With the Maha Kumbh Mela just days away, Prayagraj has ramped up security measures to ensure the safety of millions of devotees. Uttar Pradesh Police has deployed 2,700 CCTV cameras across the venue, many equipped with artificial intelligence for real-time monitoring. WION's Johan Castell brings you this exclusive ground report.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj boosts security with 2,700 CCTV cameras and AI surveillance

In a historic moment at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, women took center stage as they performed the sacred Ganga Aarti in Prayagraj. This significant event marks a new chapter in the festival, celebrating women’s role in spiritual traditions and religious practices.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Ganga aarti performed by women in Prayagraj

Prayagraj is all set to welcome more than 400 million people for the Maha Kumbh starting January 13

WION brings you non-stop coverage from the World's largest tent city. Experience devotion and tradition from Sangam - the Sacred confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati

Join Johan Castell as he brings you the Maha Kumbh Experience only on WION

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Horses deployed to manage security at Maha Kumbh

The Maha Kumbh Mela has evolved significantly since its inception in 1954. This look at the festival’s journey highlights its unique features, massive logistics, and the tragedies that have occurred over the years, shaping it into one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Tracing its evolution, features, logistics, and tragedies

Prayagraj is making significant preparations for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The city is working on infrastructure, cleanliness, security, and amenities to handle the millions of visitors expected.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Cleanliness drive in full swing; eco-friendly plans in place

The Maha Kumbh is only 6 days away, and security has been heightened in anticipation of the grand event, as more than 400 million people are expected at the site. Watch in for more details!

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Prayagraj gears up for the city's biggest event

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: How Prepared Is Prayagraj For The Mega Event?

Uttar Pradesh, India
India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. 
In a viral video doing rounds on social media, Pannun is seen threatening to attack PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. 
He said his organisation, Sikhs For Justice, would take "revenge" for the encounter of three Khalistani terrorists. 
Pilibhit Police have noted the threat and said that legal proceedings against Pannun are underway. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-target-key-india-summit-vvips-including-modi-779952">Also read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to target key India summit, VVIPs including Modi</a>
“This Hindutva terrorist state has killed three Sikh youth in a fake encounter," Pannun alleged, further saying that financial support of half a million rupees will be given to the families of the terrorists killed in the alleged encounter. 
He further claimed that his organisation would “give an answer” (read as take revenge) for the encounter of Khalistani terrorists and threatened to launch attacks on the Maha Kumbh on January 14, January 29 and February 3 next year. Notably, these dates are auspicious of 'Shahi Snan'. 
He then reinstated that PM Modi and CM Yogi would be there in Prayagraj on these days and SJF would take revenge by "shaking the foundation" of "Hindutva terrorism", and will make this Maha Kumbh, the last Maha Kumbh for the two leaders. 
Watch | Khalistani Terrorist Pannun Threatens Attack On Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/25/2512_Manav_CM_2PM-1735119311-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2512_Manav_CM_2PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=121&tags=Khalistan,pannun,Gurpatwant Singh Pannun,yogi adityanath" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
Earlier on Monday, UP and Punjab Police officials killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.
The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit.
The operation took place in Pilibhit district of UP.  The three men were shot dead after they allegedly fired at the police party.
(With inputs from agencies)

In a viral video going rounds on social media, Pannun was seen threatening PM Modi and CM Yogi during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. 



Uttar Pradesh, India India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In a viral video doing rounds on social media, Pannun is seen threatening to attack PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. He said his organisation, Sikhs For Justice, would take "revenge" for the encounter of three Khalistani terrorists. Pilibhit Police have noted the threat and said that legal proceedings against Pannun are underway. Also read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to target key India summit, VVIPs including Modi “This Hindutva terrorist state has killed three Sikh youth in a fake encounter," Pannun alleged, further saying that financial support of half a million rupees will be given to the families of the terrorists killed in the alleged encounter. He further claimed that his organisation would “give an answer” (read as take revenge) for the encounter of Khalistani terrorists and threatened to launch attacks on the Maha Kumbh on January 14, January 29 and February 3 next year. Notably, these dates are auspicious of 'Shahi Snan'. He then reinstated that PM Modi and CM Yogi would be there in Prayagraj on these days and SJF would take revenge by "shaking the foundation" of "Hindutva terrorism", and will make this Maha Kumbh, the last Maha Kumbh for the two leaders. Watch | Khalistani Terrorist Pannun Threatens Attack On Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath × Earlier on Monday, UP and Punjab Police officials killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit. The operation took place in Pilibhit district of UP. The three men were shot dead after they allegedly fired at the police party. (With inputs from agencies)

Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack PM Modi, UP CM Yogi Adityanath during Maha Kumbh 2025

India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

In a viral video doing rounds on social media, Pannun is&nbsp;seen threatening to attack PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj.&nbsp;

He said his organisation, Sikhs For Justice, would take "revenge" for the encounter of three Khalistani terrorists.&nbsp;

Pilibhit Police have noted the threat and said that legal proceedings against Pannun are underway.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-target-key-india-summit-vvips-including-modi-779952">Also read:&nbsp;Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to target key India summit, VVIPs including Modi</a>

“This Hindutva terrorist state has killed three Sikh youth in a fake encounter," Pannun alleged, further saying that financial support of half a million rupees will be given to the families of the terrorists killed in the alleged encounter.&nbsp;

He further claimed that his organisation would “give an answer” (read as take revenge) for the encounter of Khalistani terrorists and threatened to launch attacks on the Maha Kumbh on January 14, January 29 and February 3 next year. Notably, these dates are auspicious of 'Shahi Snan'.&nbsp;

He then reinstated that PM Modi and CM Yogi would be there in Prayagraj on these days and SJF would take revenge by "shaking the foundation" of "Hindutva terrorism", and will make this Maha Kumbh, the last Maha Kumbh for the two leaders.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Khalistani Terrorist Pannun Threatens Attack On Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-attack-on-uttar-pradesh-cm-yogi-adityanath-786705/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier on Monday, UP and Punjab Police officials killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.

The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit.

The operation took place in Pilibhit district of UP. &nbsp;The three men were shot dead after they allegedly fired at the police party.

(With inputs from agencies)

India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In a viral video doing rounds on social media, Pannun is seen threatening to attack PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. He said his organisation, Sikhs For Justice, would take "revenge" for the encounter of three Khalistani terrorists. Pilibhit Police have noted the threat and said that legal proceedings against Pannun are underway. Also read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to target key India summit, VVIPs including Modi “This Hindutva terrorist state has killed three Sikh youth in a fake encounter," Pannun alleged, further saying that financial support of half a million rupees will be given to the families of the terrorists killed in the alleged encounter. He further claimed that his organisation would “give an answer” (read as take revenge) for the encounter of Khalistani terrorists and threatened to launch attacks on the Maha Kumbh on January 14, January 29 and February 3 next year. Notably, these dates are auspicious of 'Shahi Snan'. He then reinstated that PM Modi and CM Yogi would be there in Prayagraj on these days and SJF would take revenge by "shaking the foundation" of "Hindutva terrorism", and will make this Maha Kumbh, the last Maha Kumbh for the two leaders. Watch | Khalistani Terrorist Pannun Threatens Attack On Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath × Earlier on Monday, UP and Punjab Police officials killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit. The operation took place in Pilibhit district of UP. The three men were shot dead after they allegedly fired at the police party. (With inputs from agencies)

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 promises to be a remarkable convergence of spirituality, culture, and history. As one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, this event brings together millions of devotees from across the globe to bathe in the sacred river and seek blessings. The 2025 Mela will showcase India’s rich cultural traditions, rituals, and the deep-rooted significance of this ancient festival.



Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A Unique Blend Of Spirituality, Culture and History

The preparations for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is in full swing in Prayagraj, attracting millions of devotees to the world's largest religious gathering. Watch in for more details!

Preparation For Maha Kumbh In Full Swing

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 promises to be a remarkable convergence of spirituality, culture, and history. As one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, this event brings together millions of devotees from across the globe to bathe in the sacred river and seek blessings. The 2025 Mela will showcase India’s rich cultural traditions, rituals, and the deep-rooted significance of this ancient festival.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is in full swing in Prayagraj, attracting millions of devotees to the world's largest religious gathering.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Prayagraj Hosts World's Largest Spiritual Gathering

Massive preparations for the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela 2025 are underway as the date for the world’s largest spiritual congregation is moving closer. Watch this report for more details!

Massive Preparations Underway For Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj

A thief felt compelled to return the idols of Hindu deities he had stolen from a temple in the Indian holy city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, after he was constantly haunted by scary dreams besides sudden illness&nbsp;of his family members. The thief had reportedly stolen the precious ashtadhatu idols of Radha Krishna from the temple located near the famous Gau Ghat ashram under the limits of Nawabganj police station in the trans-Ganga pocket of Prayagraj district. The thief left behind a confession letter in which he revealed that he was compelled to return the idols after scary nightmares.

