Every street in Ayodhya was seen illuminated with earthen lamps ahead of the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ram Temple on Wednesday. People also lit diyas on the banks of Saryu river as part of the `deepotsava` celebrations in the temple town which will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries arrive today for the `bhoomi pujan` ceremony of the Ram Temple. 
 
The entire Ayodhya has been decked up and massive preparations have been made for this occasion with a festive air.Earlier chief minister Yogi Adityanath had said that 11,000 diyas will be lit at Ram Ki Paidi on the banks of the Saryu river and that all houses and temples in Ayodhya will be celebrating with a `deepotsava` (festival of lights) on the nights of August 4 and 5. 
 
Adityanath burst firecrackers and lit earthen lamps at his official residence on in Lucknow as part of `deepotsava`.The construction work of Ram temple will begin after the foundation stone laying ceremony, in which dignitaries from various political and religious fields have been invited to participate.Apart from Ayodhya other cities in like Kanpur were also illuminated to celebrate the grand event.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-blog-ayodhya-gears-for-ram-temple-foundation-laying-ceremony-all-decked-up-318200">Live blog: Ayodhya gears for Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony</a> 
 
Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) workers light earthen lamps in the city, as part of `deepotsava`.Chief Minister`s residence in Uttarakhand will be decorated with 5100 diyas filled with Ghee on Wednesday evening to celebrate the occasion of the `bhoomi pujan` of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Uttrakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has said that Lord Ram Temple being built in Ayodhya is associated with "our belief". 
 
He also appealed to people in the state to light diyas at their homes on the occasion.Earthen lamps were lit at Ujjain`s Mahakaleshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh and in Punjab too people lit lamps as part of `deepotsava`.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-you-should-know-before-ram-mandir-bhoomi-puja-318075" hreflang="en">What you should know about Ram Temple groundbreaking ceremony</a> 
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform `pooja` at Hanumangarhi and Shree Ramlala Virajman before performing `bhoomi pujan` of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday, informed Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) on Tuesday.He will unveil a plaque to mark the laying of the foundation stone and also release Commemorative Postage Stamp on `Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir`.

Every street in Ayodhya was seen illuminated with earthen lamps ahead of the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ram Temple on Wednesday. People also lit diyas on the banks of Saryu river as part of the `deepotsava` celebrations in the temple town which will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries arrive today for the `bhoomi pujan` ceremony of the Ram Temple.

Every street in Ayodhya was seen illuminated with earthen lamps ahead of the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ram Temple on Wednesday. People also lit diyas on the banks of Saryu river as part of the `deepotsava` celebrations in the temple town which will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries arrive today for the `bhoomi pujan` ceremony of the Ram Temple. The entire Ayodhya has been decked up and massive preparations have been made for this occasion with a festive air.Earlier chief minister Yogi Adityanath had said that 11,000 diyas will be lit at Ram Ki Paidi on the banks of the Saryu river and that all houses and temples in Ayodhya will be celebrating with a `deepotsava` (festival of lights) on the nights of August 4 and 5. Adityanath burst firecrackers and lit earthen lamps at his official residence on in Lucknow as part of `deepotsava`.The construction work of Ram temple will begin after the foundation stone laying ceremony, in which dignitaries from various political and religious fields have been invited to participate.Apart from Ayodhya other cities in like Kanpur were also illuminated to celebrate the grand event. Also read: Live blog: Ayodhya gears for Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) workers light earthen lamps in the city, as part of `deepotsava`.Chief Minister`s residence in Uttarakhand will be decorated with 5100 diyas filled with Ghee on Wednesday evening to celebrate the occasion of the `bhoomi pujan` of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Uttrakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has said that Lord Ram Temple being built in Ayodhya is associated with "our belief". He also appealed to people in the state to light diyas at their homes on the occasion.Earthen lamps were lit at Ujjain`s Mahakaleshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh and in Punjab too people lit lamps as part of `deepotsava`. Also see: What you should know about Ram Temple groundbreaking ceremony Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform `pooja` at Hanumangarhi and Shree Ramlala Virajman before performing `bhoomi pujan` of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday, informed Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) on Tuesday.He will unveil a plaque to mark the laying of the foundation stone and also release Commemorative Postage Stamp on `Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir`.

Ayodhya lit up with earthen lamps ahead of Ram Temple's foundation stone laying ceremony

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his scheduled visit to Ayodhya trip on Sunday, following the demise of state minister for technical education Kamla Rani Varun.

Kamala Rani Varun, a legislator from Ghatampur Assembly segment, died after a prolonged illness. She had been hospitalised in the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS).

The Chief Minister was scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Sunday to review the preparations and security arrangements being made for the 'bhumi pujan' of the Ram temple which is going to be held on August 5.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-decked-up-ahead-of-august-5-ram-temple-bhoomi-pujan-up-cm-to-visit-on-sunday-317559">Also read |&nbsp;Ayodhya decked up ahead of August 5 Ram temple 'bhoomi pujan', UP CM to visit on Sunday</a>

The 'bhumi pujan' ceremony will take place around noon on August 5 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to participate in the function.

Meanwhile, the preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing.&nbsp;

On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights.&nbsp;

'Akhand Ramayana Path' will be held in other holy cities including Mathura, Kashi, Prayagraj, Naimisharanya, Gorakhpur and Chitrakoot.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his scheduled visit to Ayodhya trip on Sunday, following the demise of state minister for technical education Kamla Rani Varun.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his scheduled visit to Ayodhya trip on Sunday, following the demise of state minister for technical education Kamla Rani Varun. Kamala Rani Varun, a legislator from Ghatampur Assembly segment, died after a prolonged illness. She had been hospitalised in the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS). The Chief Minister was scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Sunday to review the preparations and security arrangements being made for the 'bhumi pujan' of the Ram temple which is going to be held on August 5. Also read | Ayodhya decked up ahead of August 5 Ram temple 'bhoomi pujan', UP CM to visit on Sunday The 'bhumi pujan' ceremony will take place around noon on August 5 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to participate in the function. Meanwhile, the preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing. On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights. 'Akhand Ramayana Path' will be held in other holy cities including Mathura, Kashi, Prayagraj, Naimisharanya, Gorakhpur and Chitrakoot.

UP minister dies, CM Adityanath cancels visit to Ayodhya

As many as 2,300 people have tested positive for coronavirus infection on Wednesday in the largest single-day rise in cases till date in Uttar Pradesh, while 34 died of the disease in the last 24 hours.

With this, the death toll rose to 1,263, while the total number of cases reported in the state so far climbed to 55,588. The state had reported 53,288 COVID-19 cases till Tuesday.

Additional Chief Secretary (Medical and Health) Amit Mohan Prasad, however, said the count of new cases in the state was 2,308.

Of the 34 fresh deaths, five were reported from Lucknow, four from Kanpur and three from Gorakhpur. Two deaths each were reported from Meerut, Moradabad, Prayagraj, Sultanpur, Jhansi and Mirzapur.

Agra, Jaunpur, Basti, Barabanki, Aligarh, Bareilly, Pilibhit, Ballia, Badaun and Kasganj reported one death each.

Prasad said the number of active COVID-19 cases in the state stood at 20,825. "As many as 1,263 COVID-19 patients have died in the state," he said, adding 33,500 COVID-19 patients have been cured and discharged so far.

In total, 16 lakh samples have been examined for COVID-19 with 45,650 of them being tested on Tuesday, Prasad said.

As many as 2,300 people have tested positive for coronavirus infection on Wednesday in the largest single-day rise in cases till date in Uttar Pradesh, while 34 died of the disease in the last 24 hours.

As many as 2,300 people have tested positive for coronavirus infection on Wednesday in the largest single-day rise in cases till date in Uttar Pradesh, while 34 died of the disease in the last 24 hours. With this, the death toll rose to 1,263, while the total number of cases reported in the state so far climbed to 55,588. The state had reported 53,288 COVID-19 cases till Tuesday. Additional Chief Secretary (Medical and Health) Amit Mohan Prasad, however, said the count of new cases in the state was 2,308. Of the 34 fresh deaths, five were reported from Lucknow, four from Kanpur and three from Gorakhpur. Two deaths each were reported from Meerut, Moradabad, Prayagraj, Sultanpur, Jhansi and Mirzapur. Agra, Jaunpur, Basti, Barabanki, Aligarh, Bareilly, Pilibhit, Ballia, Badaun and Kasganj reported one death each. Prasad said the number of active COVID-19 cases in the state stood at 20,825. "As many as 1,263 COVID-19 patients have died in the state," he said, adding 33,500 COVID-19 patients have been cured and discharged so far. In total, 16 lakh samples have been examined for COVID-19 with 45,650 of them being tested on Tuesday, Prasad said.

COVID-19 tally in UP reaches 55,588 with record single-day rise in cases; death toll climbs to 1,263

The construction of the Ram temple here is likely to start next month and the temple trust president has sent an invite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grace the occasion of its foundation stone laying ceremony, said Ayodhya seers on Thursday.

A tentative programme for the construction of the temple is likely to be decided in the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust here on Saturday, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-trust-members-set-to-meet-on-july-18-in-ayodhya-310656">Ram temple trust members set to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya</a>

"Trust's president Nritya Gopal Das has sent a letter to the prime minister, inviting him to conduct the Bhumi Pujan of Ram Mandir on the occasion of its foundation laying ceremony,"&nbsp;said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, the official spokesperson of the Trust president.

There is, however, no clarity as of now on prime minister's presence on the occasion, he said, adding a clearer picture is likely to emerge after the July 18 meeting.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat too is expected to be present during the Bhumi Pujan, he said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi's former principal secretary Nripendra Mishra, also the chairman of the construction committee of the temple trust, visited Ayodhya on Thursday along with BSF's former director general KK Sharma, the security adviser of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, and met various members of the Ram Temple Trust, set up as per the directions of the apex court.

The meeting was held in the presence of various local authorities at the Circuit House here and attended by trust secretary Champat Rai and members Anil Mishra and Bimlendra Mishra among others.

Trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das and member Mahant Dinendra Das, who live in Ayodhya itself, however, were not present in the meeting.&nbsp;

The construction of the Ram temple here is likely to start next month and the temple trust president has sent an invite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grace the occasion of its foundation stone laying ceremony, said Ayodhya seers on Thursday.

