there.

The BJP has re-nominated its sitting MP Sunil Kumar Singh from the seat. 
An electorate of 45,26,693, including 21,40,750 female voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise in the three seats between 7 AM and 4 PM.

Senior BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah had campaigned asking the people to re-elect the NDA to take forward the developmental works and protect the country's security.

No prominent national level leader of the opposition parties had campaigned in the three seats.

Lok Sabha elections in 14 parliamentary constituencies of Jharkhand will be held in four phases.

Over 45.26 lakh voters will on Monday decide the fate of 59 candidates in the first phase of polls for three Lok Sabha constituencies in Jharkhand. The three constituencies, all won by the BJP in 2014 elections, are Lohardaga (ST), Palamu (SC) and Chatra.

Over 45.26 lakh voters will on Monday decide the fate of 59 candidates in the first phase of polls for three Lok Sabha constituencies in Jharkhand. The three constituencies, all won by the BJP in 2014 elections, are Lohardaga (ST), Palamu (SC) and Chatra. As there are some Naxal pockets in Palamu and Chatra, the borders with Bihar have been sealed and adequate security arrangements have been made for the polling, a government official said on Saturday. "All necessary steps have been taken to ensure free and fair voting in the 139 booths," an election official said. Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Sudarshan Bhagat is seeking re-election from the Lohardaga(ST) seat. He is pitted against Sukhdeo Bhagat, Congress MLA and Mahagathbandhan candidate. In Palamu, it is a straight contest between the BJP and the 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance). Former Jharkhand police chief and BJP candidate Vishnu Dayal Ram is facing challenge from RJDs Ghuram Ram, supported by the Mahagathbandhan, comprising Congress, JMM and Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik). The RJD has fielded Subhas Yadav in Chatra, resulting in a friendly fight with the Congress nominee, Manoj Yadav, there. The BJP has re-nominated its sitting MP Sunil Kumar Singh from the seat. An electorate of 45,26,693, including 21,40,750 female voters, are eligible to exercise their franchise in the three seats between 7 AM and 4 PM. Senior BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah had campaigned asking the people to re-elect the NDA to take forward the developmental works and protect the country's security. No prominent national level leader of the opposition parties had campaigned in the three seats. Lok Sabha elections in 14 parliamentary constituencies of Jharkhand will be held in four phases.

Three Lok Sabha seats in Jharkhand go to polls on April 29

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will Sunday lay foundation stone for hospitals in Hazaribagh, Dumka and Palamau and inaugurate a host of development schemes during his visit to the state, an official statement said.

The prime minister will lay the foundation stone online for four 500-bedded hospitals in Hazaribagh, Dumka, Palamau and Jamshedpur.

This apart, he will lay foundation stone for Hazaribagh urban line water supply scheme and rural drinking water supply -- four schemes for Hazaribagh and two for Ramgarh.

Modi, who is scheduled to reach Hazaribagh at 2.30 pm, will also inaugurate the newly constructed building at the Women's Engineering College in Ramgarh district.

He will inaugurate one rural water supply scheme for Ramgarh and three for Hazaribagh besides a sewage treatment plant and 'Madhusudan Ghat' under Namami Gange - National Mission for Clean Ganga programme.

The prime minister will lay foundation stone for 2,718 piped water supply schemes for primitive tribal community and a tribal studies centre at the Hazaribagh-based Acharya Vinoba Bhave University.

The day will also mark the beginning of deposit of money in farmers' account for purchase of mobile phones under e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) scheme, distribution of milk among government school children under PM Gift Milk Scheme and house warming of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yozana, the release said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will Sunday lay foundation stone for hospitals in Hazaribagh, Dumka and Palamau and inaugurate a host of development schemes during his visit to the state, an official statement said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will Sunday lay foundation stone for hospitals in Hazaribagh, Dumka and Palamau and inaugurate a host of development schemes during his visit to the state, an official statement said. The prime minister will lay the foundation stone online for four 500-bedded hospitals in Hazaribagh, Dumka, Palamau and Jamshedpur. This apart, he will lay foundation stone for Hazaribagh urban line water supply scheme and rural drinking water supply -- four schemes for Hazaribagh and two for Ramgarh. Modi, who is scheduled to reach Hazaribagh at 2.30 pm, will also inaugurate the newly constructed building at the Women's Engineering College in Ramgarh district. He will inaugurate one rural water supply scheme for Ramgarh and three for Hazaribagh besides a sewage treatment plant and 'Madhusudan Ghat' under Namami Gange - National Mission for Clean Ganga programme. The prime minister will lay foundation stone for 2,718 piped water supply schemes for primitive tribal community and a tribal studies centre at the Hazaribagh-based Acharya Vinoba Bhave University. The day will also mark the beginning of deposit of money in farmers' account for purchase of mobile phones under e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) scheme, distribution of milk among government school children under PM Gift Milk Scheme and house warming of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yozana, the release said.

PM Modi to inaugurate slew of projects in Jharkhand today

Inaugurating a slew of projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the NDA government has taken several development initiatives in Jharkhand in the past four-and-a-half years for the uplift of all sections of society.&nbsp;

The Hazaribag visit was another occasion to continue the development work, he said. “Three medical colleges have been inaugurated in Dumka, Palamu and Hazaribag. The state had just three such colleges so far.&nbsp;

Now with the addition of three more, students won’t have to travel far to study medicine. Also, people can avail medical facilities at ease,” he said.&nbsp;

Talking about the gift milk scheme, which he inaugurated here prior to his speech, Modi said the initiative will improve the nutritional standards of children in government schools. The prime minister also congratulated the farmers on receiving financial assistance to buy smartphones.&nbsp;

“The farmers can now get regular updates on climate, learn about modern farming techniques and find out about government initiatives,” he said.&nbsp;

Modi also said that health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY of the central government has benefitted more than 57,000 people in the state.&nbsp;

“Jharkhand has witnessed the launch of Ayushman Bharat health scheme last year. Lakhs of families across the country have benefitted from the scheme, including 57,000 people in Jharkhand,” he stated.

Modi asserted that the central government has been taking initiatives to supply clean drinking water to all homes in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

“Health is directly related to cleanliness and sanitation. In the last four-and-a-half years, the Centre has spent thousands of crores (of rupees) to launch 350 projects for supplying clean drinking water. Today, I have laid the foundation of 11 such projects to ensure that people receive clean water,” he maintained.&nbsp;

The prime minister, who inaugurated a women’s engineering college in Ramgarh, said the institute was the first-of-its-kind in Jharkhand. He also launched a centre of tribal studies at Acharya Vinoba Bhave University here.&nbsp;

Jharkhand has two dozen Eklavya schools, a modern residential school for tribal students, and work was on to set up 70 more, he said.&nbsp;

Modi also paid tribute to Vijay Soreng, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed along with 39 others in the Pulwama terrorist attack last week, and said that the Centre would look after the families of the slain jawans. Jharkhand has seen many revolutions over the years and grown from strength to strength, he added.

Inaugurating a slew of projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the NDA government has taken several development initiatives in Jharkhand in the past four-and-a-half years for the uplift of all sections of society.

