Voting for first phase of state assembly elections in northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh took place on Thursday (February 10). Uttar Pradesh, literally meaning northern province, is the most populous state in India and has greatest political might in terms of representatives it sends to Indian parliament.

State elections in Uttar Pradesh are often seen by political parties as a step towards preparing for parliamentary elections. Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Yogi Adityanath is the current chief minister of Uttar Pradesh who is looking to retain power while Indian National Congress, Samajwadi Party and other opposition parties are looking to wrest control.

In first phase, 623 candidates are competing for 58 seats across 11 districts in the state. 22.8 million persons were eligible to vote across these districts.

As per the Election Commission of India`s Voter Turnout application, the total voter turnout for the first phase of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections was 59.87 per cent at the end of the session.&nbsp;Voting for the first phase of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections began at 7 am on Thursday

The districts which recorded the highest voter turnout were Shamli with 66.14 per cent, followed by Muzaffarnagar and Mathura at 65.32 per cent 62.90 per cent respectively. Gautam Buddha Nagar reported only 54.38 per cent voter turnout till 7:55 pm. Other than Gautam Buddha Nagar, the districts with the lowest reported voter turnout are Ghaziabad, Meerut, Agra with 52.43 per cent, 60 per cent and 60.23 per cent respectively.&nbsp;

Additional Chief Election Officer BD Ram Tiwari said that the voting was largely peaceful.

"There were reports of a technical error in EVMs at some places. Those EVMs are being replaced," he said. He was quoted by PTI.

The second phase of polling for the Uttar Pradesh Assembly is scheduled for February 14.

586 candidates are in the fray for 55 Assembly Constituencies in the second phase. Post the completion of the seven phased elections, the counting of votes will take place on March 10.

(With inputs from agencies)

Voting for first phase of state assembly elections in northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh took place on Thursday (February 10). Uttar Pradesh, literally meaning northern province, is the most populous state in India and has greatest political might in terms of representatives it sends to Indian parliament.

Voting for first phase of state assembly elections in northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh took place on Thursday (February 10). Uttar Pradesh, literally meaning northern province, is the most populous state in India and has greatest political might in terms of representatives it sends to Indian parliament. State elections in Uttar Pradesh are often seen by political parties as a step towards preparing for parliamentary elections. Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Yogi Adityanath is the current chief minister of Uttar Pradesh who is looking to retain power while Indian National Congress, Samajwadi Party and other opposition parties are looking to wrest control. In first phase, 623 candidates are competing for 58 seats across 11 districts in the state. 22.8 million persons were eligible to vote across these districts. As per the Election Commission of India`s Voter Turnout application, the total voter turnout for the first phase of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections was 59.87 per cent at the end of the session. Voting for the first phase of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections began at 7 am on Thursday The districts which recorded the highest voter turnout were Shamli with 66.14 per cent, followed by Muzaffarnagar and Mathura at 65.32 per cent 62.90 per cent respectively. Gautam Buddha Nagar reported only 54.38 per cent voter turnout till 7:55 pm. Other than Gautam Buddha Nagar, the districts with the lowest reported voter turnout are Ghaziabad, Meerut, Agra with 52.43 per cent, 60 per cent and 60.23 per cent respectively. Additional Chief Election Officer BD Ram Tiwari said that the voting was largely peaceful. "There were reports of a technical error in EVMs at some places. Those EVMs are being replaced," he said. He was quoted by PTI. The second phase of polling for the Uttar Pradesh Assembly is scheduled for February 14. 586 candidates are in the fray for 55 Assembly Constituencies in the second phase. Post the completion of the seven phased elections, the counting of votes will take place on March 10. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh elections phase 1: Nearly 60% voter turnout at India's largest state

The recent developments, such as OBC politicians transferring to the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Malayam's daughter-in-law joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have made the Uttar Pradesh election all the more fascinating and nail-biting.

According to one of the most recent and largest opinion polls, Yogi Adityanath's BJP is expected to win a second term in office.

In all five poll-bound states – Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa, and Manipur – Zee News, one of the country's largest media companies, conducted an opinion poll to predict voter sentiment in collaboration with Design Boxed, a political campaign management firm with extensive experience in opinion polling.

This is also the largest opinion poll done in India's history in terms of sample size.&nbsp;

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<h5>Yogi Adityanath has emerged as the people's top pick for the position of Uttar Pradesh chief minister, according to a Zee News poll. Adityanath is favoured by 47 per cent of all respondents, while 35 per cent want SP president Akhilesh Yadav to be the next chief minister. Mayawati has received 9% of the vote, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has received 5% of the vote.</h5>
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Adityanath is favoured by 47 per cent of all respondents, while 35 per cent want SP president Akhilesh Yadav to be the next chief minister.

Mayawati has received 9% of the vote, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has received 5% of the vote. " target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
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The 'Janta Ka Mood,' which is being described as the world's largest opinion survey, has received over 1.2 million replies from people across the five states.&nbsp;

According to the results of the opinion poll, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may form the government in Uttar Pradesh for the second time.

How many seats do you think the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) will win in total?

According to the poll, the BJP+ is expected to win 245-267 seats, while the SP+ is expected to win 125-148 seats.

Mayawati's BSP is expected to win between 5 and 9 seats, while Congress is expected to win only 3 to 7 seats.

Others may only be able to get 2-6 seats.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The recent developments, such as OBC politicians transferring to the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Malayam's daughter-in-law joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have made the Uttar Pradesh election all the more fascinating and nail-biting.

The recent developments, such as OBC politicians transferring to the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Malayam's daughter-in-law joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have made the Uttar Pradesh election all the more fascinating and nail-biting. According to one of the most recent and largest opinion polls, Yogi Adityanath's BJP is expected to win a second term in office. In all five poll-bound states – Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa, and Manipur – Zee News, one of the country's largest media companies, conducted an opinion poll to predict voter sentiment in collaboration with Design Boxed, a political campaign management firm with extensive experience in opinion polling. This is also the largest opinion poll done in India's history in terms of sample size. Yogi Adityanath has emerged as the people's top pick for the position of Uttar Pradesh chief minister, according to a Zee News poll. Adityanath is favoured by 47 per cent of all respondents, while 35 per cent want SP president Akhilesh Yadav to be the next chief minister. Mayawati has received 9% of the vote, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has received 5% of the vote. × The 'Janta Ka Mood,' which is being described as the world's largest opinion survey, has received over 1.2 million replies from people across the five states. According to the results of the opinion poll, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may form the government in Uttar Pradesh for the second time. How many seats do you think the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) will win in total? According to the poll, the BJP+ is expected to win 245-267 seats, while the SP+ is expected to win 125-148 seats. Mayawati's BSP is expected to win between 5 and 9 seats, while Congress is expected to win only 3 to 7 seats. Others may only be able to get 2-6 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

India State Election 2022 Opinion Poll: BJP likely to retain Uttar Pradesh

Five Indian states are going to polls in February in what is seen as a bellwether elections. The elections are crucial for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. They are being watched keenly in India, almost like the midterm elections in the US. In the next two months, elections will also be held in Punjab & Uttarakhand as well as in Goa and the northeastern state of Manipur. VO: Elections would be held for 403 assembly seats in UP, 117 in Punjab, 70 in Uttarakhand, 60 in Manipur and 40 in Goa.

India's mammoth state elections: Why are they significant?

Next month, elections will be held in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state and a vital battleground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The election in the northern state, which is currently dominated by Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, is viewed as a harbinger of national elections in 2024.

In the next few months, elections will be held in the northern provinces of Punjab and Uttarakhand, as well as in the tourist mecca of Goa and the northeastern state of Manipur.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-crucial-states-of-india-including-punjab-uttar-pradesh-gear-up-for-bellwether-local-polls-438801">Also read | Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls</a>

Elections would be held for 403 assembly seats in UP, 117 in Punjab, 70 in Uttarakhand, 60 in Manipur and 40 in Goa.&nbsp;

In this massive election, an estimated 184 million voters, including 85.5 million women, are anticipated to vote.

2.49 million of them are first-time voters.&nbsp; 
 
Assembly Elections Schedule: Counting day March 10

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 738px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 108px;">States</td>
			<td style="width: 113px;">Voting begins</td>
			<td style="width: 105px;">Voting Ends</td>
			<td style="width: 99px;">Voting Days</td>
			<td style="width: 108px;">Incumbent&nbsp;Party</td>
			<td style="width: 171px;">Total number of seats </td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 108px;">Uttar Pradesh</td>
			<td style="width: 113px;">February 10</td>
			<td style="width: 105px;">March 7</td>
			<td style="width: 99px;">7</td>
			<td style="width: 108px;">BJP</td>
			<td style="width: 171px;">403</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 108px;">Punjab</td>
			<td style="width: 113px;">February 20</td>
			<td style="width: 105px;">February 20</td>
			<td style="width: 99px;">1</td>
			<td style="width: 108px;">INC</td>
			<td style="width: 171px;">117</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 108px;">Uttarakhand</td>
			<td style="width: 113px;">February&nbsp;14</td>
			<td style="width: 105px;">February 14</td>
			<td style="width: 99px;">1</td>
			<td style="width: 108px;">BJP</td>
			<td style="width: 171px;">70</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 108px;">Manipur</td>
			<td style="width: 113px;">February 27</td>
			<td style="width: 105px;">March 3</td>
			<td style="width: 99px;">2</td>
			<td style="width: 108px;">BJP</td>
			<td style="width: 171px;">60</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 108px;">Goa</td>
			<td style="width: 113px;">February 14</td>
			<td style="width: 105px;">February 14</td>
			<td style="width: 99px;">1</td>
			<td style="width: 108px;">BJP</td>
			<td style="width: 171px;">40</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

The EC has capped the number of voters per booth at 1,250, resulting in an increase in the number of polling stations to 30,334 as the average number of voters per polling booth has decreased.