The construction of the Ram temple here is likely to start next month and the temple trust president has sent an invite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grace the occasion of its foundation stone laying ceremony, said Ayodhya seers on Thursday. A tentative programme for the construction of the temple is likely to be decided in the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust here on Saturday, they said. Also read | Ram temple trust members set to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya "Trust's president Nritya Gopal Das has sent a letter to the prime minister, inviting him to conduct the Bhumi Pujan of Ram Mandir on the occasion of its foundation laying ceremony," said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, the official spokesperson of the Trust president. There is, however, no clarity as of now on prime minister's presence on the occasion, he said, adding a clearer picture is likely to emerge after the July 18 meeting. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat too is expected to be present during the Bhumi Pujan, he said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi's former principal secretary Nripendra Mishra, also the chairman of the construction committee of the temple trust, visited Ayodhya on Thursday along with BSF's former director general KK Sharma, the security adviser of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, and met various members of the Ram Temple Trust, set up as per the directions of the apex court. The meeting was held in the presence of various local authorities at the Circuit House here and attended by trust secretary Champat Rai and members Anil Mishra and Bimlendra Mishra among others. Trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das and member Mahant Dinendra Das, who live in Ayodhya itself, however, were not present in the meeting.

Ram temple construction likely to start next month: Trust chief's spokesperson

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a one-member commission to investigate the Vikas Dubey encounter case, officials said on Sunday.

Retired Justice SK Aggarwal is part of this one-member commission with its headquarters in Kanpur.

The commission will have to submit its report within two&nbsp;months.

Earlier in the day, a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is formed to investigate cases related to Dubey reached Bikru village in Kanpur.

The SIT headed by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy will have to submit its report by July 31.

Dubey was arrested by the police in Ujjain on Thursday morning. He was on the run and had come to the city to offer prayers at a temple, where he was identified by a security guard.

He was killed in an encounter by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday after he "attempted to flee".

The gangster was the main accused in the encounter that took place in Bikru village in Chaubeypur area of Kanpur in which a group of assailants opened fire on a police team, which had gone to arrest him. Eight police personnel were killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a one-member commission to investigate the Vikas Dubey encounter case, officials said on Sunday. Retired Justice SK Aggarwal is part of this one-member commission with its headquarters in Kanpur.

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a one-member commission to investigate the Vikas Dubey encounter case, officials said on Sunday. Retired Justice SK Aggarwal is part of this one-member commission with its headquarters in Kanpur. The commission will have to submit its report within two months. Earlier in the day, a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is formed to investigate cases related to Dubey reached Bikru village in Kanpur. The SIT headed by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Bhoosreddy will have to submit its report by July 31. Dubey was arrested by the police in Ujjain on Thursday morning. He was on the run and had come to the city to offer prayers at a temple, where he was identified by a security guard. He was killed in an encounter by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday after he "attempted to flee". The gangster was the main accused in the encounter that took place in Bikru village in Chaubeypur area of Kanpur in which a group of assailants opened fire on a police team, which had gone to arrest him. Eight police personnel were killed in the encounter.

Vikas Dubey's encounter: UP govt constitutes one-member commission

The news that hit not just national but international headlines too was the story of Indian gangster Vikas Dubey, who was killed in an encounter earlier today.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Multiple theories are being floated on his encounter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/how-dreaded-gangster-vikas-dubey-survived-in-uttar-pradesh-for-so-long-312230">How dreaded gangster Vikas Dubey survived in Uttar Pradesh for so long?</a>

A video went viral since yesterday, moments after Vikas Dubey was arrested at a temple in the central Indian city of Ujjain.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-rise-and-fall-of-vikas-dubey-a-gangster-with-strong-links-in-up-political-circle-312214">The rise and fall of Vikas Dubey: A gangster with strong links in UP political circle</a>

"I am Vikas Dubey from Kanpur," he said while shouting at the police who surrounded him.&nbsp;

Was he warning the cops of the consequences of arresting him or making sure, they cannot build a case of mistaken identity?&nbsp;

As many as 62 criminal cases were registered against him, which included five murder cases and eight cases of attempted murder.&nbsp;

The arrest yesterday meant Dubey likely to get life imprisonment, if not a death sentence.&nbsp;

However, Dubey did not look particularly scared perhaps he knew he can break out.&nbsp;

On searching Dubey's history, we found that Dubey comes from a village in Kanpur and is a gangster for more than 30 years.&nbsp;

He was involved in real-estate business and even won district-level elections in 2000.&nbsp;

Dubey received immense political backing and has been linked with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP).&nbsp;

A few days ago, eight cops who were involved in an operation to arrest this gangster were killed, which led to nationwide anger to bring Dubey to justice.&nbsp;

However, his encounter was not as simple as it appears as his arrest could open a pandora's box, which could reveal the secrets of political leaders.&nbsp;

A lot of political careers could be destroyed if Dubey opened up his mouth during interrogation.&nbsp;

Also, the justice system in India is well-known for its delayed justice. There are about 30 million pending cases in district courts, nearly 4.7 million in several high courts, and about 60,000 in the apex court.&nbsp;

Experts said Dubey's encounter was imminent as it solves the problem of outing leaders. It also silences the public who demanded justice.&nbsp;

The only surprise was the timing of the encounter. No one thought of the police closing the case this quick.&nbsp;

A lot of Indians celebrated the gangster's death.&nbsp;

In December 2019, all four accused of the gangrape of a woman doctor were killed in an encounter.&nbsp;

This Hyderabad gangrape incident also led to widespread anger in the country.&nbsp;

Following the encounter, there were mixed reactions.&nbsp;

Some clicked selfies with the dead bodies, others called the encounter a cover-up.&nbsp;

It is clear that nothing has changed eight months later and change will be unlikely until we address the glorification of encounters in India.&nbsp;

The biggest takeaway from Dubey's encounter was that it is a commentary on the Indian justice system and how it has moulded people's attitudes towards encounters.&nbsp;

People would rather have the gangster dead than wait for infinite years for courts to deliver justice.&nbsp;

For the unversed, India's conviction rate is 48.8 per cent, according to the 2017 official figures.&nbsp;

Encounters lost out on the bigger story. One alleged criminal is dead but a larger nexus is alive.

The politicians who gave patronage to Dubey, who were in cahoots are roaming free.&nbsp;

Another Dubey can rise with time and this is no evil prophecy but India's bitter truth.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The news that hit not just national but international headlines too was the story of Indian gangster Vikas Dubey, who was killed in an encounter earlier today. Multiple theories are being floated on his encounter.

The news that hit not just national but international headlines too was the story of Indian gangster Vikas Dubey, who was killed in an encounter earlier today. Multiple theories are being floated on his encounter. Also read | How dreaded gangster Vikas Dubey survived in Uttar Pradesh for so long? A video went viral since yesterday, moments after Vikas Dubey was arrested at a temple in the central Indian city of Ujjain. Also read | The rise and fall of Vikas Dubey: A gangster with strong links in UP political circle "I am Vikas Dubey from Kanpur," he said while shouting at the police who surrounded him. Was he warning the cops of the consequences of arresting him or making sure, they cannot build a case of mistaken identity? As many as 62 criminal cases were registered against him, which included five murder cases and eight cases of attempted murder. The arrest yesterday meant Dubey likely to get life imprisonment, if not a death sentence. However, Dubey did not look particularly scared perhaps he knew he can break out. On searching Dubey's history, we found that Dubey comes from a village in Kanpur and is a gangster for more than 30 years. He was involved in real-estate business and even won district-level elections in 2000. Dubey received immense political backing and has been linked with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP). A few days ago, eight cops who were involved in an operation to arrest this gangster were killed, which led to nationwide anger to bring Dubey to justice. However, his encounter was not as simple as it appears as his arrest could open a pandora's box, which could reveal the secrets of political leaders. A lot of political careers could be destroyed if Dubey opened up his mouth during interrogation. Also, the justice system in India is well-known for its delayed justice. There are about 30 million pending cases in district courts, nearly 4.7 million in several high courts, and about 60,000 in the apex court. Experts said Dubey's encounter was imminent as it solves the problem of outing leaders. It also silences the public who demanded justice. The only surprise was the timing of the encounter. No one thought of the police closing the case this quick. A lot of Indians celebrated the gangster's death. In December 2019, all four accused of the gangrape of a woman doctor were killed in an encounter. This Hyderabad gangrape incident also led to widespread anger in the country. Following the encounter, there were mixed reactions. Some clicked selfies with the dead bodies, others called the encounter a cover-up. It is clear that nothing has changed eight months later and change will be unlikely until we address the glorification of encounters in India. The biggest takeaway from Dubey's encounter was that it is a commentary on the Indian justice system and how it has moulded people's attitudes towards encounters. People would rather have the gangster dead than wait for infinite years for courts to deliver justice. For the unversed, India's conviction rate is 48.8 per cent, according to the 2017 official figures. Encounters lost out on the bigger story. One alleged criminal is dead but a larger nexus is alive. The politicians who gave patronage to Dubey, who were in cahoots are roaming free. Another Dubey can rise with time and this is no evil prophecy but India's bitter truth.

Decoding the biggest takeaway from Vikas Dubey encounter

Vikas Dubey’s encounter and subsequent hunting down of his gang is being celebrated in public as an act of justice, however, it actually demonstrates a deep rot which has set in the Indian policing system. It demonstrates that political establishment has failed in holding constitutional values and not allowing various arms of the government to do its job properly.

Encounter, in a democratic set-up, can be the easiest job to be done. But what actually matters is - how Vikas Dubey became so big in Uttar Pradesh? Who gave Vikas Dubey political protection? Why couldn’t police act against Vikas Dubey till he brutally killed policemen in broad daylight? And when it became a question of honour for the police and politicians realised that cops wouldn’t listen to them, then one by one every man of his gang was gunned down. There was no doubt when Vikas Dubey was captured from Ujjain that he would not live for long. Questions were being asked as to where he would be gunned down.

Uttar Pradesh police were under tremendous pressure to send the message across that if criminals try to touch their own then they would be hunted down one by one. All happened as per the script. Now the dreaded gangster is dead, questions should be asked about what made him so big? Which politician supported a criminal on caste line? How was he able to politically flirt for long and how was he able to circumvent the official policing structure and intelligence community of Uttar Pradesh? The truth of the encounter is irrelevant to the larger issue of law and order.

