Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, V.K. Saxena, has flagged off a snow leopard wildlife safari, highlighting efforts to promote wildlife tourism and conservation in the region. Known for its rugged mountains and unique high-altitude ecosystem, Ladakh is an important habitat for the elusive snow leopard. The initiative aims to bring attention to the region’s rich biodiversity while encouraging responsible tourism and supporting conservation efforts.


L-G VK Saxena flags off snow leopard wildlife safari

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi responded to LG VK Saxena's letter after AAP's claim of high ammonia levels in river Yamuna saying that by defending the indefensible, he is actively &ldquo;betraying the people&rdquo; he is supposed to serve.
Atishi in her letter wrote that the ammonia levels in the Yamuna are 700 per cent above permissible limits&mdash;a fact which he cannot deny.
&ldquo;Let me be clear: the truth cannot be buried under bureaucratic excuses. The ammonia levels in the Yamuna are 700 per cent above permissible limits a fact you cannot deny, no matter how many reports you manipulate. By defending the indefensible, you are actively betraying the people you are supposed to serve,&rdquo; the Delhi CM said in the letter.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/false-misleading-delhi-lg-slams-arvind-kejriwal-over-his-haryana-poisoning-yamuna-claim-8662978">&lsquo;False, misleading&rsquo;: Delhi LG slams Arvind Kejriwal over his &lsquo;Haryana poisoning Yamuna&rsquo; claim</a>
<h2>Atishi targets Saxena for calling AAP claims "false"</h2>
Coming down heavily on LG Saxena for calling AAP claims &ldquo;false&rdquo;, Atishi said that if he genuinely cared about Delhi people, then he would have done something to prevent this crisis rather than &ldquo;choosing to target those who dare to speak the truth.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;Your relentless defence of the Haryana government and your complete inaction against the contamination of Delhi's water supply raises a critical question: where does your loyalty lie? With the people of Delhi or with your party's government in Haryana? If you genuinely cared about Delhi's residents, you would have taken immediate steps to hold Haryana accountable for their negligence and prevent this crisis. Instead, you have chosen to target those who dare to speak the truth,&rdquo; she said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-rahul-gandhi-raises-allegations-of-biggest-liquor-scam-against-sisodia-and-kejriwal-8662330">Delhi Polls: Rahul Gandhi targets Kejriwal and Sisodia over 'biggest liquor scam'</a>
<h2>Kejriwal said Haryana govt has "poisoned" Yamuna water</h2>
This comes after Saxena on Tuesday (Jan 28) wrote to Atishi advising her to rise above petty interests for public welfare and peace over the Delhi Yamuna row.
&ldquo;By making false, misleading and fact-less allegations like poisoning and genocide on another state government on a sensitive issue like drinking water is a threat not only to the states but also to national peace and security. I hope that as an educated, enlightened and sensitive woman and the Chief Minister of Delhi, you will rise above petty interests and will not say such misleading, dangerous and baseless things in the interest of public welfare and peace and will also advise your leader not to do so," the LG said in his letter to Atishi.
The row began when Kejriwal on Monday levelled serious allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party, stating that the BJP-ruled Haryana government has "poisoned" the Yamuna water supplied to Delhi so that "people die" and the blame comes on AAP.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Delhi CM Atishi rebukes LG VK Saxena's defense on Yamuna's ammonia levels claiming his actions betray public trust, escalating the water quality debate.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi responded to LG VK Saxena's letter after AAP's claim of high ammonia levels in river Yamuna saying that by defending the indefensible, he is actively “betraying the people” he is supposed to serve. Atishi in her letter wrote that the ammonia levels in the Yamuna are 700 per cent above permissible limits—a fact which he cannot deny. “Let me be clear: the truth cannot be buried under bureaucratic excuses. The ammonia levels in the Yamuna are 700 per cent above permissible limits a fact you cannot deny, no matter how many reports you manipulate. By defending the indefensible, you are actively betraying the people you are supposed to serve,” the Delhi CM said in the letter. Also read | ‘False, misleading’: Delhi LG slams Arvind Kejriwal over his ‘Haryana poisoning Yamuna’ claim Atishi targets Saxena for calling AAP claims "false" Coming down heavily on LG Saxena for calling AAP claims “false”, Atishi said that if he genuinely cared about Delhi people, then he would have done something to prevent this crisis rather than “choosing to target those who dare to speak the truth.” “Your relentless defence of the Haryana government and your complete inaction against the contamination of Delhi's water supply raises a critical question: where does your loyalty lie? With the people of Delhi or with your party's government in Haryana? If you genuinely cared about Delhi's residents, you would have taken immediate steps to hold Haryana accountable for their negligence and prevent this crisis. Instead, you have chosen to target those who dare to speak the truth,” she said. Also read | Delhi Polls: Rahul Gandhi targets Kejriwal and Sisodia over 'biggest liquor scam' Kejriwal said Haryana govt has "poisoned" Yamuna water This comes after Saxena on Tuesday (Jan 28) wrote to Atishi advising her to rise above petty interests for public welfare and peace over the Delhi Yamuna row. “By making false, misleading and fact-less allegations like poisoning and genocide on another state government on a sensitive issue like drinking water is a threat not only to the states but also to national peace and security. I hope that as an educated, enlightened and sensitive woman and the Chief Minister of Delhi, you will rise above petty interests and will not say such misleading, dangerous and baseless things in the interest of public welfare and peace and will also advise your leader not to do so," the LG said in his letter to Atishi. The row began when Kejriwal on Monday levelled serious allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party, stating that the BJP-ruled Haryana government has "poisoned" the Yamuna water supplied to Delhi so that "people die" and the blame comes on AAP. (With inputs from agencies)

