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 Vol. 67 No. 166 | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024 | 28 Pages | `5 & for Pune `6 only Quality at Value
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EDITIONS: MUMBAI*, Pune, Nashik, Konkan, Indore, Bhopal, E-paper MEMBER: AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATION
JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2023

EDIT
AKSHAY KUMAR-TIGER Check out
our verdict
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SHROFF’S BADE MIYA on the LET ARMED FORCES IMMINENT; EXPECT 15-17% 20% was in Sunrise : 06:24 am

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JAIL GUARANTEE Rang De Mohe Gerua: Cops in saffron at Kashi Temple

V/S JAIL THREAT
PM’s open war on corrupt raises
BISWAJEET BANERJEE
LUCKNOW

Varanasi's Commissioner of
Police has sparked a contro-
donning kurta-dhotis within
the temple premises, raising
eyebrows and

versy by deploying officers
Lalu’s daughter Misa’s hackles inside the esteemed Kashi
Vishwanath Temple
adorned in saffron attire in-
stead of their usual khaki
uniforms. This has elicited
mixed reactions, both criti-
cism and praise from
various quarters.
The directive issued on
Tuesday led to a visual spec-
tacle on Wednesday as a
handful of officers were seen
DHEERAJ KUMAR Congress-led state govern-
PATNA, JAIPUR ment over exam paper leaks –
observers alike.
igniting
debate among devotees and
While some welcomed the
move, viewing it as a gesture
to enhance the devotee expe-
rience, others criticized it,
alleging political undertones
and citing concerns about re-
ligious sentiment. The sight
of policemen clad in saffron
amidst devotees prompted
varied reactions, with some
suggesting a link to election
campaigning.
According to the directive
issued by the police authori-
ties, male officers will wear
red or saffron dhotis and
kurta and carry an ‘angvas-
tram’ over their shoulders
and support a ‘tilak’ on their
foreheads, akin to priests,
while female officers will
don salwar-kurtas in saffron
and red.
Before deployment, these
officers will undergo a three-
day training program focus-
ing on enhancing their com-
munication skills with devo-
tees, aimed at fostering a
more amicable interaction.
Commissioner of Police
Mohit Agrawal emphasized
the importance of addressing
concerns regarding crowd
management, particularly
during peak times for darshan
(prayer offerings), where long
queues often lead to
frustration among devotees.
Agrawal highlighted the
implementation of a "no
touch" policy for crowd con-
trol, emphasizing the use of
ropes instead of physical in-
tervention to guide devotees.
The move seeks to promote a
friendlier police image and
ensure a smoother flow of
visitors within the temple
premises.
“The initiative aims to im-
prove the overall visitor ex-
perience and mitigate nega-
tive perceptions associated
with police presence,” he
said.
CONTD. ON NATION

Even as Prime Minister

a thriving racket in the
Ashok Geholt dispensation – 6 KIDS DIE AS SCHOOL BUS OVERTURNS WOMAN TO PAY GUJARAT GOVERNMENT CIRCULAR
Narendra Modi on Thursday
asserted that the corrupt will
have to go to jail and that he
contending that the party is
steeped in corruption and it
had looted even the jobless
Drunk driver at wheel
`10K UPKEEP
TO EX-HUSBAND
DM’s nod needed to
will not be deterred by
threats, RJD president Lalu
Prasad’s eldest daughter
Misa Bharti tried to change
the youth.
‘‘On one hand, there is
Modi, who says ‘remove cor-
ruption’; on the other hand,
RAJESH MOUDGIL / CHANDIGARH
URVI MAHAJANI / MUMBAI

The Bombay High Court has

the political narrative by as- there are those who say ‘save
serting that PM Modi and oth- the corrupt’. All these people,
er BJP leaders would be put who have set out to save the
in jail, if the opposition IN- corrupt, listen carefully: No
DIA bloc formed a govern- matter how many threats you
ment at the Centre. make, they will have to go to
Addressing a rally in Ra- jail. This is Modi's
jasthan's Karauli, PM Modi guarantee," the prime minis-
had hit out at the previous ter said. CONTD. ON NATION
NIRAV MODI AND VIJAY MALLYA SHOULD COUNT THEMSELVES LUCKY
In a tragic mishap, at least six children were killed directed a working woman to
and 13 others injured after a school bus carrying 30 pay Rs 10,000 per month as
children overturned near a village in Mahender- maintenance to her former
garh district in Harya-na on Thursday morning. husband, whose ailments
The bus belonging to G L Public School in Kanina prevent him from being able
sub-division was involved in the mishap when it to work. The court noted that
was on its way to the school after picking up chil- the provisions of the Hindu
dren from their houses. They were mostly Stu- Marriage Act use the term
dents from Class 4 to Class 10. CONTD. ON NATION ‘spouse’ and this includes
both husband and wife.
“The provisions of Section
24 of the Hindu Marriage
convert to Buddhism
OUR CORRESPONDENT
AHMEDABAD
The Gujarat government,
which issued a circular earli-
er this week designating Bud-
dhism as a separate religion,
has ruled that under the Gu-
jarat Freedom of Religion
Act, 2003, conversions from
Hinduism to Buddhism, Jain-
ism, and Sikhism will neces-
sitate prior approval from re-
prescribed procedures for con-
version applications. It ac-
knowledged instances where
applicants and autonomous
bodies have contested the need
for prior permission for con-
versions from Hinduism to
Buddhism.
The circular further points
out that every year in Gujarat,
people converted to Buddhism
during Dussehra and other
festivals and ‘‘the rules were

Vietnamese tycoon sentenced to death for $44bn bank fraud
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / HANOI
Even as the likes of Nirav
Modi and Vijay Mallya are
wallowing in the lap of luxury
in countries of their refuge
with the courts unable to do
much except declaring them
proclaimed offenders, a Viet-
namese court has sentenced
real estate tycoon Truong My
Lan to death.
This was Vietnam’s first fi-
nancial fraud case ever: the 67-
year-old billionaire was for-
mally charged with financial
fraud amounting to USD 12.5
billion — nearly 3 per cent of
the country's 2022 GDP. She al-
legedly looted one of the coun-
try's largest banks over a peri-
od of 11 years.
Lan, the presiding deity of
the real estate company Van
Thinh Phat illegally con-
trolled Saigon Joint Stock
Commercial Bank between
2012 and 2022 to allow 2,500
loans that resulted in losses of
USD 27 billion to the bank.
The court had asked her to
compensate the bank USD
26.9 million.
Despite mitigating circum-
stances — this was a first-time
offence and Lan participated
in charity activities — the
court attributed its harsh sen-
tence to the seriousness of the
case, CONTD. ON NATION
Act use the term ‘spouse’ and
this would include the hus-
band or the wife who is un-
able to maintain himself/
herself,” Justice Sharmila
Deshmukh said on April 2.
The judge also took note of
the fact that the woman has
not disputed the fact that her
former husband was not in a
position to earn a living due
to his medical ailments.
CONTD. ON NATION
spective district magistrates.
This directive, released by
the state home department on
April 8, aims at addressing
concerns regarding the
handling of conversion
applications.
Highlighting discrepancies
in the interpretation of the
Gujarat Freedom of Religion
Act by district magistrate of-
fices, the circular underscored
the necessity of adhering to
often not followed.”
The circular warns against
potential legal challenges
stemming from inadequate
understanding of legal provi-
sions surrounding religious
conversions. It underscored
the need for a thorough exam-
ination of the legal
framework by district magis-
trates when evaluating con-
version applications.
CONTD. ON NATION
 Vol. 67 No. 166 | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024 | 28 Pages | `5 & for Pune `6 only Quality at Value
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MEMBER: AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATION

EDITIONS: MUMBAI*, Pune, Nashik, Konkan, Indore, Bhopal, E-paper
JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2023

CREDIBLE PROOF OF DESIRE Hospitals are

reneging on PM MODI’S BOAST SETS
TO CONVERT NEEDED: HC
pro-poor vow
ONLINE REPORT / NEW DELHI
CAT AMONG PIGEONS
His ghar mein ghus kar marenge assertion goes
T
he Supreme Court on
ONLINE REPORT
In India, it is
scrutiny is done, the court ob-
served.
Wednesday lamented
how private hospitals
against the official foreign ministry position
The Allahabad High Court re-
cently observed that while in-
open to The Court was prompted to
make these observations while
set up on lands purchased at
subsidised rates are
OUR BUREAU / NEW DELHI

dividuals in India have the
freedom to change their reli-
gion, there must be credible
proof to show that such reli-
gious conversion is voluntary,
reports Bar and Bench.
Justice Prashant
Kumar opined that a mere oral
or written declaration that the
conversion has taken place is
not enough to legitimize a reli-
gious conversion. Rather there
should be credible proof of the
desire to covert, the court said.
"In India, it is open for any-
body to change the religion.
An oral or written declaration
does not constitute
conversion. Credible proof of
desire to convert is required,
followed by clear overt actions
to carry out the desire," the
court's April 8 order stated.
The Court added that the re-
ligious conversion should then
be duly notified to the con-
cerned authorities so that the
change is reflected in all gov-
ernment records or govern-
ment-issued identity cards.
Such a change should also be
notified publicly through
newspapers, the court ob-
served. All of this is to ensure
that there is no fraudulent or
illegal conversion, the court
said.
"The change in the religion
has to be legal so that the new
religion gets reflected in all the
government IDs across the
country. Thereafter, advertise-
ment should be placed in the
newspaper with wide circula-
tion in that area, which en-
sures that there is no public
objection to such change and it
is also there to ensure that
anybody to change
religion. But a mere
oral or written
declaration does
not constitute
conversion
there is no such fraudulent or
illegal conversion. The news-
paper advertisement must
specify the details like name,
age and address. Thereafter,
there should be notification in
the National Gazette, which is
online record published by the
Central Government of In-
dia," the court observed.
The court went on to note
once an application to notify a
religious conversion in the Of-
ficial Gazette is submitted, the
concerned government de-
partment would thoroughly
examine it. The religion
change would be notified in
the Gazette only once proper
dealing with a petition to
quash a case filed against a
man after he married a
woman who earlier belonged
to a different religion. The
woman's father had accused
the man of kidnapping his
daughter and of committing
the offences of criminal intim-
idation, rape and offences un-
der the Protection of Children
from Sexual Offences Act
(POCSO Act).
The Court earlier ordered
the production of the woman's
high school certificate to as-
certain her age. On April 8, the
Court took note of a submis-
sion that there was a medical
report which showed that the
woman was a major when she
married the accused man.
The Court was also told that
the man had converted to the
religion of his wife voluntarily,
that they had a child together
from their wedlock, and that
the family was living together
happily. CONTD. ON NATION
reneging on their commit-
ment to reserve some of
their beds for the poor.
A bench of Justices Sud-
hanshu Dhulia and
Prasanna B Varale made the
remark while hearing a peti-
tion challenging government
regulations calling for uni-
form rates for ophthalmolog-
ical procedures across the
country.
"All these private hospitals
they say, when getting sub-
sidised land, that they will
reserve at least 25 per cent
beds for Economically Weak-
er Sections but it never hap-
pens. We have seen it many
times,"Justice Dhulia said.
The petition filed by the
All-India Ophthalmological
Society contended that the
rates for procedures con-
ducted by specialists could
not be the same in, metro-
politan cities and small re-
mote villages.
CONTD. ON NATION
The boast by PM Modi at an election rally in Ut-
tarakhand -- that “under 'this mazboot Modi
sarkar, atankwaadiyon ko ghar mein ghus ke
mara jata hai’ -- flies in the face of the official po-
sition and can be a source of diplomatic embar-
rassment.
It surely goes a step beyond the remarks at-
tributed to the Home Minister Rajnath Singh
on the same subject. Recently Rajnath told a tel-
evision channel that India would enter
Pakistan if terrorists fled to the neighbouring
nation after carrying out terror strikes in the
country. "If they run away to Pakistan, we will
enter Pakistan to kill them," Singh told CNN dling false and malicious anti-India propagan-
News18. da....Pakistan will reap what it sows; to blame
"India always wants to maintain good rela- others for its own misdeeds can neither be a jus-
tions with its neighbouring countries ... But if tification nor a solution.”
anyone shows us angry eyes, time and again, The ministry also referred to a statement by
and tries to promote terrorist activities, we will Foreign Minister S Jaishankar in which he said
not spare them," Singh said. that targeted killings in other countries were
This is at complete odds with the stated posi- "not the policy of the government of India."
tion of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) The prime minister's statement could have
-- its latest missive coming after allegations sur- the effect of setting the cat among the pigeons.
faced that Indian agencies might be responsible India is strenuously denying and pushing
for over twenty targeted assassinations in Pak- back on both Canada and the United States,
istan. Responding to these allegations, the Min- which has been pressing New Delhi to conduct
istry said that, “We have seen media reports re- investigations into allegations that officials tied
garding certain remarks by Pakistan Foreign to the government of India may have been re-
Secretary. It is Pakistan’s latest attempt at ped- sponsible for the attempted CONTD. ON NATION