At least one booth in each Assembly constituency will be managed exclusively by women.

Candidates with criminal background

A petition has been filed with the Supreme Court, asking the court to order the Election Commission to ensure that all political parties display information on candidate criminal charges, as well as the reasons for their selection, on the home page of their official website.

Aside from the website, the petition also asks the Election Commission of India (ECI) to direct the ECI to guarantee that every politician publishes their details in electronic, print, and social media, and to bring a contempt case against the party's president if they don't.&nbsp;

In light of the forthcoming assembly elections, barrister Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay filed a petition asking the ECI to issue a directive requiring every political party to explain why it chose a candidate with criminal history over one without.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Next month, elections will be held in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state and a vital battleground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The election in the northern state, which is currently dominated by Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, is viewed as a harbinger of national elections in 2024.

Next month, elections will be held in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state and a vital battleground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The election in the northern state, which is currently dominated by Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, is viewed as a harbinger of national elections in 2024. In the next few months, elections will be held in the northern provinces of Punjab and Uttarakhand, as well as in the tourist mecca of Goa and the northeastern state of Manipur. Also read | Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls Elections would be held for 403 assembly seats in UP, 117 in Punjab, 70 in Uttarakhand, 60 in Manipur and 40 in Goa. In this massive election, an estimated 184 million voters, including 85.5 million women, are anticipated to vote. 2.49 million of them are first-time voters. Assembly Elections Schedule: Counting day March 10 States Voting begins Voting Ends Voting Days Incumbent Party Total number of seats Uttar Pradesh February 10 March 7 7 BJP 403 Punjab February 20 February 20 1 INC 117 Uttarakhand February 14 February 14 1 BJP 70 Manipur February 27 March 3 2 BJP 60 Goa February 14 February 14 1 BJP 40 The EC has capped the number of voters per booth at 1,250, resulting in an increase in the number of polling stations to 30,334 as the average number of voters per polling booth has decreased. At least one booth in each Assembly constituency will be managed exclusively by women. Candidates with criminal background A petition has been filed with the Supreme Court, asking the court to order the Election Commission to ensure that all political parties display information on candidate criminal charges, as well as the reasons for their selection, on the home page of their official website. Aside from the website, the petition also asks the Election Commission of India (ECI) to direct the ECI to guarantee that every politician publishes their details in electronic, print, and social media, and to bring a contempt case against the party's president if they don't. In light of the forthcoming assembly elections, barrister Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay filed a petition asking the ECI to issue a directive requiring every political party to explain why it chose a candidate with criminal history over one without. (With inputs from agencies)

India's mammoth state elections: Five states to vote from Feb 10, counting on March 10

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly sent 100 pairs of jute footwear for those working at Kashi Vishwanath Dham, which is located in the country's northern state Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Kashi Vishwanath Dham is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The historic temple is located in&nbsp;Varanasi -&nbsp;one of the most popular cities in Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi&nbsp;is also PM Modi's&nbsp;Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

Recently, PM Modi had inaugurated phase 1 of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham project and had also greeted the labourers who were involved in the construction of the project with flowers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-set-up-panel-headed-by-retired-judge-to-probe-pm-narendra-modis-security-breach-443570">Supreme Court to set up panel headed by retired judge to probe PM Narendra Modi's security breach</a>

Now, in a sweet gesture, PM Modi has sent 100 pairs of jute footwear as a gift to the workers when he came to know that they had to work barefoot,&nbsp;India-based news agency ANI reported citing government sources.&nbsp;

It is forbidden for people, such as priests, people performing Seva, security guards, sanitation workers and other workers to wear footwear made with leather or rubber in the temple premises.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-starts-administering-precaution-dose-of-covid-jab-to-60-age-group-healthcare-frontline-workers-443489">India starts administering 'precaution dose' of Covid jab to 60+ age group, healthcare, frontline workers</a>

Sources have revealed that PM Modi immediately got 100 pairs of jute footwear procured and sent these over to Kashi Vishwanath Dham so that those performing their duties don't have to stay bare-footed in the chilling cold.&nbsp;

The government sources have&nbsp;also revealed that PM Modi has been deeply involved with Kashi Vishwanath Dham and keeps a tab on all issues and developments in Varanasi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly sent 100 pairs of jute footwear for those working at Kashi Vishwanath Dham, which is located in the country's northern state Uttar Pradesh.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly sent 100 pairs of jute footwear for those working at Kashi Vishwanath Dham, which is located in the country's northern state Uttar Pradesh. Kashi Vishwanath Dham is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The historic temple is located in Varanasi - one of the most popular cities in Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is also PM Modi's Lok Sabha constituency. Recently, PM Modi had inaugurated phase 1 of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham project and had also greeted the labourers who were involved in the construction of the project with flowers. ALSO READ | Supreme Court to set up panel headed by retired judge to probe PM Narendra Modi's security breach Now, in a sweet gesture, PM Modi has sent 100 pairs of jute footwear as a gift to the workers when he came to know that they had to work barefoot, India-based news agency ANI reported citing government sources. It is forbidden for people, such as priests, people performing Seva, security guards, sanitation workers and other workers to wear footwear made with leather or rubber in the temple premises. ALSO READ | India starts administering 'precaution dose' of Covid jab to 60+ age group, healthcare, frontline workers Sources have revealed that PM Modi immediately got 100 pairs of jute footwear procured and sent these over to Kashi Vishwanath Dham so that those performing their duties don't have to stay bare-footed in the chilling cold. The government sources have also revealed that PM Modi has been deeply involved with Kashi Vishwanath Dham and keeps a tab on all issues and developments in Varanasi.

In a sweet gesture, PM Modi sends 100 pairs of jute footwear for Kashi Vishwanath temple workers

The Indian Election Commission convened a news conference at 12 p.m. on Thursday in response to calls to postpone the vote due to the Omicron danger.

"Representatives of all political parties met us and told us that elections should be conducted on time, following all COVID-19 rules," said Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra.

He explained, "The UP Assembly's term ends on May 14th. We met with members of political parties, all district magistrates and district police superintendents, as well as other senior personnel. We also met with officials from the GST, ED, and IT departments.We want to ensure that elections are free of corruption.These organisations have issued specific directives to ensure that this happens."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-crucial-states-of-india-including-punjab-uttar-pradesh-gear-up-for-bellwether-local-polls-438801">Also read | Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls</a>

He also stated that the final voter list would be made public on January 5, 2022.

The Election Commission will come to the doorsteps of those over the age of 80, people with impairments, and COVID-19 impacted people who are unable to vote in a polling booth.

Additionally, VVPATs will be installed in every voting booth.

To guarantee openness in the election process, he said that live webcasting facilities would be accessible in about 1 lakh voting booths.&nbsp;

A reporter present at the meeting asked the ECE for its thoughts on the big poll rallies being organised before the elections amid the rising COVID-19 Delta and Omicron cases.&nbsp;

Chandra said, "Big rallies are under our attention. Following the implementation of the MCC, detailed guidelines on how to structure large rallies will be issued.

"We have discussed this issue with the health secretary here. When elections are announced, we will issue directions specifically on this issue after looking at the situation then, " he added.

Meanwhile, all political parties in the election-bound states have begun flexing their muscles.&nbsp;

The Legislative Assembly elections in India are held every 5 years in which the Indian electorate chooses the members of the Vidhan Sabha (or Legislative/State Assembly).

In March 2022, the Legislative Assemblies of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, and Uttarakhand will finish their tenures.

The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly's term is set to end in May.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Election Commission convened a news conference at 12 p.m. on Thursday in response to calls to postpone the vote due to the Omicron danger. "Representatives of all political parties met us and told us that elections should be conducted on time, following all COVID-19 rules," said Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra.

The Indian Election Commission convened a news conference at 12 p.m. on Thursday in response to calls to postpone the vote due to the Omicron danger. "Representatives of all political parties met us and told us that elections should be conducted on time, following all COVID-19 rules," said Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra. He explained, "The UP Assembly's term ends on May 14th. We met with members of political parties, all district magistrates and district police superintendents, as well as other senior personnel. We also met with officials from the GST, ED, and IT departments.We want to ensure that elections are free of corruption.These organisations have issued specific directives to ensure that this happens." Also read | Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls He also stated that the final voter list would be made public on January 5, 2022. The Election Commission will come to the doorsteps of those over the age of 80, people with impairments, and COVID-19 impacted people who are unable to vote in a polling booth. Additionally, VVPATs will be installed in every voting booth. To guarantee openness in the election process, he said that live webcasting facilities would be accessible in about 1 lakh voting booths. A reporter present at the meeting asked the ECE for its thoughts on the big poll rallies being organised before the elections amid the rising COVID-19 Delta and Omicron cases. Chandra said, "Big rallies are under our attention. Following the implementation of the MCC, detailed guidelines on how to structure large rallies will be issued. "We have discussed this issue with the health secretary here. When elections are announced, we will issue directions specifically on this issue after looking at the situation then, " he added. Meanwhile, all political parties in the election-bound states have begun flexing their muscles. The Legislative Assembly elections in India are held every 5 years in which the Indian electorate chooses the members of the Vidhan Sabha (or Legislative/State Assembly). In March 2022, the Legislative Assemblies of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, and Uttarakhand will finish their tenures. The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly's term is set to end in May. (With inputs from agencies)

No shifting of India Assembly election 2022? Poll body says parties want vote held on time

In India's five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Goa, and Punjab, the stage is set for local elections (Legislative Assembly elections).

