After a deadly stampede during a religious event in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district, the death toll has now risen to 121. Investigation underway to determine accountability for the loss of lives. Watch in for moe details!

Hathras stampede: Devotees suffocated to death; preacher missing from Manipur Ashram

After a deadly stampede during a religious event in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district, the death toll has now risen to 121. Investigation underway to determine accountability for the loss of lives. Vikram Singh, former DGP, UP, joins us to discuss.

UP Hathras Stampede: Death toll reaches 121, search on for preacher | Live Discussion

A place of religious event turned into a cemetery. A stampede at a religious congregation killed 121 people in UP's Hathras district. Devotees suffocated to their deaths and bodies piled atop each other.

Hathras stampede: Death toll rises to 121; FIR filed against Satsang organisers

At least 60 people are dead and scores are injured after a stampede at a religious gathering of thousands of people in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras.

India: At least 60 people killed in Hathras stampede, tragedy strikes religious gathering

Headlines of the hour: - India: Over 50 killed in stampede UP's Hathras - Kenya: Police fire tear gas at protesters - UK election choice about future: Rishi Sunak - Zelensky seeks military aid from Europe - Israel's evacuation order hits 250,000 Gazans - BYD sales up 21% in Q2

Zelensky seeks military aid from Europe | UK election choice about future: Sunak

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India: Heatwave in Delhi, UP | Monsoon advances in Indian states

<p>A woman, in a bizarre and alarming incident from Noida in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh,&nbsp;made a chilling discovery in her ice cream order on Saturday (June 15) morning. The woman,&nbsp;identified as Deepa from Sector-12 in Noida, claimed that she found a&nbsp;centipede inside the ice cream box.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports and Deepa's claims made in a video which is now widely circulated on social media platforms suggest&nbsp;that she&nbsp;ordered a family pack of 'Amul Vanilla Magic' ice cream worth Rs 195 from Blinkit,&nbsp;an Indian instant delivery service that provides a wide range of products, including groceries and other fresh produce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Expecting to prepare a mango milkshake for her children, she was horrified to find a frozen centipede in the ice cream box. In a video that has since gone viral, Deepa showed the disturbing sight of the centipede inside the ice cream container.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-accident-14-killed-12-injured-as-tempo-traveler-falls-into-alaknanda-river-732050">Uttarakhand accident: At least 14 killed, 12 injured as tempo traveller falls into Alaknanda river</a></p>

<p>She said that people order food items online without due caution and she can't imagine the distress she would have felt if her children had consumed the infested ice cream.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After a cut finger in ice cream, a centipede was found in Amul Ice Cream in Noida, watch <a href="https://twitter.com/Amul_Coop?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Amul_Coop</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/letsblinkit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@letsblinkit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UNWFP_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNWFP_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/noida?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#noida</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mc5cm7rb6O">pic.twitter.com/Mc5cm7rb6O</a></p>
— Jyoti Karki (@Jyoti_karki_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jyoti_karki_/status/1801919788975046691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Fortunately, Deepa had not yet mixed the ice cream with the mangoes, which could have resulted in her children consuming the mango milkshake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-statues-relocated-to-ensure-they-are-not-in-prominent-place-for-mps-to-protest-congress-731985">Parliament statues relocated to ensure they are not in prominent place for MPs to protest: Congress</a></p>

<p>Reports suggested that Blinkit refunded the Rs 195 and mentioned that Amul would contact her.</p>

<p>However, Deepa denied receiving any email or message from Amul. She also warned that she would take legal action if the issue was not addressed promptly.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | </strong><strong>India's evolving workforce drives growth</strong></p>

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<p>This incident comes just days after a man in Malad, Mumbai, found a human finger inside an ice cream cone he ordered online.</p>

<p>The man, shocked and disgusted, reported the incident to the police. The authorities lodged an investigation into the ice cream company, Yummo Ice Cream.</p>

<p>A photograph of the ice cream cone with the finger protruding from it was shared online, sparking widespread concern over food safety standards.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A woman, in a bizarre and alarming incident from Noida in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, made a chilling discovery in her ice cream order on Saturday (June 15) morning.

A woman, in a bizarre and alarming incident from Noida in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, made a chilling discovery in her ice cream order on Saturday (June 15) morning. The woman, identified as Deepa from Sector-12 in Noida, claimed that she found a centipede inside the ice cream box. Reports and Deepa's claims made in a video which is now widely circulated on social media platforms suggest that she ordered a family pack of 'Amul Vanilla Magic' ice cream worth Rs 195 from Blinkit, an Indian instant delivery service that provides a wide range of products, including groceries and other fresh produce. Expecting to prepare a mango milkshake for her children, she was horrified to find a frozen centipede in the ice cream box. In a video that has since gone viral, Deepa showed the disturbing sight of the centipede inside the ice cream container. Also Read | Uttarakhand accident: At least 14 killed, 12 injured as tempo traveller falls into Alaknanda river She said that people order food items online without due caution and she can't imagine the distress she would have felt if her children had consumed the infested ice cream. After a cut finger in ice cream, a centipede was found in Amul Ice Cream in Noida, watch @Amul_Coop @letsblinkit @UNWFP_India #noida pic.twitter.com/Mc5cm7rb6O — Jyoti Karki (@Jyoti_karki_) June 15, 2024 × Fortunately, Deepa had not yet mixed the ice cream with the mangoes, which could have resulted in her children consuming the mango milkshake. Also Read | Parliament statues relocated to ensure they are not in prominent place for MPs to protest: Congress Reports suggested that Blinkit refunded the Rs 195 and mentioned that Amul would contact her. However, Deepa denied receiving any email or message from Amul. She also warned that she would take legal action if the issue was not addressed promptly. Watch | India's evolving workforce drives growth × This incident comes just days after a man in Malad, Mumbai, found a human finger inside an ice cream cone he ordered online. The man, shocked and disgusted, reported the incident to the police. The authorities lodged an investigation into the ice cream company, Yummo Ice Cream. A photograph of the ice cream cone with the finger protruding from it was shared online, sparking widespread concern over food safety standards. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Noida woman finds centipede in ice cream ordered online. What could have happened next?

The BJP-led NDA is heading towards a majority in the Lok Sabha polls but with reduced strength from its 2019 tally as the opposition INDIA alliance put up a strong performance. The BJP-led NDA is leading on 295 seats, the INDIA bloc is ahead on 231 seats and others on 17, according to the latest Election Commission trends. Watch in for more details!

Uttar Pradesh elections 2024: The big 'UP' set for Bharatiya Janata Party | The resurgence of SP

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<p><em><strong>Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised</strong></em></p>

<p>A man in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh was sentenced to life in prison after he slit open his pregnant wife's stomach to check their baby's gender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Panna Lal was awarded the sentence on Thursday by the fast-track court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Saurabh Saxena,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Times of India reported on Friday (May 24).</p>

<p>The incident happened in Bareilly's Budaun in September 2020. The woman&nbsp;was admitted&nbsp;to New Delhi's Safdarjung&nbsp;Hospital&nbsp;where doctors managed to save her life. However, the baby, who was a boy, died, the&nbsp;report said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/teen-in-indias-kanpur-sent-to-juvenile-home-in-hit-and-run-case-where-he-killed-two-724829">Teen in India's Kanpur killed 2 in hit-and-run incident; months later hit 4 people with car</a></strong></p>

<p>Lal was booked under sections 307 (attempt to murder) and 313 (causing miscarriage without woman's consent) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). He&nbsp;was jailed&nbsp;and&nbsp;a chargesheet in the case&nbsp;was filed&nbsp;in 2021.</p>

<p>Speaking to TOI, the victim's brother said that his sister and Lal had been married for nearly 25 years. The brother said&nbsp;that his&nbsp;sister gave birth to five daughters&nbsp;but&nbsp;her husband wanted a boy.</p>

<p>He said that when his sister was pregnant for a second time, Lal demanded an abortion as he was convinced by a priest that this time&nbsp;too&nbsp;a&nbsp;girl would be born.&nbsp;However, the brother said that his sister was adamant about keeping the child.</p>

<p>He further added that his sister was subjected to assault by Lal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Public prosecutor Atul Singh told the publication that the accused man initially denied committing the crime.</p>

<p>The accused called it an accident&nbsp;but&nbsp;evidence produced in court and the victim's statement proved sufficient to convict him, Singh added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised A man in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh was sentenced to life in prison after he slit open his pregnant wife's stomach to check their baby's gender.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised A man in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh was sentenced to life in prison after he slit open his pregnant wife's stomach to check their baby's gender. Panna Lal was awarded the sentence on Thursday by the fast-track court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Saurabh Saxena, the Times of India reported on Friday (May 24). The incident happened in Bareilly's Budaun in September 2020. The woman was admitted to New Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital where doctors managed to save her life. However, the baby, who was a boy, died, the report said. Also read | Teen in India's Kanpur killed 2 in hit-and-run incident; months later hit 4 people with car Lal was booked under sections 307 (attempt to murder) and 313 (causing miscarriage without woman's consent) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). He was jailed and a chargesheet in the case was filed in 2021. Speaking to TOI, the victim's brother said that his sister and Lal had been married for nearly 25 years. The brother said that his sister gave birth to five daughters but her husband wanted a boy. He said that when his sister was pregnant for a second time, Lal demanded an abortion as he was convinced by a priest that this time too a girl would be born. However, the brother said that his sister was adamant about keeping the child. He further added that his sister was subjected to assault by Lal. Public prosecutor Atul Singh told the publication that the accused man initially denied committing the crime. The accused called it an accident but evidence produced in court and the victim's statement proved sufficient to convict him, Singh added. (With inputs from agencies)

Man in India's UP gets life imprisonment after he slits open pregnant wife's stomach to check baby's gender

In India's state of Uttar Pradesh, an 18-year-old female rickshaw driver has won the pretigious women's empowerment award in the United Kingdom. Arti recieved the Amal Clooney Women's Empowerment Award. Arti belongs to Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh.