THE FP
BULLETIN SBI parries RTI on electoral bonds Wayanad storm over town
named after Tipu’s armoury
MUMBAI WIN AGENCIES / NEW DELHI It is "bizarre" that the SBI has denied to disclose missed the SBI's petition seek-
IN STYLE The State Bank of India (SBI) the information that is already on the EC's ing an extension of the dead-
line and ordered it to disclose

M umbai Indians smashed

the Royal Challengers
Bangalore all over the
Wankhede to win the
encounter on Thursday in
definitive fashion. The
Mumbai batsmen reached the
target of 197 with 4.3 overs
to spare, riding on the back of
scintillating half centuries by
Ishan Kishan, who scored 69
in just 34 balls and
Suryakumar Yadav, who hit
52 in an amazing 19. The
convincing victory, Mumbai’s
second of this season of the
IPL, has bolstered their net
run rate significantly.
12 INDIANS HELD
IN UK VISA RAIDS
has refused to disclose under
the RTI Act the details of the
electoral bonds furnished to
the Election Commission
(EC), claiming that it is per-
sonal information held in a fi-
duciary capacity, even though
the records are in the public
domain on the poll panel's
website.
Holding that the electoral
bonds scheme was "unconsti-
Centre fires Kejriwal’s PA
AGENCIES / NEW DELHI
Bibhav Kumar, personal as-
sistant (PA) to jailed Delhi
website, the RTI activist said. He had
approached the SBI on March 13 seeking
complete data of electoral bonds in digital form,
as provided to the EC after the SC's order.
tutional and manifestly arbi-
trary", the Supreme Court di-
rected the SBI on February 15
to furnish the complete
details of the bonds pur-
chased since April 12, 2019 to
the EC, which was to publish
the information on its website
by March 13.
On March 11, the court dis-
charges against Bibhav Ku-
mar are grave in nature, in-
cluding charge of 'assault or
criminal force to deter
the details of the electoral
bonds to the EC by the close of
business hours on March 12.
RTI activist Commodore
(retired) Lokesh Batra ap-
proached the SBI on March
13 seeking the complete data
of the electoral bonds in the
digital form, as provided to
the EC after the Supreme
Court's order.
CONTD. ON NATION
DELHI LIQUOR
POLICY CASE
CBI arrests
Kavitha
SHANKAR RAJ
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM
BJP state president K Suren-
dran Thursday waded into a
controversy by promising to
rename Sultan Bathery in
Rahul Gandhi’s Wayanad con-
stituency to Ganapathi Vattam
and with this announcement,
Tipu Sultan has entered into
the political battlefield in Ker-
BJP’s state president and LS candidate wants to
rename Sultan Bathery as Ganapathi Vattam
ala. Addressing the media,
Surendran said: "Who is Tipu
Sultan? When it comes to
Wayanad and its people, what
But people mocked him
pointing out that he should
The town was originally
known as Ganapathyvattam,
is its importance? That place
was known as Ganapathi Vat-
first try to safeguard his elec-
tion deposit, let alone win the
named after the Ganapati tem-
ple that once stood there, ac-
tam. People are aware and are seat. The LDF and the UDF cording to Sulthan Bathery's
used to this name Ganapathi also pounced on Surendran municipal website.
Vattam. That has been re- and accused him of raking up Tipu's military used the

E leven men and one

woman, all said to be
Indian nationals, have been
Chief Minister Arvind Kejri-
wal, has been terminated
from his services. An action
public servant from dis-
charge of his duty' (section
353 IPC), for which the trial
GAURAV VIVEK BHATNAGAR
NEW DELHI
named," Surendran said.
Surendran, the BJP’s Lok
Sabha candidate from
a needless controversy.
It is true that the name of
the municipal town of Sulthan
town to store its cannons and
other ammunitions and subse-
quently Ganapathyvattam be-

arrested by the UK’s
immigration authorities in a
series of raids on suspicion of
being in breach of visa
conditions and working
illegally at a bedding and
cake factory. Immigration
Enforcement officers arrested
seven men, all Indian
nationals, for suspected
illegal working, from a
bedding and mattress
business in the West
in this regard has been taken
up by the Directorate of Vigi-
lance (DoV) in connection
with a case pending against
him for 'obstruction'.
Special Secretary Vigilance
YVVJ Rajshekhar passed the
order, citing a case of 2007
pending against him in which
he was accused of
obstructing government
work.
"The Competent Authority
ate effect," the order said.
The order stated that the
charges against Bibhav Ku-
against Bibhav Kumar is at
the stage of evidence, and
therefore Bibhav Kumar is
not clear from vigilance an-
gle," it said.
"Any serious lapse in the
verification procedure
could result in appointment
of persons in the personal
staff of Ministers, MP and
other government bodies,
who are otherwise not eligi-
ble to man the post. This is
T
he Central Bureau of Wayanad said the first thing he Bathery is associated with came ‘Sulthan's Battery'.
Investigation on would do if he wins would be Tipu Sultan, the 18th century Today, the Sulthan Bathery,
Thursday arrested to change the name of Sultan Mysore ruler, and his conquest is Kerala's cleanest town, and a
Bharat Rashtra Samithi Bathery. of Malabar in 1789. major tourist spot.
leader K. Kavitha in con-
nection with the Delhi
liquor policy case. The
agency is probing the con-
spiracy in which Delhi
chief minister Arvind Ke-
jriwal, former deputy CM
Manish Sisodia and senior
Aam Aadmi Party leader

Midlands region of England,
the UK Home Office said on
Wednesday. “Four more
Indian men were arrested at
a nearby cake factory,” it
said.
SC frowns at social media misuse
hereby terminates the en-
gagement of Bibhav Kumar,
in terms of the provisions of
Rule 5 of the Central Civil
Services (Temporary Serv-
ice) Rules, 1965, with immedi-
mar are grave in nature, in-
cluding charge of assault or
criminal force to deter a pub-
lic servant from discharge
of his duty.
"It is observed that
fraught with dangers be-
cause such persons could
also have access to sensitive
information and data," the
order added.
CONTD. ON NATION
VIEW P INT
Sanjay Singh were also al-
legedly involved.
Kavitha was earlier on
March 15 arrested from her
Banjara Hills residence in
Hyderabad by the Enforce-
ment Directorate, which is
JOIN
investigating the money
laundering aspect in the

AFRIDA RAHMAN ALI

same case. The ED’s case is
that the now scrapped new
excise policy had provided
ONLINE REPORT / NEW DELHI Though, our shoulders are leader and Assam MLA Karim leader's premature claims on extraordinary business prof-

The Supreme Court has voiced

concern that social media was
being widely misused to make
comments that distort facts on
cases pending before the
Court. The Bar and Bench re-
ports that a bench of Justices
Anirudha Bose and Bela
Trivedi said it was a matter of
"serious concern that nowa-
days there has been a profuse
misuse of social media plat-
forms on which the messages,
comments, articles etc. are be-
ing posted in respect of the
matters pending in the Court.
broad enough to bear any
blame or criticism, the com-
ments or posts published in re-
spect of the matters pending
in the Court, through social
media platforms under the
guise of right to freedom of
speech and expression, which
have the tendency of under-
mining the authority of the
Courts or of interfering with
the course of justice, deserves
serious consideration,"the
Court said.
The Court made the obser-
vation while asking All India
United Democratic (AIUDF)
Uddin Barbhuiya to respond
to a contempt case filed
against him by Aminul Haque
Laskar, who is now part of the
Indian National Congress
(INC). Laskar told the Court
that the AIUDF leader had up-
loaded a post on March 20 on
Facebook claiming that he
(Barbhuiya) had won a case, at
a stage when the top court had
only reserved its judgment in
the matter.
Barbhuiya did eventually
get a favourable ruling on April
8. However, the Court took a
dim view of the AIUDF
social media that he had won
the case. "It is very usual that
the Judges do react during the
course of arguments being
made by the lawyers, some-
times in favour of and some-
times against a party to the
proceeding. However, that does
not give any right or leeway to
either of the parties or their
lawyers to the proceedings to
post comments or messages on
the social media distorting the
facts or not disclosing the cor-
rect facts of the procee-
dings,"the Court said.
CONTD. ON NATION
it of 12% to certain private
companies in alcohol busi-
ness and that half of this
FOR COMPELLING CONVERSATIONS
profit was received by Aam
Aadmi Party leaders in kick- AND PERSPECTIVES
backs.
As for Kavitha, it had stat-
ed that she was part of the
YOU WON’T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE
“South Group” lobby of
liquor traders from which Rs
100 crores was demanded in
kickbacks. It was also alleged TUNE IN WEEKNIGHTS
AT 7PM
that Rs 45 crore out of this
was spent by AAP on the
February 2022 Goa Assembly
election.
CONTD. ON NATION