‘By defending indefensible, you’re betraying people’: Atishi targets LG Saxena over Delhi Yamuna row

Delhi LG VK Saxena launched a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal over his claims of "poison" being mixed in the Yamuna water, labelling them as &ldquo;false, misleading and fact less.&rdquo;
Saxena on Tuesday (Jan 28) wrote to Chief Minister Atishi advising her to rise above petty interests for the public welfare and peace.
In a letter to Atishi, the Delhi LG alleged that Kejriwal's accusations that "poison" is being mixed in the Yamuna water and there is an "attempt of genocide" in the national capital are highly objectionable and unfortunate, and amount to endangering national security.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-tragedy-at-indias-maha-kumbh-several-worshipers-killed-in-stampede-rescue-operations-underway-death-toll-maha-kumbh-stampede-8662768">Maha Kumbh Stampede: Dozens feared dead as tragedy strikes on Mauni Amavasya</a>
<h2>Saxena's letter to Atishi</h2>
&ldquo;By making false, misleading and fact-less allegations like poisoning and genocide on another state government on a sensitive issue like drinking water is a threat not only to the states but also to national peace and security. I hope that as an educated, enlightened and sensitive woman and the Chief Minister of Delhi, you will rise above petty interests and will not say such misleading, dangerous and baseless things in the interest of public welfare and peace and will also advise your leader not to do so," the LG said in his letter to Atishi.
&ldquo;Arvind Kejriwal has accused the Haryana government of poisoning the Yamuna river and attempting mass genocide in Delhi. This is extremely objectionable, unfortunate and undesirable. This blatantly false statement has the potential to not only create confusion and fear among the people of Delhi but it can also create extreme hostility between the two neighbouring states," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-rahul-gandhi-raises-allegations-of-biggest-liquor-scam-against-sisodia-and-kejriwal-8662330">Delhi Polls: Rahul Gandhi targets Kejriwal and Sisodia over 'biggest liquor scam'</a>
<h2>Kejriwal said&nbsp;Haryana govt has "poisoned" Yamuna water</h2>
This comes after Kejriwal on Monday levelled serious allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party, stating that the BJP-ruled Haryana government has "poisoned" the Yamuna water supplied to Delhi so that "people die" and the blame comes on the AAP.
"If this water would have entered Delhi only to be mixed with the drinking water, many people would have died in Delhi. It would have caused mass genocide," Kejriwal had alleged.
<h2>AAP hits back at LG Saxena</h2>
Meanwhile, reacting to Saxena's remarks, AAP claimed the ammonia levels in Yamuna have reached an alarming 7.2 ppm -- 700 per cent above permissible limits -- and yet Saxena has "failed" to act on this serious public health crisis.
"If he cannot rise above partisan politics, he should step aside. This is not about politics; this is about saving lives," AAP said, as it accused the LG of protecting the BJP-led Haryana government.
The Delhi Assembly elections will take place in a single phase on February 5, with the counting of votes set for February 8.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: Delhi LG VK Saxena criticized AAP's Arvind Kejriwal for claiming the Yamuna water is poisoned, calling these allegations false, misleading, and unsupported by facts.