The success of the state lies in managing the police and judicial system whereby a criminal is made to serve his time behind the bar. Even if he is sentenced to death, it must come from the court of law. Encounters represent a failure of the normal process of law. Time and again, the Indian state has failed to address this issue. Encounters were first deployed against organised crime, mafia and subsequently against terrorism. Now encounter is being used to protect one’s own image in public.

The best example which comes to my mind is that of the brutal rape and subsequent burning of a woman near Hyderabad. The men were gunned down. Police overnight became heroes, but no one was made accountable for making the victim’s family run from one police station to another when the girl went missing.

Vikas Dubey is a similar case but of a different dimension. He is a reflection of corroded policing in Uttar Pradesh which has been compromised by politicians on the lines of caste and religion. There is no doubt that criminals must be hunted down but should be done within the confines of the law. Criminals should not be hunted down when it becomes a matter of honour for the police. Vikas Dubey was gunned not because of his ugly crimes. He was gunned down because he crossed a line with the police. His encounter cannot be treated as a chip on the shoulder, but a reflection of how political patronage has allowed criminals to flourish in civil society and politics with great impunity in Uttar Pradesh.

Indian policing system has failed to evolve as a system which nibs crime in the bud. It works episodically. There are many good officers, but till criminals are allowed free space in politics, stories of Vikas Dubey will continue to emerge. Men like Vikas Dubey reflect dark underbelly of the India state and the current saga must be food for thought for our lawmakers.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Vikas Dubey’s encounter and subsequent hunting down of his gang is being celebrated in public as an act of justice, however, it actually demonstrates a deep rot which has set in the Indian policing system.

Vikas Dubey’s encounter and subsequent hunting down of his gang is being celebrated in public as an act of justice, however, it actually demonstrates a deep rot which has set in the Indian policing system. It demonstrates that political establishment has failed in holding constitutional values and not allowing various arms of the government to do its job properly. Encounter, in a democratic set-up, can be the easiest job to be done. But what actually matters is - how Vikas Dubey became so big in Uttar Pradesh? Who gave Vikas Dubey political protection? Why couldn’t police act against Vikas Dubey till he brutally killed policemen in broad daylight? And when it became a question of honour for the police and politicians realised that cops wouldn’t listen to them, then one by one every man of his gang was gunned down. There was no doubt when Vikas Dubey was captured from Ujjain that he would not live for long. Questions were being asked as to where he would be gunned down. Uttar Pradesh police were under tremendous pressure to send the message across that if criminals try to touch their own then they would be hunted down one by one. All happened as per the script. Now the dreaded gangster is dead, questions should be asked about what made him so big? Which politician supported a criminal on caste line? How was he able to politically flirt for long and how was he able to circumvent the official policing structure and intelligence community of Uttar Pradesh? The truth of the encounter is irrelevant to the larger issue of law and order. The success of the state lies in managing the police and judicial system whereby a criminal is made to serve his time behind the bar. Even if he is sentenced to death, it must come from the court of law. Encounters represent a failure of the normal process of law. Time and again, the Indian state has failed to address this issue. Encounters were first deployed against organised crime, mafia and subsequently against terrorism. Now encounter is being used to protect one’s own image in public. The best example which comes to my mind is that of the brutal rape and subsequent burning of a woman near Hyderabad. The men were gunned down. Police overnight became heroes, but no one was made accountable for making the victim’s family run from one police station to another when the girl went missing. Vikas Dubey is a similar case but of a different dimension. He is a reflection of corroded policing in Uttar Pradesh which has been compromised by politicians on the lines of caste and religion. There is no doubt that criminals must be hunted down but should be done within the confines of the law. Criminals should not be hunted down when it becomes a matter of honour for the police. Vikas Dubey was gunned not because of his ugly crimes. He was gunned down because he crossed a line with the police. His encounter cannot be treated as a chip on the shoulder, but a reflection of how political patronage has allowed criminals to flourish in civil society and politics with great impunity in Uttar Pradesh. Indian policing system has failed to evolve as a system which nibs crime in the bud. It works episodically. There are many good officers, but till criminals are allowed free space in politics, stories of Vikas Dubey will continue to emerge. Men like Vikas Dubey reflect dark underbelly of the India state and the current saga must be food for thought for our lawmakers. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How dreaded gangster Vikas Dubey survived in Uttar Pradesh for so long?

The&nbsp;The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked&nbsp;the&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and DGP to open an investigation into the candle factory fire incident that took place on Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

The commission has asked the officials to prepare a detailed on the fire within four weeks as the factory was apparently illegal.&nbsp;

"It is necessary for the local administration to fix the responsibility of the concerned officer and start departmental/ criminal proceedings against them, immediately to ensure justice to the victims and their families," NHRC said in its notice.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/candle-factory-caught-on-fire-in-ghaziabad-seven-dead-four-injured-310936">Also read|&nbsp;Candle factory caught on fire in Ghaziabad; seven dead, four injured</a>

Calling it a case of human rights violation, the commission has asked the officials to provide details on the action taken against the owner of the illegal factory, the cause of the fire and the financial aid provided to the victims.

The commission said that as per the news report, once a police team had conducted a raid at the alleged illegal factory but no action was taken by them. The factory had been operating for the past one and a half years.

Ghaziabad District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey on Sunday had said a magisterial inquiry has been ordered in candle factory fire incident in Ghaziabad and an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased.

Free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid will be provided to the injured, he had added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and DGP to open an investigation into the candle factory fire incident that took place on Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

The The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and DGP to open an investigation into the candle factory fire incident that took place on Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. The commission has asked the officials to prepare a detailed on the fire within four weeks as the factory was apparently illegal. "It is necessary for the local administration to fix the responsibility of the concerned officer and start departmental/ criminal proceedings against them, immediately to ensure justice to the victims and their families," NHRC said in its notice. Also read| Candle factory caught on fire in Ghaziabad; seven dead, four injured Calling it a case of human rights violation, the commission has asked the officials to provide details on the action taken against the owner of the illegal factory, the cause of the fire and the financial aid provided to the victims. The commission said that as per the news report, once a police team had conducted a raid at the alleged illegal factory but no action was taken by them. The factory had been operating for the past one and a half years. Ghaziabad District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey on Sunday had said a magisterial inquiry has been ordered in candle factory fire incident in Ghaziabad and an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased. Free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid will be provided to the injured, he had added. (With inputs from agencies)

This is human rights violation: NHRC orders investigation in Ghaziabad factory fire

A candle factory caught fire on late Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. which has injured several workers.

The cause of the fire is yet not clear. District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey has now ordered a magisterial investigation for the factory.

He also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased. The victims will also be given free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid, as per the official orders.

"A magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the matter. An ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased. Free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid will be provided to injured," Ghaziabad District Magistrate said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief and condolences for the people who lost their lives in this fire. He&nbsp;directed District Magistrate (DM) and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to reach the spot of the incident and plan aids for the victims.

As of now, seven people have lost their lives and at least four people have been injured in the explosion.

(With inputs from agencies)

A candle factory caught fire on late Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. which has injured several workers. The cause of the fire is yet not clear. District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey has now ordered a magisterial investigation for the factory.

A candle factory caught fire on late Sunday evening in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. which has injured several workers. The cause of the fire is yet not clear. District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey has now ordered a magisterial investigation for the factory. He also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased. The victims will also be given free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid, as per the official orders. "A magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the matter. An ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each will be provided to the kin of the deceased. Free treatment and Rs 50,000 each as financial aid will be provided to injured," Ghaziabad District Magistrate said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief and condolences for the people who lost their lives in this fire. He directed District Magistrate (DM) and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to reach the spot of the incident and plan aids for the victims. As of now, seven people have lost their lives and at least four people have been injured in the explosion. (With inputs from agencies)

Candle factory caught on fire in Ghaziabad; seven dead, four injured

Twelve people were arrested for allegedly thrashing Dalits in Sikandarpur Aima village under Maharajganj Police Station here, police said on Saturday.

Action is being initiated against them under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), a senior officer said, adding that the SHO of Maharajganj Police Station, Arvind Pandey, was suspended for laxity in duty.

Under NSA, a person can be detained without a charge for up to 12 months if authorities are satisfied that they are a threat to national security or law and order.

On Wednesday evening, some local Muslims had allegedly molested Dalit girls near the village tubewell, police said.

"When residents of the Dalit locality resisted, they were attacked with sharp-edged weapons and sticks. In the police complaint, 9 people were named while 10 were unidentified,? Superintendent of Police of Azamgarh, Triveni Singh said.

Of them, 12 have been arrested and action is being initiated against them under the NSA,&nbsp;Singh added.

A cash reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced for information on the absconding accused, he said.

Twelve people were arrested for allegedly thrashing Dalits in Sikandarpur Aima village under Maharajganj Police Station here, police said on Saturday. Action is being initiated against them under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), a senior officer said, adding that the SHO of Maharajganj Police Station, Arvind Pandey, was suspended for laxity in duty.

Twelve people were arrested for allegedly thrashing Dalits in Sikandarpur Aima village under Maharajganj Police Station here, police said on Saturday. Action is being initiated against them under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), a senior officer said, adding that the SHO of Maharajganj Police Station, Arvind Pandey, was suspended for laxity in duty. Under NSA, a person can be detained without a charge for up to 12 months if authorities are satisfied that they are a threat to national security or law and order. On Wednesday evening, some local Muslims had allegedly molested Dalit girls near the village tubewell, police said. "When residents of the Dalit locality resisted, they were attacked with sharp-edged weapons and sticks. In the police complaint, 9 people were named while 10 were unidentified,? Superintendent of Police of Azamgarh, Triveni Singh said. Of them, 12 have been arrested and action is being initiated against them under the NSA, Singh added. A cash reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced for information on the absconding accused, he said.

12 held for thrashing Dalits in Uttar Pradesh village

Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli has yet again accused India of border trespassing. He said in the Parliament that India has put forces in Nepal's territory. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: India has put forces in Nepal's territory

NEW DELHI:&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Tuesday directed the Uttar Pradesh government not to fill up all the 69,000 posts of assistant basic teachers and instead keep 37,339 posts vacant, which are currently held by Shiksha Mitras.