As per a report in Times of India, local police said&nbsp;that the thief asked for forgiveness in the letter.

Nawabganj inspector Anil Kumar Mishra was quoted as saying by TOI, “Mahant Swami Jairam Das Maharaj, the priest of Gau Ghat Ashram temple, had lodged a complaint with Nawabganj police station stating that the precious ashtadhatu idols of Radha Krishna was stolen from the temple on the night of September 23. We registered an FIR against unidentified thieves under the appropriate sections of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi17pv3hvCIAxUGiK8BHYi4Nn0QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/another-doomsday-fish-makes-an-appearance-this-time-in-australia-761868" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/another-doomsday-fish-makes-an-appearance-this-time-in-australia-761868&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi17pv3hvCIAxUGiK8BHYi4Nn0QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Another 'doomsday fish' makes an appearance, this time in Australia</a>

“Locals on Tuesday evening spotted a man running after leaving a sack outside the ashram road and became doubtful and frightened over the unclaimed sack. When they mustered the courage to open it, they found the stolen idol of Radha Krishna and further informed the priest of the temple as well as the police," the officer added.

In the letter, the thief wrote that he had been suffering from nightmares since the day he stole the idols. He complained that he had not been able to sleep and eat properly and that his son and wife fell ill.

“I am fed up with the scary dreams and am returning your ‘amaanat’ (valuables),” the letter read.

The priest, meanwhile,&nbsp;identified the stolen idols and started performing the "Jalabhishek" ceremony.

(With inputs from agencies)

A thief felt compelled to return the idols of Hindu deities he had stolen from a temple in the Indian holy city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, after he was constantly haunted by scary dreams besides sudden illness of his family members.

A thief felt compelled to return the idols of Hindu deities he had stolen from a temple in the Indian holy city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, after he was constantly haunted by scary dreams besides sudden illness of his family members. The thief had reportedly stolen the precious ashtadhatu idols of Radha Krishna from the temple located near the famous Gau Ghat ashram under the limits of Nawabganj police station in the trans-Ganga pocket of Prayagraj district. The thief left behind a confession letter in which he revealed that he was compelled to return the idols after scary nightmares. As per a report in Times of India, local police said that the thief asked for forgiveness in the letter. Nawabganj inspector Anil Kumar Mishra was quoted as saying by TOI, “Mahant Swami Jairam Das Maharaj, the priest of Gau Ghat Ashram temple, had lodged a complaint with Nawabganj police station stating that the precious ashtadhatu idols of Radha Krishna was stolen from the temple on the night of September 23. We registered an FIR against unidentified thieves under the appropriate sections of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.” Also read: Another 'doomsday fish' makes an appearance, this time in Australia “Locals on Tuesday evening spotted a man running after leaving a sack outside the ashram road and became doubtful and frightened over the unclaimed sack. When they mustered the courage to open it, they found the stolen idol of Radha Krishna and further informed the priest of the temple as well as the police," the officer added. In the letter, the thief wrote that he had been suffering from nightmares since the day he stole the idols. He complained that he had not been able to sleep and eat properly and that his son and wife fell ill. “I am fed up with the scary dreams and am returning your ‘amaanat’ (valuables),” the letter read. The priest, meanwhile, identified the stolen idols and started performing the "Jalabhishek" ceremony. (With inputs from agencies)

Thief haunted by nightmares returns precious idols of Hindu deities stolen from Prayagraj temple

A 20-year-old man, identified as Lareb Hashmi, reportedly attacked a bus conductor in Uttar Pradesh state's Prayagraj with a cleaver following a dispute over ticket fare, the police has said. The authorities have denied that the claim by alleged attacker that he attacked the bus conductor for allegedly "insulting prophet Muhammad".&nbsp;

The violent altercation was witnessed by the bus driver Mangla Yadav. The bus conductor Harikesh Vishwakarma was subsequently rushed to a hospital for treatment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/halal-certified-edible-items-banned-in-indian-state-of-uttar-pradesh-with-immediate-effect-660202">India: Uttar Pradesh govt bans Halal-certified edible items in state with immediate effect</a>

While recounting the incident, the driver of the bus, Mangla Yadav, said, “Suddenly, there was an attack inside the bus. I heard a sound and then stopped the bus.”