Delhi LG VK Saxena launched a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal over his claims of "poison" being mixed in the Yamuna water, labelling them as “false, misleading and fact less.” Saxena on Tuesday (Jan 28) wrote to Chief Minister Atishi advising her to rise above petty interests for the public welfare and peace. In a letter to Atishi, the Delhi LG alleged that Kejriwal's accusations that "poison" is being mixed in the Yamuna water and there is an "attempt of genocide" in the national capital are highly objectionable and unfortunate, and amount to endangering national security. Also read | Maha Kumbh Stampede: Dozens feared dead as tragedy strikes on Mauni Amavasya Saxena's letter to Atishi “By making false, misleading and fact-less allegations like poisoning and genocide on another state government on a sensitive issue like drinking water is a threat not only to the states but also to national peace and security. I hope that as an educated, enlightened and sensitive woman and the Chief Minister of Delhi, you will rise above petty interests and will not say such misleading, dangerous and baseless things in the interest of public welfare and peace and will also advise your leader not to do so," the LG said in his letter to Atishi. “Arvind Kejriwal has accused the Haryana government of poisoning the Yamuna river and attempting mass genocide in Delhi. This is extremely objectionable, unfortunate and undesirable. This blatantly false statement has the potential to not only create confusion and fear among the people of Delhi but it can also create extreme hostility between the two neighbouring states," he added. Also read | Delhi Polls: Rahul Gandhi targets Kejriwal and Sisodia over 'biggest liquor scam' Kejriwal said Haryana govt has "poisoned" Yamuna water This comes after Kejriwal on Monday levelled serious allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party, stating that the BJP-ruled Haryana government has "poisoned" the Yamuna water supplied to Delhi so that "people die" and the blame comes on the AAP. "If this water would have entered Delhi only to be mixed with the drinking water, many people would have died in Delhi. It would have caused mass genocide," Kejriwal had alleged. AAP hits back at LG Saxena Meanwhile, reacting to Saxena's remarks, AAP claimed the ammonia levels in Yamuna have reached an alarming 7.2 ppm -- 700 per cent above permissible limits -- and yet Saxena has "failed" to act on this serious public health crisis. "If he cannot rise above partisan politics, he should step aside. This is not about politics; this is about saving lives," AAP said, as it accused the LG of protecting the BJP-led Haryana government. The Delhi Assembly elections will take place in a single phase on February 5, with the counting of votes set for February 8. (With inputs from agencies)

‘False, misleading’: Delhi LG slams Arvind Kejriwal over his ‘Haryana poisoning Yamuna’ claim

Delhi's Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, in season's greetings to the Chief Minister Atishi, took a dig at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal. Saxena said that he was "hurt" after Kejriwal called Atishi a "temporary chief minister." In a letter to Atishi, the L-G wrote, "There is no such post in the Constitution, and it is a reprehensible neglect to the concept of democracy in the Constitution of Babasaheb Ambedkar." He claimed that Kejriwal's remarks were an insult to the Indian president who appointed her.&nbsp;
He further said that everyone knows the "circumstances" she was appointed in. Saxena listed down multiple areas where the Delhi government has failed and said that although Kejwriwal has admitted his government's shortcomings, the ultimate blame for the failure will be borne by Atishi. He said not much could be corrected in the short span of time left in the tenure as the assembly elections are due in February next year.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5b2yo18-lt9hf2ls-sdewz7u7">
In a letter to Delhi CM Atishi, LG VK Saxena expressed objection to AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal calling Atishi a temporary Chief Minister "...I found this very objectionable and I was hurt by it. It was not only an insult to you, but also to your appointee, the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/8Gf5gmlso7">pic.twitter.com/8Gf5gmlso7</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1873704128893145256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kejriwal-announces-honorarium-for-priests-granthis-amid-protest-by-delhi-imams-over-delayed-salaries-8578188" aria-label="Kejriwal announces honorarium for priests, granthis amid protest by Delhi Imams against AAP govt over delayed salaries">Kejriwal announces honorarium for priests, granthis amid protest by Delhi Imams against AAP govt over delayed salaries</a>
The L-G opened his letter by praising Atishi, as he wrote, "This is the first time in my two-and-a-half-year tenure that I am seeing a Chief Minister discharge the duties of a Chief Minister. Your predecessor did not handle a single government department and never signed a file. In contrast, you are handling many departments and trying to tackle many governance issues."&nbsp;
In August this year, on India's Independence Day, the then-jailed CM Kejriwal chose Atishi to hoist the flag, but Saxena refused to allow her. He then chose Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gehlot to hoist the flag.&nbsp;
<h3>'Happy that Delhi's CM is a woman'&nbsp;</h3>
On November 22, Saxena said that Atishi was "a thousand times better" than Kejriwal.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-just-demanded-blanket-from-me-prashant-kishores-ugly-debate-with-bpsc-student-protestors-goes-viral-8578001" aria-label="'You just demanded blanket from me...': Prashant Kishor's heated debate with BPSC protestors goes viral">'You just demanded blanket from me...': Prashant Kishor's heated debate with BPSC protestors goes viral</a>
"I am happy today that Delhi's CM is a woman, and I can confidently say that she is a thousand times better than her predecessor," he was quoted saying by PTI.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: In a letter to Atishi, the L-G wrote, "There is no such post in the Constitution, and it is a reprehensible neglect to the concept of democracy in the Constitution of Babasaheb Ambedkar."