LAST WORD
OJ, ex-NFL star acquitted of murder, dies at 76
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI nomena of the last century.
The announcement of
Former American football Simpson's demise came
icon, actor, and central figure through a modest message
in a highly-publicised double from his family on X, formerly
murder case, Orenthal James known as Twitter: "On April
Simpson, better known as OJ 10th, our father, Orenthal
Simpson, passed away at the James Simpson, lost his battle
age of 76 due to cancer, as con- with cancer. He was sur-
firmed by his family in a state- rounded by his children and
ment released on Thursday. grandchildren. During this
His trial in 1995, and the time, his family requests pri-
subsequent controversial ver- vacy and understanding," the
dict of acquittal, concerning statement conveyed.
the deaths of his former wife, Legal representatives for
Nicole Brown Simpson, and Goldman's family remarked
her friend Ronald Goldman, on Simpson's passing, stating
stands as one of the most he "died without penance."
widely observed cultural phe- Simpson's legacy, once
adorned by his triumphs as a
sports star, as well as his post-
retirement cinematic success-
es like The Naked Gun series,
was ultimately overshadowed
by the events surrounding the
tragic murders in 1994 and
their aftermath.
FREEPRESSJOURNAL
@FPJINDIA
The trial, which captured
America’s imagination, fea-
tured a pivotal moment when
Simpson struggled to fit a
glove allegedly worn during
the crime, prompting the De-
fense counsel’s famous line to
the jury: "If it doesn’t fit, you
must acquit."
Despite being acquitted in Scan to watch
the criminal trial, Simpson
was later found liable in a civil
suit brought by the victims'
families, resulting in a $33.5
million judgment against
him. In 2008, he was sentenced
to 15 years in prison for his in-
volvement in a robbery in Las
Vegas. CONTD. ON NATION
 POLL SHOW
THEAET
GR
POLLS BETWEEN POOR
& BILLIONAIRES: RAHUL
Says youths’ plea for jobs, farmers’ cry for MSP fall on deaf ears
MANISH GODHA / JAIPUR
Congress leader Rahul Gand-
hi in his first public rally in
Rajasthan on Thursday
dubbed the Lok Sabha elec-
tion a battle between the poor
and billionaires. He said,
“This is an election to save the
Constitution and democracy.
This election is between the
poor and 22-25 billionaires in
the country.”
Rahul was addressing a
public meeting organised in
the farmer-dominated Anup-
garh district of Rajasthan. It
is a part of the SC reserved
Bikaner LS seat, where Union
minister Arjun Ram Meghw-
al of the BJP is locked in an
electoral battle with former
minister of the Ashok Gehlot
government, Govind Ram
Meghwal.
Rahul also canvassed for
the Congress candidate of ad-
joining Sriganganagar seat.
This was Rahul Gandhi’s first
visit to the desert state in this
election. He addressed anoth-
er rally in Phalodi in the
Jodhpur LS constituency.
The Congress leader was
apparently trying to counter
BJP’s poll pitch in a battle
against “corruption and dy-
nastic families”.
Reiterating the promises
Congress made in the mani-
After Modi’s visit, ‘Ji Pay’ scan RO fudging A Raja’s Rajnath: Was in jail, couldn’t perform
posters emerge in Tamil Nadu expenses: Observer mother’s last rites during Emergency
N CHITHRA / CHENNAI
A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi
undertook an extensive LS poll campaign call-
ing for rooting out the DMK, posters have mys-
teriously emerged in parts of Tamil Nadu at-
tacking him through a novel campaign.
The posters have a photo of Modi with the
words ‘Ji Pay’, a spin off of popular e-wallet
GPay. In Tamil Nadu ‘Ji’ is widely used to de-
scribe those associated with the Sangh
Parivar as its members use the honorific ‘ji’
(Hindi) while addressing others. The poster
urges people to scan a code to see a scam. Upon
scanning it using on smartphones, people get
to see a video elaborating on the electoral bond
“scam” and other such scams.
Incidentally, no political party, organisation
QUOTE
HANGER
Ymujheehriyasat
tumhare baap-dada ki
nahin hai, ke tum
dara, dhamka ke vapis
bhej doge (This is not the
estate of your father or
grandfather that you will
threaten me and send me
back). This is the new Bharat
of Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, where a small, poor
boy who used to sell tea is
the biggest hero and
‘pradhan sevak’ of the people.
—Kangana Ranaut,
BJP leader
YDon’touAmethi
wait for the decision of
and Raebareili.
speculate. A member of
the Nehru family will contest
from Uttar Pradesh.
—AK Antony,
Congress veteran
Pdeveloping,
eople are noticing that our
country that was once
what is the state
of law and order here now?
What is our unemployment
level? How free our press is?
Where we stand on the
parameters of health and
poverty index? Why are our
borders shrinking?
—Akhilesh Yadav
SP president
T he socialist ideology
should not be linked with
the SP. I am still personally
associated with the socialist
ideology. The SP claims to be
associated with the socialist
ideology, but it has actually
abandoned it. Dr Ram
Manohar Lohia had raised the
slogan of breaking caste
barriers, whereas the SP
today is hoisting the flag of a
caste census.
—Neeraj Shekhar
Ex-PM Chandra Shekhar’s son
and BJP nominee from Ballia
V otes cast for the Congress
in the Lok Sabha poll will
be a vote for anarchy,
economic bankruptcy.
—BS Yediyurappa
BJP veteran
festo, the former president
said the youths are demand-
ing employment, farmers are
demanding MSP, and women
want relief from inflation,
but there is no one to hear
their pleas. The government
has taken away lakhs of ru-
pees through GST and de-
monetisation from the poor
and for the first time, the
farmer has to pay tax.
Rahul promised 30 lakh
permanent govt jobs for the
unemployed youths and a law
for MSP for farmers if his IN-
DIA bloc was voted to power.
In Rajasthan, youths join
the Army in large numbers
and the central government’s
Agniveer scheme has de-
prived them of permanent
or individual has taken responsibility. Since
the DMK has been assiduously accusing Modi
of having indulged in the electoral bond
“scam”, observers surmised the party or its
supporters may have put up the posters.
UPA committed `12Lcr
scam in 10 years: Shah
Says the looters will go to jail
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / BHOPAL
Union Home Minister Amit
Shah has said the Congress-
led UPA government was in-
volved in a scam worth `12
lakh crore during its 10-year
rule. So those who committed
such a serious crimes have to
go to jail.
Addressing public meet-
ings in Madhya Pradesh Kha-
juraho and Mandla con-
stituencies on Thursday,
Shah said, “Those who have
looted public money have to
return each penny.” BJP can-
didates Faggan Singh Kulaste
and VD Sharma are contest-
ing the LS election from
Mandla and Khajuraho con-
stituencies, respectively.
Those who have formed an
alliance to remove PM Modi
are interested only in promot-
ing children, Shah said, add-
ing every leader is trying to
make his son chief minister.
JAAT HI PUCHCHO SAROJ KI!
BJP MP, who won by 181 votes, renominated
BISWAJEET BANERJEE
LUCKNOW
Caste played an important
role in BJP’s decision to re-
nominate its incumbent MP
BP Saroj aka Bholanath from
Machchlishahar, despite his
narrow victory margin of 181
votes in the previous elec-
tion—the smallest in India.
The delay in announcing
Saroj’s candidacy until the
third list of BJP candidates
fuelled speculation about his
potential replacement. How-
ever, insiders say Saroj’s
renomination is attributed to
his caste affiliation, belong-
ing to the influential Pasi
community, which wields in-
fluence over voters in the Ma-
chchlishahar constituency.
employment, said Rahul.
“The Army did not want
the Agniveer scheme. It was
imposed by the PM Office. We
will scrap it and restore the
earlier system.”
Training his guns on the
media, Rahul said unemploy-
ment and inflation are the
biggest issues before the
countrymen, but “if you look
at the media, you will feel that
the biggest issue is the Am-
bani family wedding.”
Rahul again raised the is-
sue of backward classes not
being given a chance at get-
ting higher positions in the
media, big companies and
government and said 90 per
cent of the country’s popula-
tion has no stake in decision-
Union Home Minister Amit
Shah meets Rohan Gupta in
New Delhi on Thursday —PTI
ROHAN GUPTA IN BJP
Former Congress spokesperson
Rohan Gupta joined BJP on
Thursday. Gupta, along with
other leaders, joined BJP in the
presence of Union minister
Hardeep Singh Puri and the
party’s national general
secretary Vinod Tawde as he
accused his former party of
having lost direction and
credibility due to its drift from
its traditional stands on issues,
such as nationalism and
Sanatan Dharma.
“A substantial portion of
voters in Machchlishahar are
from the Saroj caste, prompt-
ing the BJP to strategically
capitalise on this demograph-
ic,” said a BJP source. Addi-
tionally, the party aimed to
maintain caste balance in
eastern Uttar Pradesh by
nominating Vinod Sonkar,
another Dalit candidate, in
the neighbouring Kaushambi
constituency.
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi meticulously curated
the candidate selection across
adjoining constituencies, en-
suring representation from
diverse castes. For instance,
Chandauli boasts Mahendra
Nath Pandey, a Brahmin,
while Ghazipur features
Parasnath Rai, a Bhumihar,
I gave a speech about Adani
in Parliament and my
membership was taken away.
The Supreme Court made me
an MP again. I had just asked
Modi what is his relation with
him (Adani). My membership
was cancelled and then they
took my house. They think by
taking away my membership
and rights, I will become
silent. My home is in the
hearts of millions of people. I
do not need your home.
—Rahul Gandhi, Cong neta
making, that is why, the voice
of the people is missing.
Accusing the Centre of
benefitting the rich, Rahul
said Modi has waived so
much debt of the rich as
would have been spent on
MNREGA for 24 years. “We
will give the same amount of
money to the poor that they
have given to the rich.”
Addressing a rally at
Phalodi in Jodhpur in sup-
port of the Congress candi-
date Karan Singh Uchiyarda,
Rahul accused Modi and the
ruling BJP of indulging in
large-scale corruption
through electoral bonds.
He said, “Extortion is going
on and its name is electoral
bonds.”
N CHITHRA / CHENNAI
In a startling complaint, P
Saravanan, the assistant ex-
penditure observer of The
Nilgiris parliamentary con-
stituency has alleged that the
returning officer (RO) is pres-
suring him to fudge the poll
expenses of DMK candidate
A Raja, the former telecom
minister. Raja is pitted
against the BJP’s L Murugan,
the Union minister of state
for fisheries.
In a complaint to Tamil
Nadu chief electoral officer
Saravanan claimed the expe-
nditures booked in the shad-
ow observation register “of
our team is differing by lakhs
to the book of accounts of the
candidate A Raja (DMK).”
To reduce the booked ex-
penditure, “the returning of-
ficer is repeatedly harassing
me and personally looking
BJP turncoats turn to Cong
RAJASHEKARA S / BENGALURU
Turncoats who had helped it
to form the government in
Karnataka in 2019 have
turned their back on BJP and
backed Congress.
BJP MLAs, former minis-
ter for cooperation ST So-
mashekhar and former min-
ister for labour Shivaram
Hebbar, have been campaign-
ing for Congress in Bengalu-
ru North and Uttara Kanna-
da. They were among a dozen
Congress and JD(S) MLAs
who resigned in July 2019 to
topple Congress-JD(S) gov-
ernment headed by HD Ku-
maraswamy.
Karnataka PCC chief and
deputy CM DK Shivakumar
said BJP and JD(S) leaders
and Jaunpur presents Tha-
kur Kripra Shankar Singh.
Moreover, Mirzapur sees
the BJP’s ally, Apna Dal’s
Anupriya Patel, representing
backward castes, further em-
phasising the party’s commit-
ment to caste inclusivity.
Despite speculations re-
garding Saroj’s replacement
by BJP MLA Tribhuvan Ram
from Ajgara, the party leader-
ship reaffirmed its trust in
RaGa to kick
off campaign
in Bihar
DHEERAJ KUMAR / PATNA
Former Congress president
Rahul Gandhi will kickstart
his party's campaign for the
Lok Sabha election in Bihar
by addressing an election