India: UP Rickshaw driver wins prestigious Amal Clooney Women's Empowerment award

<p>A stampede-like situation erupted in Prayagraj's Phulpur constituency when the crowd broke the barricades and almost approached the dais which forced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to cut short their public meeting.</p>

<p>The workers of both parties went out of control and tried to get to the stage to meet Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. The situation worsened when the crowd barged through the barricades making it difficult for the police to contain the mob.</p>

<p>Gandhi and Yadav did not address the people and had to abruptly exit the campaign rally which was organised in support of Amarnath Maurya, who is contesting from the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat on an SP ticket.</p>

<p>Explaining the situation, Congress leader Rewati Raman Singh said, "The crowd had become too big, and there weren't enough police officers, which caused the crowd to become uncontrollable and rush towards the stage. As a result, Akhilesh Ji and Rahul Ji had to leave without giving their speeches."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: A stampede-like situation took place in the joint public meeting of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav at Phulpur constituency, in Prayagraj.<br />
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Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav left the public meeting without addressing the… <a href="https://t.co/fPW2tgaWOP">pic.twitter.com/fPW2tgaWOP</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-kharge-accuses-pm-modi-of-provoking-people-calls-on-ed-to-take-action-722814">Lok Sabha polls: Kharge accuses PM Modi of ‘provoking’ people, calls on ED to take action</a></p>

<p>Singh said that the joint rally highlighted the strategic alliance between Congress and the Samajwadi Party.</p>

<p>"This is a strategy because both are in an alliance. The Samajwadi Party and Congress have an alliance," he said.</p>

<p>He then reacted to BJP's claim of winning more than 400 seats in the elections saying that such kinds of rallies showed what people exactly want.</p>

<p>"These rallies show what the people want. These people intend to change the Constitution, and they have already said so, which is why they are shouting '400 Paar'. The people themselves are fighting this election to save the Constitution and to protect reservations," Singh remarked.</p>

<p>The polling in the Phulpur constituency will be conducted on May 25, which is the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha&nbsp;elections.</p>

<p>The Samajwadi Party (SP) is contesting the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat in alliance with the Congress party on a 63:17 formula.</p>

<p>SP's Amarnath Maurya is in fray against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP's) Praveen Patel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A stampede-like situation erupted in Prayagraj's Phulpur constituency when the crowd broke the barricades and almost approached the dais which forced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to cut short their public meeting.

A stampede-like situation erupted in Prayagraj's Phulpur constituency when the crowd broke the barricades and almost approached the dais which forced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to cut short their public meeting. The workers of both parties went out of control and tried to get to the stage to meet Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. The situation worsened when the crowd barged through the barricades making it difficult for the police to contain the mob. Gandhi and Yadav did not address the people and had to abruptly exit the campaign rally which was organised in support of Amarnath Maurya, who is contesting from the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat on an SP ticket. Explaining the situation, Congress leader Rewati Raman Singh said, "The crowd had become too big, and there weren't enough police officers, which caused the crowd to become uncontrollable and rush towards the stage. As a result, Akhilesh Ji and Rahul Ji had to leave without giving their speeches." #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: A stampede-like situation took place in the joint public meeting of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav at Phulpur constituency, in Prayagraj. Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav left the public meeting without addressing the… pic.twitter.com/fPW2tgaWOP — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2024 × Also read: Lok Sabha polls: Kharge accuses PM Modi of ‘provoking’ people, calls on ED to take action Singh said that the joint rally highlighted the strategic alliance between Congress and the Samajwadi Party. "This is a strategy because both are in an alliance. The Samajwadi Party and Congress have an alliance," he said. He then reacted to BJP's claim of winning more than 400 seats in the elections saying that such kinds of rallies showed what people exactly want. "These rallies show what the people want. These people intend to change the Constitution, and they have already said so, which is why they are shouting '400 Paar'. The people themselves are fighting this election to save the Constitution and to protect reservations," Singh remarked. The polling in the Phulpur constituency will be conducted on May 25, which is the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The Samajwadi Party (SP) is contesting the Phulpur Lok Sabha seat in alliance with the Congress party on a 63:17 formula. SP's Amarnath Maurya is in fray against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP's) Praveen Patel. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav abruptly exit election rally in UP’s Phulpur as crowd turns uncontrollable

<p>All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Sonia Gandhi on Friday (May 17) made an emotional appeal to the people of Uttar Pradesh's Raebareli, urging them to accept her son, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with open arms, just as they accepted her.</p>

<p>She further asserted during her very first public address amid the ongoing Lok Sabha election campaign that Rahul "won't disappoint them".</p>

<p>Recalling the 'age-old' roots of the Gandhi family with the people of the constituency in the northern state, the AICC chief expressed gratitude to the residents of the city.</p>

<p>"I am very happy that I got the opportunity to come among you after so long...You all gave me the opportunity to serve you as an MP, this is the biggest treasure of my life. For the last 100 years, the roots of our family are connected to the soil of this land. This relation is as pure as Ganga Maa. It started with the farmer's agitation of Awadh and Raebareli," Sonia Gandhi said addressing the public meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-dig-at-akhilesh-yadav-ask-mamata-why-she-calls-people-of-up-outsiders-722254">PM Modi takes dig at Akhilesh Yadav; 'ask Mamata why she calls people of UP outsiders'</a></p>

<h2><strong>'There was special place for Raebareli in Indira Ji's heart'</strong></h2>

<p>She then said that she had imparted the same teachings to both her children, Rahul as well as Priyanka, that she had learnt from the people of the constituency while serving as the MP and also from former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh: Addressing a public rally, Congress Leader Sonia Gandhi says, "The roots of our family are connected to the soil of this land. This relation, as pure as Ganga ma, began with the farmer's agitation of Awadh and Raebareli. In Indira Ji's heart,… <a href="https://t.co/QnDrSe5gw2">pic.twitter.com/QnDrSe5gw2</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1791428506066506125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In Indira Ji's heart, there was a special place for Raebareli. I have seen her working very closely, she had immense affection for you all. I have given the same teachings to Rahul and Priyanka, that Indira Ji and the people of Raebareli had bestowed upon me; Respect all, protect the weak, fight for people's rights against injustice, don't be sacred, because the roots of struggle is very strong," Sonia said.</p>

<p>"My aanchal (end of a saari, also refers to protective shelter) was always filled with your love and affection. Your love never made me feel alone. Everything I have is yours...I am handing over my son to you. You have to accept him and keep him, just like you accepted me. Rahul will not disappoint you," the Congress leader said.</p>

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to contest the general elections from Raebareli, which is the erstwhile constituency of his mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sonia, since the year 2004, held the constituency for four consecutive terms before she decided to take over as the Rajya Sabha MP earlier this year.</p>

<p>The grand old party lost its other bastion Amethi to BJP in the year 2019. BJP has nominated incumbent MP and Union Minister Smriti Irani to contest the seat in the current elections, whereas the Congress has fielded its long-time loyalist Kishori Lal Sharma.</p>

<p>Polling on both the seats will be held on May 20, which is the fifth phase of the ongoing elections.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Sonia Gandhi on Friday (May 17) made an emotional appeal to the people of Uttar Pradesh's Raebareli, urging them to accept her son, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with open arms, just as they accepted her.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Sonia Gandhi on Friday (May 17) made an emotional appeal to the people of Uttar Pradesh's Raebareli, urging them to accept her son, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with open arms, just as they accepted her. She further asserted during her very first public address amid the ongoing Lok Sabha election campaign that Rahul "won't disappoint them". Recalling the 'age-old' roots of the Gandhi family with the people of the constituency in the northern state, the AICC chief expressed gratitude to the residents of the city. "I am very happy that I got the opportunity to come among you after so long...You all gave me the opportunity to serve you as an MP, this is the biggest treasure of my life. For the last 100 years, the roots of our family are connected to the soil of this land. This relation is as pure as Ganga Maa. It started with the farmer's agitation of Awadh and Raebareli," Sonia Gandhi said addressing the public meeting. Also read: PM Modi takes dig at Akhilesh Yadav; 'ask Mamata why she calls people of UP outsiders' 'There was special place for Raebareli in Indira Ji's heart' She then said that she had imparted the same teachings to both her children, Rahul as well as Priyanka, that she had learnt from the people of the constituency while serving as the MP and also from former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. #WATCH | Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh: Addressing a public rally, Congress Leader Sonia Gandhi says, "The roots of our family are connected to the soil of this land. This relation, as pure as Ganga ma, began with the farmer's agitation of Awadh and Raebareli. In Indira Ji's heart,… pic.twitter.com/QnDrSe5gw2 — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2024 × "In Indira Ji's heart, there was a special place for Raebareli. I have seen her working very closely, she had immense affection for you all. I have given the same teachings to Rahul and Priyanka, that Indira Ji and the people of Raebareli had bestowed upon me; Respect all, protect the weak, fight for people's rights against injustice, don't be sacred, because the roots of struggle is very strong," Sonia said. "My aanchal (end of a saari, also refers to protective shelter) was always filled with your love and affection. Your love never made me feel alone. Everything I have is yours...I am handing over my son to you. You have to accept him and keep him, just like you accepted me. Rahul will not disappoint you," the Congress leader said. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to contest the general elections from Raebareli, which is the erstwhile constituency of his mother. Sonia, since the year 2004, held the constituency for four consecutive terms before she decided to take over as the Rajya Sabha MP earlier this year. The grand old party lost its other bastion Amethi to BJP in the year 2019. BJP has nominated incumbent MP and Union Minister Smriti Irani to contest the seat in the current elections, whereas the Congress has fielded its long-time loyalist Kishori Lal Sharma. Polling on both the seats will be held on May 20, which is the fifth phase of the ongoing elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Sonia Gandhi's emotional appeal to people of Raebareli; 'I am handing over my son to you'

PM Modi filed his nomination from Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi Lok Sabha seat. PM Modi is seeking a third term from the constituency. Varanasi will go to polls in the seventh and last phase of the elections on June 1.