The top court said it had directed the state government on May 21 that the services of all the Siksha Mitras, presently working on the post of assistant teachers, shall not be disturbed.

A bench of Justices M M Shantangoudar and Vineet Saran said that despite the order it is, prima facie, borne out from the records now produced that the State Government is proceeding with the selection to fill up all the posts.

Such process to be adopted by the State Government shall not be permitted in view of the interim order passed by this Court on May 21, 2020.

The top court was hearing a batch of petitions challenging various orders of the high court and the government on the issue of appointment of assistant basic teachers.

Counsel for petitioners pointed out that it was not disputed by any party that 37,339 persons, who are currently working as Shiksha Mitras, have appeared for the examination of assistant basic teachers.

In view of the same, it is open for the State Government to fill up the remaining posts of assistant teachers other than 37,339. In other words, 37,339 posts of assistant teachers shall be kept vacant. Other posts can be filled up, the bench said and posted the matter for further hearing on July 14.

Appointment of assistant basic teachers in Uttar Pradesh has seen several rounds of litigations from High Court to Supreme Court.

It is second round of litigation in the top court.

On June 3, the Allahabad High Court, while hearing pleas of several unsuccessful candidates, had stayed the appointment of 69,000 assistant basic teachers in the state, holding that there has been an 'error' in the evaluation of question paper.

The top court on May 21, had issued notice and sought state government's reply on a batch of pleas challenging the May 6 verdict of the Allahabad High Court which upheld the state's decision to keep higher cut-off marks for the appointment of 69,000 assistant basic teachers.

It had said that pending notice, the services of all Shiksha Mitras who are presently holding their posts as assistant teachers shall not be disturbed.

The top court had, however, allowed the state government to fill up the remaining posts of assistant teachers by taking resort to the present selection process.

It had asked the state government to explain through a chart detailing the vacancies and the chronology of events in the process which was undertaken for the appointments.

The bench had asked the UP government to submit the details as how many Shiksha Mitras are presently working in the State and how many Shiksha Mitras appeared in the instant selection process.

It had sought to know how many Shiksha Mitras secured more than 45 per cent marks in General Category or more than 40 per cent marks in reserved category; and the roll numbers of Shiksha Mitras who have secured more than 45 per cent or 40 per cent marks.

The top court had asked the Uttar Pradesh government to explain as to why it changed the earlier criteria of 45 per cent cut-off marks for the general category and 40 per cent for the reserved category.

Several petitions, including those by individuals and Uttar Pradesh Prathmik Shiksha Mitra Association, have been filed challenging the May 6 decision of the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court.

The high court's final verdict of May 6 this year had paved the way for completing the process for appointment of 69,000 assistant basic teachers in Uttar Pradesh.

It had directed the state government to complete the process of appointment within the next three months.

The process is almost already complete on the strength of the interim directions of the division bench issued on May 29, last year and only result is to be declared finally.

The division bench has set aside the single bench order that had quashed the government order by which it had fixed the criteria of 65 per cent qualifying marks for general category candidates and 60 percent for reserved category candidates for appointment as a basic teacher.

The single bench had said that the minimum cut-off marks would be 45 per cent for general and 40 per cent for reserved candidates.

On July 25, 2017, the top court had asked the state government to cancel the recruitment of 1,37, 517 teachers on the post of TET Assistant Teacher but gave them the benefit of experience in two recruitment process.

Six months later, on January 17, 2018, the government had issued the order for the written examination for the assistant teachers' posts for the first time to hire 69,000 teachers.

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court Tuesday directed the Uttar Pradesh government not to fill up all the 69,000 posts of assistant basic teachers and instead keep 37,339 posts vacant, which are currently held by Shiksha Mitras.

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court Tuesday directed the Uttar Pradesh government not to fill up all the 69,000 posts of assistant basic teachers and instead keep 37,339 posts vacant, which are currently held by Shiksha Mitras. The top court said it had directed the state government on May 21 that the services of all the Siksha Mitras, presently working on the post of assistant teachers, shall not be disturbed. A bench of Justices M M Shantangoudar and Vineet Saran said that despite the order it is, prima facie, borne out from the records now produced that the State Government is proceeding with the selection to fill up all the posts. Such process to be adopted by the State Government shall not be permitted in view of the interim order passed by this Court on May 21, 2020. The top court was hearing a batch of petitions challenging various orders of the high court and the government on the issue of appointment of assistant basic teachers. Counsel for petitioners pointed out that it was not disputed by any party that 37,339 persons, who are currently working as Shiksha Mitras, have appeared for the examination of assistant basic teachers. In view of the same, it is open for the State Government to fill up the remaining posts of assistant teachers other than 37,339. In other words, 37,339 posts of assistant teachers shall be kept vacant. Other posts can be filled up, the bench said and posted the matter for further hearing on July 14. Appointment of assistant basic teachers in Uttar Pradesh has seen several rounds of litigations from High Court to Supreme Court. It is second round of litigation in the top court. On June 3, the Allahabad High Court, while hearing pleas of several unsuccessful candidates, had stayed the appointment of 69,000 assistant basic teachers in the state, holding that there has been an 'error' in the evaluation of question paper. The top court on May 21, had issued notice and sought state government's reply on a batch of pleas challenging the May 6 verdict of the Allahabad High Court which upheld the state's decision to keep higher cut-off marks for the appointment of 69,000 assistant basic teachers. It had said that pending notice, the services of all Shiksha Mitras who are presently holding their posts as assistant teachers shall not be disturbed. The top court had, however, allowed the state government to fill up the remaining posts of assistant teachers by taking resort to the present selection process. It had asked the state government to explain through a chart detailing the vacancies and the chronology of events in the process which was undertaken for the appointments. The bench had asked the UP government to submit the details as how many Shiksha Mitras are presently working in the State and how many Shiksha Mitras appeared in the instant selection process. It had sought to know how many Shiksha Mitras secured more than 45 per cent marks in General Category or more than 40 per cent marks in reserved category; and the roll numbers of Shiksha Mitras who have secured more than 45 per cent or 40 per cent marks. The top court had asked the Uttar Pradesh government to explain as to why it changed the earlier criteria of 45 per cent cut-off marks for the general category and 40 per cent for the reserved category. Several petitions, including those by individuals and Uttar Pradesh Prathmik Shiksha Mitra Association, have been filed challenging the May 6 decision of the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court. The high court's final verdict of May 6 this year had paved the way for completing the process for appointment of 69,000 assistant basic teachers in Uttar Pradesh. It had directed the state government to complete the process of appointment within the next three months. The process is almost already complete on the strength of the interim directions of the division bench issued on May 29, last year and only result is to be declared finally. The division bench has set aside the single bench order that had quashed the government order by which it had fixed the criteria of 65 per cent qualifying marks for general category candidates and 60 percent for reserved category candidates for appointment as a basic teacher. The single bench had said that the minimum cut-off marks would be 45 per cent for general and 40 per cent for reserved candidates. On July 25, 2017, the top court had asked the state government to cancel the recruitment of 1,37, 517 teachers on the post of TET Assistant Teacher but gave them the benefit of experience in two recruitment process. Six months later, on January 17, 2018, the government had issued the order for the written examination for the assistant teachers' posts for the first time to hire 69,000 teachers.

Supreme Court bars Uttar Pradesh government from filling 37,339 posts of assistant teachers

An FIR has been lodged against a teacher, Anamika Shukla, who had allegedly withdrawn over Rs 1 crore in salary for over a year from 25 different schools.Shukla was allegedly working as a teacher in 25 schools for 13 months and was withdrawing salary from all of these.

"Basic Education Officer has given a written complaint against the teacher Anamika Shukla. The complaint reads that she had landed the jobs through forged documents. FIR has been registered and further action will be taken," said Atul Sharma, SP (rural) while speaking to ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nothing-confirmed-so-far-yogi-government-on-up-teacher-earning-rs-1-crore-by-simultaneously-working-in-25-schools-303566">Also read:&nbsp;'Nothing confirmed so far': Yogi government on UP teacher earning Rs 1 crore by simultaneously working in 25 schools</a>

Anjali Agarwal, Basic Siksha Adhikari (BSA), Kasganj also commented on the same and said, "A notice was sent to the teacher after we found that documents of Anamika Shukla are listed for multiple postings, following which she came to our office to submit her resignation. She has been handed over to the police."

Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister told ANI that the government got to know about this case from the media and an investigation has been initiated into the matter.

"We got info through media that a teacher has been posted at 25 places. It has been found that there have been postings at Baghpat, Aligarh, Amethi, Saharanpur, and Ambedkar Nagar using records of Anamika Shukla. An investigation is underway," said Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister.

An FIR has been lodged against a teacher, Anamika Shukla, who had allegedly withdrawn over Rs 1 crore in salary for over a year from 25 different schools.Shukla was allegedly working as a teacher in 25 schools for 13 months and was withdrawing salary from all of these.

An FIR has been lodged against a teacher, Anamika Shukla, who had allegedly withdrawn over Rs 1 crore in salary for over a year from 25 different schools.Shukla was allegedly working as a teacher in 25 schools for 13 months and was withdrawing salary from all of these. "Basic Education Officer has given a written complaint against the teacher Anamika Shukla. The complaint reads that she had landed the jobs through forged documents. FIR has been registered and further action will be taken," said Atul Sharma, SP (rural) while speaking to ANI. Also read: 'Nothing confirmed so far': Yogi government on UP teacher earning Rs 1 crore by simultaneously working in 25 schools Anjali Agarwal, Basic Siksha Adhikari (BSA), Kasganj also commented on the same and said, "A notice was sent to the teacher after we found that documents of Anamika Shukla are listed for multiple postings, following which she came to our office to submit her resignation. She has been handed over to the police." Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister told ANI that the government got to know about this case from the media and an investigation has been initiated into the matter. "We got info through media that a teacher has been posted at 25 places. It has been found that there have been postings at Baghpat, Aligarh, Amethi, Saharanpur, and Ambedkar Nagar using records of Anamika Shukla. An investigation is underway," said Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister.

FIR against UP teacher who withdrew over Rs 1 crore in salary from 25 schools

A troop of monkeys in India attacked a medical official and snatched away blood samples of patients who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, authorities said on Friday.