The Bharatiya Janata Party governs the first four, while the Congress governs the fifth.

Despite the fact that the dates have yet to be set, all political parties in the election-bound states have begun flexing their muscles.&nbsp;

The Legislative Assembly elections in India are held every 5 years in which the Indian electorate chooses the members of the Vidhan Sabha (or Legislative/State Assembly).

In March 2022, the Legislative Assemblies of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, and Uttarakhand will finish their tenures.

The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly's term is set to end in May.&nbsp;

Detail of terms of the Houses of upcoming election States

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>HOUSE/STATE</td>
			<td>FROM</td>
			<td>TO</td>
			<td>SEAT</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>GOA</td>
			<td>16.03.2017</td>
			<td>15.03.2022</td>
			<td>40</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MANIPUR</td>
			<td>20.03.2017</td>
			<td>19.03.2022</td>
			<td>60</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>UTTARAKHAND</td>
			<td>24.03.2017</td>
			<td>23.03.2022</td>
			<td>70</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>PUNJAB</td>
			<td>28.03.2017</td>
			<td>27.03.2022</td>
			<td>117</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>UTTAR PRADESH</td>
			<td>15.05.2017</td>
			<td>14.05.2022</td>
			<td>403</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

 
The present partywise status of all five state assemblies in (based on 2017 results): 
 
UTTAR PRADESH: Total seats 403 |&nbsp;202 seats needed for a majority

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Party</td>
			<td>Results</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>312</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SP</td>
			<td>47</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BSP</td>
			<td>19</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>AD</td>
			<td>9</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>INC</td>
			<td>7</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Others</td>
			<td>9</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

 
PUNJAB: Total 117 seats | 59 seats needed for a majority

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Party</td>
			<td>Result</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>INC</td>
			<td>77</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>AAP</td>
			<td>20</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SAD</td>
			<td>15</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Others</td>
			<td>2</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

 
UTTARAKHAND: Total 70 seats | 36 seats needed for a majority

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Party</td>
			<td>Results</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>57</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>INC</td>
			<td>11</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IND</td>
			<td>2</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

 
GOA: Total 40 seats | 21 seats needed for a majority

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Party</td>
			<td>Results</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>INC</td>
			<td>17</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>13</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IND</td>
			<td>3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>GFP</td>
			<td>3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Others</td>
			<td>4</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

 
Manipur: Total 60 seats | 31 seats needed for a majority

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Party</td>
			<td>Results</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>INC</td>
			<td>28</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>BJP</td>
			<td>21</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>TMC</td>
			<td>1</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Others</td>
			<td>10</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

These assembly elections will be crucial not only for national parties like the BJP and the Congress, but also for regional parties.&nbsp;

In India's five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Goa, and Punjab, the stage is set for local elections (Legislative Assembly elections). The Bharatiya Janata Party governs the first four, while the Congress governs the fifth.

In India's five states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Goa, and Punjab, the stage is set for local elections (Legislative Assembly elections). The Bharatiya Janata Party governs the first four, while the Congress governs the fifth. Despite the fact that the dates have yet to be set, all political parties in the election-bound states have begun flexing their muscles. The Legislative Assembly elections in India are held every 5 years in which the Indian electorate chooses the members of the Vidhan Sabha (or Legislative/State Assembly). In March 2022, the Legislative Assemblies of Goa, Manipur, Punjab, and Uttarakhand will finish their tenures. The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly's term is set to end in May. Detail of terms of the Houses of upcoming election States HOUSE/STATE FROM TO SEAT GOA 16.03.2017 15.03.2022 40 MANIPUR 20.03.2017 19.03.2022 60 UTTARAKHAND 24.03.2017 23.03.2022 70 PUNJAB 28.03.2017 27.03.2022 117 UTTAR PRADESH 15.05.2017 14.05.2022 403 The present partywise status of all five state assemblies in (based on 2017 results): UTTAR PRADESH: Total seats 403 | 202 seats needed for a majority Party Results BJP 312 SP 47 BSP 19 AD 9 INC 7 Others 9 PUNJAB: Total 117 seats | 59 seats needed for a majority Party Result INC 77 AAP 20 SAD 15 BJP 3 Others 2 UTTARAKHAND: Total 70 seats | 36 seats needed for a majority Party Results BJP 57 INC 11 IND 2 GOA: Total 40 seats | 21 seats needed for a majority Party Results INC 17 BJP 13 IND 3 GFP 3 Others 4 Manipur: Total 60 seats | 31 seats needed for a majority Party Results INC 28 BJP 21 TMC 1 Others 10 These assembly elections will be crucial not only for national parties like the BJP and the Congress, but also for regional parties.

Five crucial states of India including Punjab, Uttar Pradesh gear up for bellwether local polls

Indian PM Narendra Modi witnesses Ganga 'aarti' in Varanasi, pictures are divine

Noida International Airport: Indian PM Narendra Modi lays foundation stone of 'largest airport in Asia'

The family of a 45-year-old Indian man got the shock of their lives. The man who was declared dead after being involved in a road accident was discovered to be still alive after spending the night in the morgue freezer.&nbsp;

Srikesh Kumar was taken to a clinic in critical condition after being hit by a motorbike in Moradabad, east of the Indian capital, New Delhi.&nbsp;

He was transported to a private medical facility where a doctor declared him dead upon arrival. Following this, he was transported to a government hospital for a post-mortem on Friday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/44-americans-dont-want-children-say-the-world-is-too-bleak-431121" hreflang="en">44% Americans don't want children, say the world is too 'bleak'</a>

"The emergency medical officer examined him. He did not find any signs of life and hence declared him dead," said Rajendra Kumar, the hospital's medical superintendent.

Police were informed, and his body was placed in the morgue freezer until his family arrived six hours later, according to the doctor.&nbsp;

One of Kumar's relatives noticed that he was moving. In a video that went viral, she is heard saying, something along the lines of 'He's not dead. How did this happen? Look, he's breathing.'

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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A 45-year-old man, who was declared 'dead' by doctors, was found alive despite spending a night in the freezer of a hospital morgue in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UP</a>’s Moradabad<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UttarPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UttarPradesh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Moradabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Moradabad</a> <a href="https://t.co/iLnTl6VWDi">pic.twitter.com/iLnTl6VWDi</a>
— Journalist Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) <a href="https://twitter.com/sirajnoorani/status/1462666187473522690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"When a police team and his family came over to initiate the paperwork for the autopsy, he was found alive," he added.&nbsp;

The 45-year-old is undergoing further treatment, but is still in a coma, according to Rajendra Kumar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-raining-cash-people-grab-free-money-as-dollars-spill-from-truck-on-to-us-freeway-430994" hreflang="en">It's raining cash! People grab free money as dollars spill from truck on to US freeway</a>

"This is nothing short of a miracle," he added.

Currently, an investigation is being conducted to determine how the doctors made the mistake of declaring him dead.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this video.

The family of a 45-year-old Indian man got the shock of their lives. The man who was declared dead after being involved in a road accident was discovered to be still alive after spending the night in the morgue freezer.

The family of a 45-year-old Indian man got the shock of their lives. The man who was declared dead after being involved in a road accident was discovered to be still alive after spending the night in the morgue freezer. Srikesh Kumar was taken to a clinic in critical condition after being hit by a motorbike in Moradabad, east of the Indian capital, New Delhi. He was transported to a private medical facility where a doctor declared him dead upon arrival. Following this, he was transported to a government hospital for a post-mortem on Friday. Also read | 44% Americans don't want children, say the world is too 'bleak' "The emergency medical officer examined him. He did not find any signs of life and hence declared him dead," said Rajendra Kumar, the hospital's medical superintendent. Police were informed, and his body was placed in the morgue freezer until his family arrived six hours later, according to the doctor. One of Kumar's relatives noticed that he was moving. In a video that went viral, she is heard saying, something along the lines of 'He's not dead. How did this happen? Look, he's breathing.' A 45-year-old man, who was declared 'dead' by doctors, was found alive despite spending a night in the freezer of a hospital morgue in #UP’s Moradabad#UttarPradesh #Moradabad pic.twitter.com/iLnTl6VWDi — Journalist Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) November 22, 2021 × "When a police team and his family came over to initiate the paperwork for the autopsy, he was found alive," he added. The 45-year-old is undergoing further treatment, but is still in a coma, according to Rajendra Kumar. Also read | It's raining cash! People grab free money as dollars spill from truck on to US freeway "This is nothing short of a miracle," he added. Currently, an investigation is being conducted to determine how the doctors made the mistake of declaring him dead. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this video.

Watch | Back from the dead: Man found alive after night in a morgue freezer

Six additional persons in India's Kanpur tested positive for the Zika virus, bringing the total number of cases in the district to ten.

According to authorities, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the health department to maintain careful monitoring to prevent the disease from spreading.

The chief minister directed officials to focus more on combating infectious illnesses, saying that regular and thorough door-to-door sanitization and fogging efforts should be carried out to prevent mosquito breeding.&nbsp;

Unlike before, when three of the four patients were Indian Air Force (IAF) members, all of the new instances are among civilians.

A pregnant lady is one of the new patients who has been placed under 24-hour supervision.&nbsp;

The first Zika virus case was announced in Kanpur on October 25.

The national government has dispatched a multi-disciplinary team to Kanpur since the first incidence.

Mild fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint discomfort, malaise, or a headache are symptoms of this disease, which is caused by a virus spread mostly by Aedes mosquitoes that bite during the day.

(With inputs from agencies)

Six additional persons in India's Kanpur tested positive for the Zika virus, bringing the total number of cases in the district to ten. According to authorities, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the health department to maintain careful monitoring to prevent the disease from spreading.