Delhi's Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, in season's greetings to the Chief Minister Atishi, took a dig at the ruling Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal. Saxena said that he was "hurt" after Kejriwal called Atishi a "temporary chief minister." In a letter to Atishi, the L-G wrote, "There is no such post in the Constitution, and it is a reprehensible neglect to the concept of democracy in the Constitution of Babasaheb Ambedkar." He claimed that Kejriwal's remarks were an insult to the Indian president who appointed her. He further said that everyone knows the "circumstances" she was appointed in. Saxena listed down multiple areas where the Delhi government has failed and said that although Kejwriwal has admitted his government's shortcomings, the ultimate blame for the failure will be borne by Atishi. He said not much could be corrected in the short span of time left in the tenure as the assembly elections are due in February next year. In a letter to Delhi CM Atishi, LG VK Saxena expressed objection to AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal calling Atishi a temporary Chief Minister "...I found this very objectionable and I was hurt by it. It was not only an insult to you, but also to your appointee, the… pic.twitter.com/8Gf5gmlso7 — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2024 Also read | Kejriwal announces honorarium for priests, granthis amid protest by Delhi Imams against AAP govt over delayed salaries The L-G opened his letter by praising Atishi, as he wrote, "This is the first time in my two-and-a-half-year tenure that I am seeing a Chief Minister discharge the duties of a Chief Minister. Your predecessor did not handle a single government department and never signed a file. In contrast, you are handling many departments and trying to tackle many governance issues." In August this year, on India's Independence Day, the then-jailed CM Kejriwal chose Atishi to hoist the flag, but Saxena refused to allow her. He then chose Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gehlot to hoist the flag. 'Happy that Delhi's CM is a woman' On November 22, Saxena said that Atishi was "a thousand times better" than Kejriwal. Also read | 'You just demanded blanket from me...': Prashant Kishor's heated debate with BPSC protestors goes viral "I am happy today that Delhi's CM is a woman, and I can confidently say that she is a thousand times better than her predecessor," he was quoted saying by PTI. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi L-G VK Saxena felt ‘hurt’ on AAP chief Kejriwal calling Atishi ‘temporary CM’

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, along with other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, was detained by the police in the Indian capital on Saturday (Oct 5) while protesting near Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's residence. The protest was held to demand the reappointment of bus marshals who had recently lost their jobs.

This was the second time Bharadwaj had been detained in connection with his demand for reinstating bus marshals. More than 10,000 civil defence volunteers, who were serving as marshals on public buses, were removed last year. The civil defence directorate raised concerns, saying that these volunteers are intended for disaster management roles, not for transport-related duties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protest-erupts-in-bengal-following-murder-of-minor-girl-locals-allege-rape-accuse-police-of-negligence-764790">Protest erupts in Bengal following murder of minor girl; locals allege rape, accuse police of negligence</a>

Earlier that day, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, along with AAP and BJP MLAs, visited Saxena’s office to present a note on the issue and seek his approval for reinstating the marshals. Later, Atishi criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing them of not pushing the Lieutenant Governor to approve the proposal.

"The BJP demanded a Cabinet proposal to be passed in the meeting. We called an emergency Cabinet meeting and signed the resolution that was passed in Delhi Assembly to regularise the jobs of bus marshals. We have a provided a copy to BJP as well, but they were exposed. First, the BJP was not ready to go to L-G House. Once they did, they did not say anything to L-G about passing of the proposal. Delhi government took the Cabinet decision to making bus marshals jobs permanent, now the ball is in the BJP's court," Atishi told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-rules-out-bilateral-talks-during-sco-visit-to-pakistan-not-going-there-to-discuss-india-pak-764775">EAM Jaishankar rules out bilateral talks during SCO visit to Pakistan</a>

Bharadwaj, also slammed the BJP, accusing the party of going back on their promise to regularise the bus marshals' jobs. "BJP has betrayed 10,000 bus marshals today," he&nbsp;said, referring to an earlier promise by BJP leader Vijender Gupta.

"Gupta assured us that once the resolution was passed by the cabinet, the marshals would be regularised through the LG," he added. Bharadwaj further claimed that both the Lieutenant Governor and BJP leaders have let down the bus marshals and the people of Delhi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, along with other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, was detained by the police in the Indian capital on Saturday (Oct 5) while protesting near Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's residence.

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, along with other Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, was detained by the police in the Indian capital on Saturday (Oct 5) while protesting near Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's residence. The protest was held to demand the reappointment of bus marshals who had recently lost their jobs. This was the second time Bharadwaj had been detained in connection with his demand for reinstating bus marshals. More than 10,000 civil defence volunteers, who were serving as marshals on public buses, were removed last year. The civil defence directorate raised concerns, saying that these volunteers are intended for disaster management roles, not for transport-related duties. Also read: Protest erupts in Bengal following murder of minor girl; locals allege rape, accuse police of negligence Earlier that day, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, along with AAP and BJP MLAs, visited Saxena’s office to present a note on the issue and seek his approval for reinstating the marshals. Later, Atishi criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing them of not pushing the Lieutenant Governor to approve the proposal. "The BJP demanded a Cabinet proposal to be passed in the meeting. We called an emergency Cabinet meeting and signed the resolution that was passed in Delhi Assembly to regularise the jobs of bus marshals. We have a provided a copy to BJP as well, but they were exposed. First, the BJP was not ready to go to L-G House. Once they did, they did not say anything to L-G about passing of the proposal. Delhi government took the Cabinet decision to making bus marshals jobs permanent, now the ball is in the BJP's court," Atishi told reporters. Also read: EAM Jaishankar rules out bilateral talks during SCO visit to Pakistan Bharadwaj, also slammed the BJP, accusing the party of going back on their promise to regularise the bus marshals' jobs. "BJP has betrayed 10,000 bus marshals today," he said, referring to an earlier promise by BJP leader Vijender Gupta. "Gupta assured us that once the resolution was passed by the cabinet, the marshals would be regularised through the LG," he added. Bharadwaj further claimed that both the Lieutenant Governor and BJP leaders have let down the bus marshals and the people of Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Police detains minister, AAP leaders during protest outside L-G house over Delhi bus marshals

Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG)&nbsp;VK Saxena has suggested India's Finance Minister&nbsp;Nirmala Sitharaman to establish a system in which the vehicle insurance&nbsp;premiums are linked with traffic violations.&nbsp;

This would mean that the more traffic violations recorded and challans generated, the insurance premium for next year would be higher accordingly.

In the letter, Saxena emphasised that such a system is important to enhance&nbsp;road safety&nbsp;and promote responsible driving behaviour.

"I am writing to draw your kind attention to a matter of critical importance concerning road safety and vehicular insurance in India," wrote Saxena, in the letter.

"I would like to suggest for your consideration that&nbsp;insurance premiums&nbsp;should be index-linked with the number of traffic violations recorded against a vehicle, which would have a salutary impact on road safety and traffic discipline," he added.

"There is an obvious correlation between repeat traffic offences and the risk of accidents. I would therefore suggest that a layered insurance premium system based on the frequency and severity of traffic violations, as recorded in MoRTH's VAHAN database, may be introduced," the lieutenant governor explained.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/not-just-red-amber-and-green-traffic-lights-will-have-a-new-colour-heres-why-749369">Not just red, amber and green, traffic lights will have a new colour. Here's why</a>

He said that vehicles with a history of over-speeding and dangerous driving need to be subjected to higher insurance premiums which can work as a financial deterrent and encourage safe driving habits among drivers.

He said that similar systems have been in place in other countries.

"Such measures have been successfully implemented in other countries such as the United States, where insurance premiums increase significantly based on traffic violations and speeding tickets, leading to an average premium increase of 20 to 30%," he said.

"Linking insurance premiums to traffic violations would not only align insurance costs with risk but also reduce the financial burden on insurers due to claims arising from frequent accidents," Saxena added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh-India passenger traffic drops

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-india-passenger-traffic-drops-758618/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"This market-driven solution would encourage responsible driving, contribute to reduced road accidents, save lives, and ensure better management of insurance claims," he said.

<h2>Challan-insurance linked model can reduce accidents: LG</h2>

India recorded more than 4.37 lakh road accidents in 2022 among which 70 per cent of cases were of over-speeding.

The lieutenant governor stated that if this model gets adopted in India, it can establish a new benchmark in road safety initiatives.

"By adopting this system, India could significantly reduce its alarming rate of road accidents. If implemented, this policy could be a pivotal step towards reducing road fatalities, preserving lives, and ensuring a safer, more sustainable future on Indian roads," Saxena said.

(With input from agencies)

Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has suggested India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to establish a system in which the vehicle insurance premiums are linked with traffic violations.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has suggested India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to establish a system in which the vehicle insurance premiums are linked with traffic violations. This would mean that the more traffic violations recorded and challans generated, the insurance premium for next year would be higher accordingly. In the letter, Saxena emphasised that such a system is important to enhance road safety and promote responsible driving behaviour. "I am writing to draw your kind attention to a matter of critical importance concerning road safety and vehicular insurance in India," wrote Saxena, in the letter. "I would like to suggest for your consideration that insurance premiums should be index-linked with the number of traffic violations recorded against a vehicle, which would have a salutary impact on road safety and traffic discipline," he added. "There is an obvious correlation between repeat traffic offences and the risk of accidents. I would therefore suggest that a layered insurance premium system based on the frequency and severity of traffic violations, as recorded in MoRTH's VAHAN database, may be introduced," the lieutenant governor explained. Also Read: Not just red, amber and green, traffic lights will have a new colour. Here's why He said that vehicles with a history of over-speeding and dangerous driving need to be subjected to higher insurance premiums which can work as a financial deterrent and encourage safe driving habits among drivers. He said that similar systems have been in place in other countries. "Such measures have been successfully implemented in other countries such as the United States, where insurance premiums increase significantly based on traffic violations and speeding tickets, leading to an average premium increase of 20 to 30%," he said. "Linking insurance premiums to traffic violations would not only align insurance costs with risk but also reduce the financial burden on insurers due to claims arising from frequent accidents," Saxena added. Watch: Bangladesh-India passenger traffic drops "This market-driven solution would encourage responsible driving, contribute to reduced road accidents, save lives, and ensure better management of insurance claims," he said. Challan-insurance linked model can reduce accidents: LG India recorded more than 4.37 lakh road accidents in 2022 among which 70 per cent of cases were of over-speeding. The lieutenant governor stated that if this model gets adopted in India, it can establish a new benchmark in road safety initiatives. "By adopting this system, India could significantly reduce its alarming rate of road accidents. If implemented, this policy could be a pivotal step towards reducing road fatalities, preserving lives, and ensuring a safer, more sustainable future on Indian roads," Saxena said. (With input from agencies)

Delhi LG suggests FM Sitharaman link vehicle insurance to traffic challans. Here's how it will impact premiums

Just two days before India is due to celebrate its 78th Independence Day, it is yet to be decided who will hoist the flag in&nbsp;Delhi's state celebrations. Traditionally, the honour belongs to the chief minister, but with CM Arvind Kejriwal being behind the bars, who will partake in the ceremony this year?