India PM Narendra Modi files nomination from Varanasi, offers prayers at Dasaswamedh Ghat

<p>In a shocking incident, a 17-year-old girl in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri was held captive for three days, repeatedly raped and her face was branded with a hot iron rod allegedly by a 21-year-old man after she refused to marry him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accused who branded the letters of his name ‘Aman’ on the girl’s face has since been arrested based on the complaint filed by the girl’s family.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about the ordeal</strong></h2>

<p>On April 19, the accused forcibly took the 17-year-old girl to his home as she was on her way back from a show, according to the complaint filed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The girl’s mother, last week on April 21, filed a complaint with Dhaurahra police in which she accused Aman of taking her daughter away. She also accused him of holding her daughter captive at his home and said he raped and assaulted her, according to the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-american-doctor-who-drove-tesla-off-cliff-had-major-psychotic-episode-report-says-715818">Indian-American doctor who drove Tesla off cliff had major psychotic episode, report says</a></strong></p>

<p>The girl somehow managed to escape and returned home on April 21 after which the family went to the police, according to the FIR filed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case was initially registered under sections 343 (wrongful confinement), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), said Deputy Superintendent PP Singh, according to news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the girl returned home, Section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR, Singh said. The accused was arrested on Saturday (Apr 27), said the police, adding that the case is under investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the accused, the police said that the 21-year-old was a school dropout and worked at a salon in the city of Hyderabad. “He wanted to marry the girl and when she refused, he wrote his name on both her cheeks,” said Station House Officer Dinesh Singh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police said that since the girl was not carrying any ID, it was difficult to confirm if she was a minor but after they did, IPC Section 324 (voluntarily causing hurt using a dangerous weapon) and 376 (rape) along with POCSO Act was also added to the FIR.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Lesser’ sections</strong></h2>

<p>The 17-year-old girl’s parents alleged that the police initially registered the case under “lesser” sections and that only after the survivor’s statement was recorded before a magistrate, section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-indian-women-dies-in-us-after-car-crashes-into-trees-in-devastating-accident-715733">Three Indian women die in US after car crashes into trees in devastating accident</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Superintendent (Kheri) Ganesh Saha told the Times of India (TOI) that the FIR was registered based on the complaint by the family and when they recorded the 17-year-old’s statement she did not level such “grave allegations”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “We don’t know why she changed her statement in court. However, we have started our probe as per her allegations now. The accused has been arrested.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In a shocking incident, a 17-year-old girl in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri was held captive for three days, repeatedly raped and her face was branded with a hot iron rod allegedly by a 21-year-old man after she refused to marry him.

In a shocking incident, a 17-year-old girl in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri was held captive for three days, repeatedly raped and her face was branded with a hot iron rod allegedly by a 21-year-old man after she refused to marry him. The accused who branded the letters of his name ‘Aman’ on the girl’s face has since been arrested based on the complaint filed by the girl’s family. What we know about the ordeal On April 19, the accused forcibly took the 17-year-old girl to his home as she was on her way back from a show, according to the complaint filed. The girl’s mother, last week on April 21, filed a complaint with Dhaurahra police in which she accused Aman of taking her daughter away. She also accused him of holding her daughter captive at his home and said he raped and assaulted her, according to the police. Also Read | Indian-American doctor who drove Tesla off cliff had major psychotic episode, report says The girl somehow managed to escape and returned home on April 21 after which the family went to the police, according to the FIR filed. The case was initially registered under sections 343 (wrongful confinement), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), said Deputy Superintendent PP Singh, according to news agency PTI. Since the girl returned home, Section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR, Singh said. The accused was arrested on Saturday (Apr 27), said the police, adding that the case is under investigation. Speaking about the accused, the police said that the 21-year-old was a school dropout and worked at a salon in the city of Hyderabad. “He wanted to marry the girl and when she refused, he wrote his name on both her cheeks,” said Station House Officer Dinesh Singh. The police said that since the girl was not carrying any ID, it was difficult to confirm if she was a minor but after they did, IPC Section 324 (voluntarily causing hurt using a dangerous weapon) and 376 (rape) along with POCSO Act was also added to the FIR. ‘Lesser’ sections The 17-year-old girl’s parents alleged that the police initially registered the case under “lesser” sections and that only after the survivor’s statement was recorded before a magistrate, section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR. Also Read | Three Indian women die in US after car crashes into trees in devastating accident However, Superintendent (Kheri) Ganesh Saha told the Times of India (TOI) that the FIR was registered based on the complaint by the family and when they recorded the 17-year-old’s statement she did not level such “grave allegations”. He added, “We don’t know why she changed her statement in court. However, we have started our probe as per her allegations now. The accused has been arrested.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: UP girl raped for 3 days, face branded with hot iron rod after rejecting marriage proposal

<p>Two professors at Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, are facing criticism for inconsistencies in grading answer sheets. It's reported that they gave marks to D Pharma students who wrote "Jai Shree Ram", cricketers' names, and unrelated content instead of actual answers.</p>

<p>As per a report by Aaj Tak, the matter surfaced when two student leaders named Uddeshya and Divyanshu Singh filed a Right to Information (RTI) request, claiming that the professors accepted bribes from students and unlawfully passed them.</p>

<p>They sought the roll numbers of about 18 D Pharma course students to review their answer sheets and requested re-evaluation. Additionally, they submitted an affidavit and a complaint letter regarding the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following this, Raj Bhavan initiated an inquiry into the issue on December 21, 2023. The university administration established a committee to probe the matter.</p>

<p>Upon re-evaluation of the answer sheets by external professors, a significant difference was noted in the marks assigned to the students. For instance, where the professors had given 52 and 34 marks, external evaluators deemed the same answer sheets worthy of only zero and four marks.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/extremely-rare-case-indian-doctor-removes-nose-pin-screw-from-womans-lung-715339">Also read |&nbsp;‘Extremely rare case’:&nbsp;Indian doctor removes nose pin screw from&nbsp;woman’s&nbsp;lung&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>In response to the incident, Vice-Chancellor Vandana Singh fired two professors, Vinay Varma and Ashish Gupta.</p>

<p>Earlier, Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Arun Bothra shared on the&nbsp;platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that a student placed money inside an answer sheet, asking for passing marks. He also posted a picture of the notes found in the answer sheet.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's SC issues notice to ECI on NOTA frame rule</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-sc-issues-notice-to-eci-on-nota-frame-rule-715323/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Pic sent by a teacher. These notes were kept inside answer sheets of a board exam by students with a request to give them passing marks. Tells a lot about our students, teachers and the entire educational system,” Bothra wrote in his post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many people responded to the post, saying it has happened to them or someone they know.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Two professors at Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, are facing criticism for inconsistencies in grading answer sheets. It's reported that they gave marks to D Pharma students who wrote "Jai Shree Ram", cricketers' names, and unrelated content instead of actual answers.

Two professors at Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, are facing criticism for inconsistencies in grading answer sheets. It's reported that they gave marks to D Pharma students who wrote "Jai Shree Ram", cricketers' names, and unrelated content instead of actual answers. As per a report by Aaj Tak, the matter surfaced when two student leaders named Uddeshya and Divyanshu Singh filed a Right to Information (RTI) request, claiming that the professors accepted bribes from students and unlawfully passed them. They sought the roll numbers of about 18 D Pharma course students to review their answer sheets and requested re-evaluation. Additionally, they submitted an affidavit and a complaint letter regarding the issue. Following this, Raj Bhavan initiated an inquiry into the issue on December 21, 2023. The university administration established a committee to probe the matter. Upon re-evaluation of the answer sheets by external professors, a significant difference was noted in the marks assigned to the students. For instance, where the professors had given 52 and 34 marks, external evaluators deemed the same answer sheets worthy of only zero and four marks. Also read | ‘Extremely rare case’: Indian doctor removes nose pin screw from woman’s lung In response to the incident, Vice-Chancellor Vandana Singh fired two professors, Vinay Varma and Ashish Gupta. Earlier, Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Arun Bothra shared on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that a student placed money inside an answer sheet, asking for passing marks. He also posted a picture of the notes found in the answer sheet. Also watch | India's SC issues notice to ECI on NOTA frame rule “Pic sent by a teacher. These notes were kept inside answer sheets of a board exam by students with a request to give them passing marks. Tells a lot about our students, teachers and the entire educational system,” Bothra wrote in his post on X. Many people responded to the post, saying it has happened to them or someone they know. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian students pass exams writing 'Jai Shree Ram', cricketers' names; professors fired

<p>A government school principal in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh sparked controversy when she was found indulging in a beauty treatment session instead of performing her school-related duties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per an NDTV report, Sangeeta Singh, the headmistress of a primary school in Unnao, was allegedly getting a facial treatment during school hours. The incident occurred in the kitchen area of the school compound in Dandamau village, Bighapur block.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the VIRAL video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In Unnao UP, Principal Sangita Singh of a primary school was enjoying facial during school timing in the kitchen of the school. When another teacher Anam Khan started making video of the same she bite her in both of her hands and then attacked her with a brick. Never mind all… <a href="https://t.co/fctSCWPJN7">pic.twitter.com/fctSCWPJN7</a></p>
— NCMIndia Council For Men Affairs (@NCMIndiaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCMIndiaa/status/1780981958920827310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Determined to catch the headmistress in the act, Anam Khan, a teacher at the same school,&nbsp;recorded a video of herself entering the cooking area and finding Singh, who appeared to be nearing the end of her beauty treatment. In the video, a surprised&nbsp;Singh quickly rises from her chair as Khan can be heard saying "very good".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-a-bunch-of-flowers-and-chocolates-landed-a-teacher-in-sexual-harassment-case-in-indias-tamil-nadu-699931">Also read |&nbsp;How a bunch of flowers and chocolates landed a teacher in sexual harassment case in India's Tamil Nadu</a></p>

<p>Singh then begins chasing Khan. However, matters escalate when Singh reportedly bit Khan's hand, leading to bleeding.</p>

<p>After the confrontation, the issue was reported to the block education officer, leading to an investigation into the incident. Bighapur police also filed a case against Singh following a medical examination of Khan's injuries.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-elon-musks-visit-india-notifies-new-fdi-rules-for-space-sector-712389">Also read |&nbsp;Ahead of Elon Musk's visit, India notifies new FDI rules for space sector</a></p>

<p>Maya Rai, the Circle Officer of Bighapur, told NDTV, "We received a complaint from the assistant teacher of the school in Dandamau village that the headmistress was receiving a facial treatment on the premises and assaulted her when caught. We will take necessary action in this matter."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Kerala introduces its first humanoid robot teacher</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-kerala-introduces-its-first-humanoid-robot-teacher-694804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A government school principal in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh sparked controversy when she was found indulging in a beauty treatment session instead of performing her school-related duties.