rally in Kishanganj on
April 19.
Kishanganj seat is
presently held by the grand
old party. Rahul's visit coin-
cides with the first phase of
the LS election. Kishanganj
is among five constituencies
where votes will be cast in
the eastern state in the sec-
ond phase scheduled on
April 26.
Contrary to expectations,
Rahul will not campaign in
the adjoining Purnea con-
stituency where the RJD has
fielded Bima Bharti as its
candidate. In a triangular
contest in Purnea, she is pit-
ted against JD(U) candidate
Santosh Kushwaha and for-
mer MP Rakesh Ranjan aka
Pappu Yadav as an Independ-
ent candidate. Pappu's wife
is presently a Congress
Rajya Sabha member.
Meanwhile, Bihar BJP
media in-charge Danish
Iqbal said Prime Minister
Narendra Modi will address
a rally in Gaya on April 16.
Also, Defence Minister Ra-
jnath Singh will address a
rally in Jamui on April 14.
Furthermore, Uttar
Pradesh chief minister Yogi
Adityanath will address a
rally in Nawada on April 15.
into each and every expendi-
ture of that particular candi-
date and trying to control the
accounting procedures in
favour of Raja,” the com-
plaint stated.
According to him, the RO
since April 8 had been trying
to force him to find ways for
the redrawal of the booked
expenditure of Raja.
“In the higher order of
misuse of her power, on
09.04.2024 all the records of
that candidate were called up
to her camp office and the
shadow observation register
(the heart and soul of the
election expenditure watch-
ing) was forcefully received
from me and photocopied.
Further, she warned me to act
under her control and not for
the observer,” he alleged, say-
ing he was threatened and his
life was in danger. Hence he
sought the EC’s intervention.
and workers are quietly
working for Congress. “Sev-
eral have expressed support
(to the Congress),’’ he said.
Somashekhar, a 3-term
MLA from Yeshwanthpur in
Bengaluru has been openly
campaigning for Congress
candidate MV Rajeev Gowda,
as the party nominated Uni-
on minister Shobha Karnada-
laje from Bengaluru North.
He voted for Congress nomi-
nee in the Rajya Sabha poll in
March by violating BJP whip.
It is said Somashekhar, a
former Congressman, was
keen on returning to his roots
and contesting from Bengalu-
ru North. But that didn’t
work out as Congress wanted
him to work for the party by
being in the BJP.
Saroj, citing his performance
and caste as pivotal factors in
his candidacy.
Saroj’s victory in 2019, by a
narrow margin, underscores
his political clout. Despite the
BJP’s significant lead in the
Pindra assembly constituen-
cy, which falls under Machch-
lishahar parliamentary seat,
Saroj emerged victorious.
The Machhilishahr LS con-
stituency encompasses Mach-
hilishahr, Madiyahu, Za-
farabad, Kerakat and Pindra
assembly segments of
Varanasi. In 2019, Saroj de-
feated BSP’s Tribhuvan Ram,
who subsequently jumped
ship to BJP and currently
serves as MLA from Ajgara.
While BJP dominance was
evident in Machchlishahar in
Under strong govt, terrorists
killed on their home turf: PM
Modi highlights BJP’s achievements in Uttarakhand
FPJ NEWS DESK / RISHIKESH
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi on Thursday said under
the BJP-led central govern-
ment, security men are elimi-
nating terrorists on their
home turf. At a rally in Ut-
tarakhand’s Rishikesh, Modi
said the echoes of ‘Phir Ek
Baar Modi Sarkar’ were
being heard as the country
has seen the benefits of a sta-
ble government.
“Enemies took advantage
and terrorism spread when-
ever there were weak and un-
stable governments in the
country. But under a strong
Modi government, our forces
are killing terrorists on their
own turf,” he said.
The premier said his gov-
ernment has stopped the cor-
rupt from looting the country
and their anger against him
was at its height. The “weak”
Congress governments could
not strengthen the border in-
frastructure. Now, roads and
modern tunnels are being
built along the borders.
He accused the Congress of
questioning the entity of
Lord Ram and opposing the
construction of the Ayodhya
temple. The party was forgiv-
en for this and invited for the
consecration but it boycotted
the ceremony.
“Going one step ahead it
has now publicly declared a
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / BHOPAL
Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh has said he had been
in jail for two-and-a-half
months during the Emer-
gency and during the period
his ailing mother had passed
away. But he was not allowed
to perform her last rites.
Rajnath shared his pain
during Emergency days
while addressing two public
meetings in Rewa and Satna
Lok Sabha constituencies in
Madhya Pradesh.
Some people say the BJP
discriminates against Hin-
dus and Muslims, but the
truth is that the party does
not engineer any rift
between any community, he
said. The BJP believes in
maintaining harmony
among the people of all reli-
gions, the minister said.
The proof of this is that
five Muslim countries have
In Uttara Kannada, where
former assembly speaker
Vishveshwara Hegde Kageri
is contesting as a BJP candi-
date is facing a resistance
from within. Sitting member
and former Union minister
Anantkumar Hegde has re-
mained aloof and refused to
meet Kageri leave alone cam-
paign for him. And, Hebbar,
sitting MLA from Yellapur
seat too has remained aloof
and is quietly working for
Congress candidate Anajali
Nimbalkar, niece of former
Maharashtra CM Ashok Cha-
van. Citing health issues,
Hebbar stayed away from vot-
ing in the RS poll last month.
On Thursday, Vivek Heb-
bar, son of Shivaram Hebbar
joined Congress.
2014 when Ramcharitra
Nishad secured the seat with
a significant margin, the dy-
namics shifted in 2019, with
Saroj clinching victory by a
narrow margin of 181 votes.
With Saroj’s candidacy
confirmed by the BJP, atten-
tion now turns to Samajwadi
Party and BSP, who are yet to
announce their contenders,
setting the stage for an in-
triguing political contest in
Machchlishahar.
Meanwhile, the BJP on
Thursday released its 11th
list of candidates for the LS
election. The list has only
one name. It has fielded Vin-
od Kumar Bind from UP’s
Bhadohi. He is currently an
MLA from the Majhawan
Assembly constituency.
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
BJP supporters at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public
meeting in Uttarakhand’s Rishikesh on Thursday —PTI
now being hit on their home
turf — “ghar mein ghus kar”
— in contrast to the time
Isn’t corruption detrimental to
when “weak” governments
the country? Shouldn't the
ran the country. The apparent
country get rid of it? I am
reference was to cross-border
fighting this big war with the
strikes in recent years after
strength of your blessings.
terrorist attacks in India.
—Narendra Modi He said a strong BJP gov-
Prime Minister ernment also had the courage
to abrogate Article 370 in J&K
war against Shakti in Hindu after seven decades, make a
religion symbolised by law against triple talaq, im-
revered goddesses like Maa plement the one rank one
Dhari Devi, Maa Chandra- pension scheme and provide
badni and Jwalpa Devi of Ut- reservation to women in leg-
tarakhand,” he said, address- islatures. Modi spoke of
ing the BJP's Vijay Sankalp Rishikesh’s tourism poten-
Rally at the IDPL's hockey tial. It is a unique blend of ad-
ground in the holy city. venture and spiritual
He said terrorists were tourism, he said.
On the issue of Kashmir,
he said Pakistan-occupied
Kashmir (POK) belongs to
India and it will remain so.
The people of POK feel Pak-
istan cannot work for their
welfare, and only Modi can
do so, Rajnath asserted.
The Congress has ruled
the country for 50 years, but
it failed to take the nation to
the pinnacle of glory, he said.
But Modi has done it in 10
years, he said, adding the
Congress has turned into a
If Pakistan feels incapable, piece of rusted gold whereas
India is ready to cooperate to the BJP is 24-carat gold, the
stop terrorism. defence minister said.
—Rajnath Singh He said the Centre initiat-
Defence Minister
ed welfare works that if he
bestowed the their highest
civilian award on Prime
began to count them, it
would take hours. In terms
of the economy, India, which
Minister Narendra Modi.
But the Congress contin-
had been in 11th position in
the world, is now at fifth spot,
ues to defame the prime min-
ister in the name of Hindu
and Muslim rift, he alleged.
Rajnath said. India will
achieve the third position by
the year-end, he said.
QUICK READ
BJD names LS, assembly candidates
BHUBANESWAR: BJD president Naveen Patnaik on Thursday
nominated Lekhasri Samantasinghar as the party’s Balasore LS
candidate. He announced the names of nine candidates for the
assembly election. Samantasinghar recently switched allegiance
from BJP’s Odisha unit. Her nomination marks the completion of
BJD’s candidate roster for all 21 LS seats. BJD has so far fielded
seven women candidates for the LS poll, thus maintaining the
party’s 33 per cent reservation for women candidates, as seen in
the 2019 general election. Among the nine assembly candidates
announced, two sitting MLAs — Sambit Routray (Paradip) and
Bhupinder Singh (Narla) — have been replaced.
BSP motto is ‘bahujan hitai, bahujan sukhai’
LUCKNOW: Indicating a shift in the party’s stand ahead of the Lok
Sabha elections, the BSP has changed its motto of ‘sarvjan hitai,
sarvjan sukhai’ to ‘bahujan hitai, bahujan sukhai’, with a clear
indication of returning to its roots. The Bahujan Samaj Party, which
had come to power in UP through Mayawati’s ‘social engineering’
formula, bringing the upper castes along with Dalits in the 2007
assembly election, appears to be shifting to its core voter with the
new motto. The slogan was formed to represent ‘bahujans’ (literally
meaning ‘community in majority’), referring to the SCs, STs, and
OBCs, along with religious minorities.
Poll official plays ‘dafli’ to educate voters
CHANDIGARH: A voter’s education officer in Hoshiarpur, in a novel
way to encourage people to vote, played a ‘dafli’ and raised the
slogan — “is vaar, 70 paar”, to meet the target of higher voter
turnout in Punjab. Punjab’s voting percentage in the 2019 Lok
Sabha poll was 65.96 per cent, which was below the national
average. Following this, the state’s chief electoral officer Sibin C said
that a target of achieving more than 70 per cent voter turnout has
been set for the Lok Sabha election on June 1.
MP Malook Nagar quits BSP, joins RLD
NEW DELHI: Former BSP MP Malook Nagar joined Rashtriya Lok Dal in
the presence of party chief Jayant Chaudhary in Delhi on Thursday.
Nagar left BSP reportedly after he was denied the ticket in the Lok
Sabha election. “When I became an MP, RLD, SP and BSP played a huge
role. Jayant played a significant role as well. He held big meetings in
five different Vidhan Sabhas in my LS constituency. That is why there
were hoardings of all three parties in West UP. After winning as an MP,
no one saw my hoarding as the parties became separate Malook Nagar
became the MP from three of the parties,” Nagar said after joining the
RLD. Meanwhile, Congress leader and AICC member Jahanzaib
Sirwal on Thursday joined BJP in Delhi and criticised the Congress
for its “party vanishing machine” approach and borrowing
agenda-based politics from other parties. Sirwal, who had been
part of Congress since 2014 and recently became an AICC member
under Mallikarjun Kharge’s leadership, highlighted the need for
the Congress to focus on internal reforms rather than solely
blaming the BJP for issues like EVMs.
MUMBAI
Will back only those who genuinely support Maratha quota: Jarange
Latur: Activist Manoj Jarange has accused the Maharashtra
government of cheating Marathas over quota and declared
that the community will back only those political leaders who
genuinely support reservation for its members. The bill passed
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024 by the state legislature providing quota for Marathas in
government jobs and education won't stand any legal scrutiny,
Jarange claimed while addressing Sakal Maratha Samaj
members at Udgir in Latur district on Wednesday. The activist
also slammed DCM Devendra Fadnavis alleging that he wished
to crush the Maratha agitation by hook or by crook.