<h2>Who is Lareb Hashmi?</h2>

According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinav Tyagi, Lareb Hashmi,&nbsp;aged 20, is a first-year engineering student in Prayagraj, nearly 700 km southeast of New Delhi. He is the son of Mohammed Yunus, who operates a poultry farm in the city. He is a resident of Prayagraj's Hajiganj area.

"Following the incident, the accused was arrested by the police and a case under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered. Further investigation is underway," Tyagi said in an official statement.

<h2>Lareb Hashmi reportedly evaded arrest: What happened?</h2>

According to police, Hashmi reportedly attempted to evade the arrest. He entered a college campus where he recorded and uploaded a video confessing to the crime of attacking the conductor but accused him of insulting the prophet.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Four suspected terrorists arrested in India's Uttar Pradesh by the Anti-Terror Squad

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-four-suspected-terrorists-arrested-in-indias-uttar-pradesh-by-the-anti-terror-squad-657825/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The video, seen by WION, shows Hashmi making religiously inflammatory remarks and targeting UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

In the video, Hashmi claimed he assaulted the conductor for allegedly "insulting Prophet Muhammad."

The police apprehended Hashmi inside the college after an armed encounter during which he sustained a gunshot wound to his leg.&nbsp;

The accused had attempted to fire at the police during the arrest, India Today reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 20-year-old man, identified as Lareb Hashmi, reportedly attacked a bus conductor in Uttar Pradesh state's Prayagraj with a cleaver following a dispute over ticket fare, the police has said.

A 20-year-old man, identified as Lareb Hashmi, reportedly attacked a bus conductor in Uttar Pradesh state's Prayagraj with a cleaver following a dispute over ticket fare, the police has said. The authorities have denied that the claim by alleged attacker that he attacked the bus conductor for allegedly "insulting prophet Muhammad". The violent altercation was witnessed by the bus driver Mangla Yadav. The bus conductor Harikesh Vishwakarma was subsequently rushed to a hospital for treatment. Also read | India: Uttar Pradesh govt bans Halal-certified edible items in state with immediate effect While recounting the incident, the driver of the bus, Mangla Yadav, said, “Suddenly, there was an attack inside the bus. I heard a sound and then stopped the bus.” Who is Lareb Hashmi? According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinav Tyagi, Lareb Hashmi, aged 20, is a first-year engineering student in Prayagraj, nearly 700 km southeast of New Delhi. He is the son of Mohammed Yunus, who operates a poultry farm in the city. He is a resident of Prayagraj's Hajiganj area. "Following the incident, the accused was arrested by the police and a case under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered. Further investigation is underway," Tyagi said in an official statement. Lareb Hashmi reportedly evaded arrest: What happened? According to police, Hashmi reportedly attempted to evade the arrest. He entered a college campus where he recorded and uploaded a video confessing to the crime of attacking the conductor but accused him of insulting the prophet. Also watch | India: Four suspected terrorists arrested in India's Uttar Pradesh by the Anti-Terror Squad × The video, seen by WION, shows Hashmi making religiously inflammatory remarks and targeting UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the video, Hashmi claimed he assaulted the conductor for allegedly "insulting Prophet Muhammad." The police apprehended Hashmi inside the college after an armed encounter during which he sustained a gunshot wound to his leg. The accused had attempted to fire at the police during the arrest, India Today reported. (With inputs from agencies)

UP Police say engineering student attacked bus conductor over fare dispute not 'insulting prophet'

Proscribed Islamic terror outfit&nbsp;Al-Qaeda and its Indian manifestation Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS)&nbsp;have threatened attacks in the country over the murder of politician-turned-mafia Atiq Ahmed&nbsp;during custody last Saturday in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. On the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, the terror group posted a message, threatening revenge and calling Atiq and his brother Arshad 'martyrs'.&nbsp;

The message was released in a&nbsp;seven-page magazine, released by As-Sahab, the outfit's propaganda media wing. It also promised to 'liberate' the Indian Muslims.