A government school principal in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh sparked controversy when she was found indulging in a beauty treatment session instead of performing her school-related duties. As per an NDTV report, Sangeeta Singh, the headmistress of a primary school in Unnao, was allegedly getting a facial treatment during school hours. The incident occurred in the kitchen area of the school compound in Dandamau village, Bighapur block. Watch the VIRAL video here: In Unnao UP, Principal Sangita Singh of a primary school was enjoying facial during school timing in the kitchen of the school. When another teacher Anam Khan started making video of the same she bite her in both of her hands and then attacked her with a brick. Never mind all… pic.twitter.com/fctSCWPJN7 — NCMIndia Council For Men Affairs (@NCMIndiaa) April 18, 2024 × Determined to catch the headmistress in the act, Anam Khan, a teacher at the same school, recorded a video of herself entering the cooking area and finding Singh, who appeared to be nearing the end of her beauty treatment. In the video, a surprised Singh quickly rises from her chair as Khan can be heard saying "very good". Also read | How a bunch of flowers and chocolates landed a teacher in sexual harassment case in India's Tamil Nadu Singh then begins chasing Khan. However, matters escalate when Singh reportedly bit Khan's hand, leading to bleeding. After the confrontation, the issue was reported to the block education officer, leading to an investigation into the incident. Bighapur police also filed a case against Singh following a medical examination of Khan's injuries. Also read | Ahead of Elon Musk's visit, India notifies new FDI rules for space sector Maya Rai, the Circle Officer of Bighapur, told NDTV, "We received a complaint from the assistant teacher of the school in Dandamau village that the headmistress was receiving a facial treatment on the premises and assaulted her when caught. We will take necessary action in this matter." Also watch | India: Kerala introduces its first humanoid robot teacher (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: School principal caught getting facial in work hours, bites teacher who recorded video

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address public meetings in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit. He will campaign for BJP Lok Sabha poll candidate Jitin Prasad in Pilibhit. Watch in for more details!

India Election 2024: Indian PM Modi to campaign for Jitin Prasad in UP's Pilibhit

<p>Gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari was laid to rest at his ancestral Kali Bagh graveyard in Ghazipur of Uttar Pradesh state on Saturday (Mar 30). His body was brought to his hometown late Friday following the postmortem examination at Rani Durgavati Medical College in Banda district. The Ansari family designated the family graveyard in Mohammadabad's Kali Bagh as the final resting place for the dead criminal.</p>

<p>Earlier, people in large numbers took part in the funeral procession. Have a look!</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Uttar Pradesh: People in large numbers take part in the funeral procession of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari in Mohammadabad, Ghazipur <a href="https://t.co/PHGvhAJcp1">pic.twitter.com/PHGvhAJcp1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1773928803297050655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ahead of the funeral, security was beefed up outside Ansari’s residence in Mohammadabad as his supporters gathered in large numbers and chanted slogans. Around 3,000 police officers were deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incident.</p>

<p>A brief period of chaos was also seen&nbsp;during the burial rites as Ansari's supporters broke the barricading to enter the cemetery ground.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ghazipur, UP: Chaos erupted during the burial rites of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari after his supporters broke the barricading in order to enter the cemetery ground. <a href="https://t.co/EgDOkcBPU2">pic.twitter.com/EgDOkcBPU2</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1773941473320530381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ghazipur, UP: People in huge numbers gathered outside the Mohammadabad residence of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari, who died of cardiac arrest on Thursday night at Banda Medical College.<br />
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Mukhtar Ansari will be laid to rest in Mohammadabad of Ghazipur… <a href="https://t.co/lR1GJAI4rN">pic.twitter.com/lR1GJAI4rN</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1773904733436264846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mukhtar’s post-mortem earlier confirmed that he died of cardiac arrest. His mortal remains were handed over to his younger son, Umar Ansari, who was present at the Rani Durgavati hospital.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that a magisterial inquiry has been launched into the death of Mukhtar Ansari following allegations of ‘slow poisoning’ by his family members and opposition parties.</p>

<h2><strong>Allegations and controversy</strong></h2>

<p>Ansari's family has alleged that now-dead gangster was subjected to "slow poisoning" while he was in jail.&nbsp;His family claimed that they were not informed about Ansari's death by the authorities and learned about it through the media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mukhtar-ansari-grandson-of-indian-armys-officer-first-fir-at-age-of-15-10-key-points-705432"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Mukhtar Ansari: Grandson of Indian Army’s officer, first FIR at 15 - Life of gangster-politician</strong></a></p>

<p>Ansari's life was marred by controversies and legal battles. In April 2023, he was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder of BJP MLA Krishnanand Rai. Earlier this month, he received a life sentence for his involvement in obtaining an arms license using forged documents.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari was laid to rest at his ancestral Kali Bagh graveyard in Ghazipur of Uttar Pradesh state on Saturday (Mar 30). His body was brought to his hometown late Friday following the postmortem examination at Rani Durgavati Medical College in Banda district.

Gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari was laid to rest at his ancestral Kali Bagh graveyard in Ghazipur of Uttar Pradesh state on Saturday (Mar 30). His body was brought to his hometown late Friday following the postmortem examination at Rani Durgavati Medical College in Banda district. The Ansari family designated the family graveyard in Mohammadabad's Kali Bagh as the final resting place for the dead criminal. Earlier, people in large numbers took part in the funeral procession. Have a look! Uttar Pradesh: People in large numbers take part in the funeral procession of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari in Mohammadabad, Ghazipur pic.twitter.com/PHGvhAJcp1 — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2024 × Ahead of the funeral, security was beefed up outside Ansari’s residence in Mohammadabad as his supporters gathered in large numbers and chanted slogans. Around 3,000 police officers were deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incident. A brief period of chaos was also seen during the burial rites as Ansari's supporters broke the barricading to enter the cemetery ground. #WATCH | Ghazipur, UP: Chaos erupted during the burial rites of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari after his supporters broke the barricading in order to enter the cemetery ground. pic.twitter.com/EgDOkcBPU2 — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2024 × #WATCH | Ghazipur, UP: People in huge numbers gathered outside the Mohammadabad residence of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari, who died of cardiac arrest on Thursday night at Banda Medical College. Mukhtar Ansari will be laid to rest in Mohammadabad of Ghazipur… pic.twitter.com/lR1GJAI4rN — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2024 × Mukhtar’s post-mortem earlier confirmed that he died of cardiac arrest. His mortal remains were handed over to his younger son, Umar Ansari, who was present at the Rani Durgavati hospital. It is to be noted that a magisterial inquiry has been launched into the death of Mukhtar Ansari following allegations of ‘slow poisoning’ by his family members and opposition parties. Allegations and controversy Ansari's family has alleged that now-dead gangster was subjected to "slow poisoning" while he was in jail. His family claimed that they were not informed about Ansari's death by the authorities and learned about it through the media. Also read: Mukhtar Ansari: Grandson of Indian Army’s officer, first FIR at 15 - Life of gangster-politician Ansari's life was marred by controversies and legal battles. In April 2023, he was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder of BJP MLA Krishnanand Rai. Earlier this month, he received a life sentence for his involvement in obtaining an arms license using forged documents. (With inputs from agencies)

Mukhtar Ansari funeral: Brief chaos erupts during last rites as authorities tackle massive crowd

<p>Mukhtar Ansari, a convicted criminal who later became a politician, passed away of a heart attack on Thursday (March 28),&nbsp;after he was admitted to Rani Durgavati Medical College in Uttar Pradesh's Banda district because of his health condition.</p>

<p>He was rushed to the hospital in an unconscious state after he complained of vomiting.</p>

<p>The 63-year-old, Ansari who was lodged in a jail in UP's Banda, died around 8.25 pm.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mukhtar-ansari-jailed-mafia-don-turned-politician-sentenced-to-life-imprisonment-699695">Mukhtar Ansari, jailed mafia don-turned-politician, sentenced to life imprisonment</a></p>

<p>Prohibition orders under CrPC Section 144 were&nbsp;put in place across Uttar Pradesh shortly after his death, according to police on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>Who was&nbsp;Mukhtar Ansari?</strong></h2>

<p>The five-time MLA from Mau in eastern Uttar Pradesh was involved in 52 criminal cases in Uttar Pradesh and other states, as well as the property business. As a candidate for the Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP), he ran for office twice. His most recent assembly election campaign was in&nbsp;2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A court in northern India's Varanasi sentenced jailed mafia don-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari to life imprisonment for cheating, forgery of documents, criminal conspiracy, and violating the Arms Act to obtain a double-barrel gun license in 1986.</p>

<h2><strong>Mukhtar Ansari: Cases and convictions</strong></h2>

<p>Mukhtar Ansari faces nearly five dozen criminal cases.</p>

<p>In December last year, he was sentenced to five-and-a-half years of imprisonment in a case related to threatening a witness in VHP treasurer’s kidnapping&nbsp;in 1997.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-gangster-turned-politician-mukhtar-ansari-jailed-for-10-years-in-murder-case-587277">Indian mafia don-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari jailed for 10 years in 2007 Gangster Act case</a></strong></p>

<p>In April 2023, he was awarded 10 years in jail in a Gangsters Act case while his brother and co-accused, Afzal Ansari, was also given four-year imprisonment after which he lost his Lok Sabha membership.</p>

<p>Later, the Supreme Court suspended Afzal’s sentence, allowing him to return to Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In September 2022, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court sentenced Mukhtar to seven years in jail for threatening a jailer and pointing a pistol at him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mukhtar Ansari, a convicted criminal who later became a politician, passed away of a heart attack on Thursday (March 28), after he was admitted to Rani Durgavati Medical College in Uttar Pradesh's Banda district because of his health condition.