Inaugurating a slew of projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the NDA government has taken several development initiatives in Jharkhand in the past four-and-a-half years for the uplift of all sections of society. The Hazaribag visit was another occasion to continue the development work, he said. “Three medical colleges have been inaugurated in Dumka, Palamu and Hazaribag. The state had just three such colleges so far. Now with the addition of three more, students won’t have to travel far to study medicine. Also, people can avail medical facilities at ease,” he said. Talking about the gift milk scheme, which he inaugurated here prior to his speech, Modi said the initiative will improve the nutritional standards of children in government schools. The prime minister also congratulated the farmers on receiving financial assistance to buy smartphones. “The farmers can now get regular updates on climate, learn about modern farming techniques and find out about government initiatives,” he said. Modi also said that health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY of the central government has benefitted more than 57,000 people in the state. “Jharkhand has witnessed the launch of Ayushman Bharat health scheme last year. Lakhs of families across the country have benefitted from the scheme, including 57,000 people in Jharkhand,” he stated. Modi asserted that the central government has been taking initiatives to supply clean drinking water to all homes in Jharkhand. “Health is directly related to cleanliness and sanitation. In the last four-and-a-half years, the Centre has spent thousands of crores (of rupees) to launch 350 projects for supplying clean drinking water. Today, I have laid the foundation of 11 such projects to ensure that people receive clean water,” he maintained. The prime minister, who inaugurated a women’s engineering college in Ramgarh, said the institute was the first-of-its-kind in Jharkhand. He also launched a centre of tribal studies at Acharya Vinoba Bhave University here. Jharkhand has two dozen Eklavya schools, a modern residential school for tribal students, and work was on to set up 70 more, he said. Modi also paid tribute to Vijay Soreng, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed along with 39 others in the Pulwama terrorist attack last week, and said that the Centre would look after the families of the slain jawans. Jharkhand has seen many revolutions over the years and grown from strength to strength, he added.

Centre working to uplift all sections of people in Jharkhand, says PM Narendra Modi

The poverty-stricken parents Of two minor girls in Jharkhand who were allegedly sold off to a brick-kiln owner in West Bengal have said that they left behind their daughters in the care of the businessman so that they could be looked after by his family, police said.

A section of the media had reported Monday that a tribal couple at Toranghatu village in Jagannathpur sub-division of the district had sold off their two daughters, both minors, for Rs 1,500 each to a brick-kiln owner of Howrah, three years ago.

A probe has been ordered by the West Singhbhum district administration.

Jagannathpur Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Prabhat Ranjan Barwar told that a police team had met the parents at their village on Monday.

A team will be proceeding to Howrah on Tuesday to trace the girls, he said. 
The SDPO said the parents, who used to work in the Howrah brick-kiln, told the police that they had initially kept one of the daughters with their employer so that they could be looked after properly.

After returning to their village, they decided to send their second daughter to the brick-kiln owner's family for her proper care.

The couple, however, denied having sold off their children to the businessman, the SDPO said.

The block development officer (BDO) concerned and the police have been directed to probe the incident and submit a report soon, Sub-Divisional Officer of Jagannathpur, Smrita Kumari had said Monday.

"I have also asked the Child Welfare Committee to look into the incident," she said.

Necessary action would be taken against the culprits on the basis of the findings, the officer had said.

"Though it is a three-year-old case, the incident came to our notice after a section of the media reported it on Monday," an official of the district administration said.

The poverty-stricken parents Of two minor girls in Jharkhand who were allegedly sold off to a brick-kiln owner in West Bengal have said that they left behind their daughters in the care of the businessman so that they could be looked after by his family, police said.

The poverty-stricken parents Of two minor girls in Jharkhand who were allegedly sold off to a brick-kiln owner in West Bengal have said that they left behind their daughters in the care of the businessman so that they could be looked after by his family, police said. A section of the media had reported Monday that a tribal couple at Toranghatu village in Jagannathpur sub-division of the district had sold off their two daughters, both minors, for Rs 1,500 each to a brick-kiln owner of Howrah, three years ago. A probe has been ordered by the West Singhbhum district administration. Jagannathpur Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Prabhat Ranjan Barwar told that a police team had met the parents at their village on Monday. A team will be proceeding to Howrah on Tuesday to trace the girls, he said. The SDPO said the parents, who used to work in the Howrah brick-kiln, told the police that they had initially kept one of the daughters with their employer so that they could be looked after properly. After returning to their village, they decided to send their second daughter to the brick-kiln owner's family for her proper care. The couple, however, denied having sold off their children to the businessman, the SDPO said. The block development officer (BDO) concerned and the police have been directed to probe the incident and submit a report soon, Sub-Divisional Officer of Jagannathpur, Smrita Kumari had said Monday. "I have also asked the Child Welfare Committee to look into the incident," she said. Necessary action would be taken against the culprits on the basis of the findings, the officer had said. "Though it is a three-year-old case, the incident came to our notice after a section of the media reported it on Monday," an official of the district administration said.

Tribal couple denies selling off daughters to brick-kiln owner

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Thursday announced the entire state as open defecation free (ODF).

The ODF target for the state was October 2, 2019, but Jharkhand has achieved it a year in advance, Das said at the Statehood Day function here.

Jharkhand was carved out from Bihar on November 15, 2000 by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

The chief minister also announced Lohardaga, Hazaribagh and Deoghar as total electrified districts, joining Ranchi, Dhanbad, Ramgarh and Bokaro.

The electrification target for the entire state was December, 2018, he said.

The chief minister said Jharkhand is second in the country in terms of development growth, fourth in ease of doing business and number one in achieving health reforms.

So far, more than 32 lakh people of Jharkhand have been given employment or self-employment, he said.

Besides this, 16 lakh women were connected with 'Sakhi Mandal' for self-employment.

He said the state government was getting full support from the Centre in developmental initiatives.

'Krishi Pakhwada' (agriculture fortnight) has been announced and a camp will be organised on November 18 and 19 to facilitate reimbursement of funds under 'Fasal Bima'.

Das also vowed to accelerate the process of development and make the state an example in the country.

The chief minister called upon everyone to work towards a state which is free of corruption, dynastic politics, and caste, communal issues, so that citizens get the opportunity to live with dignity.

Cheques were given to farmers under MUDRA Swachch Card, Fasal Bima Yozana and Ved Vyas Awas Yojana at the function.&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Thursday announced the entire state as open defecation free (ODF). The ODF target for the state was October 2, 2019, but Jharkhand has achieved it a year in advance, Das said at the Statehood Day function here.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Thursday announced the entire state as open defecation free (ODF). The ODF target for the state was October 2, 2019, but Jharkhand has achieved it a year in advance, Das said at the Statehood Day function here. Jharkhand was carved out from Bihar on November 15, 2000 by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. The chief minister also announced Lohardaga, Hazaribagh and Deoghar as total electrified districts, joining Ranchi, Dhanbad, Ramgarh and Bokaro. The electrification target for the entire state was December, 2018, he said. The chief minister said Jharkhand is second in the country in terms of development growth, fourth in ease of doing business and number one in achieving health reforms. So far, more than 32 lakh people of Jharkhand have been given employment or self-employment, he said. Besides this, 16 lakh women were connected with 'Sakhi Mandal' for self-employment. He said the state government was getting full support from the Centre in developmental initiatives. 'Krishi Pakhwada' (agriculture fortnight) has been announced and a camp will be organised on November 18 and 19 to facilitate reimbursement of funds under 'Fasal Bima'. Das also vowed to accelerate the process of development and make the state an example in the country. The chief minister called upon everyone to work towards a state which is free of corruption, dynastic politics, and caste, communal issues, so that citizens get the opportunity to live with dignity. Cheques were given to farmers under MUDRA Swachch Card, Fasal Bima Yozana and Ved Vyas Awas Yojana at the function.

Jharkhand CM Raghubar Das declares entire state open defecation free

Two men were lynched in Jharkhand Wednesday after they were accused of stealing cattle.&nbsp

The killings took place in Jharkhand's Godda district.&nbsp

The two victims were identified by police as Jirafuddin Ansari (35) and Murtaza Miyan (30) from Taljhari village in Godda.&nbsp

A video of one of the victims slung from a bamboo pole had gone viral on social media.&nbsp

News reports quoted police as saying Ansari and Miyan had previous cases of cattle theft lodged against them.&nbsp

The reports quoted police as saying five men been accused of stealing 13 buffaloes from Bankatti village.&nbsp

The men were later caught by Bankatti villagers in Taljhari village.&nbsp

The reports said three of the men managed to escape but Ansari and Miyan were caught and lynched.&nbsp

The reports quoted police as saying four people had been arrested in connection with the lynching, and that an FIR had been registered against unidentified persons for having stolen buffaloes.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Police said four people had been arrested in connection with the lynching, and that an FIR had been registered against unidentified persons for having stolen buffaloes

Two men were lynched in Jharkhand Wednesday after they were accused of stealing cattle. The killings took place in Jharkhand's Godda district. The two victims were identified by police as Jirafuddin Ansari (35) and Murtaza Miyan (30) from Taljhari village in Godda. A video of one of the victims slung from a bamboo pole had gone viral on social media. News reports quoted police as saying Ansari and Miyan had previous cases of cattle theft lodged against them. The reports quoted police as saying five men been accused of stealing 13 buffaloes from Bankatti village. The men were later caught by Bankatti villagers in Taljhari village. The reports said three of the men managed to escape but Ansari and Miyan were caught and lynched. The reports quoted police as saying four people had been arrested in connection with the lynching, and that an FIR had been registered against unidentified persons for having stolen buffaloes.