Six additional persons in India's Kanpur tested positive for the Zika virus, bringing the total number of cases in the district to ten. According to authorities, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the health department to maintain careful monitoring to prevent the disease from spreading. The chief minister directed officials to focus more on combating infectious illnesses, saying that regular and thorough door-to-door sanitization and fogging efforts should be carried out to prevent mosquito breeding. Unlike before, when three of the four patients were Indian Air Force (IAF) members, all of the new instances are among civilians. A pregnant lady is one of the new patients who has been placed under 24-hour supervision. The first Zika virus case was announced in Kanpur on October 25. The national government has dispatched a multi-disciplinary team to Kanpur since the first incidence. Mild fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint discomfort, malaise, or a headache are symptoms of this disease, which is caused by a virus spread mostly by Aedes mosquitoes that bite during the day. (With inputs from agencies)

Zika virus in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh: Number of cases climbs to 10

Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state of India. Watch how Project Aakar is working towards population stabilization in the state.

Mission Sustainability: Population vs Planet | Education and Empowerment

Let us go across to the Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradesh, India, where celebrations are underway to mark the 89th anniversary of the Indian air force.

Indian Air Force celebrates 89th anniversary at Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradesh

Violence has erupted in the state of Uttar Pradesh killing eight people including four farmers. Hundreds are protesting in Lakhimpur Kheri district, the violence broke out when a group of farmers tried to block a visiting minister's convoy.

Uttar Pradesh: Eight including four killed in Lakhimpur Kheri violence

As different parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan had intermittent rainfall on Sunday, at least 68 people were killed by lightning.

Eleven of them died while taking pictures in front of a fort dating from the 12th century in Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital.

On Monday, the death toll from severe lightning in Uttar Pradesh reached 41, while seven people died in Madhya Pradesh.

In addition, 20 people were killed when lightning struck Rajasthan on Sunday.

Lightning struck the historic Amber Fort's watchtower, killing 11 people and injuring 35 others, according to Jaipur police commissioner Anand Srivastava.

Amid the city's strong rains, several others fell down the hill into the bushes.

More lightning strikes, as well as heavy showers, are expected in portions of north India during the next two days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

(With inputs from agencies)

As different parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan had intermittent rainfall on Sunday, at least 68 people were killed by lightning. Eleven of them died while taking pictures in front of a fort dating from the 12th century in Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital.

As different parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan had intermittent rainfall on Sunday, at least 68 people were killed by lightning. Eleven of them died while taking pictures in front of a fort dating from the 12th century in Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital. On Monday, the death toll from severe lightning in Uttar Pradesh reached 41, while seven people died in Madhya Pradesh. In addition, 20 people were killed when lightning struck Rajasthan on Sunday. Lightning struck the historic Amber Fort's watchtower, killing 11 people and injuring 35 others, according to Jaipur police commissioner Anand Srivastava. Amid the city's strong rains, several others fell down the hill into the bushes. More lightning strikes, as well as heavy showers, are expected in portions of north India during the next two days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). (With inputs from agencies)

Lightning kills 68 across Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh

When the entire country was facing strict lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Commerce Ministry worked towards bringing the delicious mangoes and vegetables of Varanasi and nearby areas to reach the international markets in Europe and the Middle Eastern countries for the first time.&nbsp;

"The COVID-19 lockdown period since March last year was utilised to bring vegetables and fruits from Varanasi to the international markets through both land and sea routes. Varanasi was connected to the export markets through both air and; sea, resulting in the export of fresh vegetables (green chilly, long guard, green peas and cucumber), mangoes (Banarasi, Langra, Ramkheda and Chausa), etc to Europe and the Middle Eastern countries," Commerce Ministry officials said.

The officials said the exports were made possible as they connected the Fresh Vegetables and Fruits Exporters Association in Mumbai with the farmer groups in Varanasi. The exporter association searched for the markets for the produce from Varanasi and helped the farmers to earn more money from their produce.

"Till March 2021, 48 metric tonnes of fresh vegetables and 10 MT of mangoes have been exported from the Varanasi cluster," they said.

Another major success in terms of exports due to efforts by the Commerce Ministry, headed by Piyush Goel, has been the black rice as for the first time, 532 MT of Black rice was exported from Chandauli to Australia and New Zealand.

Chandauli is also part of the Varanasi cluster.The Commerce Ministry had recently stated that the country's export of agricultural and allied products in 2020-21 grew by 17.34 per cent to USD 41.25 billion, and this growth momentum is expected to be sustained in the current fiscal as well.

Speaking about the effort put in by the Agriculture Division of the Commerce Ministry, Deputy Director Rajan Sharma told ANI on sidelines of a conference, "During the lockdown, as per the &nbsp;directions of Commerce Minister, the team led by Joint Secretary burnt the midnight oil and left no stone unturned to reach out to exporters and resolving their problems.

"In the first week of lockdown itself, around 1000 calls of exporters were attended and all the issues like the movement of consignments, trucks, labour, issuance of certificates, lab testing reports, sample collection etc faced by the exporters were addressed after taking them up with the concerned authorities viz. local administration, police, ports. shipping and foreign trade authorities and ensured the real time clearance of export consignments," he said.

He said real-time help the farmer groups and exporters, the issuance of various certificates were made online and all the exporters access certificates for export, certificate of origin, health certificates etc. through their mobile phones, without visiting the government offices, making the exports hassle-free.

When the entire country was facing strict lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Commerce Ministry worked towards bringing the delicious mangoes and vegetables of Varanasi and nearby areas to reach the international markets in Europe and the Middle Eastern countries for the first time.

When the entire country was facing strict lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Commerce Ministry worked towards bringing the delicious mangoes and vegetables of Varanasi and nearby areas to reach the international markets in Europe and the Middle Eastern countries for the first time. "The COVID-19 lockdown period since March last year was utilised to bring vegetables and fruits from Varanasi to the international markets through both land and sea routes. Varanasi was connected to the export markets through both air and; sea, resulting in the export of fresh vegetables (green chilly, long guard, green peas and cucumber), mangoes (Banarasi, Langra, Ramkheda and Chausa), etc to Europe and the Middle Eastern countries," Commerce Ministry officials said. The officials said the exports were made possible as they connected the Fresh Vegetables and Fruits Exporters Association in Mumbai with the farmer groups in Varanasi. The exporter association searched for the markets for the produce from Varanasi and helped the farmers to earn more money from their produce. "Till March 2021, 48 metric tonnes of fresh vegetables and 10 MT of mangoes have been exported from the Varanasi cluster," they said. Another major success in terms of exports due to efforts by the Commerce Ministry, headed by Piyush Goel, has been the black rice as for the first time, 532 MT of Black rice was exported from Chandauli to Australia and New Zealand. Chandauli is also part of the Varanasi cluster.The Commerce Ministry had recently stated that the country's export of agricultural and allied products in 2020-21 grew by 17.34 per cent to USD 41.25 billion, and this growth momentum is expected to be sustained in the current fiscal as well. Speaking about the effort put in by the Agriculture Division of the Commerce Ministry, Deputy Director Rajan Sharma told ANI on sidelines of a conference, "During the lockdown, as per the directions of Commerce Minister, the team led by Joint Secretary burnt the midnight oil and left no stone unturned to reach out to exporters and resolving their problems. "In the first week of lockdown itself, around 1000 calls of exporters were attended and all the issues like the movement of consignments, trucks, labour, issuance of certificates, lab testing reports, sample collection etc faced by the exporters were addressed after taking them up with the concerned authorities viz. local administration, police, ports. shipping and foreign trade authorities and ensured the real time clearance of export consignments," he said. He said real-time help the farmer groups and exporters, the issuance of various certificates were made online and all the exporters access certificates for export, certificate of origin, health certificates etc. through their mobile phones, without visiting the government offices, making the exports hassle-free.

In a first, mangoes, black rice, bottle gourd from Varanasi make it to global markets despite COVID-19

Amid a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here.

"The corona curfew from Friday 8 pm to Tuesday 7 am, which was extended on May 3 for 48 hours and is in force till May 6 till 7 am has been further extended till Monday (May 10) 7 am," an official spokesman said here.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-in-india-bihar-to-go-into-lockdown-night-curfew-to-continue-in-chandigarh-382759">COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh</a>

All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Monday 7 am.

The official said that further decision to extend the curfew will be taken on Sunday.

The decision for extension has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-immediate-concern-is-to-break-the-chain-of-covid-infection-382627">India's immediate concern is to break the chain of Covid infection</a>

During this period, all essential services will be allowed and vaccination drive will continue, a senior official said, but refused to term it as a "lockdown", preferring "closure" instead.

On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too and on May 3 it was extended till May 6.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here. "The corona curfew from Friday 8 pm to Tuesday 7 am, which was extended on May 3 for 48 hours and is in force till May 6 till 7 am has been further extended till Monday (May 10) 7 am," an official spokesman said here. Also read | COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Monday 7 am. The official said that further decision to extend the curfew will be taken on Sunday. The decision for extension has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus. Also read | India's immediate concern is to break the chain of Covid infection During this period, all essential services will be allowed and vaccination drive will continue, a senior official said, but refused to term it as a "lockdown", preferring "closure" instead. On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too and on May 3 it was extended till May 6.

COVID-19: Curfew in Uttar Pradesh extended till May 10

Tourists were evacuated after a bomb scare at the iconic Taj Mahal premises in Agra located in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday.

Police said the bomb disposal squad and other teams carried out extensive search at the Taj Mahal premises and no explosive objects were found.

A man had reportedly called the police control room giving information about an alleged bomb, the police said there was "99 per cent chances of it being a hoax call".