<h2>Atiq's connection to terror outfits</h2>

The threat by Al-Qaeda should not come as a surprise as media reports had&nbsp;claimed that Ahmed was ambushed just as he was starting to speak about the involvement of notorious foreign actors.&nbsp;

According to FIR registered in the case, Atiq claimed he had links with terror outfit&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as well as Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI.&nbsp;

“In a statement Atiq had said that he had links with LeT and ISI. He said that an arms dealer who also arranges weapons for LeT supplied him weapons that came via drones from across the border. These included a 45 bore pistol, an AK 47, sten gun, RDX that came via Punjab border,” the FIR accessed by The Print noted.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-gangster-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brother-shot-dead-by-assailants-in-prayagraj-up-582884">WATCH |&nbsp;Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP&nbsp;</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-gangster-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brother-shot-dead-by-assailants-in-prayagraj-up-582884/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-atiq-ahmed-indian-gangster-turned-politician-shot-dead-live-on-tv-583016#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

<h2>What happened to Atiq Ahmed?</h2>

Atiq Ahmed was shot dead on April 16 in Prayagraj while he and his brother Ashraf, both accused in the Umesh Pal murder case were being taken for a medical assessment at the MLN Medical College.&nbsp;

The three assailants, masquerading as reporters fired several rounds of&nbsp;bullets point blank into the Ahmed brothers while police officers and journalists stood nearby.&nbsp;

According to a postmortem report, Atiq was killed after receiving at least nine bullets in his chest and head. The first bullet was fired at his temple which led to instant death. Meanwhile, Ashraf sustained five bullet wounds. One hit him in the face while four entered his body through the back.

Five police officers have been suspended over the murder.&nbsp;The suspended officers include Station House Officer Ashwani Kumar Singh from the Shahganj police station, two Inspector rank officers and two constables.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-cops-suspended-in-relation-to-gangster-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brothers-murder-584084">ALSO READ |&nbsp;5 cops suspended after live TV murders of Indian gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed, brother</a>

Meanwhile, a&nbsp;three-member judicial enquiry committee has been formed to investigate the case and submit a complete report in two months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Proscribed Islamic terror outfit Al-Qaeda and its Indian manifestation Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) have threatened attacks in the country over the murder of politician-turned-mafia Atiq Ahmed during custody last Saturday in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

Proscribed Islamic terror outfit Al-Qaeda and its Indian manifestation Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) have threatened attacks in the country over the murder of politician-turned-mafia Atiq Ahmed during custody last Saturday in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. On the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, the terror group posted a message, threatening revenge and calling Atiq and his brother Arshad 'martyrs'. The message was released in a seven-page magazine, released by As-Sahab, the outfit's propaganda media wing. It also promised to 'liberate' the Indian Muslims. Atiq's connection to terror outfits The threat by Al-Qaeda should not come as a surprise as media reports had claimed that Ahmed was ambushed just as he was starting to speak about the involvement of notorious foreign actors. According to FIR registered in the case, Atiq claimed he had links with terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as well as Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI. “In a statement Atiq had said that he had links with LeT and ISI. He said that an arms dealer who also arranges weapons for LeT supplied him weapons that came via drones from across the border. These included a 45 bore pistol, an AK 47, sten gun, RDX that came via Punjab border,” the FIR accessed by The Print noted. WATCH | Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP × What happened to Atiq Ahmed? Atiq Ahmed was shot dead on April 16 in Prayagraj while he and his brother Ashraf, both accused in the Umesh Pal murder case were being taken for a medical assessment at the MLN Medical College. The three assailants, masquerading as reporters fired several rounds of bullets point blank into the Ahmed brothers while police officers and journalists stood nearby. According to a postmortem report, Atiq was killed after receiving at least nine bullets in his chest and head. The first bullet was fired at his temple which led to instant death. Meanwhile, Ashraf sustained five bullet wounds. One hit him in the face while four entered his body through the back. Five police officers have been suspended over the murder. The suspended officers include Station House Officer Ashwani Kumar Singh from the Shahganj police station, two Inspector rank officers and two constables. ALSO READ | 5 cops suspended after live TV murders of Indian gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed, brother Meanwhile, a three-member judicial enquiry committee has been formed to investigate the case and submit a complete report in two months. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Al-Qaeda threatens revenge over Indian gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed's live TV murder

In India, gangster-turn-politician Atiq Ahmed was killing on live TV while he was being taken for a medical check-up by the police. The killers had posed as journalists. They killed Ahmed whilst he was in police custody. Is the incident a commentary on rule of law in India?

Gravitas | Atiq Ahmed killing: A shot in the arm for rule of law? | Extrajudicial killings in India

After a jailed Indian mobster Atiq Ahmed and his brother were shot and killed on Saturday by gunmen in the City of Prayagraj, security has been increased throughout the state of Uttar Pradesh in Northern India.

Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP

The Indian state of Uttar Pradesh is on high-alert after convicted gangster Atiq Ahmed along with his brother Ashraf were dramatically shot dead by assailants in the city of Prayagraj on Saturday evening. Section 144 remains in place over the state of Uttar Pradesh after the shootout.