While Kejriwal earlier said that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Minister Atishi would do the honours in his absence, Delhi Lieutenant Governor&nbsp;VK Saxena has now nominated Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gahlot to hoist the flag&nbsp;at the Independence Day celebrations.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1821}">LG nominates Gahlot</h2>

In a written communication to Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, the LG's secretary Ashish Kundra said, "The Lieutenant Governor is pleased to nominate Minister (Home), GNCTD, Kailash Gahlot to unfurl the National Flag at the State level Independence day celebrations at Chhatrasaal Stadium."

"Necessary arrangements may be made accordingly,"&nbsp;it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:279,&quot;w&quot;:714,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1965}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/love-lies-and-betrayal-father-spends-5-years-in-jail-after-being-falsely-accused-of-rape-by-own-daughter-749825">Love, lies, and betrayal: Father spends 5 years in jail, after being falsely accused of rape by own daughter</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:332,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2018}">Kejriwal nominated Atishi</h2>

As per PTI, earlier in the day, the Delhi government's general administration department had refused to implement department minister Gopal Rai's direction — on behalf of Kejriwal — for the hosting of the national flag by Education Minister Atishi.

In a letter to the Lt&nbsp;Governor, Kejriwal sought to appoint Atishi to preside over the flag hoisting ceremony at the Union Territory Independence Day celebration on August 15. However, the letter to LG was flagged as "an abuse of privileges" by the Tihar Jail authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-atishi-or-lg-who-will-hoist-flag-on-independence-day-heres-the-controversy-749481">Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi, or LG who will hoist flag on Independence Day? Here's the controversy</a>

The request was also slammed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which pointed out that, as per the national flag protocol, only the chief minister can hoist the flag. The Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said that if Kejriwal wanted Atishi to hoist the flat, he should resign and make her the CM.

"If the chief minister is unable to hoist the flag, then traditionally, the lieutenant governor of Delhi will hoist the flag. From 1991 to 1993 and in 2014, when there was no chief minister in Delhi, the lieutenant governor hoisted the flag,"&nbsp;Sachdeva&nbsp;said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Just two days before India is due to celebrate its 78th Independence Day, it is yet to be decided who will hoist the flag in Delhi's state celebrations. Traditionally, the honour belongs to the chief minister, but with CM Arvind Kejriwal being behind the bars, who will partake in the ceremony this year?

Just two days before India is due to celebrate its 78th Independence Day, it is yet to be decided who will hoist the flag in Delhi's state celebrations. Traditionally, the honour belongs to the chief minister, but with CM Arvind Kejriwal being behind the bars, who will partake in the ceremony this year? While Kejriwal earlier said that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Minister Atishi would do the honours in his absence, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has now nominated Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gahlot to hoist the flag at the Independence Day celebrations. LG nominates Gahlot In a written communication to Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, the LG's secretary Ashish Kundra said, "The Lieutenant Governor is pleased to nominate Minister (Home), GNCTD, Kailash Gahlot to unfurl the National Flag at the State level Independence day celebrations at Chhatrasaal Stadium." "Necessary arrangements may be made accordingly," it added. Also read | Love, lies, and betrayal: Father spends 5 years in jail, after being falsely accused of rape by own daughter Kejriwal nominated Atishi As per PTI, earlier in the day, the Delhi government's general administration department had refused to implement department minister Gopal Rai's direction — on behalf of Kejriwal — for the hosting of the national flag by Education Minister Atishi. In a letter to the Lt Governor, Kejriwal sought to appoint Atishi to preside over the flag hoisting ceremony at the Union Territory Independence Day celebration on August 15. However, the letter to LG was flagged as "an abuse of privileges" by the Tihar Jail authorities. Also read | Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi, or LG who will hoist flag on Independence Day? Here's the controversy The request was also slammed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which pointed out that, as per the national flag protocol, only the chief minister can hoist the flag. The Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said that if Kejriwal wanted Atishi to hoist the flat, he should resign and make her the CM. "If the chief minister is unable to hoist the flag, then traditionally, the lieutenant governor of Delhi will hoist the flag. From 1991 to 1993 and in 2014, when there was no chief minister in Delhi, the lieutenant governor hoisted the flag," Sachdeva said. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi LG nominates AAP minister Kailash Gahlot for flag hoisting ceremony

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in a letter to Lt Governor VK&nbsp;Saxena, has said that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi would hoist the tricolour on Independence Day in his stead.&nbsp;

Kejriwal, lodged in the Tihar Jail for months, sought to appoint Atishi to take over the flag hoisting ceremony at the Union territory Independence Day celebration on August 15. However, the letter to LG was flagged as "an abuse of privileges" by the Tihar Jail authorities.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1972}">Reaction to Kejriwal's letter</h2>

As per the report, the lieutenant governor's office has denied receiving any communication from the Delhi chief minister.