Jharkhand: Two men lynched for allegedly stealing cattle

A CRPF personnel from CoBRA battalion and a policeman succumbed to their injuries on Thursday in an encounter with Maoists in Saraikela, Jharkhand.

The gunbattle between the security forces and Maoists began on Thursday morning after the&nbsp;Jharkhand Police and 209 CoBRA battalion launched a Search and Destroy Operation against the Maoists in the state&nbsp;

The heavy firing between the two forces has concluded now and the security forces have launched a search operation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Encounter between naxals & troops of 209 CoBRA battalion & <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jharkhand?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jharkhand</a> Police in Saraikela: Police jawan, who who was injured, succumbed to his injuries. 1 CoBRA personnel had lost his life too. Firing concludes, search operation underway.
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(With inputs from ANI)

&nbsp;

The Jharkhand Police and 209 CoBRA battalion had launched a Search and Destroy Operation against the Maoists in the state

A CRPF personnel from CoBRA battalion and a policeman succumbed to their injuries on Thursday in an encounter with Maoists in Saraikela, Jharkhand. The gunbattle between the security forces and Maoists began on Thursday morning after the Jharkhand Police and 209 CoBRA battalion launched a Search and Destroy Operation against the Maoists in the state The heavy firing between the two forces has concluded now and the security forces have launched a search operation. #UPDATE Encounter between naxals & troops of 209 CoBRA battalion & #Jharkhand Police in Saraikela: Police jawan, who who was injured, succumbed to his injuries. 1 CoBRA personnel had lost his life too. Firing concludes, search operation underway. — ANI (@ANI) June 7, 2018 × (With inputs from ANI)

1 CRPF soldier, policeman killed in encounter with Maoists in Jharkhand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jharkhand today and lay the foundation of development projects worth Rs 27 thousand crores. PM Modi, along with Jharkhand's Chief Minister Raghubar Das, will lay the foundation of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Deoghar.&nbsp;

Other projects that will be kicked off by PM Modi would include the development of Deoghar airport, gas pipeline development at Deoghar AIIMS and in Ranchi among other projects.

Jharkhand will also get around 250 medical centres all across.

According to reports, around Rs, 1103 crore has been allocated for the development of Deoghar AIIMS. Rs 441 crores has been allotted for Deoghar airport. Sindri workshop will be reopened at the expense of Rs 7,000 crores while Rs 11,668 crore will be spent for the setting up of an NTPC plant in Patratu.&nbsp;

PM Modi will travel to Sindri from Dhanbad at around 3.30pm on Friday. After unveiling the details of the development project, the Prime Minister will hold a meeting with state officials and Jharkhand CM in the evening.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister&nbsp;will also visit West Bengal today.&nbsp;

Jharkhand will get around 250 medical centres all across

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jharkhand today and lay the foundation of development projects worth Rs 27 thousand crores. PM Modi, along with Jharkhand's Chief Minister Raghubar Das, will lay the foundation of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Deoghar. Other projects that will be kicked off by PM Modi would include the development of Deoghar airport, gas pipeline development at Deoghar AIIMS and in Ranchi among other projects. Jharkhand will also get around 250 medical centres all across. According to reports, around Rs, 1103 crore has been allocated for the development of Deoghar AIIMS. Rs 441 crores has been allotted for Deoghar airport. Sindri workshop will be reopened at the expense of Rs 7,000 crores while Rs 11,668 crore will be spent for the setting up of an NTPC plant in Patratu. PM Modi will travel to Sindri from Dhanbad at around 3.30pm on Friday. After unveiling the details of the development project, the Prime Minister will hold a meeting with state officials and Jharkhand CM in the evening. The Prime Minister will also visit West Bengal today.

PM Modi to visit Jharkhand today, development projects worth Rs 27,000 crore to be unveiled

A 16-year-old girl was killed and her body was chopped into three pieces by the person who had brought her from Jharkhand to get her employed as a domestic help in Delhi, after she demanded her salary, police said on Sunday.

The body parts of the girl were found in a drain on May 4, a day after she was killed.

After the body was found, police scanned the footage from CCTV cameras installed in Mianwali Nagar and the tenants of nearly 200 homes in the area were "analysed", police said.

Police received a tip-off that one of the tenants, a resident of Jharkhand, was missing since the girl's killing.

A raid was conducted at his village but he was not there.

Later, police learnt that the man was expected to visit his rented accommodation in Delhi on May 17. A trap was laid and he was arrested.

The man, Manjeet Karketa, confessed that he killed the girl with help from two other people, including a woman.

During interrogation, he revealed that the three persons used to lure young and poor girls from Jharkhand promising them attractive employment in Delhi, police said.

They had brought the victim to Delhi around three years ago and got her employed as a domestic help. The accused used to collect her salary and did not pay her, police said.

After one year, the girl quit the job and visited the Karketa on May 3, when he and his accomplices killed her. They chopped her body into three pieces and dumped them in a drain, police said.

The 16-year-old girl's body parts were found in a drain a day after she was killed. She was from Jharkhand

A 16-year-old girl was killed and her body was chopped into three pieces by the person who had brought her from Jharkhand to get her employed as a domestic help in Delhi, after she demanded her salary, police said on Sunday. The body parts of the girl were found in a drain on May 4, a day after she was killed. After the body was found, police scanned the footage from CCTV cameras installed in Mianwali Nagar and the tenants of nearly 200 homes in the area were "analysed", police said. Police received a tip-off that one of the tenants, a resident of Jharkhand, was missing since the girl's killing. A raid was conducted at his village but he was not there. Later, police learnt that the man was expected to visit his rented accommodation in Delhi on May 17. A trap was laid and he was arrested. The man, Manjeet Karketa, confessed that he killed the girl with help from two other people, including a woman. During interrogation, he revealed that the three persons used to lure young and poor girls from Jharkhand promising them attractive employment in Delhi, police said. They had brought the victim to Delhi around three years ago and got her employed as a domestic help. The accused used to collect her salary and did not pay her, police said. After one year, the girl quit the job and visited the Karketa on May 3, when he and his accomplices killed her. They chopped her body into three pieces and dumped them in a drain, police said.

Delhi: Teen domestic help asks for salary, is chopped into pieces

A man has been arrested for allegedly raping and murdering a five-year-old girl in Dhanbad district, the police said Tuesday.&nbsp

The accused was the neighbour of the victim and also the friend of her elder brother, police said.&nbsp

The 21-year-old man had taken the girl to a marriage party in the neighbourhood with the permission of the victim”s parents on Saturday but he returned home an hour later without the girl, the police said.

The body of the girl was found a distance away from her home in Munidih police outpost jurisdiction on Sunday last, Superintendent of Police (Rural), Ashutosh Shekhar said.&nbsp

The accused was arrested within two hours after the incident was brought to the notice of the police and he was remanded to judicial custody yesterday, the SP said.

During interrogation, the accused confessed to his crime, Shekhar said. After committing the crime, the man had hidden the body but the police recovered it on the basis of leads provided by him, the SP said.

