India’s Supreme Court on Wednesday (Oct 23) scolded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government over not doing enough to address the issue of stubble burning in northern parts of the country amid worsening air quality. Saying that the Environment Protection Act had become “toothless,” the court also blasted the state governments of Haryana and Punjab, the two major agrarian states, for not prosecuting the farmers at fault.

The bench of Justices Abhay S Oka, Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Augustine George Masih warned they would take the union government to task over the matter.

"We will take the Union of India to task... it has not created any machinery. The Environmental Protection Act has become toothless. You have got rid of punishment and replaced it with a penalty by amending Section 15, and the procedure to be followed for imposing a penalty cannot be followed," the Supreme Court said.

Responding to it, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, representing the centre, assured the apex court that the act will be made fully operational within 10 days and further rules will be finalised.

Referring to the Haryana and Punjab state governments, the top court said, “If these governments and you (the Centre) were seriously ready to safeguard the environment, then everything would have been done before amendment to Section 15. This is all political, nothing else."

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Air quality has severely worsened around the national capital over the past few weeks. It was recorded in the "very poor" category, with several areas of Delhi falling into the "severe" zone on Wednesday. As winters approach, stubble burning is considered as one of the major contributors to the air pollution.

The top court also criticised the chief secretaries of Haryana and Punjab, labelling their efforts to weed out farm fires as "mere eyewash".

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"You must answer why you gave a false statement to the Advocate General of Punjab that a request has been made to Central Government for funds for tractors and diesel for farmers. We will issue contempt. We are not leaving you," the court said.

To this, advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Punjab, said, "We will be taking stringent action as we proceed forward."

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s Supreme Court on Wednesday (Oct 23) scolded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government over not doing enough to address the issue of stubble burning in northern parts of the country amid worsening air quality.

India’s Supreme Court on Wednesday (Oct 23) scolded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government over not doing enough to address the issue of stubble burning in northern parts of the country amid worsening air quality. Saying that the Environment Protection Act had become “toothless,” the court also blasted the state governments of Haryana and Punjab, the two major agrarian states, for not prosecuting the farmers at fault. The bench of Justices Abhay S Oka, Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Augustine George Masih warned they would take the union government to task over the matter. "We will take the Union of India to task... it has not created any machinery. The Environmental Protection Act has become toothless. You have got rid of punishment and replaced it with a penalty by amending Section 15, and the procedure to be followed for imposing a penalty cannot be followed," the Supreme Court said. Responding to it, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, representing the centre, assured the apex court that the act will be made fully operational within 10 days and further rules will be finalised. Referring to the Haryana and Punjab state governments, the top court said, “If these governments and you (the Centre) were seriously ready to safeguard the environment, then everything would have been done before amendment to Section 15. This is all political, nothing else." Also read: GRAP Stage-II measures imposed in Delhi-NCR amid increasing pollution. Check out restrictions Air quality has severely worsened around the national capital over the past few weeks. It was recorded in the "very poor" category, with several areas of Delhi falling into the "severe" zone on Wednesday. As winters approach, stubble burning is considered as one of the major contributors to the air pollution. The top court also criticised the chief secretaries of Haryana and Punjab, labelling their efforts to weed out farm fires as "mere eyewash". Also read: GRAP Stage II implemented in Delhi-NCR to combat pollution. What does it mean? "You must answer why you gave a false statement to the Advocate General of Punjab that a request has been made to Central Government for funds for tractors and diesel for farmers. We will issue contempt. We are not leaving you," the court said. To this, advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Punjab, said, "We will be taking stringent action as we proceed forward." (With inputs from agencies)

‘Will take you to task,’ Supreme Court blasts Modi govt over inaction on stubble burning

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to five more&nbsp;Indian languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, announced Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday. This decision will almost double the number of recognized classical languages, bringing the total from six to 11.

"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages. The Classical Languages serve as a custodian of Bharat’s profound and ancient cultural heritage, embodying the essence of each community’s historical and cultural milestone," said the government in an official statement.

"The primary states involved are Maharashtra (Marathi), Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh (Pali and Prakrit), West Bengal (Bengali), and Assam (Assamese). The broader cultural and academic impact will extend nationally and internationally," the statement continued.