Mukhtar Ansari, a convicted criminal who later became a politician, passed away of a heart attack on Thursday (March 28), after he was admitted to Rani Durgavati Medical College in Uttar Pradesh's Banda district because of his health condition. He was rushed to the hospital in an unconscious state after he complained of vomiting. The 63-year-old, Ansari who was lodged in a jail in UP's Banda, died around 8.25 pm. Also read: Mukhtar Ansari, jailed mafia don-turned-politician, sentenced to life imprisonment Prohibition orders under CrPC Section 144 were put in place across Uttar Pradesh shortly after his death, according to police on Thursday. Who was Mukhtar Ansari? The five-time MLA from Mau in eastern Uttar Pradesh was involved in 52 criminal cases in Uttar Pradesh and other states, as well as the property business. As a candidate for the Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP), he ran for office twice. His most recent assembly election campaign was in 2017. A court in northern India's Varanasi sentenced jailed mafia don-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari to life imprisonment for cheating, forgery of documents, criminal conspiracy, and violating the Arms Act to obtain a double-barrel gun license in 1986. Mukhtar Ansari: Cases and convictions Mukhtar Ansari faces nearly five dozen criminal cases. In December last year, he was sentenced to five-and-a-half years of imprisonment in a case related to threatening a witness in VHP treasurer’s kidnapping in 1997. Also read | Indian mafia don-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari jailed for 10 years in 2007 Gangster Act case In April 2023, he was awarded 10 years in jail in a Gangsters Act case while his brother and co-accused, Afzal Ansari, was also given four-year imprisonment after which he lost his Lok Sabha membership. Later, the Supreme Court suspended Afzal’s sentence, allowing him to return to Parliament. In September 2022, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court sentenced Mukhtar to seven years in jail for threatening a jailer and pointing a pistol at him. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Jailed gangster-politician Mukhtar Ansari dies of cardiac arrest at 63

<p>The father of the victims in the double murder case in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Badaun set his bike on fire and tried to immolate himself on Sunday (Mar 24), police said.</p>

<p>This comes after the father was reportedly upset that the police have not been able to ascertain the motive behind the killing of his two children by a barber in their house.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Father of the victims was ‘angry’</strong></h2>

<p>According to the police, Vinod Kumar, the children’s father, after setting his bike on fire, tried to immolate himself but the law enforcement officials stopped him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Double murder case: Barber kills two kids in India's Badaun</strong></p>

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<p>Kumar’s two children, Ayush (12) and Ahaan (8) were killed, while his third child Yuvraj, 10, was admitted to hospital with serious wounds.</p>

<p>The shocking incident took place in Budaun’s Baba colony area on March 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about Kumar’s actions on Sunday, senior superintendent of police Alok Priyadarshi said the father of the victims was missing his children because of Holi and set his bike on fire in rage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Seeing their shoes, clothes and other festival items, he could not stop himself and set fire to his bike to vent his anger,” said Priyadarshi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/badaun-double-murder-police-arrests-second-accused-javed-a-day-after-gruesome-killing-702548">Badaun double murder: Police arrest second accused, autopsy reveals 23 stab wounds</a></strong></p>

<p>Vinod’s mother Munni Devi, as per news agency PTI, said it’s been six days since she lost her grandchildren but the police were yet to come up with a motive behind the incident.</p>

<p>“It seems that the police are hiding something.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Badaun double murder case</strong></h2>

<p>The accused in the case have been identified as Sajid and Javed, both barbers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sajid was killed in an encounter with police on the same day that he allegedly killed Kumar’s children.</p>

<p>Javed switched off his phone and tried to escape to Delhi but was arrested on Wednesday night (Mar 20) from Bareilly. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/badaun-double-murder-case-key-updates-and-what-we-know-so-far-702345">Badaun double murder case: Key updates and what we know so far</a></strong></p>

<p>He came back supposedly to surrender and was caught by the police at the Bareilly bus stand.</p>

<p>As per the post-mortem report, 14 stab wounds were found on Aayush's body and nine on his younger brother Ahaan, which totalled 23 stab wounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The father of the victims in the double murder case in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Badaun set his bike on fire and tried to immolate himself on Sunday (Mar 24), police said.

The father of the victims in the double murder case in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Badaun set his bike on fire and tried to immolate himself on Sunday (Mar 24), police said. This comes after the father was reportedly upset that the police have not been able to ascertain the motive behind the killing of his two children by a barber in their house. Father of the victims was ‘angry’ According to the police, Vinod Kumar, the children’s father, after setting his bike on fire, tried to immolate himself but the law enforcement officials stopped him. WATCH | Double murder case: Barber kills two kids in India's Badaun Kumar’s two children, Ayush (12) and Ahaan (8) were killed, while his third child Yuvraj, 10, was admitted to hospital with serious wounds. The shocking incident took place in Budaun’s Baba colony area on March 19. Speaking about Kumar’s actions on Sunday, senior superintendent of police Alok Priyadarshi said the father of the victims was missing his children because of Holi and set his bike on fire in rage. “Seeing their shoes, clothes and other festival items, he could not stop himself and set fire to his bike to vent his anger,” said Priyadarshi. Also Read | Badaun double murder: Police arrest second accused, autopsy reveals 23 stab wounds Vinod’s mother Munni Devi, as per news agency PTI, said it’s been six days since she lost her grandchildren but the police were yet to come up with a motive behind the incident. “It seems that the police are hiding something.” About the Badaun double murder case The accused in the case have been identified as Sajid and Javed, both barbers. Sajid was killed in an encounter with police on the same day that he allegedly killed Kumar’s children. Javed switched off his phone and tried to escape to Delhi but was arrested on Wednesday night (Mar 20) from Bareilly. Also Read | Badaun double murder case: Key updates and what we know so far He came back supposedly to surrender and was caught by the police at the Bareilly bus stand. As per the post-mortem report, 14 stab wounds were found on Aayush's body and nine on his younger brother Ahaan, which totalled 23 stab wounds. (With inputs from agencies)

Badaun double murder case: Father of victims sets bike on fire, attempts self-immolation

<p>The police in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor, on Sunday (Mar 24) arrested one person and detained three minors after a video, which has since gone viral, showed a group of Holi revellers stopping a bike and forcefully applying colour and pouring water on a Muslim man and two women.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What we know about the incident</strong></h2>

<p>According to media reports, the incident occurred on Saturday (Mar 23) when a man and two women were on a bike on their way to the medical shop when they were surrounded by a group of youngsters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, the Holi revellers were seen spraying water on the man and the two women. Amid protests by the trio, the group later poured buckets of water on them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-student-on-way-to-join-isis-detained-in-indias-assam-police-703674">IIT student on way to join ISIS detained in India's Assam: Police</a></strong></p>

<p>The youngsters, in the nearly one-and-a-half-minute clip, were also seen forcibly applying colour on the man’s face and on one of the woman’s face. Eventually, the ordeal ends and the trio drives away as youngsters chant religious slogans at them.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>One arrested, three detained</strong></h2>

<p>Bijnor police chief Neeraj Kumar Jadaun called on the local police to take action, soon after the video of the incident went viral. The local police identified the victims and lodged a First Information Report (FIR).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident had taken place in the Dhampur police station area where the cops later identified and detained those involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-teen-gets-his-father-killed-by-three-shooters-over-pocket-money-703708">UP teen gets his father killed by three shooters over pocket money</a></strong></p>

<p>“Holi is an auspicious festival. Do not harass anyone, do not put colour&nbsp;on people forcefully. Action will be taken against people found breaking the law,” said Bijnor Police senior officer Neeraj Jadaun, in a video statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police have arrested one person and detained three juveniles. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The police in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor, on Sunday (Mar 24) arrested one person and detained three minors after a video, which has since gone viral, showed a group of Holi revellers stopping a bike and forcefully applying colour and pouring water on a Muslim man and two women.

The police in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor, on Sunday (Mar 24) arrested one person and detained three minors after a video, which has since gone viral, showed a group of Holi revellers stopping a bike and forcefully applying colour and pouring water on a Muslim man and two women. What we know about the incident According to media reports, the incident occurred on Saturday (Mar 23) when a man and two women were on a bike on their way to the medical shop when they were surrounded by a group of youngsters. Subsequently, the Holi revellers were seen spraying water on the man and the two women. Amid protests by the trio, the group later poured buckets of water on them. Also Read | IIT student on way to join ISIS detained in India's Assam: Police The youngsters, in the nearly one-and-a-half-minute clip, were also seen forcibly applying colour on the man’s face and on one of the woman’s face. Eventually, the ordeal ends and the trio drives away as youngsters chant religious slogans at them. One arrested, three detained Bijnor police chief Neeraj Kumar Jadaun called on the local police to take action, soon after the video of the incident went viral. The local police identified the victims and lodged a First Information Report (FIR). The incident had taken place in the Dhampur police station area where the cops later identified and detained those involved. Also Read | UP teen gets his father killed by three shooters over pocket money “Holi is an auspicious festival. Do not harass anyone, do not put colour on people forcefully. Action will be taken against people found breaking the law,” said Bijnor Police senior officer Neeraj Jadaun, in a video statement. The police have arrested one person and detained three juveniles. (With inputs from agencies)

India: One arrested after Holi revellers put colour and harass man, two women in Bijnor

<p><strong>Lok Sabha Election 2024 Date, Schedule, Voting, and Result: </strong>As the countdown to India's general elections 2024 begins, each state is bracing itself for the democratic exercise. The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for elections state-wise on Saturday (Mar 16).&nbsp;Ahead of announcing the state-wise election dates, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar pointed out that the election body is committed to fostering a truly "festive" and democratic atmosphere across the nation. Notably, the term of the 17th Lok Sabha is set to conclude on June 16, 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Odisha are also ending in the same month.</p>

<p>Elections are also due in India's Jammu and Kashmir. Moreover, Rajiv Kumar provided statistics as well. He said that there are 970 million registered voters, 1.05 million polling stations, 15 million polling officials and security personnel, 5.5 million Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and 0.4 million vehicles involved in the electoral process.</p>

<h3><em><strong>Here's the Lok Sabha election schedule for these five states -&nbsp;&nbsp;Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal.&nbsp;</strong></em></h3>