1.5L VOTERS ADDED IN 8 LS SEATS

Number of new women voters more than men in the latest electoral roll revision
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI
More than 1.52 lakh new vot-
ers have been registered in
eight out of total 48 Lok Sab-
Earlier, the ECI used to
close its voter registration
in January, while the
Women will be ultimate
winners in this election
Sabha poll candidate said, are known to have brought vation, grassroots women of-
New male voters CONSTITUENCIES
Number of "With the new provision of down illegal hooch ficials and leaders will also
69,652
By
voters in 8 Buldhana the ECI to allow registration operations at the local level get equal opportunity and
seats New female voters Akola of voters beyond January 25, and have tried their best to will provide a platform for
1,49,25,912 the potential candidates and cleanse the area from illegal women who do not have a po-

ha constituencies in Maha-
rashtra in the latest round of
electoral roll revision, in
which the number of new
women voters was more than
their male counterparts, offi-
cials said.
In this special drive con-
ducted by the Election Com-
mission of India (ECI), as
many as 82,658 new female
actual campaign
commences once the
candidates are finalised.
The candidates and their
teams make efforts like
de-cluttering the voters'
list, contacting potential
voters, among others
– Official from chief
electoral office
Invitation
82,658 Amravati
their teams took extra efforts operations. litical lineage or family back-
Male voters Wardha to complete the registration Due to the introduction of ing. Even economically
Poll date May
77,21,374 Yavatmal- process of the potential vot- Nari Shakti Vandan Bill, the speaking, the money spent on
7 (2nd phase) Washim ers, who are otherwise landscape has changed and elections will be far lesser.
Female
Hingoli averse to visit the govern- ÷ the stakes are now at the na- Women’s sense of convincing
voters
Nanded
ment office and get their Advocate tional level. The examples are and putting their word across
53,99,057 names registered.” The offi-
Susieben right in front of us. In Maha- is ingenious.
and cial further said, this permis- rashtra, DGP Rashmi Shukla Bills amending the Consti-
Transgenders Parbhani sion (for voter registration) Shah and Deputy Speaker of Maha- tution to reserve seats for
432 turned out to be a win-win ÷ rashtra Legislative Council women in Parliament and
situation for voters as well as Neelam Gorhe have proven state legislative assemblies

voters were registered as
against the 69,652 new male
voters in these eight con-
stituencies - Buldhana, Ako-
la, Amravati, Wardha, Yavat-
mal-Washim, Hingoli, Nand-
ed, and Parbhani.
However, the total number
of female voters across these
eight segments is way below
the count of male voters.
There are 53,99,057 female
voters as against the 77,21,374
male voters. There are 432
voters registered as trans-
genders, an official
statement issued by the chief
electoral office of Maharash-
tra.
These eight constituencies
will go to polls in the second
phase on May 7.
With the addition of voters
during the special drive of
the ECI conducted between
January 23 and April 4, the
number of electorate rose by
1,52,330. This took the num-
ber of voters in these eight
seats to 1,49,25,912.
"Earlier, the ECI used to
close its voter registration in
January, while the actual
campaign commences once
the candidates are finalised.
The candidates and their
teams make efforts like de-
cluttering the voters' list,
contacting potential voters,
among others," an official
from the chief electoral
office said.
A political party func-
tionary working for a Lok
for candidates.
“The candidates can take
credit for helping potential
voters in getting their names
enrolled in the voters' list and
also expect his or her vote for
themselves. So in addition to
the ECI's routine exercise,
such a move also increases
the enrolment of voters,” the
official added.
I
ndia, Bharat, Hindustan
are all synonyms for our
country, but the heartland
calls our nation ‘Bharat
Mata’. We have seen the best
of women all these years –
from Rani of Jhansi to Saroji-
ni Naidu and Savitribai Phule
to Kalpana Chawla. Women’s
representation and participa-
tion is not new to India. They
have shone throughout In-
dia’s history. While people
that perseverance and dedica-
As per an RBI report, it is
mandated that no less
than one-third of all
chairperson positions at
each panchayat level
must be reserved for
women
In Maharashtra, DGP
Rashmi Shukla and
Deputy Speaker of
have been introduced in 1996,
1998, 1999, and 2008. The first
three Bills lapsed with disso-
lution of their respective Lok
Sabhas.
The Constitution (128th
Amendment) Bill, 2023, was
introduced in the Lok Sabha
on September 19, 2023. The
Bill seeks to reserve one-third
of the total number of seats
and state legislative assem-
blies for women. Through the

MVA is like an auto ‘Current Maharaj of Dhairyashil to

contest from
have celebrated and respected
the great women, the Nari
Shakti Vandan Bill brings to
Legislative Council
Neelam Gorhe have
proven that
years, the number of women
MPs increased from 5% in the
first Lok Sabha to 15% in the

with mismatching Kolhapur is not real’

spare parts: Shah
PTI / MUMBAI
Union Home Minister Amit
Shah on Thursday said the
Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)
coalition of the Shiv Sena
(UBT), NCP (SP) and Con-
gress in Maharashtra was
like an “auto-rickshaw with
mismatching spare
parts”, and it will fail
to perform.
Speaking at a cam-
paign rally for BJP
candidate and sitting
local MP Pratap Patil
Chikhalikar at
Naigaon in Nanded
district of central Maharash-
tra, he also said that in the
BJP-led NDA, voters have a
strong nationalist option
available.
Former Congress leader
Ashok Chavan who was
Nanded MP from 2014 to 2019
(before being defeated by
Chikhalikar in 2019), and who
joined the BJP earlier this
year, was also present on
stage.
“There is a pseudo-Shiv
Sena led by Uddhav Thacker-
ay, pseudo-NCP of Sharad
Pawar and a leftover Con-
Raj’s support to
PM: Workers quit
MNS in protest
PTI / MUMBAI
Many office-bearers of the
Maharashtra Navnirman
Sena (MNS) have resigned in
protest after their party chief
Raj Thackeray declared sup-
port to Prime Minister Naren-
dra Modi and the BJP-led Ma-
hayuti alliance in the state.
MNS general secretary Kir-
tikumar Shinde, one of those
who have quit, took to Face-
book to explain his decision.
He said MNS chief Thackeray
had taken a stand against PM
Modi and BJP in 2019.
“Today, after five years, Raj
saheb has changed his politi-
cal role at the most crucial mo-
ment in the history of the
country. Nowadays leaders
can play the political role they
want, whenever they want.
But the fighters (a reference to
party workers) who believe in
their thoughts are crushed.
What about that,” he asked in
the post. In his annual Gudi
Padwa rally on Tuesday,
Thackeray announced his un-
conditional support to PM
Modi and the Mahayuti al-
liance comprising the BJP, Ek-
nath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and
the NCP under Ajit Pawar.
gress in Maharashtra. These
three parties are like an au-
torickshaw with mismatch-
ing spare parts. How will it
ever perform and do
anything good for Maharash-
tra?" the BJP leader asked.
“Such autorickshaws do
not even have any direction,
and no future. This
(alliance) is going to
sink for sure after the
elections,” he added.
Prime Minister
Narendra Modi took
the Indian economy
from the 11th position
in the world in 2014 to
the fifth position, he said,
adding that if Modi gets an-
other term, he will make In-
dia the third largest economy.
“Every vote given to
Chikhalikar will also
strengthen Modi's chances of
becoming prime minister for
the third time,” Shah said.
The Union home minister
also claimed that it was
thanks to the BJP that Au-
rangabad in central Maha-
rashtra was renamed as
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar,
and Osmanabad as Dha-
rashiv.
Cong workers unhappy over Dhule candidate
KALPESH MHAMUNKAR / MUMBAI
After finalising the seat-shar-
ing formula on the occasion of
Gudhi Padwa, the Congress
and NCP (SP) started declar-
ing the names of the remain-
ing candidates. The Congress
announced Dr Shobha Bach-
hav from Dhule. She will con-
test against BJP's Dr.Shub-
hash Bhamre.
However, the Congress
workers do not seem to be
very happy over the nomina-
tion of Bachhav. They wanted
Poll duty: HC seeks teachers’ cooperation
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI
The Bombay High Court has
directed the Unaided Schools
Forum, Independent English
Schools Association, Private
Unaided Schools Association
and International Schools As-
sociation to inform teachers
of its member schools to coop-
erate with the request made
by the Election Commission
of India (ECI) to be available
for the forthcoming parlia-
mentary election duty.
The court has asked the as-
sociations to inform its mem-
ber-schools to provide infor-
the fore their contribution perseverance and 17th, but the number contin-
Madha on and celebrates women in pub-
lic service.
dedication can take
them a long way
ues to be quite low.
In 2014, the voter ratio was
NCP ticket
As per an RBI report, it is 889 women for every 1000
KALPESH MHAMUNKAR / MUMBAI But the current Shahu Ma- mandated that no less than Women-men voter ratio men. In 2024, the number has
haraj is not real.” KALPESH MHAMUNKAR / MUMBAI one-third of all chairperson significantly improved to 923
The Mahayuti candidate Reacting to Mandlik's com- positions at each panchayat 2014 2024 women for every 1000 men.
from Kolhapur, Sanjay Man- ments, Congress MLC Satej Scion of politically heavy- level must be reserved for 889 : 1000 923 : 1000 According to the numbers,
dlik, on Thursday claimed Patil said, “Mandlik should weight Mohite-Patil family, women. In Maharashtra, women’s participation in the
that MVA candidate Shahu apologise for his statement. Dhairyashil Mohite-Patil, is there are 27,832 gram pan- tion can take them a long way. electoral process has in-
Maharaj was not a descen- No one will tolerate personal all set to be the Maha Vikas chayats, 34 zila parishads, 351 Although Maharashtra is creased. This shows that
dant of Chhatrapati Shivaji comments on Shahu Ma- Aghadi (MVA) candidate panchayat samitis, 244 nagar yet to get a female chief min- women voters are welcomed
Maharaj. “The cur- haraj. Chandrakant from Madha constituency of parishads, and 29 corpora- ister, that is not a distant and are increasingly voicing
rent Maharaj of Patil and Hasan Solapur. He will join the NCP tions. Moreover, all state-level dream. Nationally, there can- their opinions – consent or
Kolhapur is not the Mushrif of Mahayu- (SP) on April 14 and file his bodies are required to have not be better examples than dissent – through voting.
real Maharaj, He ti leaders had ap- nomination on April 16. half of women presidency Prime Minister Indira Gand- Women are only going to fly
does not belong to pealed from the BJP's decision to give and representation. hi and Presidents Pratibha higher by the day. The govern-
Kolhapur, he is newspaper that no ticket to Ranjitsinh Nim- Another study claims that Patil and Draupadi Murmu. ment is doing their best to
adopted. The people one will pass any balkar of BJP faced opposi- a gram panchayat functions Their political acumen and empower women. The biggest
of Kolhapur are the personal comment tion from the Mohite Patil the best when its president is grace not only ensured that advantage of the Bill is that
real descendants of on Shahu Maharaj. family. a woman. This can be attrib- India is in safe hands, but also irrespective of which party
Shivaji Maharaj,” Mandlik Should Despite that, Mand- Deputy uted to the fact that they shrugged any notion or ques- wins the election, women will
Mandlik said. keep respect for lik did this. He came Chief know the problems the best tions arising on women lead- be the ultimate winners.
However, Mandlik the Kolhapur to know that Ma- Minister and are adept at handling ership. A level-playing has
faced criticism from throne. He haraj will defeat him Devendra them. Even the best gram been further ensured through The author is
the MVA. Sharad crossed all the with a margin of one Fadnavis panchayat awards are won by the Reservation Bill. spokesperson, Shiv Sena
Pawar, Sanjay Raut limits and lakh votes.” endeav- those headed by women, who Courtesy of women reser- (Eknath Shinde)
and Congress leader Kolhapur people Moreover, Sharad ored to
Satej Patil criticised will make him Pawar said, “Adop- persuade
his comments.
Mandlik
sit at home in
was this election
tion is nothing new
for royal families.
Mohite-
Patil, albeit unsuccessfully.
COMMERCIAL BREAK
speaking at Nesari –Sanjay Raut The personal com- Recently, Mohite-Patil met
village in Gadhinglaj. “My ment on the dynasty shows NCP chief Sharad Pawar af-
father Sadashivrao Mandlik how the ruling parties' level ter which he said that 'he will
followed all the thoughts of has gone down.” wait and watch'. “Mohite-
the late Rajashri Shahu Ma- Sanjay Raut said, “Mand- Patil family and the Pawar
haraj. This land has the in- lik Should keep respect for family have a decade-old rela-
heritance of equality Kolhapur throne. He crossed tionship. Therefore, no one
thoughts of late Rajashri all the limits and Kolhapur should wonder about our
Shahu Maharaj and every people of Kolhapur will meeting,” he added.
Kolhapurkar has the right to make him sit at home in this Sharad Pawar on Thurs-
the social thoughts of him. election.” day while speaking to the me-
dia at Pune said,
“DhairyaShil Mohite-Patil is
joining NCP (SP). Jayant
Patil will induct him in the
a strong candidate Shewale was con-
party.”
Before induction of Mo-
against Bhamre.
Dhule Congress
sidered a strong con-
testant from the
hite-Patil into the party,
Sharad Pawar will conduct a
president Shyam Congress. rally at Akluj in Madha
Saner tendered his Apart from that, thereafter, Mohite-Patil will
resignation and Dr Shiv Sena (UBT) was be inducted in the party. He
Tushar Shewale, also interested in will file nomination along
president of Nashik Dhule seat. Bach- with Praniti Shinde, who is Prabhadevi motorists had a tough time on Thursday after the Elphinstone flyover was shut for about
rural Congress, also submit- hav's candidature created dis- contesting from Solapur. two hours for a commercial shoot –VIJAY GOHIL
ted his resignation in protest. appointment among Shiv The NCP (SP) declared its
Bachhav was greeted with Sainiks too. third list of candidates on
slogans “imported candidate
will not be accepted, Shobha
Bachhav go back” on her ar-
In the past, Dhule was con-
sidered a bastion of Congress
but in the last two elections,
Wednesday. Shashikant
Shinde will contest election
from Satara and Shriram
2 HPCL officials
booked for theft Pre-arrest bail for
bldr Tekchandani,
rival at the party office of BJP is dominating the con- Patil from Raver, Jalgaon
Shewale on Thursday. stituency. constituency. of petro products
not for Wadhwani
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI
The CBI has registered an
FIR against two assistant
mation of staff including Representation of Peoples Act managers of Hindustan Pe- CHARUL SHAH JOSHI / MUMBAI by the accused. Wadhwani
names and designation as Court asks school to the schools. troleum Corporation Ltd promised to pay the remain-
sought by the ECI. The court associations to The court, in its order on (HPCL) and two private com- The sessions court has al- ing amount of Rs79 lakh in
has clarified that this order is April 10, noted that the ECI as- panies on a complaint lodged lowed the anticipatory bail eight instalments of Rs9.87
for those member-schools provide staff surance was in the context of by the Chief Vigilance plea of builder Lalit Tekchan- lakh. However, Vora did not
which have received requisi- information sought by the submission made by coun- Officer (CVO) of the dani but rejected the plea of deposit the cheques owing to
tion notices. sel for the unaided schools company, Mumbai for al- his partner Bhagwani Wad- fear of Tekchandani’s politi-
The HC on April 5 while the poll commission that each Association would legedly pilfering 642 kilo hwani and his sons booked by cal clout and also because the
hearing the petitions by the as- by the polling agency. The ECI persuade its members to vol- liters of petroleum products the Chembur police on the latter shared Wadhwani’s of-
sociations had asked that it said that the April 5 order was unteer themselves for under- worth Rs5.82 crore between complaint of Pradeep Vora, fice.
furnish information sought “wrongly interpreted by the taking election duties on the June 2022 and January 2024. director of Sarvapriya Leas- Vora claimed that in Sep-
by the ECI. The ECI claimed schools to mean that no coer- dates scheduled. Those booked by the ing Pvt Ltd, for illegally tember 2019, Wadhwani took
that despite the court direc- cive action will be taken A bench headed by Justice agency are Rahul Kumar and usurping properties in a joint keys of the flats on the pretext
tions, the associations’ mem- against any person”. AS Chandurkar had directed Hemant Singh, both assistant project. of Vicky’s wedding.
ber-schools did not furnish The ECI, on April 5, had the three associations to in- managers (operations) In his complaint, In September 2020,
any information and several said no coercive steps would form all its members to pro- posted at HPCL's Mathura Vora had claimed he promised vacant
of its teachers were not pres- be taken and no requisition vide information through the terminal, along with two pri- that his firm, along land in Panvel to
ent for training to be imparted notice was issued under the collectors to ECI. vate transporters – SR Trans- with Sadguna Real- the informant but
port Company and Jadon ity Developer, had did not hand over
Transport Company. constructed Ram the related docu-