Atiq Ahmed killing: Indian gangster shot dead, all three attackers in custody

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-cm-yogi-adtiyanath-expresses-grief-over-death-of-unnao-rape-victim-266767">Yogi Adityanath</a> on Tuesday held a video conference with the state officials and directed them to keep an eye on people spreading fake news about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019.

The video conference was attended by all the ADGs, Commissioners, IGs, DIGs, DMs, and SSPs.

The Chief Minister also directed the officials to reach out to religious preachers, maulvis and other organisations and made them understand that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-protest-entry-exit-at-jamia-millia-islamia-janpath-stations-closed-says-delhi-metro-268303">CAA 2019</a> is not discriminatory to any religion, caste or community.

"The people who are fanning violence, they are not students, they are devils. A thorough investigation should be conducted against those who are tampering with the laws," he added. The statement from the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister came just after protests erupted over the CAA 2019 in Rampur and Prayagraj.

Police have imposed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aarey-forest-protests-section-144-imposed-police-detain-over-60-activists-253941">section 144</a> in Rampur after more than 200 people took to the streets to protest against the Act.

The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-india-protesting-citizenship-amendment-act-268599/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday held a video conference with the state officials and directed them to keep an eye on people spreading fake news about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday held a video conference with the state officials and directed them to keep an eye on people spreading fake news about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019. The video conference was attended by all the ADGs, Commissioners, IGs, DIGs, DMs, and SSPs. The Chief Minister also directed the officials to reach out to religious preachers, maulvis and other organisations and made them understand that CAA 2019 is not discriminatory to any religion, caste or community. "The people who are fanning violence, they are not students, they are devils. A thorough investigation should be conducted against those who are tampering with the laws," he added. The statement from the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister came just after protests erupted over the CAA 2019 in Rampur and Prayagraj. Police have imposed section 144 in Rampur after more than 200 people took to the streets to protest against the Act. The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Citizenship Amendment Act: Yogi Adityanath directs officials to keep an eye on people spreading fake news

Scores of buildings situated in the low-lying areas of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-rise-in-yamuna-ganga-water-level-leads-to-flooding-in-parts-of-prayagraj-250163">Prayagraj</a> have been partially submerged owing to the rise of water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna due to heavy rainfall.

Schools located in Prayagraj city will remain closed for three days starting today in view of floods situation in the region.

In a letter written to schools principals, the district schools coordinator said, "As precaution measure and safety of students, it has been decided that all schools situated in city area will remain closed for three days from September 19 to September 21 due to flood situation in Prayagraj.

"As many as 210 people were moved into relief camps near Ganganagar village in the district on Sunday after water burst into a few villages as rivers continue to swell owing to heavy rainfall in the region.

According to the people in the relief camps, proper arrangements have been made for the stay but there are still some problems.

Incessant rains have led to a flood in the region with villages near the bank of Ganga river partially submerged in water.

Scores of buildings situated in the low-lying areas of Prayagraj have been partially submerged owing to the rise of water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna due to heavy rainfall.

Scores of buildings situated in the low-lying areas of Prayagraj have been partially submerged owing to the rise of water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna due to heavy rainfall. Schools located in Prayagraj city will remain closed for three days starting today in view of floods situation in the region. In a letter written to schools principals, the district schools coordinator said, "As precaution measure and safety of students, it has been decided that all schools situated in city area will remain closed for three days from September 19 to September 21 due to flood situation in Prayagraj. "As many as 210 people were moved into relief camps near Ganganagar village in the district on Sunday after water burst into a few villages as rivers continue to swell owing to heavy rainfall in the region. According to the people in the relief camps, proper arrangements have been made for the stay but there are still some problems. Incessant rains have led to a flood in the region with villages near the bank of Ganga river partially submerged in water.

Prayagraj's low-lying areas partially submerged as water level rises in Ganga, Yamuna

Residents in low-lying areas in and around Prayagraj city say they are suffering hardships due to flooding caused by the continuous rise of water level of Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

Residents here said they are forced to wade through knee-deep water in order to reach from one place to another in the flood-affected region.

"This is a low-lying area and every two years there is a flooding situation here. The administration never cares about us and we bear the situation by ourselves," a local, Mohammad Ahmed Khan said.

"The water is rising every hour here. In 2013 and 2016 there were floods here. After that the government had assured us that the situation will not be repeated but nothing has changed here," he added.

"When Yamuna water rises, the water seeps into the area. We have vacated the low-lying areas and moved to safer places," Azhar Rizvi another local said.