The attack occurred this week when a laboratory technician was walking in the campus of a state-run medical college in Meerut, 460 km (285 miles) north of Lucknow, capital of Uttar Pradesh state.

“Monkeys grabbed and fled with the blood samples of four COVID-19 patients who are undergoing treatment ... we had to take their blood samples again,” said Dr S. K. Garg, a top official at the college.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stands-9th-on-covid-19-worst-hit-nations-list-surpassing-china-301706">Also read:&nbsp;India stands 9th on Covid-19 worst-hit nations' list, surpassing China</a>

Authorities said they were not clear if the monkeys had spilled the blood samples, but people living near the leafy campus feared further spread of the virus if the monkeys carried the samples into residential areas.

Garg said it was not clear if the monkeys could contract the coronavirus if they came into contact with infected blood.

“No evidence has been found that monkeys can contract the infection,” Garg told Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-likely-to-retain-limited-role-and-allow-states-have-more-say-after-lockdown-40-301870">Also read:&nbsp;Centre likely to retain limited role and allow states have more say after Lockdown 4.0</a>

The virus is believed to have jumped from animals into people in a wildlife market in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year.

India has had 165,799 cases of the coronavirus and 4,706 deaths.

Monkeys have been increasingly straying into human settlements in India and causing disturbances, even attacking people. Environmentalists say the destruction of natural habitat is the main reason the animals move into urban areas in search of food.

A troop of monkeys in India attacked a medical official and snatched away blood samples of patients who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, authorities said on Friday.

A troop of monkeys in India attacked a medical official and snatched away blood samples of patients who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, authorities said on Friday. The attack occurred this week when a laboratory technician was walking in the campus of a state-run medical college in Meerut, 460 km (285 miles) north of Lucknow, capital of Uttar Pradesh state. “Monkeys grabbed and fled with the blood samples of four COVID-19 patients who are undergoing treatment ... we had to take their blood samples again,” said Dr S. K. Garg, a top official at the college. Also read: India stands 9th on Covid-19 worst-hit nations' list, surpassing China Authorities said they were not clear if the monkeys had spilled the blood samples, but people living near the leafy campus feared further spread of the virus if the monkeys carried the samples into residential areas. Garg said it was not clear if the monkeys could contract the coronavirus if they came into contact with infected blood. “No evidence has been found that monkeys can contract the infection,” Garg told Reuters. Also read: Centre likely to retain limited role and allow states have more say after Lockdown 4.0 The virus is believed to have jumped from animals into people in a wildlife market in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year. India has had 165,799 cases of the coronavirus and 4,706 deaths. Monkeys have been increasingly straying into human settlements in India and causing disturbances, even attacking people. Environmentalists say the destruction of natural habitat is the main reason the animals move into urban areas in search of food.

Only in India: Monkey steals COVID-19 samples from lab

The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier assured that the government will be generating employment for the migrant labourers who have traveled back to the state amid the lockdown.

Following the same, on Friday, the UP government signed initial agreements with several industry bodies to help in providing 11 lakh jobs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-government-to-generate-90-lakh-new-jobs-in-msme-units-297806">Also read:&nbsp;UP government to generate 90 lakh new jobs in MSME units</a>

The jobs are being generated mainly for the migrant workers who have lost their jobs in other states due to the nationwide lockdown initiated by the Indian government.

The Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Indian Industries Association (IIA) accounted for three lakh jobs each, while NARDECO and Laghu Udyog Bharati accounted for 2.5 lakh jobs each, UP MSME minister Sidharth Nath Singh said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-chief-minister-yogi-adityanath-gives-up-on-permission-issue-for-migrants-301248">Also read:&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath gives up on permission issue for migrants</a>

Foscusing on how UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had taken care of the people of his state, he said, "To those who had raised questions as to how the state government will carry out the gigantic task of providing 11 lakh jobs to skilled and semi-skilled labourers, the MSME department has given the answer."

The MoUs were signed in the presence of Yogi Adityanath.

Singh said his department has set up a control room for migrant labourers and has so far ensured payment of Rs 1,700 crore dues to workers in 75,000 units.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier assured that the government will be generating employment for the migrant labourers who have traveled back to the state amid the lockdown.

The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier assured that the government will be generating employment for the migrant labourers who have traveled back to the state amid the lockdown. Following the same, on Friday, the UP government signed initial agreements with several industry bodies to help in providing 11 lakh jobs. Also read: UP government to generate 90 lakh new jobs in MSME units The jobs are being generated mainly for the migrant workers who have lost their jobs in other states due to the nationwide lockdown initiated by the Indian government. The Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Indian Industries Association (IIA) accounted for three lakh jobs each, while NARDECO and Laghu Udyog Bharati accounted for 2.5 lakh jobs each, UP MSME minister Sidharth Nath Singh said. Also read: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath gives up on permission issue for migrants Foscusing on how UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had taken care of the people of his state, he said, "To those who had raised questions as to how the state government will carry out the gigantic task of providing 11 lakh jobs to skilled and semi-skilled labourers, the MSME department has given the answer." The MoUs were signed in the presence of Yogi Adityanath. Singh said his department has set up a control room for migrant labourers and has so far ensured payment of Rs 1,700 crore dues to workers in 75,000 units. (With inputs from PTI)

Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Adityanath signs MoU to generate 11 lakh jobs

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has given up on his idea that&nbsp;permission would be needed if other states employ workers from his state.

The issue sparked a major controversy and an official spokesman has now said that the government would not include this clause of `prior permission` in the bye-laws of the Migration Commission.

The government spokesman also said it was working on modalities to set up the commission to provide jobs and social security to migrant workers returning to the state. It has named the migration commission as the "Shramik Kalyan Aayog (Workers welfare commission).

About 26 lakh migrants have already returned to the state and an exercise to map their skills is being carried out to help them get jobs.

Yogi Adityanath has discussed the modalities for setting up the commission and told his officers to complete the skill mapping exercise in 15 days.

Yogi Adityanath said a letter should be sent to all state governments to find out about migrant workers wanting to come back to Uttar Pradesh.

Earlier, the chief minister, while speaking at a webinar on Sunday, had said, "The migration commission will work in the interest of migrant workers. If any other state wants UP`s manpower, they cannot take them just like that, but will have to seek permission of the UP government. The way our migrant workers were ill-treated in other states, the UP government will take their insurance, social security in its hands now. The state government will stand by them wherever they work, whether in Uttar Pradesh, other states or other countries."

The statement had sparked a row with some political leaders and parties questioning the move.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has given up on his idea that permission would be needed if other states employ workers from his state. The issue sparked a major controversy and an official spokesman has now said that the government would not include this clause of `prior permission` in the bye-laws of the Migration Commission.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has given up on his idea that permission would be needed if other states employ workers from his state. The issue sparked a major controversy and an official spokesman has now said that the government would not include this clause of `prior permission` in the bye-laws of the Migration Commission. The government spokesman also said it was working on modalities to set up the commission to provide jobs and social security to migrant workers returning to the state. It has named the migration commission as the "Shramik Kalyan Aayog (Workers welfare commission). About 26 lakh migrants have already returned to the state and an exercise to map their skills is being carried out to help them get jobs. Yogi Adityanath has discussed the modalities for setting up the commission and told his officers to complete the skill mapping exercise in 15 days. Yogi Adityanath said a letter should be sent to all state governments to find out about migrant workers wanting to come back to Uttar Pradesh. Earlier, the chief minister, while speaking at a webinar on Sunday, had said, "The migration commission will work in the interest of migrant workers. If any other state wants UP`s manpower, they cannot take them just like that, but will have to seek permission of the UP government. The way our migrant workers were ill-treated in other states, the UP government will take their insurance, social security in its hands now. The state government will stand by them wherever they work, whether in Uttar Pradesh, other states or other countries." The statement had sparked a row with some political leaders and parties questioning the move.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath gives up on permission issue for migrants

At least three migrant labourers lost their lives while 12 sustained injuries when the trailer truck they were travelling in turned turtle on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night.&nbsp;

About 17 persons were travelling in the vehicle when its tyre bust resulting in the accident.

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Mahoba: 3 migrant labourers dead and over 12 injured after a DCM vehicle carrying them overturned on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night. About 17 persons were travelling in the vehicle. Injured were admitted to hospital. <a href="https://t.co/NqZhMOq9gk">pic.twitter.com/NqZhMOq9gk</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1262555677639106561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The injured were admitted to a nearby hospital.

''3 migrant labourers have died and over 12 injured after the vehicle carrying them overturned on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night. The vehicle overturned due to tyre burst. These people were returning from Delhi,'' said ML Patidar, SP Mahoba.&nbsp;

At least three migrant labourers lost their lives while 12 sustained injuries when the trailer truck they were travelling in turned turtle on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night.

At least three migrant labourers lost their lives while 12 sustained injuries when the trailer truck they were travelling in turned turtle on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night. About 17 persons were travelling in the vehicle when its tyre bust resulting in the accident. Mahoba: 3 migrant labourers dead and over 12 injured after a DCM vehicle carrying them overturned on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night. About 17 persons were travelling in the vehicle. Injured were admitted to hospital. pic.twitter.com/NqZhMOq9gk — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 19, 2020 × The injured were admitted to a nearby hospital. ''3 migrant labourers have died and over 12 injured after the vehicle carrying them overturned on Jhansi-Mirzapur highway, last night. The vehicle overturned due to tyre burst. These people were returning from Delhi,'' said ML Patidar, SP Mahoba.

3 migrant workers die after vehicle carrying them turns turtle in Uttar Pradesh

At least 24 migrant labourers lost their lives while several injured after the truck they were travelling in collided with another truck in Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh.

At least 24 migrant labourers lost their lives while several injured after the truck they were travelling in collided with another truck in Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh. The injured have been shifted to hospital. The victims were travelling from Rajasthan to Uttar Pradesh when the accident took place. 24 people were brought dead, 22 have been admitted & 15 who were critically injured have been referred to Saifai PGI. They were going to Bihar & Jharkhand from Rajasthan: Archana Srivastava, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Auraiya https://t.co/YKsoS6Jit6 pic.twitter.com/W9FZKYvjHl — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 16, 2020 × The accident took place at around 3:30 am. ''24 people were brought dead, 22 have been admitted while 15 who were critically injured have been referred to Saifai PGI. They were going to Bihar & Jharkhand from Rajasthan when the accident took place,'' said Archana Srivastava, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Auraiya Most of the victims are from Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal.