<h2>Maharashtra Election 2024</h2>

<p>The polls in India's western state of Maharashtra will be conducted on five polling dates/phases. The state has a total of 48 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;The full date schedule is as follows - Voting on five seats will be done on April 19, eight seats will have April 26 as the polling date, 11 seats will vote&nbsp;on May 7, another 11 seats will go to poll&nbsp;on May 13, and 13 seats will witness casting of votes&nbsp;on May 20.</p>

<h2><strong>Karnataka Lok Sabha Election date 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in Karnataka in southwest India will be conducted in two phases. The state has a total of 28 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Election 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be conducted in seven phases.&nbsp; The state has a total of 80 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.</p>

<p><strong>Phase 1 voting:</strong> April 19: Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzzafarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Muradabad, Rampur, Pilibhit</p>

<p><strong>Phase 2 voting:</strong> April 26: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr (SC), Aligarh, Mathura</p>

<p><strong>Phase 3 voting:</strong> May 7: Sambhal, Hathras, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Etah, Badaun, Amla, Bareilly</p>

<p><strong>Phase 4 voting:</strong> May 13: Shahjahanpur (SC), Lakhimpur Kheri, Dhaurahara, Sitapur, Hardoi, Misrikh, Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur, Bahraich</p>

<p><strong>Phase 5 voting:</strong> May 20: &nbsp;Lucknow, Rae Bareli, Amethi</p>

<h2><strong>Gujarat Election 2024 Dates</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in the Western state of Gujarat will be conducted on a single polling date - May 7, 2024.&nbsp;The state has a total of 26 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>West Bengal Elections 2024 Date</strong></h2>

<p>Elections in India's eastern state will be conducted on seven polling dates.&nbsp;The state has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1.</p>

<p><img src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/indiatoday/styles/medium_crop_simple/public/2024-03/whatsapp_image_2024-03-16_at_4.00.24_pm.jpeg?VersionId=l7CsdoKNGLfoprUFltrCAj6NP3ZblT3f" /></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lok Sabha Election 2024 Date, Schedule, Voting, and Result: As the countdown to India's general elections 2024 begins, each state is bracing itself for the democratic exercise.

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Date, Schedule, Voting, and Result: As the countdown to India's general elections 2024 begins, each state is bracing itself for the democratic exercise. The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for elections state-wise on Saturday (Mar 16). Ahead of announcing the state-wise election dates, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar pointed out that the election body is committed to fostering a truly "festive" and democratic atmosphere across the nation. Notably, the term of the 17th Lok Sabha is set to conclude on June 16, 2024. The terms of the Legislative Assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Odisha are also ending in the same month. Elections are also due in India's Jammu and Kashmir. Moreover, Rajiv Kumar provided statistics as well. He said that there are 970 million registered voters, 1.05 million polling stations, 15 million polling officials and security personnel, 5.5 million Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and 0.4 million vehicles involved in the electoral process. Here's the Lok Sabha election schedule for these five states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal. Maharashtra Election 2024 The polls in India's western state of Maharashtra will be conducted on five polling dates/phases. The state has a total of 48 Lok Sabha seats. The full date schedule is as follows - Voting on five seats will be done on April 19, eight seats will have April 26 as the polling date, 11 seats will vote on May 7, another 11 seats will go to poll on May 13, and 13 seats will witness casting of votes on May 20. Karnataka Lok Sabha Election date 2024 Elections in Karnataka in southwest India will be conducted in two phases. The state has a total of 28 Lok Sabha seats. Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha Election 2024 Elections in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh will be conducted in seven phases. The state has a total of 80 Lok Sabha seats. The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. Phase 1 voting: April 19: Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzzafarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Muradabad, Rampur, Pilibhit Phase 2 voting: April 26: Amroha, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr (SC), Aligarh, Mathura Phase 3 voting: May 7: Sambhal, Hathras, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Etah, Badaun, Amla, Bareilly Phase 4 voting: May 13: Shahjahanpur (SC), Lakhimpur Kheri, Dhaurahara, Sitapur, Hardoi, Misrikh, Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur, Bahraich Phase 5 voting: May 20: Lucknow, Rae Bareli, Amethi Gujarat Election 2024 Dates Elections in the Western state of Gujarat will be conducted on a single polling date - May 7, 2024. The state has a total of 26 Lok Sabha seats. West Bengal Elections 2024 Date Elections in India's eastern state will be conducted on seven polling dates. The state has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats. The dates for the polls will be April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024 dates: Election phase, result dates for Maharashtra, Karnataka, UP, Gujarat, and WB

<p>The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday cancelled the recently held police constable recruitment examination following allegations of question paper leak and ordered a re-test within six months.</p>

<p>The state government also announced a probe into the allegations by the Special Task Force (STF).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-newly-enacted-laws-for-criminal-justice-systems-overhaul-to-come-into-effect-from-july-1-693518">India's newly-enacted laws for criminal justice system overhaul to come into effect from July 1</a></p>

<p>More than 48 lakh candidates appeared in the examination conducted on February 17 and 18 across the state.</p>

<p>In a post in Hindi on 'X', Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "There can be no compromise with the sanctity of examinations. Those who toy with the hard work of youngsters will not be spared under any circumstances. Strictest action is certain to be taken against such unruly elements."</p>

<p>More than 240 people were arrested and detained by police across Uttar Pradesh for allegedly adopting or planning to use unfair means in the recruitment exam.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haldwani-violence-uttarakhand-police-arrest-prime-accused-abdul-malik-from-delhi-693467">Haldwani violence: Uttarakhand police arrest prime accused Abdul Malik from Delhi</a></p>

<p>Announcing&nbsp;the decision, the state home department said, "On the basis of the information and facts pertaining to police recruitment examination held on February 17 and February 18, the government, while keeping in mind the highest standards of sanctity and transparency, has decided to cancel the examination."</p>

<p>"The government has directed the recruitment board to register an FIR at the level where laxity has been committed and ensure further action. The government has decided to get the matter probed by the STF. Directions have also been issued to take strictest action against the guilty persons and organisation," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>According to the statement, a re-examination will be conducted within six months and UPSRTC buses will ferry candidates to the centres for free.</p>


The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday cancelled the recently held police constable recruitment examination following allegations of question paper leak and ordered a re-test within six months.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday cancelled the recently held police constable recruitment examination following allegations of question paper leak and ordered a re-test within six months. The state government also announced a probe into the allegations by the Special Task Force (STF). Also read: India's newly-enacted laws for criminal justice system overhaul to come into effect from July 1 More than 48 lakh candidates appeared in the examination conducted on February 17 and 18 across the state. In a post in Hindi on 'X', Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "There can be no compromise with the sanctity of examinations. Those who toy with the hard work of youngsters will not be spared under any circumstances. Strictest action is certain to be taken against such unruly elements." More than 240 people were arrested and detained by police across Uttar Pradesh for allegedly adopting or planning to use unfair means in the recruitment exam. Also read: Haldwani violence: Uttarakhand police arrest prime accused Abdul Malik from Delhi Announcing the decision, the state home department said, "On the basis of the information and facts pertaining to police recruitment examination held on February 17 and February 18, the government, while keeping in mind the highest standards of sanctity and transparency, has decided to cancel the examination." "The government has directed the recruitment board to register an FIR at the level where laxity has been committed and ensure further action. The government has decided to get the matter probed by the STF. Directions have also been issued to take strictest action against the guilty persons and organisation," it said in a statement. According to the statement, a re-examination will be conducted within six months and UPSRTC buses will ferry candidates to the centres for free.

UP govt cancels police constable recruitment exam after paper leak accusations

<p>A farm tractor pulling a wagon loaded with devotees overturned and fell into a pond in northern India's Uttar Pradesh on Saturday (Feb 24), killing at least 24&nbsp;people, including seven children, officials said.</p>

<p>The wagon was carrying around 40 devotees on the way to take a ritual bath in the River Ganga when it veered off the road in Kasganj district of Uttar Pradesh state, police said.</p>

<p>Over a dozen others were injured, some seriously.</p>

<p>The accident occurred on Patiali Dariyavganj road in Kasganj on Saturday at around 10 am.</p>

<p>Locals immediately rushed to the spot to rescue the passengers, however, CMO Rajiv Aggarwal said that the accident killed at least 15 people.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | At least 15 people were killed after a tractor-trolley overturned in Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh. More details are awaited. <a href="https://t.co/quW8Gp9qCa">pic.twitter.com/quW8Gp9qCa</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1761292720448917625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announces compensation</strong></h2>

<p>Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a compensation of 2,412.86 USD each for the family members of the deceased and 603.22 USD for the ones who suffered injuries in the accident.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-mega-protest-farm-groups-to-observe-black-friday-today-692942">Farmers' protest: Indian farm groups observe 'Black Friday' after death of a farmer</a></p>

<p>"The loss of lives in a road accident in Kasganj district is extremely heart-wrenching. My condolences are with the bereaved family," Yogi wrote in a post on his official X handle.</p>

<p>"District administration officials have been instructed to provide proper free treatment to all the injured. I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant peace to the departed souls and speedy recovery to the injured," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">जनपद कासगंज में सड़क दुर्घटना में हुई जनहानि अत्यंत हृदय विदारक है। मेरी संवेदनाएं शोकाकुल परिजनों के साथ हैं।<br />
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जिला प्रशासन के अधिकारियों को सभी घायलों के समुचित निःशुल्क उपचार हेतु निर्देश दिए हैं।<br />
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प्रभु श्री राम से प्रार्थना है कि दिवंगत आत्माओं को शांति तथा घायलों को शीघ्र…</p>
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath/status/1761281186020937734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also condoled the demise of the victims and instructed authorities to provide medical assistance to the ones injured.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A farm tractor pulling a wagon loaded with devotees overturned and fell into a pond in northern India's Uttar Pradesh on Saturday (Feb 24), killing at least 24 people, including seven children, officials said.