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The concept of "Classical Languages" was first introduced by the government on October 12, 2004, with Tamil being the inaugural language to receive the honour, followed by Sanskrit in 2005. Other languages like Kannada and Telugu were added in 2008, Malayalam in 2013, and Odia in 2014.

To qualify as a classical language, a language must have a history and literary tradition that dates back at least 1500–2000 years, along with a significant collection of ancient texts that continue to be valued. Additionally, the language should possess a unique literary heritage, not derived from any other language, and there should be a clear distinction between the classical language and its modern versions or dialects.

Following the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "Our Government cherishes and celebrates India's rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages. I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit will be conferred the status of Classical Languages! Each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting our vibrant diversity. Congratulations to everyone"

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, responding to the news that Bengali had received classical language status, wrote &nbsp;on X: "Most happy to share that Bengali/ Bangla has been finally accorded the status of a classical language by Government of India. We had been trying to snatch this recognition from Ministry of Culture, GOI and we had submitted three volumes of research findings in favour of our contention. Union government has accepted our well-researched claim today evening and we finally reach the cultural apex in the body of languages in India."

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also thanked the Prime Minister, saying, "Thank you Hon’ble Prime Minister for this decision. Your love and affection for the Assamese language and culture is unparalleled and the people of Assam will be forever indebted to you for recognising our beautiful mother tongue as a Classical language."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to five more Indian languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, announced Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday.

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to five more Indian languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, announced Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday. This decision will almost double the number of recognized classical languages, bringing the total from six to 11. "The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages. The Classical Languages serve as a custodian of Bharat’s profound and ancient cultural heritage, embodying the essence of each community’s historical and cultural milestone," said the government in an official statement. "The primary states involved are Maharashtra (Marathi), Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh (Pali and Prakrit), West Bengal (Bengali), and Assam (Assamese). The broader cultural and academic impact will extend nationally and internationally," the statement continued. Also read: India kept in loop as Mauritius, UK agree on Indian Ocean archipelago's future The concept of "Classical Languages" was first introduced by the government on October 12, 2004, with Tamil being the inaugural language to receive the honour, followed by Sanskrit in 2005. Other languages like Kannada and Telugu were added in 2008, Malayalam in 2013, and Odia in 2014. To qualify as a classical language, a language must have a history and literary tradition that dates back at least 1500–2000 years, along with a significant collection of ancient texts that continue to be valued. Additionally, the language should possess a unique literary heritage, not derived from any other language, and there should be a clear distinction between the classical language and its modern versions or dialects. Following the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "Our Government cherishes and celebrates India's rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages. I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit will be conferred the status of Classical Languages! Each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting our vibrant diversity. Congratulations to everyone" Also read: India roasts US agency alleging abuses against religious minorities West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, responding to the news that Bengali had received classical language status, wrote on X: "Most happy to share that Bengali/ Bangla has been finally accorded the status of a classical language by Government of India. We had been trying to snatch this recognition from Ministry of Culture, GOI and we had submitted three volumes of research findings in favour of our contention. Union government has accepted our well-researched claim today evening and we finally reach the cultural apex in the body of languages in India." Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also thanked the Prime Minister, saying, "Thank you Hon’ble Prime Minister for this decision. Your love and affection for the Assamese language and culture is unparalleled and the people of Assam will be forever indebted to you for recognising our beautiful mother tongue as a Classical language." (With inputs from agencies)

Union govt grants ‘classical language’ status to Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit

India's Supreme Court, on Tuesday (Sep 17), issued a strong warning to state authorities regarding the use of "bulldozer justice," emphasising that even a single case of unlawful demolition goes against the principles of the Indian Constitution.

The court has ordered a halt to all such demolitions nationwide until October 1, when the matter will be reviewed again. It clarified that no property should be demolished without its approval, except in cases where the structures are illegal and located on public roads or footpaths.

A bench of Justices B R&nbsp;Gavai and K V&nbsp;Viswanathan was addressing petitions that claimed properties belonging to individuals accused of crimes were being torn down in several states.

Condemning the practice of "bulldozer justice," which some states have been accused of, the apex&nbsp;court remarked, "Heavens won't fall if we ask you to hold your hands till the next hearing."