Incessant rains have led to villages near the bank of the Ganges partially submerged in water.

Residents in low-lying areas in and around Prayagraj city say they are suffering hardships due to flooding caused by the continuous rise of water level of Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

Residents in low-lying areas in and around Prayagraj city say they are suffering hardships due to flooding caused by the continuous rise of water level of Ganga and Yamuna rivers. Residents here said they are forced to wade through knee-deep water in order to reach from one place to another in the flood-affected region. "This is a low-lying area and every two years there is a flooding situation here. The administration never cares about us and we bear the situation by ourselves," a local, Mohammad Ahmed Khan said. "The water is rising every hour here. In 2013 and 2016 there were floods here. After that the government had assured us that the situation will not be repeated but nothing has changed here," he added. "When Yamuna water rises, the water seeps into the area. We have vacated the low-lying areas and moved to safer places," Azhar Rizvi another local said. Incessant rains have led to villages near the bank of the Ganges partially submerged in water.

UP: Rise in Yamuna, Ganga water level leads to flooding in parts of Prayagraj

A special court in Prayagraj will announce the verdict in the 2005 Ayodhya terror attack case on Tuesday.

Special judge Dinesh Chandra will be&nbsp;hearing the case.&nbsp;The attack took place on July 5, 2005.

Due to security reasons, the verdict will be announced in Naini Central Jail, where all the accused are imprisoned.

Among those accused are Irrfan, Mohammad Shakeel, Mohammad Naseem, Mohammad Aziz, Asif Iqbal and Farookh.

A special court in Prayagraj will announce the verdict in the 2005 Ayodhya terror attack case on Tuesday. Special judge Dinesh Chandra will be hearing the case. The attack took place on July 5, 2005.

A special court in Prayagraj will announce the verdict in the 2005 Ayodhya terror attack case on Tuesday. Special judge Dinesh Chandra will be hearing the case. The attack took place on July 5, 2005. Due to security reasons, the verdict will be announced in Naini Central Jail, where all the accused are imprisoned. Among those accused are Irrfan, Mohammad Shakeel, Mohammad Naseem, Mohammad Aziz, Asif Iqbal and Farookh.

Ayodhya terror attack: Prayagraj court to pronounce verdict today

The Congress party on Monday released a list of candidates for 3 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla has been fielded from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay will fight from Domariyaganj and Bhal Chand Yadav has replaced Parvez Khan from Sant Kabir Nagar.

This comes just hours after the party declared candidates on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-list-of-delhi-candidates-sheila-dixit-to-contest-from-north-east-delhi-212497">six of the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital</a>.

JP Agarwal to contest from Chandni Chowk, Sheila Dixit from North East Delhi, Arvinder Singh Lovely from East Delhi, Ajay Maken from New Delhi, Rajesh Lilothia from North West Delhi (SC) and Mahabal Mishra from West Delhi.

From North East Delhi seat where Sheila Dikshit will contest, AAP has fielded Dilip Pandey.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Congress releases list of candidates for 3 Parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay from Domariyaganj &amp; Bhal Chand Yadav (in place of Parvez Khan) from Sant Kabir Nagar. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/b5VHACPlPr">pic.twitter.com/b5VHACPlPr</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1120277287897714697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

At present, this seat is represented by Manoj Tiwari, who is also the president of BJP’s Delhi unit. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Tiwari had defeated Professor Anand Kumar of AAP by 1,44,084 votes.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-releases-list-of-candidates-for-delhi-punjab-mp-212380">candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi</a> for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

The Congress party on Monday released a list of candidates for 3 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla has been fielded from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay will fight from Domariyaganj and Bhal Chand Yadav has replaced Parvez Khan from Sant Kabir Nagar.

The Congress party on Monday released a list of candidates for 3 Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla has been fielded from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay will fight from Domariyaganj and Bhal Chand Yadav has replaced Parvez Khan from Sant Kabir Nagar. This comes just hours after the party declared candidates on six of the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital. JP Agarwal to contest from Chandni Chowk, Sheila Dixit from North East Delhi, Arvinder Singh Lovely from East Delhi, Ajay Maken from New Delhi, Rajesh Lilothia from North West Delhi (SC) and Mahabal Mishra from West Delhi. From North East Delhi seat where Sheila Dikshit will contest, AAP has fielded Dilip Pandey. Congress releases list of candidates for 3 Parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. Yogesh Shukla from Prayagraj, Chandresh Upadhyay from Domariyaganj & Bhal Chand Yadav (in place of Parvez Khan) from Sant Kabir Nagar. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/b5VHACPlPr — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 22, 2019 × At present, this seat is represented by Manoj Tiwari, who is also the president of BJP’s Delhi unit. In the last Lok Sabha poll, Tiwari had defeated Professor Anand Kumar of AAP by 1,44,084 votes. Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday released a list of candidates for four out of seven parliamentary seats in Delhi for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will be contesting from Delhi's Chandni Chowk, singer and actor Manoj Tiwari from North East Delhi. Pravesh Verma will be contesting from West Delhi and Ramesh Bidhuri from South Delhi.