"We received information from the control room that a man called them up saying that there are discrepancies in military recruitment and he wasn't recruited. A bomb is kept at Taj Mahal which will explode soon," police official Shiv Ram Yadav had said earlier.

A team comprising of police and CISF carried out a search of the Taj Mahal area as the entry and exit points were closed.&nbsp;

"Nothing suspicious has been found and the checks are almost done," a senior CISF officer told PTI as it launched anti-sabotage checks around 9:15 am(local time).

Tourists were evacuated after a bomb scare at the iconic Taj Mahal premises in Agra located in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Police said the bomb disposal squad and other teams carried out extensive search at the Taj Mahal premises and no explosive objects were found.

Tourists were evacuated after a bomb scare at the iconic Taj Mahal premises in Agra located in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Police said the bomb disposal squad and other teams carried out extensive search at the Taj Mahal premises and no explosive objects were found. A man had reportedly called the police control room giving information about an alleged bomb, the police said there was "99 per cent chances of it being a hoax call". "We received information from the control room that a man called them up saying that there are discrepancies in military recruitment and he wasn't recruited. A bomb is kept at Taj Mahal which will explode soon," police official Shiv Ram Yadav had said earlier. A team comprising of police and CISF carried out a search of the Taj Mahal area as the entry and exit points were closed. "Nothing suspicious has been found and the checks are almost done," a senior CISF officer told PTI as it launched anti-sabotage checks around 9:15 am(local time).

Tourists evacuated after bomb scare at Taj Mahal in Agra

At least 70 people from Uttar Pradesh are feared missing in the glacier burst at Joshimath in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district that triggered an avalanche and a deluge in the Alaknanda river system that washed away hydroelectric stations on Sunday, officials said.

Of the 70 people, 34 are from Lakhimpur Kheri district alone.

"As of now, 70 people from Uttar Pradesh are feared missing, including 34 from Lakhimpur Kheri, nine from Saharanpur and five from Shravasti," Relief Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh Sanjay Goyal told PTI on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sent a team of three ministers to Uttarakhand for better coordination with the state in carrying out relief works after the disaster, an official spokesperson said here.

A portion of the Nanda Devi glacier possibly burst through its banks in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district on Sunday, leading to an avalanche and a deluge that ripped through the Alaknanda river system in the upper reaches of the ecologically fragile Himalayas.

Thirty-one bodies have been recovered so far and around 175 people are missing.

"The Chief Minister has formed a committee of three ministers and sent them to Uttarakhand for better coordination with the state. The ministers are Suresh Kumar Rana, Vijay Kashyap and Dharam Singh Saini," the spokesperson said.

Yogi Adityanath has also constituted a team of officers led by Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Awanish Kumar Awasthi to ensure coordination in carrying out relief works, he said, adding that a control room has been established at the Relief Commissioner's office.

Control rooms have also been set up in districts affected by the tragedy and administration, police and irrigation department employees are deputed there.

"We will meet Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat and work will be done in coordination to cremate those who lost their lives in the tragedy," Rana said.

At least 70 people from Uttar Pradesh are feared missing in the glacier burst at Joshimath in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district that triggered an avalanche and a deluge in the Alaknanda river system that washed away hydroelectric stations on Sunday, officials said.

At least 70 people from Uttar Pradesh are feared missing in the glacier burst at Joshimath in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district that triggered an avalanche and a deluge in the Alaknanda river system that washed away hydroelectric stations on Sunday, officials said. Of the 70 people, 34 are from Lakhimpur Kheri district alone. "As of now, 70 people from Uttar Pradesh are feared missing, including 34 from Lakhimpur Kheri, nine from Saharanpur and five from Shravasti," Relief Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh Sanjay Goyal told PTI on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sent a team of three ministers to Uttarakhand for better coordination with the state in carrying out relief works after the disaster, an official spokesperson said here. A portion of the Nanda Devi glacier possibly burst through its banks in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district on Sunday, leading to an avalanche and a deluge that ripped through the Alaknanda river system in the upper reaches of the ecologically fragile Himalayas. Thirty-one bodies have been recovered so far and around 175 people are missing. "The Chief Minister has formed a committee of three ministers and sent them to Uttarakhand for better coordination with the state. The ministers are Suresh Kumar Rana, Vijay Kashyap and Dharam Singh Saini," the spokesperson said. Yogi Adityanath has also constituted a team of officers led by Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Awanish Kumar Awasthi to ensure coordination in carrying out relief works, he said, adding that a control room has been established at the Relief Commissioner's office. Control rooms have also been set up in districts affected by the tragedy and administration, police and irrigation department employees are deputed there. "We will meet Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat and work will be done in coordination to cremate those who lost their lives in the tragedy," Rana said.

70 people from Uttar Pradesh missing after Uttarakhand glacier disaster

Three men in the state of Uttar Pradesh have been arrested after they were filmed beating an endangered river dolphin to death.

The video has since gone viral.

The December 31 attack involved at least seven&nbsp;young men violently hitting a Gangetic dolphin with wooden rods and an axe until it bled. They then suffocated the animal beneath the water of the Sharda canal. The dolphin carcass had injury marks.

The video shows one of the men as saying: "You are attacking it for no reason."

Another person then adds: "Hit it now, hit it now."

The dolphin was later found dead by a local official from the forest department.

But after footage of the attack went viral, three men were identified and arrested.

The Gangetic dolphin is an endangered and protected species and the national aquatic animal of India. There are thought to be fewer than 5,000 Gangetic dolphins left.

It is usually found in India’s Ganges river and Pakistan’s Indus river, and can be recognised by its long snout nose

Police have identified one of the arrested youth as Anuj. The other two share the same name, Rahul.

The rare freshwater dolphin is essentially blind, and is known locally as "susu," a reference to the noise it makes when it breathes, according to the WWF. Female Ganges river dolphins give birth once every two to three years to only one calf.

Three men in the state of Uttar Pradesh have been arrested after they were filmed beating an endangered river dolphin to death. The video has since gone viral. The December 31 attack involved at least seven young men violently hitting a Gangetic dolphin with wooden rods and an axe until it bled.

Three men in the state of Uttar Pradesh have been arrested after they were filmed beating an endangered river dolphin to death. The video has since gone viral. The December 31 attack involved at least seven young men violently hitting a Gangetic dolphin with wooden rods and an axe until it bled. They then suffocated the animal beneath the water of the Sharda canal. The dolphin carcass had injury marks. The video shows one of the men as saying: "You are attacking it for no reason." Another person then adds: "Hit it now, hit it now." The dolphin was later found dead by a local official from the forest department. But after footage of the attack went viral, three men were identified and arrested. The Gangetic dolphin is an endangered and protected species and the national aquatic animal of India. There are thought to be fewer than 5,000 Gangetic dolphins left. It is usually found in India’s Ganges river and Pakistan’s Indus river, and can be recognised by its long snout nose Police have identified one of the arrested youth as Anuj. The other two share the same name, Rahul. The rare freshwater dolphin is essentially blind, and is known locally as "susu," a reference to the noise it makes when it breathes, according to the WWF. Female Ganges river dolphins give birth once every two to three years to only one calf.

Men beat dolphin to death in Uttar Pradesh, three arrested

At least 21 people were killed and 20 others injured as the roof of a cemetery in Muradnagar area here collapsed as they were sheltering under it amid heavy rains, officials said.

The incident was reported in the morning when around 50 people, who came for the last rites of a fruit-seller, took shelter under the recently-built structure to save themselves from getting drenched.

However, minutes later, the roof of the structure collapsed.

Teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) retrieved three bodies while the remaining were recovered by police and district administration during the rescue operation, officials told IANS.

After the NDRF teams called off the rescue operation, NDRF Deputy Commandant Rajkamal Malik said: "Two teams of 45 men each searched the whole site and now no one else is feared to be trapped inside."

Muradnagar SHO Inspector Amit Kumar said that 19 people have lost their lives while 20 received serious injuries. However, the official numbers will be announced by the District Magistrate.

The injured have been admitted to the various hospitals including district hospital of Ghaziabad for the treatment, he added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the incident and ordered the DM and SSP of the district to ensure the effective rescue of the victims. 
&nbsp;

At least 21 people were killed and 20 others injured as the roof of a cemetery in Muradnagar area here collapsed as they were sheltering under it amid heavy rains, officials said.

At least 21 people were killed and 20 others injured as the roof of a cemetery in Muradnagar area here collapsed as they were sheltering under it amid heavy rains, officials said. The incident was reported in the morning when around 50 people, who came for the last rites of a fruit-seller, took shelter under the recently-built structure to save themselves from getting drenched. However, minutes later, the roof of the structure collapsed. Teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) retrieved three bodies while the remaining were recovered by police and district administration during the rescue operation, officials told IANS. After the NDRF teams called off the rescue operation, NDRF Deputy Commandant Rajkamal Malik said: "Two teams of 45 men each searched the whole site and now no one else is feared to be trapped inside." Muradnagar SHO Inspector Amit Kumar said that 19 people have lost their lives while 20 received serious injuries. However, the official numbers will be announced by the District Magistrate. The injured have been admitted to the various hospitals including district hospital of Ghaziabad for the treatment, he added. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the incident and ordered the DM and SSP of the district to ensure the effective rescue of the victims.

21 killed as cemetery roof collapses on mourners in UP's Ghaziabad

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, "The BJP has repeated its poll performance of the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. These are clear indications that the party will perform well again in the upcoming 2022 Assembly elections. I thank the people for coming forward to vote."