The victim”s father, a daily wager working in a colliery, registered a case after the family members failed to trace the girl on Saturday.

The 21-year-old man had taken the girl to a marriage party in the neighbourhood with the permission of the victim"s parents on Saturday but he returned home an hour later without the girl, the police said.

A man has been arrested for allegedly raping and murdering a five-year-old girl in Dhanbad district, the police said Tuesday. The accused was the neighbour of the victim and also the friend of her elder brother, police said. The 21-year-old man had taken the girl to a marriage party in the neighbourhood with the permission of the victim”s parents on Saturday but he returned home an hour later without the girl, the police said. The body of the girl was found a distance away from her home in Munidih police outpost jurisdiction on Sunday last, Superintendent of Police (Rural), Ashutosh Shekhar said. The accused was arrested within two hours after the incident was brought to the notice of the police and he was remanded to judicial custody yesterday, the SP said. During interrogation, the accused confessed to his crime, Shekhar said. After committing the crime, the man had hidden the body but the police recovered it on the basis of leads provided by him, the SP said. The victim”s father, a daily wager working in a colliery, registered a case after the family members failed to trace the girl on Saturday.

Man arrested for raping, murdering five-year-old girl in Jharkhand

Five Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Serendaag jungle of Jharkhand's Latehar district on Wednesday, news agency ANI reported quoting a police officer.

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5 Naxals killed during an encounter with security forces in Latehar's Bhargav. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jharkhand?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jharkhand</a>
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The encounter between the Maoists and a joint team of the district police and the CRPF is still on, Superintendent of Police Prasant Anand said.

Bodies of the five ultras have been recovered from the spot along with three AK-47 rifles, he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bodies of the five ultras have been recovered from the spot along with three AK-47 rifles

Five Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in Serendaag jungle of Jharkhand's Latehar district on Wednesday, news agency ANI reported quoting a police officer. 5 Naxals killed during an encounter with security forces in Latehar's Bhargav. #Jharkhand — ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2018 × The encounter between the Maoists and a joint team of the district police and the CRPF is still on, Superintendent of Police Prasant Anand said. Bodies of the five ultras have been recovered from the spot along with three AK-47 rifles, he said.

Jharkhand: Five Naxals killed in encounter

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das has said that the government's priority is to develop six backward districts of the state.

"Khunti, Simdega, Gumla, West Singhbhum, Pakur and Sahibganj are the most backward districts. The government's priority is to develop them," Das told a meeting of officials in Ranchi on Friday, an official release said.

Das asked deputy commissioners of these districts to focus on the most backward block and panchayat of these districts. Emphasis should be given to education, health, self-employment and infrastructure.

He asked the deputy commissioners to go to a backward village every week, meet the people, know their problems and solve them.

Das asked to take the services of retired teachers or youth on contract wherever teachers would be required in schools.

He asked to set up poultry society so that eggs could be served in midday meals in schools. The government would also procure eggs for midday meals.

He also asked to speed up electricity work and provide power under the 'Soubhagya Yozana' and solve drinking water problems.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das has said that the government's priority is to develop six backward districts of the state

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das has said that the government's priority is to develop six backward districts of the state. "Khunti, Simdega, Gumla, West Singhbhum, Pakur and Sahibganj are the most backward districts. The government's priority is to develop them," Das told a meeting of officials in Ranchi on Friday, an official release said. Das asked deputy commissioners of these districts to focus on the most backward block and panchayat of these districts. Emphasis should be given to education, health, self-employment and infrastructure. He asked the deputy commissioners to go to a backward village every week, meet the people, know their problems and solve them. Das asked to take the services of retired teachers or youth on contract wherever teachers would be required in schools. He asked to set up poultry society so that eggs could be served in midday meals in schools. The government would also procure eggs for midday meals. He also asked to speed up electricity work and provide power under the 'Soubhagya Yozana' and solve drinking water problems.

Jharkhand government to develop six backward districts

Police arrested three&nbsppeople allegedly involved in the CBSE paper leak case in Jharkhand on Saturday.&nbsp

According to police,&nbspnine juveniles have also been detained.&nbsp

The Jharkhand police said the investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) was still underway.

"Three people have been arrested under provisions of IPC. Nine who are underage have been detained under Juvenile Act. Probe by our SIT is still underway," reported ANI quoting Chatra Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Warrior.

Six other students were also detained by the police on March 30 for questioning in connection with the case.

The papers of the Economics exam of class XII, held on March 26 and Maths exam of class X, held on March 28 were leaked on social media hours before the examination.&nbsp

Six other students were also detained by the police on March 30 for questioning in connection with the case.

Police arrested three&nbsppeople allegedly involved in the CBSE paper leak case in Jharkhand on Saturday. According to police,&nbspnine juveniles have also been detained. The Jharkhand police said the investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) was still underway. "Three people have been arrested under provisions of IPC. Nine who are underage have been detained under Juvenile Act. Probe by our SIT is still underway," reported ANI quoting Chatra Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Warrior. Six other students were also detained by the police on March 30 for questioning in connection with the case. The papers of the Economics exam of class XII, held on March 26 and Maths exam of class X, held on March 28 were leaked on social media hours before the examination.

CBSE paper leak: 3 arrested, 9 detained in Jharkhand

A trial court in Jharkhand on Friday convicted 11 people accused in a cow vigilantism-related murder case.&nbsp;

Reports say that the sentencing will be held on March 20. All of the 11 accused &ndash; including a local BJP leader &ndash; were convicted under IPC Section 302 (murder). In addition, three of them were convicted under Section 120B (conspiracy) &ndash; suggesting that the court was convinced that the attack was pre-planned.

As per reports the accused will be appealing the conviction. This is the first ever incident where a conviction case has been filed against violence in the name of cow protection anywhere in India. &nbsp;

Last year, a mob of more than 100 people in Jharkhand&rsquo;s Ramgarh district lynched a 45-year-old Muslim trader on the suspicion of carrying beef in his car.&nbsp;

The man was beaten to death in the Bazaar Tand area of Ramgarh district. His van was set on fire too.

The incident happened on a day Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned against mob attacks on cattle traders, beef-eaters and dairy farmers, saying killing people in the name of protecting cows is unacceptable.

Meanwhile, last week, police seized over 30 kgs of meat, suspected to be beef, while it was being transported by an auto rickshaw to a hotel in Chandwa, Latehar district.&nbsp;

The police also arrested the driver and also booked the hotel owner and sealed the hotel.

Last year, a mob of more than 100 people in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district lynched a 45-year-old Muslim trader on the suspicion of carrying beef in his car

A trial court in Jharkhand on Friday convicted 11 people accused in a cow vigilantism-related murder case. Reports say that the sentencing will be held on March 20. All of the 11 accused – including a local BJP leader – were convicted under IPC Section 302 (murder). In addition, three of them were convicted under Section 120B (conspiracy) – suggesting that the court was convinced that the attack was pre-planned. As per reports the accused will be appealing the conviction. This is the first ever incident where a conviction case has been filed against violence in the name of cow protection anywhere in India. Last year, a mob of more than 100 people in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district lynched a 45-year-old Muslim trader on the suspicion of carrying beef in his car. The man was beaten to death in the Bazaar Tand area of Ramgarh district. His van was set on fire too. The incident happened on a day Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned against mob attacks on cattle traders, beef-eaters and dairy farmers, saying killing people in the name of protecting cows is unacceptable. Meanwhile, last week, police seized over 30 kgs of meat, suspected to be beef, while it was being transported by an auto rickshaw to a hotel in Chandwa, Latehar district. The police also arrested the driver and also booked the hotel owner and sealed the hotel.

Jharkhand court convicts 11 in gau raksha murder case

As many as 17 child labourers, all hailing from Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand states have been rescued at Secunderabad Railway station here, officials said today.

Based on a tip-off that over 150 children were being brought to Hyderabad in a passenger train, teams from departments of Labour, Women and Child Welfare, Police and NGOs carried out searches in all the coaches after the train&#39;s arrival at Secunderabad?station after 11 PM, Child Protection Officer (Hyderabad district) Mohammed Imtiyaz Raheem said.