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that a "narrative" was being built around the demolitions, to which the&nbsp;court responded, "Rest assured that outside noise is not influencing us."

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Previously, the top court had pointed out, "In a country where actions of the state are governed by the rule of law, the transgression by a family member cannot invite action against other members of the family or their legally-constructed residence. Alleged involvement in crime is no ground for the demolition of a property."

It further stated, "Moreover, the alleged crime has to be proved through due legal process in a court of law. The court cannot be oblivious to such demolition threats inconceivable in a nation where law is supreme. Otherwise, such actions may be seen as running a bulldozer over the laws of the land."

On September 2, the Supreme Court had indicated that it would issue nationwide guidelines to regulate demolitions across the country.

"We are on broad guidelines so that there is no bulldozer tomorrow and that it is documented and checked so that neither side points any lacunae...Why cannot some guidelines be passed so that it is followed? There can be notice, time to file a reply, time to pursue other legal remedies and then the demolition...we want to resolve this on a pan-India basis," said Justices Gavai and Viswanathan.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Supreme Court, on Tuesday (Sep 17), issued a strong warning to state authorities regarding the use of "bulldozer justice," emphasising that even a single case of unlawful demolition goes against the principles of the Indian Constitution.

India's Supreme Court, on Tuesday (Sep 17), issued a strong warning to state authorities regarding the use of "bulldozer justice," emphasising that even a single case of unlawful demolition goes against the principles of the Indian Constitution. The court has ordered a halt to all such demolitions nationwide until October 1, when the matter will be reviewed again. It clarified that no property should be demolished without its approval, except in cases where the structures are illegal and located on public roads or footpaths. A bench of Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan was addressing petitions that claimed properties belonging to individuals accused of crimes were being torn down in several states. Condemning the practice of "bulldozer justice," which some states have been accused of, the apex court remarked, "Heavens won't fall if we ask you to hold your hands till the next hearing." Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that a "narrative" was being built around the demolitions, to which the court responded, "Rest assured that outside noise is not influencing us." Also read: Kolkata horror: SC slams Bengal govt for denying night shifts to women doctors Previously, the top court had pointed out, "In a country where actions of the state are governed by the rule of law, the transgression by a family member cannot invite action against other members of the family or their legally-constructed residence. Alleged involvement in crime is no ground for the demolition of a property." It further stated, "Moreover, the alleged crime has to be proved through due legal process in a court of law. The court cannot be oblivious to such demolition threats inconceivable in a nation where law is supreme. Otherwise, such actions may be seen as running a bulldozer over the laws of the land." On September 2, the Supreme Court had indicated that it would issue nationwide guidelines to regulate demolitions across the country. "We are on broad guidelines so that there is no bulldozer tomorrow and that it is documented and checked so that neither side points any lacunae...Why cannot some guidelines be passed so that it is followed? There can be notice, time to file a reply, time to pursue other legal remedies and then the demolition...we want to resolve this on a pan-India basis," said Justices Gavai and Viswanathan. (With inputs from agencies)

India: SC freezes 'bulldozer justice'; no demolitions without approval until October 1

On Friday (July 5), Rashtriya Janata Dal president Lalu Prasad claimed that the Narendra Modi-led NDA government would fall within a month. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to dismiss RJD supremo's assertions as 'hallucinations'.

On Friday (July 5), Rashtriya Janata Dal president Lalu Prasad claimed that the Narendra Modi-led NDA government would fall within a month. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to dismiss RJD supremo's assertions as 'hallucinations'. During a celebration commemorating his party's 28th founding anniversary, Prasad declared that the Modi government was ineffective and that it would topple as soon as August. “I appeal to all party workers to be ready, as elections can happen anytime. The Modi government is weak (kamzor). It can fall at any time. It can fall in August,” the RJD leader said. Union Minister Nityanand Rai reacted to Prasad's statements, stating, "Lalu Prasad Yadav is daydreaming. By making Narendra Modi the PM for the third time, people have shown that the country will move forward only under his leadership. Similarly, under PM Modi and Nitish Kumar's leadership, Bihar will continue to move forward." The Union Minister added, "Bihar will not accept the RJD and the INDI alliance that had destroyed the state." Also read: Modi celebrates ‘phenomenal progress’ as India’s defence output hits record ₹1.27 trillion Meanwhile, Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary suggested that Lalu Prasad should take some rest. "He (Lalu Prasad Yadav) is a former Bihar CM, I would advise him to take some rest. The BJP alone has 240 seats (in Lok Sabha). He (Lalu), however, has won just four seats," Choudhary said. Despite setbacks, the RJD has expanded its seats and vote share in recent elections, Lalu Yadav said, urging party workers to become ready for any political developments. "For quite some time, we have been the single largest party in the Bihar assembly," Lalu Prasad Yadav said. Recalling his term and accomplishments, which included the 1990 arrest of Lal Krishna Advani, Prasad said, "Unlike many others, we have never compromised on ideology." (With inputs from agencies)

RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav predicts Modi government’s fall by August; BJP calls it ‘daydreaming’

India imposes curbs on the export of basmati rice. Any consignment being sold overseas for less than $1,200 a tonne will not be exported. How this move will impact the overseas Indians?

India imposes curbs on basmati rice exports. Details

Congress Member of Parliament Hibi Eden is being heavily criticised by his own party and opposition leaders for proposing a private bill to shift south Indian state Kerala's capital from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam. The leaders have been urging the 40-year-old MP to withdraw the bill, moved in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of parliament.

Eden, who is from Ernakulam constituency, proposed the private member’s Bill in March, urging to change the state's capital. He argued that since the capital is located at the tip of the state, it is inaccessible to residents of the northern districts, Hindustan Times reported.&nbsp;

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Only parliament will decide on Bill

The young MP justified his move by claiming that he submitted the Bill considering people’s opinions. He said that he did not intend to hurt the feelings of people from any particular region. Giving an explanation for not consulting the party leadership before submitting the bill, he said that the "clearance" from the party was not mandatory for presenting a private Bill earlier and assured to abide by the party rules in future.&nbsp;

Recently on Facebook, Eden said that only parliament will decide on the bill to accept or decline the demand.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan dismissed the bill, saying that there was no need to relocate the capital.&nbsp;

The controversy regarding the Bill came to light when the Union government asked the state government for its views on the matter.&nbsp;To this, the state responded that in 1954, Thiruvananthapuram was chosen as the state capital and during the existing circumstance it continues to still support the move.&nbsp;

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Leaders oppose Eden's Bill, say no need for controversy

Congress Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor opposed Eden's move, calling it illogical. He said, "He has every right to move a private member’s Bill, but this proposal is not grounded in logic. Not every state’s capital needs to be centrally located. Chennai is at the northern end of Tamil Nadu, and even Delhi, the capital of India, is in the north."

Similarly, the leader of the opposition in Kerala, VD Satheesan from Congress who also represents the Ernakulam district, said he called Hibi immediately after he heard about the bill and conveyed his displeasure.

He said, "Hibi is like my younger brother." He added that this is not the stand of the Congress party and has told Hibi to withdraw the Bill and there is no need for any further controversy.&nbsp;

P Rajeeve, senior Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader told reporters, "Even his party leaders have conceded that it is an immature and impractical idea. It only leads to a useless discussion. Hibi took a stand to meet his election goals."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Congress Member of Parliament Hibi Eden is being heavily criticised by his own party and opposition leaders for proposing a private bill to shift south Indian state Kerala's capital from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam.