Slamming Kejriwal for the letter, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) pointed out that, as per the national flag protocol, only the chief minister can hoist the flag. The BJP Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said that if Kejriwal wanted Atishi to hoist the flat, he should resign and make her the CM.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:296,&quot;w&quot;:701,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2133}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindenburg-report-rahul-gandhi-says-sebis-integrity-gravely-compromised-demands-accountability-from-modi-749233">Hindenburg report: Rahul Gandhi says SEBI integrity ‘gravely compromised’, demands accountability from PM Modi</a>

"If the chief minister is unable to hoist the flag, then traditionally, the lieutenant governor of Delhi will hoist the flag. From 1991 to 1993 and in 2014, when there was no chief minister in Delhi, the lieutenant governor hoisted the flag," he said.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:417,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2254}">'Abuse of privileges'</h2>

As per a PTI report, the superintendent of Tihar's jail number two cited various provisions of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018, and advised the Delhi CM in a letter "to desist from any such impermissible activity". Kejriwal was warned that his privileges could be curtailed.

"From a bare reading of the above rules, it is clear that your communication does not qualify in the permissible communication which can be sent outside the prison. Only private correspondence with a designated set of people, as defined above, is permissible. Therefore, your letter dated 06.08.2024 has not been sent to the addressee but has been filed," the Tihar authorities said in a letter to Kejriwal.

It further added that under-trials&nbsp;are governed by the legal provisions of the Delhi Prison Rules, which circumscribe their rights and privileges.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:662,&quot;w&quot;:594,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2499}" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/statue-depicting-pakistan-armys-1971-surrender-in-front-of-india-vandalised-in-bangladesh-749322">Statue depicting Pakistan Army’s 1971 surrender to India vandalised in Bangladesh</a>

"It is surprising to note that the contents of the letter, which was handed over by you on August 6, were leaked to the media without any authority. This amounts to an abuse of privileges granted to you under the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018," it added.

Advising Kejriwal to "desist from any such impermissible activity,"&nbsp;the Tihar superintendent warned him that "failing which I shall be constrained to invoke the provisions of Delhi Prison Rules, 2018, to curtail your privileges."

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in a letter to Lt Governor VK Saxena, has said that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi would hoist the tricolour on Independence Day in his stead.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in a letter to Lt Governor VK Saxena, has said that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi would hoist the tricolour on Independence Day in his stead. Kejriwal, lodged in the Tihar Jail for months, sought to appoint Atishi to take over the flag hoisting ceremony at the Union territory Independence Day celebration on August 15. However, the letter to LG was flagged as "an abuse of privileges" by the Tihar Jail authorities. Reaction to Kejriwal's letter As per the report, the lieutenant governor's office has denied receiving any communication from the Delhi chief minister. Slamming Kejriwal for the letter, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) pointed out that, as per the national flag protocol, only the chief minister can hoist the flag. The BJP Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said that if Kejriwal wanted Atishi to hoist the flat, he should resign and make her the CM. Also read | Hindenburg report: Rahul Gandhi says SEBI integrity ‘gravely compromised’, demands accountability from PM Modi "If the chief minister is unable to hoist the flag, then traditionally, the lieutenant governor of Delhi will hoist the flag. From 1991 to 1993 and in 2014, when there was no chief minister in Delhi, the lieutenant governor hoisted the flag," he said. 'Abuse of privileges' As per a PTI report, the superintendent of Tihar's jail number two cited various provisions of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018, and advised the Delhi CM in a letter "to desist from any such impermissible activity". Kejriwal was warned that his privileges could be curtailed. "From a bare reading of the above rules, it is clear that your communication does not qualify in the permissible communication which can be sent outside the prison. Only private correspondence with a designated set of people, as defined above, is permissible. Therefore, your letter dated 06.08.2024 has not been sent to the addressee but has been filed," the Tihar authorities said in a letter to Kejriwal. It further added that under-trials are governed by the legal provisions of the Delhi Prison Rules, which circumscribe their rights and privileges. Also read | Statue depicting Pakistan Army’s 1971 surrender to India vandalised in Bangladesh "It is surprising to note that the contents of the letter, which was handed over by you on August 6, were leaked to the media without any authority. This amounts to an abuse of privileges granted to you under the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018," it added. Advising Kejriwal to "desist from any such impermissible activity," the Tihar superintendent warned him that "failing which I shall be constrained to invoke the provisions of Delhi Prison Rules, 2018, to curtail your privileges." (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal, Atishi, or LG who will hoist flag on Independence Day? Here's the controversy