&quot;After verifying the age of about 80 of them who arrived, as many as 17 of them were found to be aged below 18, including two children aged 7 and 11.

They belong to Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand,&quot; Raheem said adding the children were rescued and sent to a Home for Children.

He said, &#39;&#39;one person who employed these children has been picked up for questioning and a complaint will be lodged with Telangana CID to nab the traffickers who had brought these children.&#39;&#39;

City-based child rights NGO &#39;Balala Hakkula Sangham&#39; honorary president Achyuta Rao said, &quot;We got an information that a group of children were being brought by train to Hyderabad and had accordingly alerted the Police and district officials here.&quot;

&quot;They were trafficked from Bihar and other states and forced to work as child labourers in bangle-making units in Hyderabad,&quot; he said.

As many as 17 child labourers, all hailing from Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand states have been rescued at Secunderabad Railway station here, officials said today

As many as 17 child labourers, all hailing from Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand states have been rescued at Secunderabad Railway station here, officials said today. Based on a tip-off that over 150 children were being brought to Hyderabad in a passenger train, teams from departments of Labour, Women and Child Welfare, Police and NGOs carried out searches in all the coaches after the train's arrival at Secunderabad?station after 11 PM, Child Protection Officer (Hyderabad district) Mohammed Imtiyaz Raheem said. "After verifying the age of about 80 of them who arrived, as many as 17 of them were found to be aged below 18, including two children aged 7 and 11. They belong to Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand," Raheem said adding the children were rescued and sent to a Home for Children. He said, ''one person who employed these children has been picked up for questioning and a complaint will be lodged with Telangana CID to nab the traffickers who had brought these children.'' City-based child rights NGO 'Balala Hakkula Sangham' honorary president Achyuta Rao said, "We got an information that a group of children were being brought by train to Hyderabad and had accordingly alerted the Police and district officials here." "They were trafficked from Bihar and other states and forced to work as child labourers in bangle-making units in Hyderabad," he said.

17 child labourers rescued in Hyderabad

The Jharkhand police have shot down four guerrilla Maoists in the state&#39;s Palamu district on Monday.&nbsp;

The four killed include a militant Bimal Yadav who was carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh.&nbsp;

The gun battle, which lasted for over two hours, between the police force and Maoists began at Marunga hill after the militants found the security personnel in the area.&nbsp;

The police said that they recovered the bodies of the four militants along with some weapons. However, the remaining Maoists managed to escape.&nbsp;

A search operation was launched by the Central Reserve Police Forces after the gun battle ended.

 
&nbsp;

The four killed include a militant Bimal Yadav who was carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh

The Jharkhand police have shot down four guerrilla Maoists in the state's Palamu district on Monday. The four killed include a militant Bimal Yadav who was carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh. The gun battle, which lasted for over two hours, between the police force and Maoists began at Marunga hill after the militants found the security personnel in the area. The police said that they recovered the bodies of the four militants along with some weapons. However, the remaining Maoists managed to escape. A search operation was launched by the Central Reserve Police Forces after the gun battle ended.

Four Maoists killed in Jharkhand's Palamu district

As many as 8 people lost their lives while one 1 injured in a collision between a truck and a Tata Sumo in&nbsp; Jharkhand&#39;s Dumka.&nbsp;

The victims are residents of Rasikpur in Dumka who were travelling to Deoghar to take a competitive examination.

According to reports, a speeding truck rammed into the vehicle. The driver fled the spot following the accident.

The police officials believe the accident took place because of dense fog early in the morning.

Police have launched an investigation into the accident. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

As many as 8 people lost their lives while one 1 injured in a collision between a truck and a Tata Sumo in Jharkhand's Dumka. The victims are residents of Rasikpur in Dumka who were travelling to Deoghar to take a competitive examination. According to reports, a speeding truck rammed into the vehicle. The driver fled the spot following the accident. The police officials believe the accident took place because of dense fog early in the morning. Police have launched an investigation into the accident.

Jharkhand: 8 dead, 1 injured as truck-car collide

Jharkhand ranks number one in health reforms according to NITI Aayog&#39;s Health Index.

According to the report, the state authorities got 6.87 per cent more work done in the field in 2015-15 as compared to 2014-15.&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das expressed his delight on the finding and noted that the state is committed toward providing better health services to the people of Jharkhand.

He also added that the authorities are working towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s dream of &quot;Swastha Bharat, Swastha Jharkhand&quot;.

NITI Aayog&#39;s Health Index report has Kerala placed on top followed by Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Uttar Pradesh figures at the bottom of the list as the worst performer.&nbsp;

Among larger states, Rajasthan, Bihar and Odisha joined Uttar Pradesh as states that performed poorly in the health index.

Mizoram ranked first among small states followed by Manipur and Goa.

The report was released by the NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, Priti Sudan, Union Health Secretary and World Bank&#39;s India Country Head Junaid Ahmed.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

NITI Aayog Health Index report has Kerala placed on top

Jharkhand ranks number one in health reforms according to NITI Aayog's Health Index. According to the report, the state authorities got 6.87 per cent more work done in the field in 2015-15 as compared to 2014-15. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das expressed his delight on the finding and noted that the state is committed toward providing better health services to the people of Jharkhand. He also added that the authorities are working towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of "Swastha Bharat, Swastha Jharkhand". NITI Aayog's Health Index report has Kerala placed on top followed by Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Uttar Pradesh figures at the bottom of the list as the worst performer. Among larger states, Rajasthan, Bihar and Odisha joined Uttar Pradesh as states that performed poorly in the health index. Mizoram ranked first among small states followed by Manipur and Goa. The report was released by the NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, Priti Sudan, Union Health Secretary and World Bank's India Country Head Junaid Ahmed. (With inputs from agencies)

NITI Aayog Health Index: Jharkhand number one in health reforms

RJD supremo Lalu Prasad, who is lodged in a jail here after his conviction by a CBI court in a fodder scam case, would move the Jharkhand High Court for bail within the next few days, his lawyer said.

Prasad&#39;s lawyer Prabhat Kumar told PTI that Prasad&#39;s lawyers will move the high court either on Friday or next Monday.

An official of Birsa Munda Central jail said certified copies of the CBI court&#39;s judgment sentencing the 16 fodder scam convicts, including Prasad, were handed over to them on Saturday.

Replying to a query on whether the RJD chief would move the court for parole following his sister&#39;s death, Kumar said it was not under consideration.

&quot;No, it is not under consideration,&quot; the lawyer said.

Prasad was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail by the CBI court on January 6 for fraudulent withdrawal from Deoghar treasury between 1990 and 1994 when he was the Bihar chief minister.

The jail official remained tight-lipped when asked about the veracity of reports that RJD supremo has been given the job of a gardener in the jail with his daily wage being Rs 93.

&quot;We cannot tell that,&quot; he said, adding that a job is allotted according to the requirement of the jail and not the wish of an inmate.

Kumar said he was not informed about the kind of job Prasad has been asked to do.

On December 23, the former Bihar chief minister was convicted in the case relating to illegal withdrawal of Rs 89.27 lakh from the Deoghar treasury.

This was the second conviction of the former Union minister in the scam that was reported for the first time 21 years ago.

Earlier, the 69-year-old RJD leader was convicted of fraudulent withdrawal of Rs 37.7 crore from the Chaibasa treasury in September 30, 2013, and was awarded a five-year jail term.

He was granted bail by the Supreme Court after having spent over two-and-a-half months in jail.