24 migrant labourers dead after two trucks collide in Uttar Pradesh

Due to the extended lockdown, India has been struggling to revive its economy. In order to help its people, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced that it will be generating 90 lakh new jobs in the existing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units.&nbsp;

The announcement was made on Sunday. Yogi Adityanath's government also announced that&nbsp;entrepreneurs will be encouraged&nbsp; to set up more small industries by offering loans on easy terms.

"It is my commitment that this sector in Uttar Pradesh will achieve its glory as before,"&nbsp;said Uttar Pradesh&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-congress-launches-chat-portal-to-reach-out-to-people-migrant-workers-297661">Also read:&nbsp;UP Congress launches chat portal to reach out to people, migrant workers</a>

He also said that 90 lakh people could get jobs if&nbsp;one job is added to the workforce of each of the existing 90 lakh MSME units.

With hopes to revive the state's economy, Yogi Adityanath has asked his officials to prepare a detailed plan to motivate&nbsp;entrepreneurs to set up new MSME units.

In addition to that, rules will be relaxed and made transparent for the new MSME unit owners.&nbsp;Loan fairs will also be organised in every district from May 12 to May 20 to help the owners and the job lookers.

The state is also putting together a plan to generate more jobs for the migrant workers who have travelled back to the state and have lost their jobs due to the lockdown.

Earlier, the state Cabinet has also approved an ordinance putting on hold several labour laws for the next three years, hoping that this will help revive industry.

(With inputs from ANI)

Due to the extended lockdown, India has been struggling to revive its economy. In order to help its people, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced that it will be generating 90 lakh new jobs in the existing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units.

Due to the extended lockdown, India has been struggling to revive its economy. In order to help its people, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced that it will be generating 90 lakh new jobs in the existing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units. The announcement was made on Sunday. Yogi Adityanath's government also announced that entrepreneurs will be encouraged to set up more small industries by offering loans on easy terms. "It is my commitment that this sector in Uttar Pradesh will achieve its glory as before," said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Also read: UP Congress launches chat portal to reach out to people, migrant workers He also said that 90 lakh people could get jobs if one job is added to the workforce of each of the existing 90 lakh MSME units. With hopes to revive the state's economy, Yogi Adityanath has asked his officials to prepare a detailed plan to motivate entrepreneurs to set up new MSME units. In addition to that, rules will be relaxed and made transparent for the new MSME unit owners. Loan fairs will also be organised in every district from May 12 to May 20 to help the owners and the job lookers. The state is also putting together a plan to generate more jobs for the migrant workers who have travelled back to the state and have lost their jobs due to the lockdown. Earlier, the state Cabinet has also approved an ordinance putting on hold several labour laws for the next three years, hoping that this will help revive industry. (With inputs from ANI)

UP government to generate 90 lakh new jobs in MSME units

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing.

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मुख्यमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myogiadityanath</a> जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। <a href="https://t.co/5CXOofcO0m">pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m</a>
— CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeUP/status/1253938523696017410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-health-officials-to-set-camp-in-worst-hit-15-districts-to-oversee-coronavirus-response-294296">Also read:&nbsp;UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response</a>

He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken.

The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules.

Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-adityanath-pulls-up-officials-in-gautam-buddh-nagar-hotspot-of-covid-19-cases-in-up-289508">Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP</a>

While the Yogi Adityanath&nbsp;issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing. मुख्यमंत्री श्री @myogiadityanath जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में #COVID19 के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m — CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) April 25, 2020 × The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered. Also read: UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken. The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules. Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases. Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP While the Yogi Adityanath issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Yogi Adityanath bans all public gatherings in UP till June 30

A 35-year-old woman who fell sick while standing in a queue at a shop in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district to collect free ration being distributed during lockdown died at a hospital, officials said on Saturday.

The incident took place on Friday. Police have sent the body for post-mortem, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sufficient-measures-present-to-safeguard-domestic-violence-victims-during-lockdown-aap-govt-to-hc-293292">Sufficient measures present to safeguard domestic violence victims during lockdown: AAP govt to HC</a>

"We got information about the death of a woman while standing in a queue outside a shop to get rice. The district supply officer has been sent to the spot. The cause of death is not yet clear, and it is being said that she died of heart attack. Once the (post-mortem) report comes, her family will be helped," District Magistrate Kumar Prashant said.

District Supply Officer Ramendra Pratap Singh said, "As per the villagers, the woman died of heart attack. The matter is being probed."

"Since the phone network was not proper and the internet was slow, it was taking time to print the vouchers. As a result, the distribution of ration was taking time," he said.

The Uttar Pradesh government is providing free ration to the poor during the nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus. With businesses shut, many have been rendered jobless and have run out of cash to buy food.&nbsp;

A 35-year-old woman who fell sick while standing in a queue at a shop in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district to collect free ration being distributed during lockdown died at a hospital, officials said on Saturday.

A 35-year-old woman who fell sick while standing in a queue at a shop in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district to collect free ration being distributed during lockdown died at a hospital, officials said on Saturday. The incident took place on Friday. Police have sent the body for post-mortem, they said. Also read | Sufficient measures present to safeguard domestic violence victims during lockdown: AAP govt to HC "We got information about the death of a woman while standing in a queue outside a shop to get rice. The district supply officer has been sent to the spot. The cause of death is not yet clear, and it is being said that she died of heart attack. Once the (post-mortem) report comes, her family will be helped," District Magistrate Kumar Prashant said. District Supply Officer Ramendra Pratap Singh said, "As per the villagers, the woman died of heart attack. The matter is being probed." "Since the phone network was not proper and the internet was slow, it was taking time to print the vouchers. As a result, the distribution of ration was taking time," he said. The Uttar Pradesh government is providing free ration to the poor during the nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus. With businesses shut, many have been rendered jobless and have run out of cash to buy food.

UP: Woman dies after standing in queue to collect ration

As many as 17 people are arrested after a mob pelted stones at a medical team who tried to take a coronavirus-infected patient into isolation in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad district on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Police arrested 17 people including seven women for their alleged involvement in the incident under various sections of the IPC, Criminal Law Amendment Act and Epidemic Act, a Home department official said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-due-to-covid-19-in-india-rises-to-414-cases-climb-to-12380-292778">Death toll due to COVID-19 in India rises to 414; cases climb to 12380</a>

Officials said a doctor and three paramedics were injured in the stone-pelting and a police vehicle and an ambulance were also damaged. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-5-who-died-of-covid-19-in-bhopal-were-1984-gas-tragedy-victims-292766">All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims</a>

The mob suddenly appeared as the ambulance was taking away COVID-19 positive man and started pelting stones, Moradabad Chief Medical Officer Milind Garg said.&nbsp;

Officials also said that the mob tried to stop the ambulance as it was driving&nbsp;away the patient.&nbsp;

After the incident, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said those involved in the act would face action under the stringent National Security Act, and the damage costs would be recovered from the perpetrators.&nbsp;

In a statement, Adityanath condemned the attack on police, health personnel and those involved in sanitisation work and called it "unpardonable".

Moradabad District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar Singh said that the mob violence was brought under control and the deployment of police was beefed up in the area.&nbsp;

As many as 17 people are arrested after a mob pelted stones at a medical team who tried to take a coronavirus-infected patient into isolation in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad district on Wednesday.

As many as 17 people are arrested after a mob pelted stones at a medical team who tried to take a coronavirus-infected patient into isolation in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad district on Wednesday. Police arrested 17 people including seven women for their alleged involvement in the incident under various sections of the IPC, Criminal Law Amendment Act and Epidemic Act, a Home department official said. Also read | Death toll due to COVID-19 in India rises to 414; cases climb to 12380 Officials said a doctor and three paramedics were injured in the stone-pelting and a police vehicle and an ambulance were also damaged. Also read | All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims The mob suddenly appeared as the ambulance was taking away COVID-19 positive man and started pelting stones, Moradabad Chief Medical Officer Milind Garg said. Officials also said that the mob tried to stop the ambulance as it was driving away the patient. After the incident, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said those involved in the act would face action under the stringent National Security Act, and the damage costs would be recovered from the perpetrators. In a statement, Adityanath condemned the attack on police, health personnel and those involved in sanitisation work and called it "unpardonable". Moradabad District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar Singh said that the mob violence was brought under control and the deployment of police was beefed up in the area.

17 arrested for mob violence against health workers in UP's Moradabad

The Central government said on Friday 647 new coronavirus cases in the last 48 hours has links with Tablighi Jamaat's members.&nbsp;

In Delhi, 386 tested positive for coronavirus so far, out of which 259 were from Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat's event took place on March 13.&nbsp;

A lot of other states have reported a large number of COVID-19 cases and the rise is mostly due to Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation where more than 3,000 people participated, including foreign nationals.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/647-confirmed-cases-linked-to-tablighi-jamaat-in-14-states-says-health-ministry-290401">647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry</a>

This religious group is receiving a lot of flak for its irresponsible behaviour and at such a time doctors in the national capital are complaining that the patients of this group are not cooperating.&nbsp;

Some patients evacuated from Nizamuddin Markaz are not following instructions and are reluctant to take medicines, a doctor said.&nbsp;

A senior doctor from Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi also complained of the non-cooperation of patients admitted from Nizamuddin Markaz.&nbsp;

Earlier, in Delhi's neighbouring state Uttar Pradesh, doctors accused Tablighi Jamaat patients of misbehaving with the nurses, passing lewd remarks in Ghaziabad district, following which the state government imposed the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against them.&nbsp;

Now the whole Muslim community should not receive the blamed, but, when the nation is facing such a grave crisis, strict actions must be taken against those who are repeated offenders 
&nbsp;

The Central government said on Friday 647 new coronavirus cases in the last 48 hours has links with Tablighi Jamaat's members. In Delhi, 386 tested positive for coronavirus so far, out of which 259 were from Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat's event took place on March 13.