‘Law should not be misused by children in property dispute’
URVI MAHAJANI / MUMBAI
The maintenance tribunal
under the Maintenance and
Welfare of Parents and
Senior Citizens Act should
ensure the law is not misused
by children who are denied a
share in the immovable prop-
erties of senior citizens, the
Bombay High Court said on
Wednesday.
It also observed that a cer-
tain provision of the law can-
not be used as “machinery for
setting property disputes” be-
tween legal heirs of senior
citizens as “unfortunately”
such a course of action is tak-
en by parties in many cases.
The HC made the observa-
tions while dealing with a pe-
tition filed by a man challeng-
The court sets aside
tribunal’s order
declaring father’s gift
deed as null and void by
which he gifted three
Mumbai flats to a son,
who was a joint-owner
ing the order of the mainte-
nance tribunal nullifying
various gift deeds executed
by his father in his favour.
The man claimed that his
brother, with whom the fa-
ther is currently residing. in-
stigated the father to ap-
proach the tribunal to seek
annulment of gift deeds.
The father approached the
tribunal in February 2022 and
sought return of the proper-
ties and payment of mainte-
nance of Rs50,000 per month
from the petitioner son. The
father’s plea contended that
after his wife passed away the
previous year, the petitioner
son got four gift deeds execut-
ed related to various immov-
able properties. Thereafter, he
ill-treated him by removing
servants and confining him to
one room.
The father then left Mum-
bai to reside with another son
in Surat. He then claimed that
he neither has source of in-
come nor any immovable
property in his name and
hence sought return of the
same from the petitioner.
The tribunal, in October
2022, allowed the father’s plea
and declared as “null and
void” the gift deeds executed
by him for three flats, two in
Kandivali and one in And-
heri. The son challenged this
before the high court.
Son’s counsels, Girish God-
bole, Manuj Borkar and
Prasad Borkar, submitted
that the son was the joint
owner of the flats. Hence, the
tribunal could not have di-
rected the son to vacate the
flats.
The HC directed to ensure
that the father is looked after.
The judge directed the peti-
tioner son to provide resi-
dence to his father in the And-
heri flat and pay him Rs25,000
per month.
They have been booked on
charges of criminal conspir-
acy by public servants, theft,
criminal breach of trust and
criminal misconduct by pub-
lic servants under the rele-
vant sections of the Indian
Penal Code and Prevention
of Corruption Act.
HPCL CVO AK Tiwari al-
leged that both accused en-
tered into a conspiracy with
the transporters, allowing
the theft of petroleum prod-
ucts from the Mathura termi-
nal and causing wrongful
loss of Rs5.82 crore to the gov-
ernment exchequer while en-
riching the accused transport
companies.
“It was also alleged that in
furtherance of the conspira-
cy, both accused allowed ex-
cess loading of 642 kl petrole-
um products in tank trucks
of accused through 305 in-
stances,” said a CBI official.
Ekjot Sukruti
building in Chem-
bur. Vora had as-
signed Wadhwani
and his sons Vicky
and Amit of Sai Es-
tate Consultants to sell the
flats in the said building as his
agents.
Wadhwani is said to have
purchased three flats, an
office and a shop in the said
building for Rs8.2 crore. As
per the agreements executed
between the parties, 50% of
the amount was to be paid to
Sadguna Reality and 50%
(Rs4.1 crore) was to be paid to
the company of the inform-
ant. The accused paid Rs66.37
lakh and Rs3.43 crore was still
due.
Vora claimed that he sold a
shop on the ground floor for
Rs1.8 crore to the accused,
whereby 50% of the said
amount (Rs90 lakh) was paid
ments. In March
2021, the accused
promised Vora pos-
session of two flats
in Chembur but in
May 2021, the latter
realised that Wadhwani had
given three on rent and
pledged three to Mumbai Dis-
trict Co-op Bank.
When Vora asked for the
pending dues, Wadhwani is-
sued cheques for Rs83 lakh on
July 26, 2021, and promised to
pay the balance in
instalments but the cheques
bounced. Vora was then al-
legedly threatened with false
cases against his sons.
While Tekchandani
claimed he is not concerned
with the alleged transactions,
Wadhwani claimed that the
case was filed after four years
and a commercial suit is al-
ready pending between the
parties.

Constable killed as car dashes into his bike
Mumbai: A motorcycle-borne constable was killed in
an accident on Thursday when his bike was knocked
down by an unidentified car driver on Elphinstone
bridge in Parel. The victim, Dhanraj Ghag, 25, was
taken to KEM Hospital where he succumbed. The
MUMBAI
pillion rider received only minor injuries. A case for
negligent and rash driving has been registered
against the unidentified motorist. Ghag was posted in
the local arms division of the Mumbai police. He is
survived by his mother and sister. MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

State has 2 mths to

Cyber cell EID MUBARAK: SEA OF DEVOTEES AT HAJI ALI
thwarts attempt
to defraud
formulate SOP for SoBo school
VISHAL SINGH / MUMBAI

24-week abortions
The Central Cyber Cell re-
cently thwarted a bid to de-
fraud a south Mumbai school
by seizing Rs82.55 lakh from a
phishing email account after
URVI MAHAJANI / MUMBAI ha informed her about the ab- a fraudster posed as a repre-

The Maharashtra govern-

ment should have a Standard
Operating Procedure (SOP) to
handle cases related to termi-
nation of pregnancy beyond
24 weeks, the Nagpur bench
of the Bombay High Court
has observed. The SOP would
ensure that no woman needs
to move court seeking per-
mission if she is entitled to do
so under the provisions of the
Medical Termination of
Pregnancy (MTP) Act, the
court noted.
The bench has asked the
state department of public
health and the Department of
Medical Education and Drugs
to formulate the SOP within
two months and issue it to all
government hospitals and
medical colleges across Ma-
harashtra.
HC says SOP would
ensure women don’t
need to move court in
case of med issues
The amended MTP Act
permits termination of preg-
nancy beyond 24 weeks in cas-
es of severe foetal abnormali-
ties. As per the amended pro-
visions, the state has to con-
stitute medical boards in each
district that have the power
and discretion to allow or
deny termination beyond 24
weeks.
The observations were
made while hearing a petition
by a woman seeking to termi-
nate her 32-week pregnancy
due to abnormalities in the
foetus. Her plea claimed that
the general hospital in Ward-
normalities in the foetus dur-
ing her 24th-week scan.
The court, while granting
relief to the woman, ex-
pressed disappointment that
instead of referring her to the
medical board, the hospital
asked her to approach the
court.
“Under the MTP Act as
amended up-to-date, there is
no such requirement of seek-
ing any permission from the
court by any woman, even if
the pregnancy is beyond 24
weeks,” a bench of Chief Jus-
tice DK Upadhyaya and Jus-
tice Nitin Sambre said on
April 5.
The HC has directed the
general hospital in Wardha to
bear the expenses of the
woman’s treatment and kept
the matter for hearing on
June 12.
sentative of Europhone
Acoustics, a company based
in the UAE, to build a cafete-
ria for the school. The perpe-
trator employed a man-in-
the-middle cyber-attack
tactic to carry out the scam.
Deputy Commissioner of
Police (Crime) Datta
Nalawade explained that in a
man-in-the-middle attack,
fraudsters exploit the web-
sites of two contracting com-
panies to create a phishing
site, deceiving one party into
sending funds to a fraudulent
account.
The incident unfolded
when a representative from a
school in Tardeo approached
the police to file a complaint.
According to the investiga-
tion, between February 23 Devotees gathered at Haji Ali dargah on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr on Thursday — VIJAY GOHIL
and March 16, the school en-
tered a contract with Euro-