Prasad is an accused in three more fodder scam cases in Ranchi relating to the &quot;fraudulent&quot; withdrawal of Rs 3.97 crore from the Dumka treasury, Rs 36 crore from the Chaibasa treasury and Rs 184 crore from the Doranda treasury respectively.&nbsp;

Prasad's lawyer Prabhat Kumar told PTI that Prasad's lawyers will move the high court either on Friday or next Monday

RJD supremo Lalu Prasad, who is lodged in a jail here after his conviction by a CBI court in a fodder scam case, would move the Jharkhand High Court for bail within the next few days, his lawyer said. Prasad's lawyer Prabhat Kumar told PTI that Prasad's lawyers will move the high court either on Friday or next Monday. An official of Birsa Munda Central jail said certified copies of the CBI court's judgment sentencing the 16 fodder scam convicts, including Prasad, were handed over to them on Saturday. Replying to a query on whether the RJD chief would move the court for parole following his sister's death, Kumar said it was not under consideration. "No, it is not under consideration," the lawyer said. Prasad was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail by the CBI court on January 6 for fraudulent withdrawal from Deoghar treasury between 1990 and 1994 when he was the Bihar chief minister. The jail official remained tight-lipped when asked about the veracity of reports that RJD supremo has been given the job of a gardener in the jail with his daily wage being Rs 93. "We cannot tell that," he said, adding that a job is allotted according to the requirement of the jail and not the wish of an inmate. Kumar said he was not informed about the kind of job Prasad has been asked to do. On December 23, the former Bihar chief minister was convicted in the case relating to illegal withdrawal of Rs 89.27 lakh from the Deoghar treasury. This was the second conviction of the former Union minister in the scam that was reported for the first time 21 years ago. Earlier, the 69-year-old RJD leader was convicted of fraudulent withdrawal of Rs 37.7 crore from the Chaibasa treasury in September 30, 2013, and was awarded a five-year jail term. He was granted bail by the Supreme Court after having spent over two-and-a-half months in jail. Prasad is an accused in three more fodder scam cases in Ranchi relating to the "fraudulent" withdrawal of Rs 3.97 crore from the Dumka treasury, Rs 36 crore from the Chaibasa treasury and Rs 184 crore from the Doranda treasury respectively.

Lalu to move Jharkhand High Court for bail

Delhi High Court <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/coal-scam-madhu-koda-gets-3-year-imprisonment-26890">today stayed the 3-year jail</a> term to former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda in the coal scam case.

The court also stayed the 25 lakh fine imposed on the former chief minister of Jharkhand, till the next date of hearing.

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) in 2012 had said the government had allocated coal blocks in 2004-09 in an &quot;inefficient manner&quot; leading to a CBI probe. In its report to Parliament, the CAG had said due to the allocation several companies had made&nbsp;&quot;windfall gain&quot; to the tune of $29 billion.

The CBI had named several companies in its FIR. Madu Koda was arrested in November 2009 when the scam first surfaced but was released four years later.

The Enforcement Directorate(ED) had lodged disproportionate assets case against the former chief minister including his associates.

In December last year, the lower court had convicted Koda and awarded a three-year jail term including a fine of Rs 25 lakh.

Delhi High Court today stayed the 3-year jail term to former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda in the coal scam case

Delhi High Court today stayed the 3-year jail term to former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda in the coal scam case. The court also stayed the 25 lakh fine imposed on the former chief minister of Jharkhand, till the next date of hearing. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) in 2012 had said the government had allocated coal blocks in 2004-09 in an "inefficient manner" leading to a CBI probe. In its report to Parliament, the CAG had said due to the allocation several companies had made "windfall gain" to the tune of $29 billion. The CBI had named several companies in its FIR. Madu Koda was arrested in November 2009 when the scam first surfaced but was released four years later. The Enforcement Directorate(ED) had lodged disproportionate assets case against the former chief minister including his associates. In December last year, the lower court had convicted Koda and awarded a three-year jail term including a fine of Rs 25 lakh.

High Court stays jail term for ex-Jharkhand CM Madhu Koda in coal scam case

&lsquo;Marauding elephants&rsquo;, &lsquo;wreaking havoc&rsquo;, &lsquo;trampling&rsquo;, &lsquo;destroying&rsquo;; these are some of the expletives used to refer to elephants in the Indian mainstream media. But what changed over the past decade which turned elephants, also worshipped as Lord Ganesha into this destructive force?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There are about 27000 wild elephants in India as per the recently concluded elephant population estimation. A significant proportion of this population frequently used human-use areas in the country. The reasons for the presence of elephants in human-use areas are many, from highly fragmented forests to availability of easy forage in human settlements like crops and orchards. However, the main reason is that elephants need to be continuously on the move.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

An adult elephant can consume up to 200 kg of wild fodder per day, this implies that if elephants are forced to be confined to a small forest fragment, they will soon eat off the entire forest. Hence, nature has made them highly mobile species which move from one forest patch to another in search of food so that the forests also get time to regenerate. In the process, the forest tree seeds also get a free lift to be sowed in other regions after moving through the gut of the animals.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This behavior of elephants does not create a problem when the animals reside in contiguous forest patches such as the Western Ghats, but when forests are fragmented; the elephants often pass through human-use areas thereby giving rise to the &lsquo;conflict&rsquo; paradigm.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

We, as humans are habituated to associate elephants and other &lsquo;wild&rsquo; animals with the wilderness. However, these animals are oblivious to our boundaries and this disparity between where we think wild animals should be and where they are actually found has lead to considerable conflicts commonly known as &lsquo;man-animal conflict&rsquo; in popular literature.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Elephants are large-bodied animals, and when they are present in human-use areas, damages to both human and elephants occur. Especially, when we are not expecting to find and manage elephants in our backyards, paddy fields and orchards. The most extreme manifestations of elephants in human spaces are human and elephant deaths. Such incidents cause widespread fear and concern among the general public, conservation practitioners, media, forest departments and all stakeholders.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

About 400 people die in India due to elephant attacks each year, the number of injuries are often much higher. Even though the number of deaths is minuscule when compared to other sources of accidental human mortality in India, such incidents due to attacks of elephants evoke strong emotions and need to be urgently minimised to ensure support for elephant conservation in India.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Remarkably, most of the human fatalities in India due to elephants do not occur where elephants numbers are high. For example, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh together have less than 3000 elephants but account for the majority of the human fatalities in India. Not surprisingly, these three states have highly fragmented forests and high density of human population. These states also have a high population of tribal within the elephant ranges who are prone to chronic alcoholism and brewing of country liquors (World Health Organization, Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health, 2014). However, there is little published evidence to link alcoholism with elephant caused mortality but my ongoing studies in northern Bengal points to the fact that alcohol can play an important role in exacerbating conflict leading to human deaths.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In Jharkhand, forest officials have been quick to note this relation and the brewing of country liquor has been banned in several elephant range areas. This is to prevent human casualties as the elephants are lured by this liquor and moreover, inebriated people often chase elephants out of bravado and die in the process. Crowds of people often throng to see elephants in many places which often cause untoward incidents as well. Also, a large proportion of human fatalities occur when people are trying to protect their crops and while chasing away elephants, especially in West Bengal and Odisha. Such incidents create significant management problems.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The management of elephants and the &lsquo;conflict&rsquo; is entrusted to the Forest Departments and this has also compromised timely and effective management of the problem. Forest Department officials are experts in managing forests and wildlife in forest areas, but their training in managing animals in human-use areas is limited.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Moreover, it is often more effective to manage people rather than the animals in such situations. Steps such as crowd control, crop protection and human safety also come under the preview of the Police Department, Agriculture Department, as well as the Health Department, but the blame is mostly shouldered by respective Forest Departments when any negative incidents occur. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

The focus needs to shift from reactive measures, such as compensation and elephant removals to proactive measures, including crop protection, elephant movement monitoring and information broadcasting as well as well-trained staff at the ground level who will be at the frontline to ensure safe passage to elephants between forests and minimal public interference in such activities. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Local inhabitants who face losses such as crop damage and economic losses should be compensated effectively and adequately.&nbsp; Ensuring necessary precautions to prevent elephant damage are already in place. Media has to play a key role in changing the discourse from blaming certain agencies and animals to focus on the unique opportunities that India presents to the world in protecting endangered species even in human-use landscapes. Minimising damages to local people needs to be the immediate priority for ensuring peaceful cohabitation between people and elephants in the diverse elephant landscapes in the country.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

About 400 people die in India due to elephant attacks each year, the number of injuries are often much higher.