A farm tractor pulling a wagon loaded with devotees overturned and fell into a pond in northern India's Uttar Pradesh on Saturday (Feb 24), killing at least 24 people, including seven children, officials said. The wagon was carrying around 40 devotees on the way to take a ritual bath in the River Ganga when it veered off the road in Kasganj district of Uttar Pradesh state, police said. Over a dozen others were injured, some seriously. The accident occurred on Patiali Dariyavganj road in Kasganj on Saturday at around 10 am. Locals immediately rushed to the spot to rescue the passengers, however, CMO Rajiv Aggarwal said that the accident killed at least 15 people. VIDEO | At least 15 people were killed after a tractor-trolley overturned in Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh. More details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/quW8Gp9qCa — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 24, 2024 × UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announces compensation Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a compensation of 2,412.86 USD each for the family members of the deceased and 603.22 USD for the ones who suffered injuries in the accident. Also read: Farmers' protest: Indian farm groups observe 'Black Friday' after death of a farmer "The loss of lives in a road accident in Kasganj district is extremely heart-wrenching. My condolences are with the bereaved family," Yogi wrote in a post on his official X handle. "District administration officials have been instructed to provide proper free treatment to all the injured. I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant peace to the departed souls and speedy recovery to the injured," he added. जनपद कासगंज में सड़क दुर्घटना में हुई जनहानि अत्यंत हृदय विदारक है। मेरी संवेदनाएं शोकाकुल परिजनों के साथ हैं। जिला प्रशासन के अधिकारियों को सभी घायलों के समुचित निःशुल्क उपचार हेतु निर्देश दिए हैं। प्रभु श्री राम से प्रार्थना है कि दिवंगत आत्माओं को शांति तथा घायलों को शीघ्र… — Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) February 24, 2024 × He also condoled the demise of the victims and instructed authorities to provide medical assistance to the ones injured. (With inputs from agencies)

Tractor trolley mishap claims lives of 24 in India's Uttar Pradesh, CM Yogi announces compensation

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 23) distributed prizes to the winners of Sansad Pratiyogita in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi.</p>

<p>The ceremony was held at Banaras Hindu University.</p>

<p>PM Modi, who is on a two-day visit to the city, also launched two books on Kashi during the event.</p>

<p>"A lot of development has taken place in Kashi in the last 10 years. Two books on complete information about Kashi have also been launched here today," the Indian prime minister said.</p>

<p>"The journey of development that Kashi has undertaken in the last 10 years, every stage of it and the culture here has also been described in this book," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi presents awards to the winners of Saansad Sanskrit Competition, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.<br />
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CM Yogi Adityanath is also present at the event. <a href="https://t.co/WmqyApdQu7">pic.twitter.com/WmqyApdQu7</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1760893646977605793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Further affirming that the young generation empowers Kashi, he said, "The Kashi which is called more ancient than the time itself, its identity is being empowered by the young generation responsibly. This scene satisfies my heart, makes me feel proud and also gives the confidence that the youth will take the country to new heights on Amrit Kaal."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes among students at BHU in Varanasi. Here, he presented awards to the winners of Saansad Sanskrit Competition and also addressed them. <a href="https://t.co/GdeWXSu6EW">pic.twitter.com/GdeWXSu6EW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1760907037494378931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Kashi witnessed 'Vikas ka Damru' playing in last 10 years, says PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi, during his address, affirmed that his constituency saw the development happening in the city during the last 10 years.</p>

<p>"Kashi is the capital of all knowledge, today that power and form of Kashi is emerging again. This is a matter of pride for the whole of India. We all are just instruments, the one who does it in Kashi is Mahadev. Wherever there are blessings of Mahadev, that earth becomes prosperous," PM Modi said while addressing a gathering at BHU in Varanasi.</p>

<p>"Right now, Mahadev is very happy. So with his blessings, in 10 years, Kashi saw the 'damru' of development playing in all directions," he added.</p>

<p>"People from all over the country and even from every corner of the world come to Kashi in search of knowledge, research and peace. People from every province, every language, every dialect, every custom have come and settled in Kashi," he said.</p>

<p>He asserted that India would experience accelerated development in the coming five years.</p>

<p>"In the next five years, the country will see a new pace of development. With this confidence, the country will create new patterns of success and this is Modi's guarantee," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>"Kashi is going to be beautified. Roads will be built, bridges will be built, buildings will also be built but here I have to beautify the people, beautify every heart and beautify it by becoming a servant, beautify it by becoming a companion," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modis-visit-to-west-bengal-includes-meeting-women-accusing-sexual-harassment-692768">Sandeshkhali row: PM Narendra Modi to visit West Bengal's Barasat, address women's rally</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi slams INDI alliance</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also launched an attack against the opposition coalition, INDIA bloc while addressing the gathering in Varanasi stating that the alliance works for their 'parivar' (family) and not the welfare of the poor.</p>

<p>"Today every Dalit and every backward person of the country has to keep one more thing in mind. In our country, the people of the INDI alliance, who believe in instigating and fighting in the name of caste, oppose the schemes for the benefit of Dalits and the deprived. In the name of the welfare of the poor, these people do politics for their family," PM Modi said.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi attends 647th birth anniversary event of Sant Ravidas</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi attended the 647th birth anniversary celebrations of Sant Guru Ravidas where he offered a floral tribute to the saint and also unveiled the statue of the Guru.</p>

<p>He was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a statue of Sant Ravidas at Varanasi today. He also visited Sant Guru Ravidas Janmasthali.<br />
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CM Yogi Adityanath also accompanied him. <a href="https://t.co/obk2JFcjNy">pic.twitter.com/obk2JFcjNy</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following this, he is also scheduled to visit Banas Kashi Sankul, which is a milk processing unit of Banaskantha District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd built at UPSIDA Agro Park, Karkhiyaon, Varanasi.</p>

<p>PM Modi will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 13,000 crore (156.53 USD) in Varanasi.</p>

<p>The projects related to tourism and spiritual tourism in Varanasi will include ten spiritual journeys along the Panchkoshi Parikrama Marg and the redevelopment of public facilities at five stops on the Pavan Path.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 23) distributed prizes to the winners of Sansad Pratiyogita in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi. The ceremony was held at Banaras Hindu University.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 23) distributed prizes to the winners of Sansad Pratiyogita in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi. The ceremony was held at Banaras Hindu University. PM Modi, who is on a two-day visit to the city, also launched two books on Kashi during the event. "A lot of development has taken place in Kashi in the last 10 years. Two books on complete information about Kashi have also been launched here today," the Indian prime minister said. "The journey of development that Kashi has undertaken in the last 10 years, every stage of it and the culture here has also been described in this book," he added. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi presents awards to the winners of Saansad Sanskrit Competition, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. CM Yogi Adityanath is also present at the event. pic.twitter.com/WmqyApdQu7 — ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2024 × Further affirming that the young generation empowers Kashi, he said, "The Kashi which is called more ancient than the time itself, its identity is being empowered by the young generation responsibly. This scene satisfies my heart, makes me feel proud and also gives the confidence that the youth will take the country to new heights on Amrit Kaal." #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes among students at BHU in Varanasi. Here, he presented awards to the winners of Saansad Sanskrit Competition and also addressed them. pic.twitter.com/GdeWXSu6EW — ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2024 × Kashi witnessed 'Vikas ka Damru' playing in last 10 years, says PM Modi PM Modi, during his address, affirmed that his constituency saw the development happening in the city during the last 10 years. "Kashi is the capital of all knowledge, today that power and form of Kashi is emerging again. This is a matter of pride for the whole of India. We all are just instruments, the one who does it in Kashi is Mahadev. Wherever there are blessings of Mahadev, that earth becomes prosperous," PM Modi said while addressing a gathering at BHU in Varanasi. "Right now, Mahadev is very happy. So with his blessings, in 10 years, Kashi saw the 'damru' of development playing in all directions," he added. "People from all over the country and even from every corner of the world come to Kashi in search of knowledge, research and peace. People from every province, every language, every dialect, every custom have come and settled in Kashi," he said. He asserted that India would experience accelerated development in the coming five years. "In the next five years, the country will see a new pace of development. With this confidence, the country will create new patterns of success and this is Modi's guarantee," PM Modi said. "Kashi is going to be beautified. Roads will be built, bridges will be built, buildings will also be built but here I have to beautify the people, beautify every heart and beautify it by becoming a servant, beautify it by becoming a companion," he added. Also read: Sandeshkhali row: PM Narendra Modi to visit West Bengal's Barasat, address women's rally PM Modi slams INDI alliance Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also launched an attack against the opposition coalition, INDIA bloc while addressing the gathering in Varanasi stating that the alliance works for their 'parivar' (family) and not the welfare of the poor. "Today every Dalit and every backward person of the country has to keep one more thing in mind. In our country, the people of the INDI alliance, who believe in instigating and fighting in the name of caste, oppose the schemes for the benefit of Dalits and the deprived. In the name of the welfare of the poor, these people do politics for their family," PM Modi said. PM Modi attends 647th birth anniversary event of Sant Ravidas PM Modi attended the 647th birth anniversary celebrations of Sant Guru Ravidas where he offered a floral tribute to the saint and also unveiled the statue of the Guru. He was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a statue of Sant Ravidas at Varanasi today. He also visited Sant Guru Ravidas Janmasthali. CM Yogi Adityanath also accompanied him. pic.twitter.com/obk2JFcjNy — ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2024 × Following this, he is also scheduled to visit Banas Kashi Sankul, which is a milk processing unit of Banaskantha District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd built at UPSIDA Agro Park, Karkhiyaon, Varanasi. PM Modi will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 13,000 crore (156.53 USD) in Varanasi. The projects related to tourism and spiritual tourism in Varanasi will include ten spiritual journeys along the Panchkoshi Parikrama Marg and the redevelopment of public facilities at five stops on the Pavan Path. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi, in Varanasi, says India will witness new pace of development in next five years

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi blasted the opposition Monday (Feb 19) while speaking at the fourth groundbreaking ceremony of UP Global Investors Summit (UPGIS)&nbsp;in Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state governed by his Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).</p>

<p>Modi said the state had moved on from the culture of red tape to laying the red carpet in the seven years of the ‘double-engine’ government.&nbsp;Speaking at the UP Global Investors Summit in Lucknow, the PM said the state used to witness riots and violence everywhere but now it was on the path of development.</p>

<p>"It has been 7 years since a double-engine government was formed in UP. In the last 7 years, the 'red tape culture' in the state has been ended and a 'red carpet culture' has been brought here. In the last 7 years, crime has reduced in UP and business culture has expanded," Modi said.</p>