No medical termination of
phone Acoustics to get a cafe-
teria built. After initiating
the contract, the school sent
an email to the Europhone of-
Pending concreting after monsoon
ficial’s email address. SHEFALI PARAB-PANDIT frastructure Ltd (RSIIL) for

pregnancy for rape survivor
URVI MAHAJANI / MUMBAI
The Bombay High Court has
dismissed a petition seeking
medical termination of a mi-
nor rape survivor’s 28-week
pregnancy. The court refused
permission while relying on
the medical board’s report
that stated that termination
at the advanced stage of preg-
nancy would result in the
birth of a live child.
The HC was hearing a peti-
tion by the 15-year-old vic-
tim’s mother, claiming that
the pregnancy was causing
the teen mental agony. The
mother also sought that the
minor be provided free med-
ical facilities, counselling and
compensation under the
Manodhairya scheme. The
petition highlighted the teen’s
dire circumstances, stressing
the mental anguish she en-
dured due to the pregnancy.
An FIR was registered by
Turbhe MIDC police on
March 20 after the mother
complained that her minor
daughter was sexually as-
saulted. The FIR was regis-
tered under various sections
of the Indian Penal Code and
the Protection of Children
from Sexual Offences (POC-
SO) Act.
However, the medical
board comprising radiolo-
gists, paediatrics, psychia-
trists, obstetrics and gynae-
cologists concluded that ter-
mination was not advisable.
The board’s decision,
based on the Medical Termi-
nation of Pregnancy Act,
1971, and subsequent amend-
ments, emphasised the ab-
sence of substantial foetal ab-
normalities warranting ter-
mination after the 24-week
threshold.
A bench of Justice NR
Borkar and PD Naik has di-
rected the state to provide all
necessary medical facilities
to the minor before and after
delivery and also directed to
grant compensation.
An officer said that the per-
petrator manipulated Euro-
phone’s email address to ap-
pear authentic, instructing
the school to transfer funds to
a designated account. Upon
contacting Europhone to con-
firm the payment, the school
discovered that the company
had not received any funds,
realising the fraud. “The
school promptly reported the
incident to the police, result-
ing in the freezing of Rs82.55
lakh,” DCP Nalawade said.
The police have filed a case
against under the Indian Pe-
nal Code and the Information
Technology Act.
MUMBAI
The BMC opened the bid to
concretise 312km of roads,
worth Rs6,198 crore last week,
to which 15 bidders respond-
ed. However, with the model
code of conduct in force, the
civic authorities will have to
put their plans on hold. Fur-
thermore, the upcoming
monsoons will further delay
the concretisation work, and
the project will likely start
post-monsoon, said civic
sources.
“We have completed the
tendering process and the
bids were also opened last
BMC floats tender for road concretisation
97km of roads in south Mum-
bai was cancelled over the de-
worth `6,198 cr; 15 bidders have responded lay.
to concretise the 312km network While the opposition al-
leged cartelisation in the new
week for phase 2 of road con- decided to concretise all the tender with the same set of
cretisation, but the work or- roads to make the city pot- contractors bidding for all the
der will be issued after the hole-free. Accordingly, the works in seven zones, the
Lok Sabha elections. We will BMC undertook the concreti- BMC has not yet decided to al-
also review the road work un- sation of 397km of roads last lot the contract to the lowest
dertaken last year. The road year. A tender worth Rs6,080 bidders.
officials are instructed to en- crore, the biggest ever civic The BMC will allow road
sure that 50% of work gets contract, was awarded to five digging or excavation work
completed by May 31,” said a firms, but only 15-20% of con- for concretisation till the end
senior civic official. cretisation work has been of April. Since road work is
The city has a road completed till now. not carried out during the
network of 2,050km, out of Furthermore, the Rs1,600 four months of the monsoon,
which around 1,000km has crore contract awarded to the work can only start in Oc-
been concretised. The BMC Roadway Solutions India In- tober, said civic sources.
MUMBAI
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
DA case: Medical
officer, his nurse
wife booked
PTI / THANE
A case has been registered
against a medical officer and
his wife posted at a govern-
ment hospital for allegedly
amassing assets worth Rs1.52
crore disproportionate to
their known sources of in-
come, the Anti-Corruption
Bureau (ACB) said.
The accused were identi-
fied as Dr Vijay Eknath
Gavli, 57, who is currently
serving as a medical officer
at the Sub Divisional Hospi-
tal at Panvel, and his wife
Varsha, 54, employed as a
staff Nurse with the Sub-dis-
trict Hospital at Pen (both in
Raigad district), an ACB re-
lease said.
During their government
service, the couple misused
their position and collected
disproportionate wealth, it
said. On September 19, 2018,
an offence of demand and ac-
ceptance of a bribe was reg-
istered against the doctor, it
said.
Following that, an inquiry
was conducted into the in-
come of the family members
for the period from January
2008 to September 2018, and it
was found that the couple
had collected wealth to the
tune of Rs1,52,40,530, which
was more than their known
sources of income and hence
a case was registered against
them, the ACB said.
Based on the complaint
filed by the ACB, the couple
was booked under the Pre-
vention of Corruption Act at
the Pen police station on
Wednesday, the agency
added.
No discharge
for killing
paramour
CHARUL SHAH JOSHI / MUMBAI
The sessions court has re-
fused to discharge a woman
who allegedly helped her
husband, a police constable,
to kill her lover and dispose
of his body in 2022. The court
cited her daughter’s state-
ment to prove her prima facie
involvement in the crime.
As per the prosecution
case, Monali Gaikwad and
Shivshankar allegedly killed
Arjun Jagdale, a chilli trader
from Solapur and her school
friend. Jagdale’s headless
body was found near CGST
quarters at Antop Hill.
Monali denied any role
and instead registered a case
against her husband and her
in-laws with the Akluj police
station in Solapur. She cited
having separated from her
husband long back and
claimed that another woman
was in the car when Shivku-
mar dispose of the body.
The prosecution, however,
claimed that Monali was in
an extramarital relationship
with Jagdale but he was
averse to marrying her. Shiv-
shankar and Monali moved
to Mumbai in August 2021
and Jagdale shifted a month
later. The prosecution
claimed the couple murdered
Jagdale and disposed of his
headless body in their car.
The prosecution relied on
the statement of the couple’s
daughter who claimed that
Monali was in a state of
shock and had injuries. The
statement was corroborated
by their neighbours, who had
gathered outside their house
after hearing noises.
The sessions judge Dr AA
Joglekar observed that it is
not necessary at the stage of
framing of charges to enter
into elaborate inquiry.
BMC’s monsoon tree trimming sparks outcry in Santacruz
RUCHA KANOLKAR / MUMBAI
The BMC is entangled in a
heated dispute with residents
and passionate tree advocates
over its annual pre-monsoon
tree trimming initiative in
the H West ward. While the
BMC underscores the neces-
sity of this endeavour for pub-
lic safety, opposition from cit-
izens, notably in Santacruz,
remains fervent, with con-
cerns pivoting around the
conservation of trees.
The BMC, through its gar-
den department, has com-
menced the pruning of trees
and elimination of dead or
perilous branches in readi-
ness for the impending mon-
soon season. Jitendra
Pardeshi, superintendent of
the BMC’s Garden depart-
ment said, “Every year, the
city sees fatal incidents
caused by falling
trees/branches, particularly
during the monsoon due to
800 families to boycott polls
over stalling of SRA scheme
Slum dwellers endured over 75 months of stagnation; located adjacent
to Vakola drain, the slum is inundated with water during monsoon
RUCHA KANOLKAR / MUMBAI
In a bold stance against pro-
longed neglect and bureau-
cratic lethargy, 800 families re-
siding in Om Namo Sujlam
Suphalam Cooperative Hous-
ing Society, Shivaji Nagar, San-
tacruz, have opted to boycott
the Lok Sabha elections. Their
resolute action comes as a re-
sponse to the interminable de-
lay in the implementation of
vital projects by the Slum Re-
habilitation Authority (SRA).
The slum dwellers, hailing
from Shivaji Nagar, Santacruz
(East), have endured over 75
months of stagnation in the
SRA scheme, ensnared in a
protracted dispute between
the SRA and developer
Messrs Keystone Realtors
Limited. This impasse,
marked by bureaucratic iner-
tia and alleged non-compli-
ance from the developer’s end,
has left the community in a
state of dire neglect.
The Supreme Court’s inter-
vention, granting full authori-
ty to the SRA for the swift exe-
cution of the long-stalled slum
rehabilitation scheme, failed
to catalyse progress. Despite
the court’s decree on January
4, 2018, and subsequent tender-
ing processes, the plight of the
residents remains unabated.
Located adjacent to the
Vakola drain in a low-lying
area, the slum is inundated
No delay in NGO’s
appeal over Balaji
temple land: NGT
BHALCHANDRA CHORGHADE
NAVI MUMBAI
The National Green Tribunal
(NGT) has said that NGO Net-
Connect Foundation filed an
appeal in the matter of Balaji
Temple land allotment in Ulwe
to the City and Industrial De-
velopment Corporation (CID-
CO) well within the 60-day dis-
cretionary period.
Ruling out any objections,
the NGT observed that the de-
lay in appeal, if any, is only be-
cause the Maharashtra
Coastal Zone Management Au-
thority (MCZMA) failed to up-
load the Coastal Regulation
Zone (CRZ) clearance dated
November 20, 2023 on its web-
site or on the website of the
Ministry of Environment,
Forests & Climate Change
(MoEF&CC), despite being re-
quired to do so.
The NGT was hearing the
appeal filed by NatConnect,
which has alleged that CIDCO
flouted the norms and order of
the Bombay High Court while
allotting the land to Tirupati
Tirumala Devasthanam
(TTD), which proposed to con-
struct a Tirupati
Venkateswara Swami Temple
on a plot measuring 40,000 sq
strong winds and heavy rains.
To prevent such tragedies,
trimming overloaded branch-
es and removing dead or dan-
gerous trees/branches is cru-
cial for citizen safety.”
The assistant superinten-
with water during the mon-
soon, subjecting inhabitants
to unsanitary conditions and
an intolerable stench. Raman
Gawde, secretary of Om
Namo Sujlam Suphalam
Housing Society, lamented the
SRA’s blatant disregard for
court orders mandating the
completion of the scheme and
the provision of housing
within two years.
He said, “Despite 75 months
passing since the Supreme
Court’s order, the slum reha-
bilitation plan at this institu-
tion has stagnated for nearly a
decade. The SRA has failed to
comply with the court’s direc-
tive to complete the scheme
and provide houses to slum
dwellers within two years.
Progress remains sluggish de-
mt. The planning agency allot-
ted the land along the casting
yard to TTD, which was op-
posed by environmentalists.
In the hearing on April 5,
CIDCO and Mumbai Metropol-
itan Region Development Au-
thority (MMRDA) argued that
the CRZ nod was given on No-
vember 11, 2023, and NatCon-
nect should have moved its ap-
peal earlier. NatConnect coun-
sel pointed out that the CRZ
nod was not in public domain
and that they came to know of
it only in January this year
when the MCZMA presented
the document to the NGT.
On CIDCO’s argument that
the allotment was made in
May 2022, NatConnect said it
had also complained to the
MoEF&CC and the Chief Min-
ister’s Office against the CRZ
violations. After hearing argu-
ments and counter-arguments,
the NGT listed the matter for
further hearing on April 25.
Earlier, the Environment
and Climate Change depart-
ment of the state government
pleaded ignorance that the
casting yard for Mumbai
Trans Harbour Link, which
the CIDCO gave to MMRDA,
was built on mangroves; this
had raised serious questions.
dent of Gardens in H West
ward wrote to the Bandra and
Santacruz police stations,
highlighting obstruction
from activists and tree lovers
during pre-monsoon trim-
ming. They requested police
I’ve lived here for 24 years, and my in-
laws have been here for 60 years. We
face numerous challenges, especially during
the monsoon, when our house fills with water