The Central government said on Friday 647 new coronavirus cases in the last 48 hours has links with Tablighi Jamaat's members. In Delhi, 386 tested positive for coronavirus so far, out of which 259 were from Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat's event took place on March 13. A lot of other states have reported a large number of COVID-19 cases and the rise is mostly due to Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation where more than 3,000 people participated, including foreign nationals. Also read | 647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry This religious group is receiving a lot of flak for its irresponsible behaviour and at such a time doctors in the national capital are complaining that the patients of this group are not cooperating. Some patients evacuated from Nizamuddin Markaz are not following instructions and are reluctant to take medicines, a doctor said. A senior doctor from Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi also complained of the non-cooperation of patients admitted from Nizamuddin Markaz. Earlier, in Delhi's neighbouring state Uttar Pradesh, doctors accused Tablighi Jamaat patients of misbehaving with the nurses, passing lewd remarks in Ghaziabad district, following which the state government imposed the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against them. Now the whole Muslim community should not receive the blamed, but, when the nation is facing such a grave crisis, strict actions must be taken against those who are repeated offenders

After putting many lives at risk, Tablighi Jamaat members cause new controversy

Health Ministry of India is planning to enhance the capacity for diagnosis and detection of novel coronavirus and has decided to allow accredited private labs to conduct the tests across the country.

India plans to boost Covid-19 testing

At least three lawyers were wounded in a crude bomb blast which exploded outside the Lucknow court on Thursday.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the blast took place outside the chamber of Lucknow Bar Association Joint Secretary Sanjiv Kumar Lodhi. Lodhi claimed he was the target of the attack as he had been complaining about a few judicial officers. He also blamed lawyer Jitu&nbsp;Yadav for the incident.&nbsp;

Lodhi also said about 10 people hurled crude bombs outside his chamber in which two other lawyers were also got injured.&nbsp;

"One bomb exploded but two still lay unexploded," he said.&nbsp;

After the blast, bomb disposal and dog squads have reached the spot to carry out the investigations.&nbsp;

Last month, UP lawyers organised a strike to protest against the recent attacks on them in the state.&nbsp;

The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh had also asked bar associations to skip work to put pressure on the government to pass legislation to protect lawyers.

Earlier, Lawyer Shekhar Tripathi (32) was beaten to death with sticks by five men in Lucknow on January 7, which fuelled his colleagues who sat with the body at the district collectorate demanding justice.

On December 17, a man was killed and two cops got injured when unidentified assailants opened fire at Bijnore CJM's court.

(With agency inputs) 
&nbsp;

At least three lawyers were wounded in a crude bomb blast which exploded outside the Lucknow court on Thursday. Reportedly, the blast took place outside the chamber of Lucknow Bar Association Joint Secretary Sanjiv Kumar Lodhi.

At least three lawyers were wounded in a crude bomb blast which exploded outside the Lucknow court on Thursday. Reportedly, the blast took place outside the chamber of Lucknow Bar Association Joint Secretary Sanjiv Kumar Lodhi. Lodhi claimed he was the target of the attack as he had been complaining about a few judicial officers. He also blamed lawyer Jitu Yadav for the incident. Lodhi also said about 10 people hurled crude bombs outside his chamber in which two other lawyers were also got injured. "One bomb exploded but two still lay unexploded," he said. After the blast, bomb disposal and dog squads have reached the spot to carry out the investigations. Last month, UP lawyers organised a strike to protest against the recent attacks on them in the state. The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh had also asked bar associations to skip work to put pressure on the government to pass legislation to protect lawyers. Earlier, Lawyer Shekhar Tripathi (32) was beaten to death with sticks by five men in Lucknow on January 7, which fuelled his colleagues who sat with the body at the district collectorate demanding justice. On December 17, a man was killed and two cops got injured when unidentified assailants opened fire at Bijnore CJM's court. (With agency inputs)

Three injured in crude bomb blast outside Lucknow court

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030.

Singh was addressing a seminar on UP's defence manufacturing corridor at DefExpo 2020.

"By 2030, India will be among the top three economies of the world. UP will have important role in it," he said.

"The PM has fixed a target of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024,"&nbsp;he recalled. He said some economists are asking how the country will achieve this target when there is an slowdown in the world.

But despite the slowdown, India is the "fastest growing"&nbsp;economy, he said.

"If there is a decline in one quarter, it is not the matter of concern," the minister said.

He said World Bank has also predicted a revival.

That means there is no doubt that India will achieve the target of becoming a five trillion dollar economy, he said.

Singh said Uttar Pradesh will pay a major role in achieving the target and praised the steps taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

He said there is a single-window system for investors and connectivity through air, rail and road is very good in the state.

"We will not let you face any problem," he said, asking investors to choose UP. Chief Minister Adityanath made the same pitch to them.

Adityanath said the state has already prepared its defence manufacturing policy and has a large land bank.

"Organising the investors' summit in 2018 was like a big dream. We have received investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in the past two years,"&nbsp;the CM said.

Defence manufacturing firms from across the world are participating in the five-day DefExpo, inaugurated here by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Uttar Pradesh will play an important role in turning India into a five trillion dollar economy and also be counted among the three largest in the world by 2030. Singh was addressing a seminar on UP's defence manufacturing corridor at DefExpo 2020. "By 2030, India will be among the top three economies of the world. UP will have important role in it," he said. "The PM has fixed a target of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024," he recalled. He said some economists are asking how the country will achieve this target when there is an slowdown in the world. But despite the slowdown, India is the "fastest growing" economy, he said. "If there is a decline in one quarter, it is not the matter of concern," the minister said. He said World Bank has also predicted a revival. That means there is no doubt that India will achieve the target of becoming a five trillion dollar economy, he said. Singh said Uttar Pradesh will pay a major role in achieving the target and praised the steps taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He said there is a single-window system for investors and connectivity through air, rail and road is very good in the state. "We will not let you face any problem," he said, asking investors to choose UP. Chief Minister Adityanath made the same pitch to them. Adityanath said the state has already prepared its defence manufacturing policy and has a large land bank. "Organising the investors' summit in 2018 was like a big dream. We have received investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore in the past two years," the CM said. Defence manufacturing firms from across the world are participating in the five-day DefExpo, inaugurated here by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.

UP to play big role in India's goal to become $5 trillion economy: Rajnath Singh

Forty-seven people who are the members of Popular Front of India (PFI) have been arrested in Meerut zone till now, said Meerut Zone's Additional Director General of Police (ADG), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-senior-up-police-administration-officials-shower-rose-petals-on-kanwariyas-from-helicopter-158001">Prashant Kumar.</a>

Among those arrested from the Meerut Zone, 21 are from Meerut, Nine from Ghaziabad, Six from Muzaffarnagar and 10 from Shamli.

He said that 75-80 more persons linked with PFI have been identified in the zone.

"The Enforcement Directorate is inspecting the accounts. PFI network is also active in Shamli," said the official.

As many as 108 linked to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-suspects-role-of-illegal-bangladeshis-in-seemapuri-violence-say-sources-272006">Popular Front of India</a> (PFI) have been arrested in the last four days in Uttar Pradesh in addition to the 25 who were arrested earlier, officials said on Monday.

"108 people have been arrested in the last 4 days, they are in addition to the 25 who were arrested earlier," said Awanish K Awasthi, Additional Chief Secretary, Uttar Pradesh Home Department.

"More information is being gathered about the organisation, including information about their financial transactions. We are also taking assistance from central agencies, our target is to identify them and take action," he added.

&nbsp;

Forty-seven people who are the members of Popular Front of India (PFI) have been arrested in Meerut zone till now, said Meerut Zone's Additional Director General of Police (ADG), Prashant Kumar.

Forty-seven people who are the members of Popular Front of India (PFI) have been arrested in Meerut zone till now, said Meerut Zone's Additional Director General of Police (ADG), Prashant Kumar. Among those arrested from the Meerut Zone, 21 are from Meerut, Nine from Ghaziabad, Six from Muzaffarnagar and 10 from Shamli. He said that 75-80 more persons linked with PFI have been identified in the zone. "The Enforcement Directorate is inspecting the accounts. PFI network is also active in Shamli," said the official. As many as 108 linked to Popular Front of India (PFI) have been arrested in the last four days in Uttar Pradesh in addition to the 25 who were arrested earlier, officials said on Monday. "108 people have been arrested in the last 4 days, they are in addition to the 25 who were arrested earlier," said Awanish K Awasthi, Additional Chief Secretary, Uttar Pradesh Home Department. "More information is being gathered about the organisation, including information about their financial transactions. We are also taking assistance from central agencies, our target is to identify them and take action," he added.

Meerut zone police arrests 47 Popular Front of India members, probe underway

Deoria Tal, one of the high altitude wetlands in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gerard-butler-celebrates-new-year-in-india-meets-the-dalai-lama-271617">Uttarakhand</a>, is an untouched marvel of nature.

There are many such wetlands, which are highly productive ecosystems that support rich biodiversity and provide a wide range of ecosystem services such as water supply, purification, and waste assimilation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-ten-years-to-save-worlds-biodiversity-from-extinction-un-274629">Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN</a>

The wetlands play a crucial role in recharging groundwater, increase the base flow of rivers and help in erosion control.

Several of the Ganga basins' wetlands are home to key flora and fauna, including migratory species.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-doubling-farmers-income-to-make-in-india-in-defence-key-points-of-bjp-manifesto-208748">National Mission for Clean Ganga</a> (NMCG) under its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/water-management-to-be-priority-if-nda-is-re-elected-pm-modi-219658">Namami Gange</a> program has taken up an initiative to conserve the wetlands in Ganga River Basin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/water-scarcity-with-jal-jeevan-mission-government-tends-to-focus-on-behavioural-change-272491">Water scarcity: With 'Jal Jeevan Mission', government tends to focus on behavioural change</a>

Sisir Kumar Rahto, Deputy Director-General of National Mission for Clean Ganga said, "The difference in the Namami Gange Project is primarily to rejuvenate the river through increasing the base flow and aquifers recharge and conservation of wetlands because that forms the part of one of our `Aviral Dhara' which is to maintain the environmental flow in the river. So, wetland plays a majorly important role in that and the first step we are conserving wetlands in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swedish-royals-reach-uttarakhand-to-visit-ram-jhula-bridge-266341">Uttarakhand</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/survey-reveals-three-of-worlds-top-10-fastest-growing-cities-are-from-kerala-275133">Uttar Pradesh</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-question-of-nrc-in-bihar-pm-has-clarified-his-stand-on-it-nitish-kumar-273931">Bihar</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-in-delhi-to-discuss-cabinet-expansion-with-congress-leaders-273822">Jharkhand</a>, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-interacts-with-saints-seers-at-belur-math-in-west-bengal-273667">West Bengal</a>."