Congress Member of Parliament Hibi Eden is being heavily criticised by his own party and opposition leaders for proposing a private bill to shift south Indian state Kerala's capital from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam. The leaders have been urging the 40-year-old MP to withdraw the bill, moved in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of parliament. Eden, who is from Ernakulam constituency, proposed the private member’s Bill in March, urging to change the state's capital. He argued that since the capital is located at the tip of the state, it is inaccessible to residents of the northern districts, Hindustan Times reported. Also read | At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism of any form Only parliament will decide on Bill The young MP justified his move by claiming that he submitted the Bill considering people’s opinions. He said that he did not intend to hurt the feelings of people from any particular region. Giving an explanation for not consulting the party leadership before submitting the bill, he said that the "clearance" from the party was not mandatory for presenting a private Bill earlier and assured to abide by the party rules in future. Recently on Facebook, Eden said that only parliament will decide on the bill to accept or decline the demand. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan dismissed the bill, saying that there was no need to relocate the capital. The controversy regarding the Bill came to light when the Union government asked the state government for its views on the matter. To this, the state responded that in 1954, Thiruvananthapuram was chosen as the state capital and during the existing circumstance it continues to still support the move. Also Read | Indian Supreme Court receives ‘series of futuristic upgrades’ with paperless courtrooms, free WiFi Leaders oppose Eden's Bill, say no need for controversy Congress Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor opposed Eden's move, calling it illogical. He said, "He has every right to move a private member’s Bill, but this proposal is not grounded in logic. Not every state’s capital needs to be centrally located. Chennai is at the northern end of Tamil Nadu, and even Delhi, the capital of India, is in the north." Similarly, the leader of the opposition in Kerala, VD Satheesan from Congress who also represents the Ernakulam district, said he called Hibi immediately after he heard about the bill and conveyed his displeasure. He said, "Hibi is like my younger brother." He added that this is not the stand of the Congress party and has told Hibi to withdraw the Bill and there is no need for any further controversy. P Rajeeve, senior Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader told reporters, "Even his party leaders have conceded that it is an immature and impractical idea. It only leads to a useless discussion. Hibi took a stand to meet his election goals." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Congress Party disowns MP Hibi Eden's private bill to shift Kerala's capital, calls it illogical

The union cabinet on Wednesday took five major decisions including ownership rights to 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in Delhi, reform in petroleum sector, cadre review of ITBP officers, merger of MTNL with BSNL and increase in MSP of rabi crops.

Briefing reporters after meeting of union cabinet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said that increase in minimum support price (MSP) of cereals, pulses and oilseeds of rabi crops will give a big boost to farmers.

"The MSP for wheat and barley has been increased by Rs 85, gram by Rs 255, masur (lentil) by Rs 325 and mustard by Rs 225. This has been done to double the income of farmers and give them justice," Javadekar said.

He said the allowance under PM-Kisan Yojna has reached eight crore farmers.

He said a decision has been taken to conduct cadre review of ITBP and it will lead to creation of 60 new posts of A category.

"The last cadre review was done in 2001 when there were 32,000 personnel in the ITBP. Now there are 88,000," he said.

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Communications and Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad were also present at the press conference.&nbsp;

Javadekar said that decisions on "a big reform" had been taken in the petroleum sector in the meeting.

"New companies can now open retail petrol outlets in the country. This will increase investment and give the consumers more options and also increase competitiveness in the market," Javadekar said.The minister said the cabinet has approved merger of Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The union cabinet on Wednesday took five major decisions including ownership rights to 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in Delhi, reform in petroleum sector, cadre review of ITBP officers, merger of MTNL with BSNL and increase in MSP of rabi crops.

The union cabinet on Wednesday took five major decisions including ownership rights to 40 lakh people living in unauthorised colonies in Delhi, reform in petroleum sector, cadre review of ITBP officers, merger of MTNL with BSNL and increase in MSP of rabi crops. Briefing reporters after meeting of union cabinet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said that increase in minimum support price (MSP) of cereals, pulses and oilseeds of rabi crops will give a big boost to farmers. "The MSP for wheat and barley has been increased by Rs 85, gram by Rs 255, masur (lentil) by Rs 325 and mustard by Rs 225. This has been done to double the income of farmers and give them justice," Javadekar said. He said the allowance under PM-Kisan Yojna has reached eight crore farmers. He said a decision has been taken to conduct cadre review of ITBP and it will lead to creation of 60 new posts of A category. "The last cadre review was done in 2001 when there were 32,000 personnel in the ITBP. Now there are 88,000," he said. Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Communications and Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad were also present at the press conference. Javadekar said that decisions on "a big reform" had been taken in the petroleum sector in the meeting. "New companies can now open retail petrol outlets in the country. This will increase investment and give the consumers more options and also increase competitiveness in the market," Javadekar said.The minister said the cabinet has approved merger of Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).

Increase in MSP, merger of MTNL with BSNL among major decisions of cabinet

The Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI), which was allegedly involved in a series of terror acts in the country, has been banned by the government for five more years, reported news agency PTI.