Congress releases list of candidates for Uttar Pradesh, fields Yogesh Shukla from Prayagraj

Last holy dip at the Kumbh Mela today

The Sangam, confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, is all set to witness the last dip of the Kumbh Mela on Mahashivratri Monday, after more than 22 crore devotees took a holy bath here.&nbsp;

"This day symbolises the last holy bath of the Kalpvasis and is directly related to Lord Shiva. As per the mythology, this day is awaited in the heavens as well," Gunjan Varshney, president of Ram Naam Bank situated at Civil Lines here, told PTI.

She also said it was on this day that Lord Shiva got married, and hence is eagerly awaited by his followers, who worship him.

Elaborating about the significance of Mahashivratri, Ashutosh Varshney of Grah Nakshtram, who has set up his camp here, said, "Mahashivratri marks the culmination of the Kumbh and the prominent bathing days. And this time Mahashivratri is falling on a Monday ? the day dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is falling after a long time."

The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, held in Uttar Pradesh's Allahabad from January 15 on Makar Sakranti to March 4 this year.

"This is a very rare coincidence and the Sangam area will remain more crowded than previous years since it is the last bating day," he said.

Varshney said Kumbh will conclude on a rare occasion, Mahashivratri.

He also said 'Rudrabhishek' of 'shivling' is also done on this day. In the Kumbh held in Sangam city, there were six bathing dates. "Of these, shahi snaans were held on occasions of Makar Sankranti (January 15), Mauni Amawasya (February 4) and Basant Panchami (February 10).&nbsp;

"Apart from this, 'parv snaans have been held on the occasion of Paush Poornima (January 21) and Maghi Poornima (February 19)," Varshney said.&nbsp;

The Kumbh draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the Sangam.&nbsp;

It is celebrated four times over a course of 12 years.&nbsp;

The Sangam, confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, is all set to witness the last dip of the Kumbh Mela on Mahashivratri Monday, after more than 22 crore devotees took a holy bath here.

The Sangam, confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, is all set to witness the last dip of the Kumbh Mela on Mahashivratri Monday, after more than 22 crore devotees took a holy bath here. "This day symbolises the last holy bath of the Kalpvasis and is directly related to Lord Shiva. As per the mythology, this day is awaited in the heavens as well," Gunjan Varshney, president of Ram Naam Bank situated at Civil Lines here, told PTI. She also said it was on this day that Lord Shiva got married, and hence is eagerly awaited by his followers, who worship him. Elaborating about the significance of Mahashivratri, Ashutosh Varshney of Grah Nakshtram, who has set up his camp here, said, "Mahashivratri marks the culmination of the Kumbh and the prominent bathing days. And this time Mahashivratri is falling on a Monday ? the day dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is falling after a long time." The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, held in Uttar Pradesh's Allahabad from January 15 on Makar Sakranti to March 4 this year. "This is a very rare coincidence and the Sangam area will remain more crowded than previous years since it is the last bating day," he said. Varshney said Kumbh will conclude on a rare occasion, Mahashivratri. He also said 'Rudrabhishek' of 'shivling' is also done on this day. In the Kumbh held in Sangam city, there were six bathing dates. "Of these, shahi snaans were held on occasions of Makar Sankranti (January 15), Mauni Amawasya (February 4) and Basant Panchami (February 10). "Apart from this, 'parv snaans have been held on the occasion of Paush Poornima (January 21) and Maghi Poornima (February 19)," Varshney said. The Kumbh draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the Sangam. It is celebrated four times over a course of 12 years.

Kumbh 2019: Sangam all set to witness last holy dip on Mahashivratri on Monday

Your Story: Pilgrims missing at India's Kumbh Mela festival

prayagraj

Prayagraj, News on Prayagraj, stories on Prayagraj, articles on Prayagraj, Prayagraj stories at Wion, Prayagraj news, Prayagraj latest news