BJP candidate Sangeeta Chauhan won in Naugawan Sadat, Usha Sirohi in Bulandshahr, Prem Pal Dhangar in Tundla, Shrikant Katiyar in Bangarmau, Satya Prakash Mani Tripathi in Deoria and Upendra Nath Paswan in Ghatampur, according to the Election Commission. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Samajwadi Party's Lucky Yadav won Malhani, the seat which was represented by his father Parasnath Yadav, whose death necessitated the by-election.

He defeated independent candidate Dhananjay Singh by 4,632 votes. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A tough see-saw battle was fought for the Naugawan Sadat seat held earlier by Chetan Chauhan, the former cricketer who was a minister in Yogi Adityanath's BJP government. &nbsp;&nbsp;

SP's Javed Abbas, who was trailing in the morning pushed his BJP rival, Chetan Chauhan's wife Sangeeta Chauhan, to the second spot by 3,314 votes for a while.

The BJP candidate at one point had a slim 175-vote lead, but later cruised ahead to win by 15,077 votes.

BJP candidate Satyaprakash Mani Tripathi won Deoria, defeating SP's Brahma Shankar Tripathi by 20,089 votes.

Unnao's Bangermau seat also went to the ruling party with Shrikant Katiyar defeating Congress candidate Arti Bajpai by 31,398 votes.

In Bulandshahr, BJP's Usha Sirohi defeated Bahujan Samaj Party's Mohammad Yunus by 21,702 votes. Her party colleague Upendra Nath Paswan won against Congress candidate Kripa Shankar by 23,820 votes in Ghatampur.

BJP's Prempal Singh Dhangar defeated SP's Mahraj Singh Dhangar by 17,683 votes in Tundla. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The bypolls for the seven UP seats recorded a voter turnout of 53 per cent on November 3, with 88 candidates in the fray. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Naugawan Sadat seat fell vacant after the death of Minister Chetan Chauhan, who succumbed to COVID-19.

The Ghatampur constituency in Kanpur Nagar district was held by another minister, Kamal Rani Varun, who too died of the same cause. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Tundla seat fell vacant after its MLA S P Singh Baghel was elected to the Lok Sabha.

The Bangarmau seat in Unnao was vacated by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar after his conviction in a rape case. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The bypolls to the Bulandshahr and Deoria seats were necessitated by the deaths of BJP MLAs Virendra Singh Sirohi and Janmejay Singh. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party had fielded Mohammad Yameen from Bulandshahr to test its electoral popularity. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Bulandshahr seat had the highest number of 18 candidates while Ghatampur seat had the lowest of six. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sixteen candidates were in the fray in Malhani, 14 each in Naugawan Sadat and Deoria and 10 each in Bangarmau and Tundla. &nbsp; &nbsp;

With the BJP and the SP retaining their seats, the 403-member assembly will now again have 310 MLAs from the BJP and 49 from the SP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The House also has 18 members from the BSP, nine from Apna Dal (Sonelal), seven from Congress, four from Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party and five MLAs who are independents or belong to smaller parties. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Allahabad High Court had asked the Election Commission to also hold bypolls in Suar after annulling the election of Abdullah Azam Khan, son of SP MP Mohammad Azam Khan, ruling that he was underage. &nbsp; &nbsp;

But the Supreme Court recently stayed its directions.

Meanwhile, elated over the results, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and completely set aside all speculations in Bihar, the public has proved that "Modi hai to mumkin" (if there is Modi, then it is possible).

Yogi said that the BJP has repeated its electoral performance of 2017.

"The BJP in this bypolls has given hints about the future polls," he said, adding the results are a proof of people's faith in welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged the misuse of official machinery and irregularities in the elections.

“The BJP keeps conspiring to win elections but the Samajwadi Party will now start a campaign taking all sections of society along to save democracy," the SP chief said, calling for transparency in polls.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections.

The ruling BJP came out with a convincing win as it retained six of the seven seats in bypolls on Tuesday. CM Yogi Adityanath said the exceptional performance of the BJP in the bypolls give a "clear indication" of the party's chances in the upcoming 2022 state Assembly elections. Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said, "The BJP has repeated its poll performance of the 2017 Assembly polls and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. These are clear indications that the party will perform well again in the upcoming 2022 Assembly elections. I thank the people for coming forward to vote." BJP candidate Sangeeta Chauhan won in Naugawan Sadat, Usha Sirohi in Bulandshahr, Prem Pal Dhangar in Tundla, Shrikant Katiyar in Bangarmau, Satya Prakash Mani Tripathi in Deoria and Upendra Nath Paswan in Ghatampur, according to the Election Commission. Samajwadi Party's Lucky Yadav won Malhani, the seat which was represented by his father Parasnath Yadav, whose death necessitated the by-election. He defeated independent candidate Dhananjay Singh by 4,632 votes. A tough see-saw battle was fought for the Naugawan Sadat seat held earlier by Chetan Chauhan, the former cricketer who was a minister in Yogi Adityanath's BJP government. SP's Javed Abbas, who was trailing in the morning pushed his BJP rival, Chetan Chauhan's wife Sangeeta Chauhan, to the second spot by 3,314 votes for a while. The BJP candidate at one point had a slim 175-vote lead, but later cruised ahead to win by 15,077 votes. BJP candidate Satyaprakash Mani Tripathi won Deoria, defeating SP's Brahma Shankar Tripathi by 20,089 votes. Unnao's Bangermau seat also went to the ruling party with Shrikant Katiyar defeating Congress candidate Arti Bajpai by 31,398 votes. In Bulandshahr, BJP's Usha Sirohi defeated Bahujan Samaj Party's Mohammad Yunus by 21,702 votes. Her party colleague Upendra Nath Paswan won against Congress candidate Kripa Shankar by 23,820 votes in Ghatampur. BJP's Prempal Singh Dhangar defeated SP's Mahraj Singh Dhangar by 17,683 votes in Tundla. The bypolls for the seven UP seats recorded a voter turnout of 53 per cent on November 3, with 88 candidates in the fray. The Naugawan Sadat seat fell vacant after the death of Minister Chetan Chauhan, who succumbed to COVID-19. The Ghatampur constituency in Kanpur Nagar district was held by another minister, Kamal Rani Varun, who too died of the same cause. The Tundla seat fell vacant after its MLA S P Singh Baghel was elected to the Lok Sabha. The Bangarmau seat in Unnao was vacated by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar after his conviction in a rape case. The bypolls to the Bulandshahr and Deoria seats were necessitated by the deaths of BJP MLAs Virendra Singh Sirohi and Janmejay Singh. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party had fielded Mohammad Yameen from Bulandshahr to test its electoral popularity. The Bulandshahr seat had the highest number of 18 candidates while Ghatampur seat had the lowest of six. Sixteen candidates were in the fray in Malhani, 14 each in Naugawan Sadat and Deoria and 10 each in Bangarmau and Tundla. With the BJP and the SP retaining their seats, the 403-member assembly will now again have 310 MLAs from the BJP and 49 from the SP. The House also has 18 members from the BSP, nine from Apna Dal (Sonelal), seven from Congress, four from Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party and five MLAs who are independents or belong to smaller parties. The Allahabad High Court had asked the Election Commission to also hold bypolls in Suar after annulling the election of Abdullah Azam Khan, son of SP MP Mohammad Azam Khan, ruling that he was underage. But the Supreme Court recently stayed its directions. Meanwhile, elated over the results, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and completely set aside all speculations in Bihar, the public has proved that "Modi hai to mumkin" (if there is Modi, then it is possible). Yogi said that the BJP has repeated its electoral performance of 2017. "The BJP in this bypolls has given hints about the future polls," he said, adding the results are a proof of people's faith in welfare programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged the misuse of official machinery and irregularities in the elections. “The BJP keeps conspiring to win elections but the Samajwadi Party will now start a campaign taking all sections of society along to save democracy," the SP chief said, calling for transparency in polls. (With inputs from agencies)

CM Yogi's midas touch: BJP retains 6 UP seats in bypolls

There's no saying what may help investigation officials as they try and solve a crime. Smallest of details can lead to a major revelation. The official just needs to be clever enough to spot the detail. UP Police cracked a murder case in Hardoi due to weak spelling skill of the accused.

The accused Ram Pratap Singh had kidnapped and 8-year-old boy from his grandmother's house on October 26 and murdered him. The same day however, he sent a message to the boy's father through a stolen phone and demanded 200,000 rupees for the release of the boy.

In the message sent to the boy's father, Singh wrote '"Do lakh rupay Seeta-Pur lekar pahuchiye. Pulish ko nahi batana nahi to hatya kar denge (Reach Sitapur with Rs 2 lakh. Don`t inform the police or your son will be murdered)."

"When the boy`s family lodged a missing complaint, we formed teams to trace him. We called back on the mobile phone number but it was switched off. The cyber-surveillance cell was roped in and we detained a person in whose name the SIM was issued, but he said his phone had been stolen," said Anurag Vats, Superintendent of Police in Hardoi.

On the basis of CCTV footage and tip-offs, police picked up 10 suspects including Ram Pratap Singh.

Now the real task was to nab the real killer from the crowd.

Police asked all suspects to write: "Main police main bharti hona chahta hoon. Main Hardoi se Sitapur daud kar ja sakta hoon (I want a police job. I can run from Hardoi to Sitapur)."

Ram Pratap Singh fell into the trap as he wrote police as 'pulish' and Sitapur as 'Seeta-pur', just as he had done in the ransom message to the boy's father.

He was arrested on Saturday and later confessed to the crime.

(With IANS inputs)

There's no saying what may help investigation officials as they try and solve a crime. Smallest of details can lead to a major revelation. The official just needs to be clever enough to spot the detail.