Delhi's Saket court on Monday (Jul 1) sentenced activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar to five months imprisonment in a 23-year-old criminal defamation case which was filed by Vinai Kumar Saxena, who is the current Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.&nbsp;

Patkar was also ordered to pay ₹10 lakh ($11,984) compensation to Saxena.&nbsp;

The case was lodged against Patkar by Saxena in 2001 for defaming him in a press note dated November 25, 2000, titled "true face of patriot". He had filed the case when he was the Chief of Ahmedabad-based NGO National Council for Civil Liberties.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-bowed-down-to-pm-modi-lop-rahul-gandhis-scathing-attack-on-speaker-om-birla-736766">'You bowed down to PM Modi,' LoP Rahul Gandhi's scathing attack on Speaker Om Birla</a>&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Court said that because of Patkar's age and health-related problems, excessive punishment is not being imposed on her. The judge also said that the sentencing would remain suspended for 30 days under section 389(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure so that she appeal against the order.&nbsp;

"Considering the facts...damages, age and ailment (of the accused), I am not inclined to give excessive punishment," the judge said rejecting Patkar's&nbsp;plea&nbsp;to release her on the condition of probation.&nbsp;

Patkar filed a suit against Saxena for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan. Meanwhile, Saxena had also filed two lawsuits against her for making derogatory remarks against him on television.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-exam-row-doctor-arranges-solver-in-place-of-his-medical-aspirant-son-for-rs-4-lakh-police-on-manhunt-736685">NEET exam row: Doctor arranges solver in place of his medical aspirant son for Rs 4 lakh; police on manhunt</a>&nbsp;

Patkar said in the press note: "VKSaxena, one who is pained by the Hawala transactions himself came to Malegaon, praised NBA and give a cheque of Rs. 40,000 ($479)."&nbsp;

"Lok Samiti naively and promptly sent the receipt and the letter, which shows honesty and good record keeping than anything else. But the cheque could not be encashed and got bounced. On enquiry, the bank reported the account does not exist," she added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Nature's fury hits with landslide in Lonavala, avalanche in Kedarnath&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-natures-fury-hits-with-landslide-in-lonavla-avalanche-in-kedarnath-736716/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The court convicted Patkar on May 24 for the offence of criminal defamation under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860.&nbsp;

Patkar reacted to the court's order, saying: "The truth can never be defeated...We have not tried to defame anyone, we only do our work...We will challenge the court's judgement."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Delhi's Saket court on Monday (Jul 1) sentenced activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar to five months imprisonment in a 23-year-old criminal defamation case which was filed by Vinai Kumar Saxena, who is the current Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.

Delhi's Saket court on Monday (Jul 1) sentenced activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan leader Medha Patkar to five months imprisonment in a 23-year-old criminal defamation case which was filed by Vinai Kumar Saxena, who is the current Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. Patkar was also ordered to pay ₹10 lakh ($11,984) compensation to Saxena. The case was lodged against Patkar by Saxena in 2001 for defaming him in a press note dated November 25, 2000, titled "true face of patriot". He had filed the case when he was the Chief of Ahmedabad-based NGO National Council for Civil Liberties. Also read: 'You bowed down to PM Modi,' LoP Rahul Gandhi's scathing attack on Speaker Om Birla The Court said that because of Patkar's age and health-related problems, excessive punishment is not being imposed on her. The judge also said that the sentencing would remain suspended for 30 days under section 389(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure so that she appeal against the order. "Considering the facts...damages, age and ailment (of the accused), I am not inclined to give excessive punishment," the judge said rejecting Patkar's plea to release her on the condition of probation. Patkar filed a suit against Saxena for publishing advertisements against her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan. Meanwhile, Saxena had also filed two lawsuits against her for making derogatory remarks against him on television. Also read: NEET exam row: Doctor arranges solver in place of his medical aspirant son for Rs 4 lakh; police on manhunt Patkar said in the press note: "VKSaxena, one who is pained by the Hawala transactions himself came to Malegaon, praised NBA and give a cheque of Rs. 40,000 ($479)." "Lok Samiti naively and promptly sent the receipt and the letter, which shows honesty and good record keeping than anything else. But the cheque could not be encashed and got bounced. On enquiry, the bank reported the account does not exist," she added. Watch: Nature's fury hits with landslide in Lonavala, avalanche in Kedarnath × The court convicted Patkar on May 24 for the offence of criminal defamation under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. Patkar reacted to the court's order, saying: "The truth can never be defeated...We have not tried to defame anyone, we only do our work...We will challenge the court's judgement." (With inputs from agencies)

Activist Medha Patkar gets five-month jail term in 23-year-old defamation case

vk-saxena

Vk Saxena, News on Vk Saxena, stories on Vk Saxena, articles on Vk Saxena, Vk Saxena stories at Wion, Vk Saxena news, Vk Saxena latest news

vk saxena