According to a Home Ministry notification, if the unlawful activities of SIMI are not curbed and controlled immediately, it will continue its subversive activities, re-organise its activists, who are still absconding, and disrupt the secular fabric of the country by propagating anti-national sentiments and escalating secessionism.

"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-sections (1) and (3) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the central government hereby declares the SIMI as an 'unlawful association' and directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect for a period of five years," the notification said.

The imposition of the ban on SIMI by the government will have to be confirmed by a tribunal.

The police from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Kerala have provided details of conviction against top SIMI leaders Safdar Nagori, Abu Faisal, among others. Faisal was instrumental in the 2013 Khandwa jail break incident, according to investigators.

Members of the group have allegedly been involved in bank robberies, killings of policemen, blasts, among other cases, officials said.

The Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI), which was allegedly involved in a series of terror acts in the country, has been banned by the government for five more years, reported news agency PTI.

The Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI), which was allegedly involved in a series of terror acts in the country, has been banned by the government for five more years, reported news agency PTI. According to a Home Ministry notification, if the unlawful activities of SIMI are not curbed and controlled immediately, it will continue its subversive activities, re-organise its activists, who are still absconding, and disrupt the secular fabric of the country by propagating anti-national sentiments and escalating secessionism. "Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-sections (1) and (3) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the central government hereby declares the SIMI as an 'unlawful association' and directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect for a period of five years," the notification said. The imposition of the ban on SIMI by the government will have to be confirmed by a tribunal. The police from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Kerala have provided details of conviction against top SIMI leaders Safdar Nagori, Abu Faisal, among others. Faisal was instrumental in the 2013 Khandwa jail break incident, according to investigators. Members of the group have allegedly been involved in bank robberies, killings of policemen, blasts, among other cases, officials said.

Government bans SIMI for 5 more years

Ministers in the Modi government will fan across the country on Tuesday and Wednesday to highlight the crackdown on black money to mark the first anniversary of demonetisation on November 8 which the BJP will observe as &#39;anti-black money day&#39; and Congress as &#39;black day&#39;.

Many of them will speak to media on Tuesday in major cities, while BJP leaders, including ministers, MPs and MLAs, will hold several events to highlight the Modi dispensation&#39;s policies to curb illicit money, party sources said.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will interact with journalists in the national capital on Tuesday, while Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi will speak in Bhopal and Patna respectively.

On November 8, Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Ananth Kumar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Suresh Prabhu and Smriti Irani will speak in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Chandigarh, Jaipur and Lucknow respectively.

Prakash Javadekar will speak to media in Bengaluru and Piyush Goyal in Ahmedabad. Union minister Jayant Sinha has also been drafted for the exercise, sources said.

BJP chief Amit Shah will be in Gujarat that day.

With the BJP and the Congress involved in a war of words over demonetisation&#39;s implications, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned up the heat on the opposition party over the issue of black money and corruption during his election rallies.

The Congress too has planned a nation-wide exercise to project demonetisation as a &quot;failure&quot;.&nbsp;

Ministers in the Modi government will fan across the country on Tuesday and Wednesday to highlight the crackdown on black money to mark the first anniversary of demonetisation on November 8.

Ministers in the Modi government will fan across the country on Tuesday and Wednesday to highlight the crackdown on black money to mark the first anniversary of demonetisation on November 8 which the BJP will observe as 'anti-black money day' and Congress as 'black day'. Many of them will speak to media on Tuesday in major cities, while BJP leaders, including ministers, MPs and MLAs, will hold several events to highlight the Modi dispensation's policies to curb illicit money, party sources said. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will interact with journalists in the national capital on Tuesday, while Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi will speak in Bhopal and Patna respectively. On November 8, Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Ananth Kumar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Suresh Prabhu and Smriti Irani will speak in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Chandigarh, Jaipur and Lucknow respectively. Prakash Javadekar will speak to media in Bengaluru and Piyush Goyal in Ahmedabad. Union minister Jayant Sinha has also been drafted for the exercise, sources said. BJP chief Amit Shah will be in Gujarat that day. With the BJP and the Congress involved in a war of words over demonetisation's implications, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned up the heat on the opposition party over the issue of black money and corruption during his election rallies. The Congress too has planned a nation-wide exercise to project demonetisation as a "failure".

One year of demonetisation: Ministers to highlight govt's fight against black money

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