There's no saying what may help investigation officials as they try and solve a crime. Smallest of details can lead to a major revelation. The official just needs to be clever enough to spot the detail. UP Police cracked a murder case in Hardoi due to weak spelling skill of the accused. The accused Ram Pratap Singh had kidnapped and 8-year-old boy from his grandmother's house on October 26 and murdered him. The same day however, he sent a message to the boy's father through a stolen phone and demanded 200,000 rupees for the release of the boy. In the message sent to the boy's father, Singh wrote '"Do lakh rupay Seeta-Pur lekar pahuchiye. Pulish ko nahi batana nahi to hatya kar denge (Reach Sitapur with Rs 2 lakh. Don`t inform the police or your son will be murdered)." "When the boy`s family lodged a missing complaint, we formed teams to trace him. We called back on the mobile phone number but it was switched off. The cyber-surveillance cell was roped in and we detained a person in whose name the SIM was issued, but he said his phone had been stolen," said Anurag Vats, Superintendent of Police in Hardoi. On the basis of CCTV footage and tip-offs, police picked up 10 suspects including Ram Pratap Singh. Now the real task was to nab the real killer from the crowd. Police asked all suspects to write: "Main police main bharti hona chahta hoon. Main Hardoi se Sitapur daud kar ja sakta hoon (I want a police job. I can run from Hardoi to Sitapur)." Ram Pratap Singh fell into the trap as he wrote police as 'pulish' and Sitapur as 'Seeta-pur', just as he had done in the ransom message to the boy's father. He was arrested on Saturday and later confessed to the crime. (With IANS inputs)

Weak spelling skills of murderer help police arrest him

Over 1,100 FIRs have been lodged against 2,000 farmers in Uttar Pradesh for stubble burning.

Nearly, 144 FIRs have been lodged in different districts in the last 24 hours alone for stubble burning. The police lodged 15 FIRs in Balrampur, eight in Bahraich and Kushinagar, seven each in Aligarh, Basti and Hardoi, and six each in Rampur, Shahjahanpur, Siddhartha Nagar among others.

Six persons have also been arrested in Saharanpur for burning stubble.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) H.C. Awasthi has given strict directions to all district police chiefs to stop air pollution, by spreading awareness against stubble burning and for proper disposal of crop residue by involving village committees and village heads.

Senior officials at the state DGP headquarters said Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture had informed the DGP that in spite of repeated instructions stubble burning cases were not coming down.

ADG, law and order, Prashant Kumar said the Supreme Court was monitoring the situation and district police chiefs have been asked to ensure guidelines of curbing stubble burning were followed.

The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) has demanded withdrawal of cases against the farmers and has threatened agitation if 'victimisation'&nbsp;of farmers was not stopped.

Meanwhile, a large number of bees were reportedly charred to death in a farm in Shahjahanpur, due to stubble burning. A bee farmer, Dharmendra Kumar, claimed that he had suffered huge losses and has filed a complaint in this regard.

Dharmendra had signed up for beekeeping training in Pipraula village. In 2017, he secured a loan of Rs 2.5 lakh under the Prime Minister`s Employment Generation Programme and started his apiary with 50 hive boxes.

Each hive box cost Rs 4,500 and each hive produced nearly 25 kg honey. Besides honey production, bees play an important role as pollinators in the crop production.

Over 1,100 FIRs have been lodged against 2,000 farmers in Uttar Pradesh for stubble burning. Nearly, 144 FIRs have been lodged in different districts in the last 24 hours alone for stubble burning.

Over 1,100 FIRs have been lodged against 2,000 farmers in Uttar Pradesh for stubble burning. Nearly, 144 FIRs have been lodged in different districts in the last 24 hours alone for stubble burning. The police lodged 15 FIRs in Balrampur, eight in Bahraich and Kushinagar, seven each in Aligarh, Basti and Hardoi, and six each in Rampur, Shahjahanpur, Siddhartha Nagar among others. Six persons have also been arrested in Saharanpur for burning stubble. Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) H.C. Awasthi has given strict directions to all district police chiefs to stop air pollution, by spreading awareness against stubble burning and for proper disposal of crop residue by involving village committees and village heads. Senior officials at the state DGP headquarters said Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture had informed the DGP that in spite of repeated instructions stubble burning cases were not coming down. ADG, law and order, Prashant Kumar said the Supreme Court was monitoring the situation and district police chiefs have been asked to ensure guidelines of curbing stubble burning were followed. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) has demanded withdrawal of cases against the farmers and has threatened agitation if 'victimisation' of farmers was not stopped. Meanwhile, a large number of bees were reportedly charred to death in a farm in Shahjahanpur, due to stubble burning. A bee farmer, Dharmendra Kumar, claimed that he had suffered huge losses and has filed a complaint in this regard. Dharmendra had signed up for beekeeping training in Pipraula village. In 2017, he secured a loan of Rs 2.5 lakh under the Prime Minister`s Employment Generation Programme and started his apiary with 50 hive boxes. Each hive box cost Rs 4,500 and each hive produced nearly 25 kg honey. Besides honey production, bees play an important role as pollinators in the crop production.

2,000 farmers booked for stubble burning in UP

Fear and anxiety gripped people in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida on Saturday as they noticed a strange flying object in the sky.

The object later turned out to be an 'Ironman' shaped balloon filled with air, according to police.

The object was spotted in the sky in the Dankaur area in the morning and later landed in a canal near Bhatta Parsaul village, where a crowd had gathered to see what some of them thought was "an alien".

Dankaur SHO Anil Kumar Pandey told PTI that a major reason behind the anxiety among people was the unusual shape of the balloon.

"It was shaped like the Ironman (fictional superhero character) given its colour and design. This was an unusual sight so some people even thought it was an alien, or something like that, and were apprehensive," Pandey said.

The official said the balloon was fished out around noon and apparently it came down because it was losing its gas.

It is yet to be ascertained who floated it in the air.

Fear and anxiety gripped people in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida on Saturday as they noticed a strange flying object in the sky. The object later turned out to be an 'Ironman' shaped balloon filled with air, according to police.

Fear and anxiety gripped people in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida on Saturday as they noticed a strange flying object in the sky. The object later turned out to be an 'Ironman' shaped balloon filled with air, according to police. The object was spotted in the sky in the Dankaur area in the morning and later landed in a canal near Bhatta Parsaul village, where a crowd had gathered to see what some of them thought was "an alien". Dankaur SHO Anil Kumar Pandey told PTI that a major reason behind the anxiety among people was the unusual shape of the balloon. "It was shaped like the Ironman (fictional superhero character) given its colour and design. This was an unusual sight so some people even thought it was an alien, or something like that, and were apprehensive," Pandey said. The official said the balloon was fished out around noon and apparently it came down because it was losing its gas. It is yet to be ascertained who floated it in the air.

'Ironman' shaped balloon spotted in sky in Uttar Pradesh

It is truly unfortunate that crime against women in India has never been treated independently. It is never reported and outlined from merely gender perspective, and immediately acquires faultline of caste, community, religion, and character.&nbsp;

The violence perpetrated on the body quickly becomes expression of inter-faith or inter-caste politics which is nothing but primordial politics of honour in the Indian sub-continent.&nbsp;

According to the current narrative,&nbsp;the primal issue of assault on a woman's body has become secondary and honour of community, state, caste, and religion has become primary. It is for this reason that India has also failed to make women reservation bill a reality. Gender is never considered an independent category of approach towards a woman's body.

Gender continues to be a very weak tool of political mobilisation in India.

In Hathras case, the victim's own dying testimony is not being considered important. She was cremated in the&nbsp;absence of her relatives. The argument of the state was that they wanted to avoid violence and it is for this reason that the family members could not participate in the last rite ceremonies. When alive, the victim's body was brutalised by men and when dead, by an indifferent state.

Today, Hathras is debating the incident from the perspective of caste relations. Political parties too have sensed an opportunity. The local administration's response reflection of how crime in poor localities is treated. It is never prioritised. Administrative response is always a reflection of the power matrix of the ruling government.

In Hathras case too, many theories are being debated. One of the theories is that the crime was invited. The brutal assault on woman converts into a case of immodesty and loose character.

Many Indian filmmakers too have undergone harassment because certain communities and religious organisations objected to a few scenes. The classic example is that of the film Padmavat where an imaginary female character became repository of the community's honour.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh too has made Hathras case an issue of honour. It has become irrelevant as to how the woman died. It has become irrelevant as how her back was broken. It has also become irrelevant as to why a prompt action was lacking on part of the police department -- all this because the state has converted it into an issue of conspiracy.

It has become a matter of state honour as post murder journalistic and political activity is being portrayed as an exercise in maligning the state. Instead of Hathras being treated as a pure case of rape and murder, it has become a case of conspiracy, subversion, and foreign funding. It has become a case of maligning an elected government. The political fight has relegated violence on the victim's body as a secondary narrative. Her body has become less of an issue and caste relations, relationship between journalists and the state and a conspiracy to malign has become a bigger issue. The apparent attempt of the UP government to milk the case for domestic end is evident.

Hathras rape like all other rapes was an expression of power. Whether it happened because of caste animosity or class domination or was a result of pure misogyny is not known but the shoddy job of the local police is for everyone to see.&nbsp;

After Nirbhaya, promises were made that an incident like that will never be allowed to take place in India again. It was not the case to be. Thousands of rapes have since taken place -- some were documented and some not.

There are thousands of others which get hushed up. &nbsp;

Today state instead of correcting the wrong is trying to avert a crisis of perception management. It is for this reason that the affidavit filed in court is less about the victim's body and more about the honour and prestige of the state.&nbsp;

The debate on the rape also shows how individual rights become secondary when it comes to community sentiments. Hathras rape and murder is a warning that if we continue to pander to community feelings or ego of a weak state then it will end up curtailing individual liberty.