He added, "We are in regular conversation with the state governments to set up their wetland authorities. Almost all the states have done it and now we are going for a brief document for its rejuvenation".

Some of these wetlands are threatened by reclamation and degradation through drainage, landfill, and over-exploitation of their natural resources. 
It results in loss of biodiversity and disruption in ecosystem services provided by the wetlands.

The National Mission for Clean Ganga in collaboration with the State Wetland Authorities will help identify and prepare Integrated Management Plans for management and conservation in the Ganga basin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/mere-lip-service-and-holy-dips-unlikely-to-save-river-ganga-172932">Do we really care about river Ganga?</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cleanliness-drive-organised-at-yamuna-ghat-on-world-cleanup-day-250969">Rajiv Ranjan Mishra</a>, Director-General of National Mission for Clean Ganga said, "If wetlands are in good health and if we don't encroach them they also help in mitigating some pollution because they also try to treat in a natural way some minor pollution in villages can be treated through the wetlands. They improve groundwater and when the rain comes, they will get full. So, in the lean season, through this wetland, the river will start getting water. So, I think this is the whole mechanism. This is all integrated system".

He added, "We are also trying to involve the community in the wetland conservation through our Wildlife Institute of India. We have a cadre of people, so apart from the government's effort, the community is also getting educated, made all these water bodies have to be rejuvenated".

Ecosystem-based and community-led models of rejuvenation of wetlands for enhancing `Aviralta' and `Nirmalta' of the river and water conservation in the Ganga basin are being integrated into the Namami Gange Programme.

Deoria Tal, one of the high altitude wetlands in Uttarakhand, is an untouched marvel of nature. There are many such wetlands, which are highly productive ecosystems that support rich biodiversity and provide a wide range of ecosystem services such as water supply, purification, and waste assimilation.

Deoria Tal, one of the high altitude wetlands in Uttarakhand, is an untouched marvel of nature. There are many such wetlands, which are highly productive ecosystems that support rich biodiversity and provide a wide range of ecosystem services such as water supply, purification, and waste assimilation. Also read: Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN The wetlands play a crucial role in recharging groundwater, increase the base flow of rivers and help in erosion control. Several of the Ganga basins' wetlands are home to key flora and fauna, including migratory species. The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under its Namami Gange program has taken up an initiative to conserve the wetlands in Ganga River Basin. Also read: Water scarcity: With 'Jal Jeevan Mission', government tends to focus on behavioural change Sisir Kumar Rahto, Deputy Director-General of National Mission for Clean Ganga said, "The difference in the Namami Gange Project is primarily to rejuvenate the river through increasing the base flow and aquifers recharge and conservation of wetlands because that forms the part of one of our `Aviral Dhara' which is to maintain the environmental flow in the river. So, wetland plays a majorly important role in that and the first step we are conserving wetlands in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal." He added, "We are in regular conversation with the state governments to set up their wetland authorities. Almost all the states have done it and now we are going for a brief document for its rejuvenation". Some of these wetlands are threatened by reclamation and degradation through drainage, landfill, and over-exploitation of their natural resources. It results in loss of biodiversity and disruption in ecosystem services provided by the wetlands. The National Mission for Clean Ganga in collaboration with the State Wetland Authorities will help identify and prepare Integrated Management Plans for management and conservation in the Ganga basin. Also read: Do we really care about river Ganga? Rajiv Ranjan Mishra, Director-General of National Mission for Clean Ganga said, "If wetlands are in good health and if we don't encroach them they also help in mitigating some pollution because they also try to treat in a natural way some minor pollution in villages can be treated through the wetlands. They improve groundwater and when the rain comes, they will get full. So, in the lean season, through this wetland, the river will start getting water. So, I think this is the whole mechanism. This is all integrated system". He added, "We are also trying to involve the community in the wetland conservation through our Wildlife Institute of India. We have a cadre of people, so apart from the government's effort, the community is also getting educated, made all these water bodies have to be rejuvenated". Ecosystem-based and community-led models of rejuvenation of wetlands for enhancing `Aviralta' and `Nirmalta' of the river and water conservation in the Ganga basin are being integrated into the Namami Gange Programme.

National Mission for Clean Ganga conserves wetlands in Ganga basin

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-public-campaign-on-citizenship-amendment-act-to-begin-from-today-272261">Citizenship Amendment Act</a> (CAA) has finally come into force from January 10, a notification published in the Official Gazette from the Home Ministry said.&nbsp;

The amended Act grants citizenship to those Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists, and Christians who fled religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

In the notification, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-citizenship-act-protests-internet-suspended-in-21-districts-security-forces-deployed-in-uttar-pradesh-270635">Ministry of Home Affairs</a> (MHA) said, “Central Government appoints the 10th day of January 2020, as the date on which the provisions of the Citizenship Amendment Act shall come into force.”&nbsp;

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<h5>In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (47 of 2019), the Central Government hereby appoints the 10th day of January 2020, as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force.</h5>
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<img alt="CAA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f27329e0-bbe3-4fa3-977b-2b1cf9d03cc1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/CAA.JPG" /> 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-cant-decide-on-our-citizenship-will-not-fill-npr-form-akhilesh-yadav-270870">Bill was passed by Lok Sabha</a> on December 10, 2019. A day before, it was introduced in Lok Sabha, and a day later it was passed in Rajya Sabha.

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has finally come into force from January 10, a notification published in the Official Gazette from the Home Ministry said. The amended Act grants citizenship to those Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists, and Christians who fled religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has finally come into force from January 10, a notification published in the Official Gazette from the Home Ministry said. The amended Act grants citizenship to those Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists, and Christians who fled religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014. In the notification, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said, “Central Government appoints the 10th day of January 2020, as the date on which the provisions of the Citizenship Amendment Act shall come into force.” In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (47 of 2019), the Central Government hereby appoints the 10th day of January 2020, as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force. × The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on December 10, 2019. A day before, it was introduced in Lok Sabha, and a day later it was passed in Rajya Sabha.

Citizenship Amendment Act comes into force, Centre issues notification

Dense to very dense fog is likely at isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and parts of Northeast during the next two days, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday.

"Dense to very dense fog at isolated places very likely over Uttar Pradesh, North Madhya Pradesh and dense fog over Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, East Rajasthan during night/morning hours during next 2 days," the IMD said.

IMD, in its early morning weather bulletin, added, "Dense to very dense fog recorded in isolated pockets over West Uttar Pradesh and West Madhya Pradesh and moderate fog in isolated pockets over Himachal Pradesh, East Uttar Pradesh, East Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Assam and Tripura."

Moreover, IMD predicted thunderstorm accompanied by hail and lightning at isolated places over Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarkhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh on January 6.

On Sunday, the overall air quality in Delhi continued to be in the 'very poor'&nbsp;category with the Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 336.Moreover, a minimum temperature of 7.2 degree Celsius was recorded in Delhi's Palam as cold wave intensified in the area.

Dense to very dense fog is likely at isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and parts of Northeast during the next two days, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday.

Dense to very dense fog is likely at isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and parts of Northeast during the next two days, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday. "Dense to very dense fog at isolated places very likely over Uttar Pradesh, North Madhya Pradesh and dense fog over Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, East Rajasthan during night/morning hours during next 2 days," the IMD said. IMD, in its early morning weather bulletin, added, "Dense to very dense fog recorded in isolated pockets over West Uttar Pradesh and West Madhya Pradesh and moderate fog in isolated pockets over Himachal Pradesh, East Uttar Pradesh, East Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Assam and Tripura." Moreover, IMD predicted thunderstorm accompanied by hail and lightning at isolated places over Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarkhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh on January 6. On Sunday, the overall air quality in Delhi continued to be in the 'very poor' category with the Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 336.Moreover, a minimum temperature of 7.2 degree Celsius was recorded in Delhi's Palam as cold wave intensified in the area.

Dense fog likely in UP, Rajasthan, parts of Northeast during next two days: IMD

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-mayawati-she-must-visit-rajasthan-to-meet-kota-victimss-families-272134">Meerut</a> district administration has issued a notice to as many as 134 people who were allegedly involved in the violence in connection with the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) protests. 
 
Meerut city Magistrate Sanjay Kumar Pandey told ANI, "A notice has been issued through police stations to 134 people who had alleged involvement in the incidences of violence that occurred on December 20." 
 
"As per the reports provided by Meerut Municipality, Meerut Development Authority (MDA) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-portfolio-distribution-ajit-pawar-gets-finance-aaditya-thackeray-to-look-after-environment-272217">Public Works Department</a> (PWD), public properties worth 48 lakhs were destroyed in the protest," he added. 
 
Speaking further, he added: "The notice was issued based on the footages and videos of the violence and we have sent notices to those people who were seen carrying weapons during the clash." 
 
The official also stated that the city's law and order are under control now. 
 
Recently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dense-fog-likely-in-up-rajasthan-parts-of-northeast-during-next-two-days-imd-272230">Uttar Pradesh</a> police released a video alleging that a few violent protestors had tried to set some police personnel on fire during the protests against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-public-campaign-on-citizenship-amendment-act-to-begin-from-today-272261">Citizenship (Amendment) Act</a> in the area on December 20.

The Meerut district administration has issued a notice to as many as 134 people who were allegedly involved in the violence in connection with the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) protests.

The Meerut district administration has issued a notice to as many as 134 people who were allegedly involved in the violence in connection with the anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) protests. Meerut city Magistrate Sanjay Kumar Pandey told ANI, "A notice has been issued through police stations to 134 people who had alleged involvement in the incidences of violence that occurred on December 20." "As per the reports provided by Meerut Municipality, Meerut Development Authority (MDA) and Public Works Department (PWD), public properties worth 48 lakhs were destroyed in the protest," he added. Speaking further, he added: "The notice was issued based on the footages and videos of the violence and we have sent notices to those people who were seen carrying weapons during the clash." The official also stated that the city's law and order are under control now. Recently, Uttar Pradesh police released a video alleging that a few violent protestors had tried to set some police personnel on fire during the protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in the area on December 20.

CAA protests: Meerut administration issues notice to 134 people

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