‘Marauding elephants’, ‘wreaking havoc’, ‘trampling’, ‘destroying’; these are some of the expletives used to refer to elephants in the Indian mainstream media. But what changed over the past decade which turned elephants, also worshipped as Lord Ganesha into this destructive force? There are about 27000 wild elephants in India as per the recently concluded elephant population estimation. A significant proportion of this population frequently used human-use areas in the country. The reasons for the presence of elephants in human-use areas are many, from highly fragmented forests to availability of easy forage in human settlements like crops and orchards. However, the main reason is that elephants need to be continuously on the move. An adult elephant can consume up to 200 kg of wild fodder per day, this implies that if elephants are forced to be confined to a small forest fragment, they will soon eat off the entire forest. Hence, nature has made them highly mobile species which move from one forest patch to another in search of food so that the forests also get time to regenerate. In the process, the forest tree seeds also get a free lift to be sowed in other regions after moving through the gut of the animals. This behavior of elephants does not create a problem when the animals reside in contiguous forest patches such as the Western Ghats, but when forests are fragmented; the elephants often pass through human-use areas thereby giving rise to the ‘conflict’ paradigm. We, as humans are habituated to associate elephants and other ‘wild’ animals with the wilderness. However, these animals are oblivious to our boundaries and this disparity between where we think wild animals should be and where they are actually found has lead to considerable conflicts commonly known as ‘man-animal conflict’ in popular literature. Elephants are large-bodied animals, and when they are present in human-use areas, damages to both human and elephants occur. Especially, when we are not expecting to find and manage elephants in our backyards, paddy fields and orchards. The most extreme manifestations of elephants in human spaces are human and elephant deaths. Such incidents cause widespread fear and concern among the general public, conservation practitioners, media, forest departments and all stakeholders. About 400 people die in India due to elephant attacks each year, the number of injuries are often much higher. Even though the number of deaths is minuscule when compared to other sources of accidental human mortality in India, such incidents due to attacks of elephants evoke strong emotions and need to be urgently minimised to ensure support for elephant conservation in India. Remarkably, most of the human fatalities in India due to elephants do not occur where elephants numbers are high. For example, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh together have less than 3000 elephants but account for the majority of the human fatalities in India. Not surprisingly, these three states have highly fragmented forests and high density of human population. These states also have a high population of tribal within the elephant ranges who are prone to chronic alcoholism and brewing of country liquors (World Health Organization, Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health, 2014). However, there is little published evidence to link alcoholism with elephant caused mortality but my ongoing studies in northern Bengal points to the fact that alcohol can play an important role in exacerbating conflict leading to human deaths. In Jharkhand, forest officials have been quick to note this relation and the brewing of country liquor has been banned in several elephant range areas. This is to prevent human casualties as the elephants are lured by this liquor and moreover, inebriated people often chase elephants out of bravado and die in the process. Crowds of people often throng to see elephants in many places which often cause untoward incidents as well. Also, a large proportion of human fatalities occur when people are trying to protect their crops and while chasing away elephants, especially in West Bengal and Odisha. Such incidents create significant management problems. The management of elephants and the ‘conflict’ is entrusted to the Forest Departments and this has also compromised timely and effective management of the problem. Forest Department officials are experts in managing forests and wildlife in forest areas, but their training in managing animals in human-use areas is limited. Moreover, it is often more effective to manage people rather than the animals in such situations. Steps such as crowd control, crop protection and human safety also come under the preview of the Police Department, Agriculture Department, as well as the Health Department, but the blame is mostly shouldered by respective Forest Departments when any negative incidents occur. The focus needs to shift from reactive measures, such as compensation and elephant removals to proactive measures, including crop protection, elephant movement monitoring and information broadcasting as well as well-trained staff at the ground level who will be at the frontline to ensure safe passage to elephants between forests and minimal public interference in such activities. Local inhabitants who face losses such as crop damage and economic losses should be compensated effectively and adequately. Ensuring necessary precautions to prevent elephant damage are already in place. Media has to play a key role in changing the discourse from blaming certain agencies and animals to focus on the unique opportunities that India presents to the world in protecting endangered species even in human-use landscapes. Minimising damages to local people needs to be the immediate priority for ensuring peaceful cohabitation between people and elephants in the diverse elephant landscapes in the country. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: When the God is portrayed as an enemy

The fate of former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-court-to-pronounce-verdict-in-fodder-scam-case-against-lalu-prasad-on-saturday-27495">Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav along</a> with 21 others will be decided today by a special CBI court in the 1996 fodder scam case.

Lalu, along with his<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-withdraws-lalu-prasads-z-security-cover-25271"> son Tejaswi Yadav arrived in Ranchi </a>on Friday, ahead of the verdict while expressing the hope that the court will give him a &quot;clean chit&quot; in the case.

&quot;We trust and respect the judiciary. We will not let BJP&#39;s conspiracies work,&quot;&nbsp;he told reporters.

The case relates to the alleged fraudulent withdrawal of Rs. 95 lakh from the Deoghar treasury, more than Rs 900&nbsp;crores was reportedly syphoned off from the Chaibasa treasury when&nbsp;Lalu was chief minister of Bihar in the 90s.

The other accused in the case include former Bihar minister Vidya Sagar Nishad, former Public Accounts Committee chairmen Jagdish Sharma and Dhruv Bhagat. A chargesheet was filed against 38 persons in 1997.

Eleven of them died and three turned approvers while two other accused confessed to their crime and were convicted in 2006-07.

The accused are facing charges under IPC sections 120B, 409, 418, 420, 467, 468, 471, 477 (A), 201 and 511 and under Prevention of Corruption Act section 13 (1) D read with 13 (2). 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
RJD chief has already been convicted and sentenced to five years of imprisonment in one of the five fodder scam cases. The former Bihar chief minister faces three other fodder scam cases.

The other accused in the case include former Bihar minister Vidya Sagar Nishad, former Public Accounts Committee chairmen Jagdish Sharma and Dhruv Bhagat.

The fate of former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav along with 21 others will be decided today by a special CBI court in the 1996 fodder scam case. Lalu, along with his son Tejaswi Yadav arrived in Ranchi on Friday, ahead of the verdict while expressing the hope that the court will give him a "clean chit" in the case. "We trust and respect the judiciary. We will not let BJP's conspiracies work," he told reporters. The case relates to the alleged fraudulent withdrawal of Rs. 95 lakh from the Deoghar treasury, more than Rs 900 crores was reportedly syphoned off from the Chaibasa treasury when Lalu was chief minister of Bihar in the 90s. The other accused in the case include former Bihar minister Vidya Sagar Nishad, former Public Accounts Committee chairmen Jagdish Sharma and Dhruv Bhagat. A chargesheet was filed against 38 persons in 1997. Eleven of them died and three turned approvers while two other accused confessed to their crime and were convicted in 2006-07. The accused are facing charges under IPC sections 120B, 409, 418, 420, 467, 468, 471, 477 (A), 201 and 511 and under Prevention of Corruption Act section 13 (1) D read with 13 (2). RJD chief has already been convicted and sentenced to five years of imprisonment in one of the five fodder scam cases. The former Bihar chief minister faces three other fodder scam cases.

D-Day for Lalu Prasad Yadav: CBI court set to deliver verdict in fodder case today

The Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Mr Raghubar Das and his counterpart in Bihar, Mr Nitish Kumar were confident that the Maoist movement in Bihar has been brought under control. However, both have been proven to be wrong. Just after midnight today, a group of armed Moist insurgents killed one deputy head of village committee and abducted two staff of the Indian Railways, including an ASM. The irony is that this incident happened at Masudan Railway station which is just 164kms away from the heart of Bihar&#39;s capital city, Patna.