It is truly unfortunate that crime against women in India has never been treated independently. It is never reported and outlined from merely gender perspective, and immediately acquires faultline of caste, community, religion, and character.

It is truly unfortunate that crime against women in India has never been treated independently. It is never reported and outlined from merely gender perspective, and immediately acquires faultline of caste, community, religion, and character. The violence perpetrated on the body quickly becomes expression of inter-faith or inter-caste politics which is nothing but primordial politics of honour in the Indian sub-continent. According to the current narrative, the primal issue of assault on a woman's body has become secondary and honour of community, state, caste, and religion has become primary. It is for this reason that India has also failed to make women reservation bill a reality. Gender is never considered an independent category of approach towards a woman's body. Gender continues to be a very weak tool of political mobilisation in India. In Hathras case, the victim's own dying testimony is not being considered important. She was cremated in the absence of her relatives. The argument of the state was that they wanted to avoid violence and it is for this reason that the family members could not participate in the last rite ceremonies. When alive, the victim's body was brutalised by men and when dead, by an indifferent state. Today, Hathras is debating the incident from the perspective of caste relations. Political parties too have sensed an opportunity. The local administration's response reflection of how crime in poor localities is treated. It is never prioritised. Administrative response is always a reflection of the power matrix of the ruling government. In Hathras case too, many theories are being debated. One of the theories is that the crime was invited. The brutal assault on woman converts into a case of immodesty and loose character. Many Indian filmmakers too have undergone harassment because certain communities and religious organisations objected to a few scenes. The classic example is that of the film Padmavat where an imaginary female character became repository of the community's honour. Uttar Pradesh too has made Hathras case an issue of honour. It has become irrelevant as to how the woman died. It has become irrelevant as how her back was broken. It has also become irrelevant as to why a prompt action was lacking on part of the police department -- all this because the state has converted it into an issue of conspiracy. It has become a matter of state honour as post murder journalistic and political activity is being portrayed as an exercise in maligning the state. Instead of Hathras being treated as a pure case of rape and murder, it has become a case of conspiracy, subversion, and foreign funding. It has become a case of maligning an elected government. The political fight has relegated violence on the victim's body as a secondary narrative. Her body has become less of an issue and caste relations, relationship between journalists and the state and a conspiracy to malign has become a bigger issue. The apparent attempt of the UP government to milk the case for domestic end is evident. Hathras rape like all other rapes was an expression of power. Whether it happened because of caste animosity or class domination or was a result of pure misogyny is not known but the shoddy job of the local police is for everyone to see. After Nirbhaya, promises were made that an incident like that will never be allowed to take place in India again. It was not the case to be. Thousands of rapes have since taken place -- some were documented and some not. There are thousands of others which get hushed up. Today state instead of correcting the wrong is trying to avert a crisis of perception management. It is for this reason that the affidavit filed in court is less about the victim's body and more about the honour and prestige of the state. The debate on the rape also shows how individual rights become secondary when it comes to community sentiments. Hathras rape and murder is a warning that if we continue to pander to community feelings or ego of a weak state then it will end up curtailing individual liberty.

Hathras is about crime against women. It is not a case of subversion

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that his government is committed to ensuring the safety woman, adding that those who harm the dignity of `mothers and sisters` in Uttar Pradesh will be `destroyed` and given exemplary punishment.

"Those who even think of damaging the honour of our mothers and sisters will be destroyed completely. They will be given such punishment that it will serve as an example in future. Your UP government is committed to the safety and security of every mother and sister. This is our promise, our determination," Adityanath said in a tweet in Hindi.

The Chief Minister`s assurance came amid massive political uproar over the alleged gang-rape and death of the victim in the Hathras case. Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were arrested and sent back to Delhi when they attempted to meet the victim on Thursday.Earlier in the day, Congress held a prayer meet for the victim at Maharishi Valmiki Temple in the national capital where party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that gross injustice was done to the alleged gangrape victim and is being done to her family.

Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad had also said that he will stage a protest at India Gate at 5 pm demanding justice.Also, a delegation of Trinamool Congress (TMC) was roughed up by Uttar Pradesh Police at Hathras border.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-lawyer-seema-kushwaha-to-help-fight-hathras-victim-331947">Nirbhaya rape case lawyer, Seema Kushwaha, to help fight Hathras victim</a>

The delegation, including party MP Derek O`Brien, was on the way to meet the family of the victim of the Hathras incident.The 19-year-old Hathras girl died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29, a fortnight after allegedly being gang-raped.&nbsp;

All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.The post-mortem report reads that the victim suffered a fracture of "C6 cervical vertebra" and there was "extravasations of blood along the fracture line" and the underlying spinal cord was "contused with ascending oedema". Also, the postmortem report denies rape charges.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that his government is committed to ensuring the safety woman, adding that those who harm the dignity of `mothers and sisters` in Uttar Pradesh will be `destroyed` and given exemplary punishment.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that his government is committed to ensuring the safety woman, adding that those who harm the dignity of `mothers and sisters` in Uttar Pradesh will be `destroyed` and given exemplary punishment. "Those who even think of damaging the honour of our mothers and sisters will be destroyed completely. They will be given such punishment that it will serve as an example in future. Your UP government is committed to the safety and security of every mother and sister. This is our promise, our determination," Adityanath said in a tweet in Hindi. The Chief Minister`s assurance came amid massive political uproar over the alleged gang-rape and death of the victim in the Hathras case. Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were arrested and sent back to Delhi when they attempted to meet the victim on Thursday.Earlier in the day, Congress held a prayer meet for the victim at Maharishi Valmiki Temple in the national capital where party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that gross injustice was done to the alleged gangrape victim and is being done to her family. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad had also said that he will stage a protest at India Gate at 5 pm demanding justice.Also, a delegation of Trinamool Congress (TMC) was roughed up by Uttar Pradesh Police at Hathras border. Also Read | Nirbhaya rape case lawyer, Seema Kushwaha, to help fight Hathras victim The delegation, including party MP Derek O`Brien, was on the way to meet the family of the victim of the Hathras incident.The 19-year-old Hathras girl died at Delhi`s Safdarjung hospital on September 29, a fortnight after allegedly being gang-raped. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested.The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.The post-mortem report reads that the victim suffered a fracture of "C6 cervical vertebra" and there was "extravasations of blood along the fracture line" and the underlying spinal cord was "contused with ascending oedema". Also, the postmortem report denies rape charges.

UP CM promises 'exemplary' action against those who harm dignity of 'mothers and sisters'

Heavy rains have led to worsening of the flood situation in Uttar Pradesh where over 600 villages in 16 districts have been affected.

The deluge-hit districts in the state are Ambedkarnagar, Ayodhya, Azamgarh, Bahraich, Ballia, Barabanki, Basti, Deoria, Farrukhabad, Gonda, Gorakhpur, Lakhimpur Khiri, Kushinagar, Mau, Sant Kabir Nagar and Sitapur.

Relief Commissioner Sanjay Goyal said the flood situation in the state is improving. Of 690 villages hit by the deluge, 299 villages are completely flooded, he said.

The Sharda River was flowing above the danger mark at Palia Kalan in Lakhimpur Kheri, while the Saryu River was flowing above the danger mark at Ayodhya, Elgin Bridge in Barabanki and Turtipar in Ballia.

The IMD in its all-India weather summary and forecast bulletin said that heavy to very heavy rainfall was recorded at many places in Uttar Pradesh.

(With inputs from agencies)

Heavy rains have led to worsening of the flood situation in Uttar Pradesh where over 600 villages in 16 districts have been affected. The deluge-hit districts in the state are Ambedkarnagar, Ayodhya, Azamgarh, Bahraich, Ballia, Barabanki, Basti, Deoria, Farrukhabad, Gonda, Gorakhpur, Lakhimpur Khiri, Kushinagar, Mau, Sant Kabir Nagar and Sitapur.

Heavy rains have led to worsening of the flood situation in Uttar Pradesh where over 600 villages in 16 districts have been affected. The deluge-hit districts in the state are Ambedkarnagar, Ayodhya, Azamgarh, Bahraich, Ballia, Barabanki, Basti, Deoria, Farrukhabad, Gonda, Gorakhpur, Lakhimpur Khiri, Kushinagar, Mau, Sant Kabir Nagar and Sitapur. Relief Commissioner Sanjay Goyal said the flood situation in the state is improving. Of 690 villages hit by the deluge, 299 villages are completely flooded, he said. The Sharda River was flowing above the danger mark at Palia Kalan in Lakhimpur Kheri, while the Saryu River was flowing above the danger mark at Ayodhya, Elgin Bridge in Barabanki and Turtipar in Ballia. The IMD in its all-India weather summary and forecast bulletin said that heavy to very heavy rainfall was recorded at many places in Uttar Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh flood situation grim, over 600 villages affected

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Ayodhya from Delhi on Wednesday (August 5) to attend bhoomi pujan of Ram Temple. The grand celebrations for the bhoomi pujan started at 8 am and PM Modi will perform bhoomi pujan at the auspicious time of 12:40 pm.

PM Modi leaves from Delhi for Ayodhya to attend Bhoomi Pujan

The muhurt for Ram Mandir bhoomi pujan is at 12:40 pm. The prime minister will reach Ayodhya at 11:30 and will perform a puja at Hanumangarhi temple.

Ram Temple bhoomi pujan today | Itinerary of PM Modi's Ayodhya visit | India

A temple will come up on the 2.77 acres of land in Ayodhya and a five-acre plot at an alternate site will go for the building of a mosque, the top court said in a judgment that was welcomed by all involved.

Ram Temple to be a catalyst for growth | Ramayan's global connect | India | South-Asia

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