<p>“In the last 7 years, an environment of business, development and trust has been formed in UP. The double-engine government has shown that if there is a true intention for change, nobody can stop it,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>14,000 projects launched</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi launched over 14,000 projects worth INR 10 trillion at the summit. The raft of projects comes&nbsp;ahead of India’s general elections in which the BJP has set the ambitious target of winning at least 370 seats.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Uttar Pradesh Police recruitment faces surge</strong></p>

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<p>Uttar Pradesh boasts 80 parliamentary seats, the highest number in any Indian state. The BJP won 64 seats here in the 2019 elections and is now eying to register a clean sweep under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a firebrand leader.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi lays the foundation of Kalki Dham temple</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi also participated in the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Hindu shrine, Kalki Dham, in Sambhal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2RgRX3zMkD7rW68sLVsZVF" data-ved="2ahUKEwiExMPIn7eEAxWuTWwGHYF8B7IQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tejashwi-yadav-takes-the-wheel-as-rahul-gandhi-drives-bihar-forward-in-bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra-690909" jsname="YKoRaf">India: Tejashwi Yadav takes the wheel as Rahul Gandhi drives forward Bihar leg of `Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra</a></strong></p>

<p>The ceremony was&nbsp;also attended by Yogi Adityanath and led by&nbsp;Acharya Pramod Krishnam, the chief of Shri Kalki Dham Nirman Trust. A number of saints, religious leaders, and other prominent figures also attend the event.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi is scheduled to visit his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, on February 24-25.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi blasted the opposition Monday (Feb 19) while speaking at the fourth groundbreaking ceremony of UP Global Investors Summit (UPGIS) in Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state governed by his Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi blasted the opposition Monday (Feb 19) while speaking at the fourth groundbreaking ceremony of UP Global Investors Summit (UPGIS) in Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state governed by his Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). Modi said the state had moved on from the culture of red tape to laying the red carpet in the seven years of the ‘double-engine’ government. Speaking at the UP Global Investors Summit in Lucknow, the PM said the state used to witness riots and violence everywhere but now it was on the path of development. "It has been 7 years since a double-engine government was formed in UP. In the last 7 years, the 'red tape culture' in the state has been ended and a 'red carpet culture' has been brought here. In the last 7 years, crime has reduced in UP and business culture has expanded," Modi said. “In the last 7 years, an environment of business, development and trust has been formed in UP. The double-engine government has shown that if there is a true intention for change, nobody can stop it,” he added. 14,000 projects launched Earlier in the day, PM Modi launched over 14,000 projects worth INR 10 trillion at the summit. The raft of projects comes ahead of India’s general elections in which the BJP has set the ambitious target of winning at least 370 seats. Watch: India: Uttar Pradesh Police recruitment faces surge × Uttar Pradesh boasts 80 parliamentary seats, the highest number in any Indian state. The BJP won 64 seats here in the 2019 elections and is now eying to register a clean sweep under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a firebrand leader. PM Modi lays the foundation of Kalki Dham temple PM Modi also participated in the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Hindu shrine, Kalki Dham, in Sambhal. Also read: India: Tejashwi Yadav takes the wheel as Rahul Gandhi drives forward Bihar leg of `Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra The ceremony was also attended by Yogi Adityanath and led by Acharya Pramod Krishnam, the chief of Shri Kalki Dham Nirman Trust. A number of saints, religious leaders, and other prominent figures also attend the event. Meanwhile, PM Modi is scheduled to visit his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, on February 24-25. (With inputs from agencies)

‘From red tape to red carpet:’ Indian PM blasts opposition while inaugurating 14,000 projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch 14000 projects worth more than Rs 10 Lakh Crore at the fourth ground breaking ceremony for investment proposals received during the UP Global Investors Summit 2024.

UP Global Investors Summit: Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, PM Modi's investment push

UP Global Investors Summit kicks off, PM Modi says 'UP replaced red tape with red carpet culture'

<p>BJP MP Satyapal Singh on Saturday (Feb 10) while speaking in Parliament called the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya a "historic".</p>

<p>Stating that Lord Ram is everywhere, Singh said that the construction&nbsp;of Ram Temple was not a "communal" issue.</p>

<p>"I am fortunate to get the opportunity to speak about the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram's idol&nbsp;on January 22. It is historic to see the Pran Pratishtha and offer prayers to Lord Ram at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya," he said while initiating the discussion on the consecration ceremony during the last session of the ongoing Budget session of Parliament ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Lord Ram is a source of inspiration, not a communal issue, says Singh</strong></h2>

<p>The BJP MP further said that Lord Ram was a source of inspiration for people and not a communal issue.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/white-paper-is-serious-document-says-nirmala-sitharaman-as-she-slams-opposition-in-lok-sabha-688798">'White Paper is serious document', says Nirmala Sitharaman as she slams opposition in Lok Sabha</a></p>

<p>"Ram is not a communal issue; Bhagwan Ram is a source of inspiration for us," he said, adding that "Ram was Maryada Purushottam (the man who is supreme in honour)."</p>

<p>"A discussion on Ram is also a blessing for all of us; Ram is a feeling for us..it is our legacy and heritage," the BJP MP said.</p>

<p>He then said "Ram is everywhere..."</p>

<p>Singh further&nbsp;slammed the previous Congress-led UPA government for filing an affidavit in the Supreme Court in 2007 at the time the Ram Setu project was taken up.</p>

<p>"In 2007, when the Ram Setu project was taken up, the UPA government filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court stating that there is no such person as Ram; it&nbsp;is a myth," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Jan 22 will be remembered as historic day:&nbsp;Amit Shah</strong></h2>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah while addressing Lok Sabha on the Ram Temple resolution said that January 22 would be remembered as a historic day for decades to come as it was when the "aspirations of Ram devotees were fulfilled."</p>

<p>"January 22 will be a historic day for the years to come...It was the day that fulfilled the hopes and aspirations of all Ram devotees," Shah said.&nbsp;It "was the beginning of great India...Those who imagine a country without Lord Ram do not know our country well and they represent the days of colonialism".</p>

<p>"No one can read the history of this country by ignoring the Ram Mandir movement. Since 1528, every generation has seen this movement in some form or the other. This matter remained stuck for a long time. This dream had to be fulfilled during the time of the Modi government," he added.</p>

<p>Saturday (Feb 10) will be the last session of the ongoing budget session of Parliament and also of the current Lok Sabha ahead of the general elections that are likely&nbsp;to take place in April-May 2024.</p>

<p>Earlier, the budget session was scheduled to conclude on Feb 9 but was extended by a day.</p>

<p>Rajya Sabha will also hold a short-duration discussion on the Ram Temple consecration ceremony held in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on Jan 22 and on the White Paper that was put out by the Modi government in the Parliament on Thursday (Feb 8).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


BJP MP Satyapal Singh on Saturday (Feb 10) while speaking in Parliament called the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya a "historic". Stating that Lord Ram is everywhere, Singh said that the construction of Ram Temple was not a "communal" issue.

BJP MP Satyapal Singh on Saturday (Feb 10) while speaking in Parliament called the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya a "historic". Stating that Lord Ram is everywhere, Singh said that the construction of Ram Temple was not a "communal" issue. "I am fortunate to get the opportunity to speak about the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram's idol on January 22. It is historic to see the Pran Pratishtha and offer prayers to Lord Ram at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya," he said while initiating the discussion on the consecration ceremony during the last session of the ongoing Budget session of Parliament ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Lord Ram is a source of inspiration, not a communal issue, says Singh The BJP MP further said that Lord Ram was a source of inspiration for people and not a communal issue. Also read: 'White Paper is serious document', says Nirmala Sitharaman as she slams opposition in Lok Sabha "Ram is not a communal issue; Bhagwan Ram is a source of inspiration for us," he said, adding that "Ram was Maryada Purushottam (the man who is supreme in honour)." "A discussion on Ram is also a blessing for all of us; Ram is a feeling for us..it is our legacy and heritage," the BJP MP said. He then said "Ram is everywhere..." Singh further slammed the previous Congress-led UPA government for filing an affidavit in the Supreme Court in 2007 at the time the Ram Setu project was taken up. "In 2007, when the Ram Setu project was taken up, the UPA government filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court stating that there is no such person as Ram; it is a myth," he said. Jan 22 will be remembered as historic day: Amit Shah Union Home Minister Amit Shah while addressing Lok Sabha on the Ram Temple resolution said that January 22 would be remembered as a historic day for decades to come as it was when the "aspirations of Ram devotees were fulfilled." "January 22 will be a historic day for the years to come...It was the day that fulfilled the hopes and aspirations of all Ram devotees," Shah said. It "was the beginning of great India...Those who imagine a country without Lord Ram do not know our country well and they represent the days of colonialism". "No one can read the history of this country by ignoring the Ram Mandir movement. Since 1528, every generation has seen this movement in some form or the other. This matter remained stuck for a long time. This dream had to be fulfilled during the time of the Modi government," he added. Saturday (Feb 10) will be the last session of the ongoing budget session of Parliament and also of the current Lok Sabha ahead of the general elections that are likely to take place in April-May 2024. Earlier, the budget session was scheduled to conclude on Feb 9 but was extended by a day. Rajya Sabha will also hold a short-duration discussion on the Ram Temple consecration ceremony held in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on Jan 22 and on the White Paper that was put out by the Modi government in the Parliament on Thursday (Feb 8). (With inputs from agencies)

India: Lok Sabha discusses Ram Temple, BJP MP says ‘Ram is everywhere’

The race to become the developer for the International Film City near the upcoming Noida Airport has narrowed down to four bidders, with T-Series, companies backed by Akshay Kumar, Boney Kapoor, and filmmaker K C Bokadia making it to the final round. Watch to know more!

India: Akshay Kumar, Boney Kapoor among final 4 bidders for development of Noida Film City

Tableau of Uttar Pradesh took part in the Republic Day parade. The theme of the tableau is based on 'Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat-Samradh Virasat'. Tableau's front symbolized the Pranpratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla.

India Republic Day Parade 2024: Tableau of Uttar Pradesh takes part in the parade

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