&nbsp;

There is a purpose in selecting the place and the action. They want to convey the message that they can reach anywhere, anytime and even in the proximity of the capital, spreading terror and insecurity in the minds of people.

&nbsp;

It is a matter of concern. Indeed, it is a matter of serious concern.

&nbsp;

Bihar and Jharkhand are important transit points for Maoists. It connects two important strongholds of the red corridor, the Dandakaranya in Chhattisgarh and Junglemahal in West Bengal and, hence, carries very high value for the Maoist movement. The entire leadership of the Maoist movement emphasises on controlling this corridor at all costs or else their movement will split and die.

&nbsp;

But what compelled Maoist to kill innocent civilians, burn the railway station and abduct the staff?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The answer lies in the recent developments in Bihar, Dandakaranya (Chhattisgarh) and Jharkhand. Over last three years, Bihar and Jharkhand Police have been cracking down on the Maoists in the bordering areas of the two states. So far, they have recovered a huge quantity of arms, ammunition and incendiary literature.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also, their ideologue and member of Polit Bureau, Kobad Ghandy was re-arrested by Police. As the Central Police Forces are cracking down on the Maoist leadership and their ideology, while the civil administration is making inroads in the rural and underdeveloped areas, they are constantly losing moral ground among the local population. The poor tribal and villagers who used to help Maoist movement selflessly, are now getting away from them because they have understood the reality of the movement.

&nbsp;

A few years back, any shutdown declared by the Maoists used to be totally successful because of a whole-hearted local support. But things have changed now, and Maoists have no option but to undertake forceful measures to make their shutdown successful.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The recent incident of Lakhisarai reflects the highest level of frustration among the Maoist leadership. They demanded that the railway traffic on this route would be stopped till their shutdown is over. In his letter issued to the common public, some Suraj who claimed to be the secretary of Bihar-Jharkhand Special Area Committee says, &quot;Join for protests on 18th and 19th December and follow the total Shutdown on 20th December 2017.&quot;

&nbsp;

The message is clear. The movement which earlier claimed to be the movement of public has already turned into a terrorist movement. Not for the people but for their own prestige, money and power.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

In choosing soft targets, the Maoists are showing vulnerability in their once stronghold.

The Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Mr Raghubar Das and his counterpart in Bihar, Mr Nitish Kumar were confident that the Maoist movement in Bihar has been brought under control. However, both have been proven to be wrong. Just after midnight today, a group of armed Moist insurgents killed one deputy head of village committee and abducted two staff of the Indian Railways, including an ASM. The irony is that this incident happened at Masudan Railway station which is just 164kms away from the heart of Bihar's capital city, Patna. There is a purpose in selecting the place and the action. They want to convey the message that they can reach anywhere, anytime and even in the proximity of the capital, spreading terror and insecurity in the minds of people. It is a matter of concern. Indeed, it is a matter of serious concern. Bihar and Jharkhand are important transit points for Maoists. It connects two important strongholds of the red corridor, the Dandakaranya in Chhattisgarh and Junglemahal in West Bengal and, hence, carries very high value for the Maoist movement. The entire leadership of the Maoist movement emphasises on controlling this corridor at all costs or else their movement will split and die. But what compelled Maoist to kill innocent civilians, burn the railway station and abduct the staff? The answer lies in the recent developments in Bihar, Dandakaranya (Chhattisgarh) and Jharkhand. Over last three years, Bihar and Jharkhand Police have been cracking down on the Maoists in the bordering areas of the two states. So far, they have recovered a huge quantity of arms, ammunition and incendiary literature. Also, their ideologue and member of Polit Bureau, Kobad Ghandy was re-arrested by Police. As the Central Police Forces are cracking down on the Maoist leadership and their ideology, while the civil administration is making inroads in the rural and underdeveloped areas, they are constantly losing moral ground among the local population. The poor tribal and villagers who used to help Maoist movement selflessly, are now getting away from them because they have understood the reality of the movement. A few years back, any shutdown declared by the Maoists used to be totally successful because of a whole-hearted local support. But things have changed now, and Maoists have no option but to undertake forceful measures to make their shutdown successful. The recent incident of Lakhisarai reflects the highest level of frustration among the Maoist leadership. They demanded that the railway traffic on this route would be stopped till their shutdown is over. In his letter issued to the common public, some Suraj who claimed to be the secretary of Bihar-Jharkhand Special Area Committee says, "Join for protests on 18th and 19th December and follow the total Shutdown on 20th December 2017." The message is clear. The movement which earlier claimed to be the movement of public has already turned into a terrorist movement. Not for the people but for their own prestige, money and power. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: Why Maoists chose soft targets to prove their dominance

A <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kissing-contest-held-in-a-village-of-jharkhand-26489" target="_blank">kissing competition</a> organised in Dumaria village of Jharkhand has outraged many.

The BJP has come down hard on the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leaders involved in organising the event, demanding an apology and their immediate suspension from the state assembly.

The demand was made by Jharkhand&#39;s BJP vice-president Hemlal Murmu who said that Jharkhand Mukti Morcha MLAs and co-organisers of the competition, Simon Marandi and Stephen Marandi, had insulted the culture of Santhal Pargana.&nbsp;

&quot;JMM MLAs Simon Marandi and Stephen Marandi have insulted the culture of Santhal Pargana in the name of Hul Mela and organised the kissing competition. We demand their suspension from the House and not allowing them to attend the winter session starting tomorrow,&quot; state BJP Vice President Hemlal Murmu told reporters at Ranchi. Murmu called the competition &nbsp;&quot;an insult to women power&quot; stating that a boy and a girl don&#39;t even shake hands in the area.

Simon Marandi is JMM MLA from Littipara in Santhal Pargana. Party MLA Stephen Marandi was also present at the fair.

The organisers of the event shared that the competition was organised with an aim to bring down the divorce rate among married couples.

Reportedly, the kissing contest was a part of Dumaria&#39;s annual fair that includes activities like tribal dance, archery, running among others.&nbsp;

Simon Marandi told PTI that the competition was organised among 20 pairs to strengthen the bond among married couples.

He further noted that nobody is trying to understand the Santhal society.&nbsp;

Jharkhand&#39;s rural development minister and BJP leader Neel Kanth Singh Munda has also condemned the incident stating it an insult to tribal society. Simon Marandi was criticised for giving away prizes to the winners.

(With inputs from PTI)

A kissing competition organised in Dumaria village of Jharkhand has outraged many. The BJP has come down hard on the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leaders involved in organising the event, demanding an apology and their immediate suspension from the state assembly. The demand was made by Jharkhand's BJP vice-president Hemlal Murmu who said that Jharkhand Mukti Morcha MLAs and co-organisers of the competition, Simon Marandi and Stephen Marandi, had insulted the culture of Santhal Pargana. "JMM MLAs Simon Marandi and Stephen Marandi have insulted the culture of Santhal Pargana in the name of Hul Mela and organised the kissing competition. We demand their suspension from the House and not allowing them to attend the winter session starting tomorrow," state BJP Vice President Hemlal Murmu told reporters at Ranchi. Murmu called the competition "an insult to women power" stating that a boy and a girl don't even shake hands in the area. Simon Marandi is JMM MLA from Littipara in Santhal Pargana. Party MLA Stephen Marandi was also present at the fair. The organisers of the event shared that the competition was organised with an aim to bring down the divorce rate among married couples. Reportedly, the kissing contest was a part of Dumaria's annual fair that includes activities like tribal dance, archery, running among others. Simon Marandi told PTI that the competition was organised among 20 pairs to strengthen the bond among married couples. He further noted that nobody is trying to understand the Santhal society. Jharkhand's rural development minister and BJP leader Neel Kanth Singh Munda has also condemned the incident stating it an insult to tribal society. Simon Marandi was criticised for giving away prizes to the winners. (With inputs from PTI)

Jharkhand kissing competition: Organising MLAs asked to step down

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