up to waist level. It’s particularly difficult for
my paralysed father-in-law, as we struggle to
assist him to the washroom.
Sejal Surve of Shivaji Nagar chawl 8
Progress remains sluggish despite the
court’s intervention disqualifying
developers, with several months elapsing
since the project’s tender. Urgent action is
needed to alleviate the dire conditions
endured by residents during monsoons.
spite the court’s intervention
disqualifying developers, with
several months elapsing since
the project’s tender. Urgent ac-
tion is needed to alleviate the
dire conditions endured by
residents during monsoons.”
Sejal Surve, resident of
Shivaji Nagar Chawl 8 said,
“I've lived here for 24 years,
and my in-laws have been
here for 60 years. We face nu-
merous challenges, especial-
ly during the monsoon when
our house fills with water up
to waist level. It’s
particularly difficult for my
paralysed father-in-law, as we
struggle to assist him to the
washroom. Mosquitoes are a
constant nuisance, and the
gutters in our chawl remain
choked throughout the year,
LAST GIRDER ON RUB AT PUNE EXPRESSWAY
Thane excise wing collects
`155 crore from renewals
Collections rise by 15% compared to last year’s `136 crore
SURESH GOLANI / THANE
The Thane state excise de-
partment collected a whop-
ping Rs155.83 crore through
annual renewals of licenses
from 2,852 establishments,
mostly retail liquor vendors
and a couple of microbrew-
eries for the current fiscal
(2024-25). The collections
were limited to Rs136.06 crore
from 2,740 establishments
last year (2023-2024) despite
revenue generation from new
permits, late fees, transfers
and shifting charges.
As per statistics from the
Thane excise department,
there are around 2,813 retail
liquor vending establish-
ments within its
jurisdiction. As of today, the
excise department has
Trimming
permission
must mention
n Species of trees
n Quantity of those
trees
n Girth and height of
that tree in feet
(girth at human
waist level)
n Number of branches
to be cut
n Girth of the branch
permitted to be cut,
in inches
n Length of the branch
permitted to be cut,
in inches
cooperation to ensure the
smooth execution of this es-
sential activity. An official
from the garden department
said, “Each year, we en-
counter obstacles during tree
trimming, but we always op-
Three child beggars rescued in Malad; 4 arrested
Mumbai: The Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) rescued
13 children aged between three and 15 in Malad West,
who were allegedly exploited through begging. The unit
also apprehended four women, Bharati Pachare, Hasina
Pawar, Armina Bhosale, and Tingu Pawar for the crime. A
Raman Gawde, secretary of
housing society
not just during the rainy sea-
son. Despite our plight, no
ward officer or leader has
ever visited to address our
concerns. Illnesses, fevers,
and coughs spread rapidly
due to the unsanitary condi-
tions.”
Surve added, “We’ve been
waiting for this area to be de-
veloped for 24 years now, and
we’re only dreaming of a
better life after
development. It’s puzzling
why the authorities won’t let
us have a better quality of
life.”
Despite the community's
cooperation, bureaucratic
inefficiency and alleged neg-
ligence persist, leaving resi-
dents in a state of perpetual
hardship.
mopped up a little over
Rs155.83 crore towards re-
newals from 2,852 establish-
ments.
Notably, 147 establish-
ments, including 90 permit
rooms and 52 beer shops
have not renewed their li-
censes this year. The license
fees for liquor retailers are
based on the population of
the city, village or town they
operate in. Divided into sev-
en slabs, the annual license
fees for a permit room range
from Rs75,400 (population up
to 50,000) to Rs9.01 lakh (for
cities having a population of
more than 20 lakh).
Hotels with three, four and
five-star ratings are mandat-
ed to pay Rs6.76 lakh, Rs12.27
lakh and Rs17.27 lakh to-
wards annual license fees for
erate with proper permis-
sions and prioritise citizens’
safety. Seeking support from
Mumbai police, we’ve asked
Khar, Bandra, and Santacruz
police stations to aid us in
completing the trimming effi-
ciently before the monsoon.”
However, residents and tree
lovers in Santacruz have
voiced objections to the trim-
ming, expressing apprehen-
sions regarding potential tree
loss. They argue that while
safety is paramount, indis-
criminate trimming could
jeopardise the city’s verdant
canopy.
Zoru Bathena, an environ-
mental activist, queried the
BMC’s approach, particularly
its efforts to restrict police in-
tervention in response to citi-
zen grievances, he said, “The
H West ward’s request to po-
lice not to enforce the law
raises concerns. Is the BMC
above the law? Can they arbi-
trarily cut trees? Section 20A
IPL ticket
scam: Student
loses `1.52L,
three booked
MEGHA KUCHIK / MUMBAI
The Borivali police have
filed a case against three
unidentified people for al-
legedly defrauding a 19-
year-old youth of Rs1.52
lakh under the pretext of
providing tickets for the
Mumbai Indians vs
Chennai Super Kings crick-
et match.
According to the FIR, Krit
Gupta, 19, a college student
residing in Borivali West,
and his friend decided to
watch the match at
Wankhede Stadium on
April 14. They searched for
match tickets online and
came across an Instagram
link. Gupta messaged the
link, inquiring about ticket
availability. A fraudster re-
sponded with four mobile
numbers. As Gupta was con-
tacted, he was assured of
IPL match tickets and was
asked for money, and pro-
vided a QR code. Subse-
quently, Gupta sent a total
of Rs1.52 lakh in 22 transac-
tions from his SBI bank ac-
counts via Gpay.
Later, Gupta attempted to
contact the numbers provid-
ed by the fraudsters but re-
ceived no response and did
not receive the tickets. Real-
ising it was a scam, Gupta
filed a case against three
unidentified people under
sections 34 (common inten-
tion) and 420 (cheating and
dishonesty) of the Indian
Penal Code, along with rele-
vant sections of the Infor-
mation Technology Act.
Mumbai Railway Vikas Corpora-
tion (MRVC) has completed
launching the last road under-
bridge (RUB) girder near
Chikhale station. The develop-
ment is part of the Panvel-Karjat
suburban corridor under the
Mumbai Urban Transport Project
(MUTP) III. The project is ex-
pected to be completed by De-
cember 2025. The bridge fea-
tures four 61-mt open web gird-
er spans for both up and down
railway lines. The launching of
the fourth girder for the Mum-
bai-Pune direction was complet-
ed efficiently within 1.5 hours,
with 120 workers and spe-
cialised equipment, including
Hilman rollers. - KAMAL MISHRA
serving liquor. While 11 star
hotels have renewed their
permits this year, 51 estab-
lishments contributed more
than Rs3.76 crore by renew-
ing their licenses for five
years in advance. After an av-
erage hike of 15% in license
fees announced by the state
government by rules of the
Maharashtra Potable Liquor
(Periodicity and Fees for
Grant, Renewal or Continu-
ance of License) Rules, 1996,
a fresh gazette notification
was released reducing li-
cense fees by five per cent.
“Despite non-renewals by
147 establishments, our col-
lections have witnessed a
surge of around 15% as com-
pared to last year,” said
excise superintendent Nilesh
Sangade.
of the Trees Act, 1975, man-
dates police to prevent illegal
tree cutting. We urge the tree
authority to retract these let-
ters and enforce strict per-
mission protocols for tree
trimming. Permission must
be shown to the public when
requested.”
Residents stress that the
BMC cannot cut any tree or
branch without prior written
permission. They emphasise
that every tree and branch
must have specific authorisa-
tion before trimming. Tree
lovers have also urged the po-
lice to prevent illegal tree cut-
ting and ensure police protec-
tion for all trees as required
by law. “If the BMC diligently
follows regulations, there
would be no necessity for po-
lice intervention,” said resi-
dent. They call on the police
to disregard the civic body’s
‘unlawful’ requests and pro-
vide necessary protection to
each tree when requested.
campaign launched by the special child police cell in north
Mumbai aimed to address complaints of beggars soliciting
at railway stations and other public places. The team
conducted operations in Madh, Marve, Bangur Nagar, Mith
Chowki, Malad and Malvani.
Couple kills, buries
infant daughter; held
three weeks later
PRASHANT NARVEKAR / THANE
In a shocking case, a couple
allegedly killed their 18-
month-old daughter and se-
cretly buried her at a grave-
yard in Mumbra, in Thane
district, three weeks ago.
The city police received an
anonymous letter about the
gruesome crime, following
which the child’s body was
exhumed on Wednesday. The
police then arrested the
child’s parents, Jahid Sheikh,
38, and Noorami, 28, and in-
terrogated them. The autopsy
report confirmed that the
child had suffered injuries on
her head and other body bra police station Anil Shinde
parts. said, “We recently received
Initially, the couple denied an anonymous letter about
any knowledge but broke the couple killing their child,
down on sustained interroga- Labiba, and quietly burying
tion and revealed that they the body in a graveyard. Ini-
had murdered the child and tially, the accused did not co-
buried the body in a local operate, but later told how
graveyard. The exact motive they committed the crime.
behind the murder, which However, they are yet to re-
took place on March 18, is yet veal the motive behind the
to be ascertained by the po- killing.”
lice, though sources said the Meanwhile, a case under
killing was done on the Indian Penal Code sections
behest of a charlatan as a 302 (murder) and 201 (causing
‘black magic’ act. disappearance of evidence of
The police said the couple offence) has been registered,
took the child to a hospital af- Shinde said. Inspector
ter the assault where she was (crime) SA Dawne said the
pronounced dead but the po- couple was produced before a
lice weren’t contacted as per magistrate on Wednesday
law. and remanded to police cus-
Senior inspector of Mum- tody till April 15.
C&K-Yes Bank case:
Man held after 3 yrs
VISHAL SINGH / MUMBAI September 7, 2018, and No-
vember 1, 2019. It is claimed
The Economic Offences Wing that a significant portion of
(EOW) have arrested Ajit the loan funds was
Menon, a British citizen, at redirected to Cox & Kings
an airport in Kerala, wanted Ltd for their gain, as stated
by authorities for three years by Joshi.
in a case of alleged defraud- In September 2018, Rs56
ing of the Yes Bank. He was crore was redirected to the
apprehended upon his ar- State Bank of India account
rival from the United King- of Promethon Enterprises
dom on April 9 after a look- Ltd, a foreign company based
out-circular (LoC) had been in the United Kingdom.
issued against him and was Menon oversaw the opera-
transported to Mumbai. tions of the UK company and
The incident dates managed the opera-
back to February Ajit tions of group compa-
2021, when the EOW
filed a case against
Menon, a nies within the Cox
and King group
Cox and Kings Finan- UK citizen, across Europe, al-
cial Services Ltd (CK- was held legedly benefitting
FSL), a subsidiary of from these transac-
Cox and Kings, for al- in Kerala tions.
legedly defrauding The company in
Yes Bank of approximately question provided misleading
Rs400 crore. financial statements
According to the FIR, filed bolster its creditworthiness,
by the chief vigilance officer misusing loan funds for pur-
to
of Yes Bank, Ashish Vinod poses other than intended and
Joshi, the accused persons – disregarding terms set by Yes
Menon, the company’s then Bank, resulting in an alleged
CEO and Cox and King’s loss of Rs398.38 crore to the
owner Ajay Ajit Peter Kerkar bank at Menon’s behest. The
fabricated purchase and EOW obtained statements
sales transactions in the from key senior executives
firm’s account books from Milind Gandhi, Ravi Menon,
2018 to 2019, falsely portray- and Shailesh Pednekar
ing the company’s financial under Code of Criminal Pro-
health as robust. cedure section 164, affirming
This enabled them to se- Menon’s central role in man-
cure a Rs400 crore loan from aging loan transactions and
Yes Bank between company policies.
CHAITRA NAVRATRI
Replica of Assam’s
Kamakhya Devi
temple in Bhayandar
Volunteers of the Ziddi Maratha Pratishthan (ZMP) have created the
majestic replica of the revered Kamakhya Devi Temple (Assam) in
the Narmada Nagar area of Bhayandar East to mark the occasion of
the Chaitra Navratri – a nine-day festival which started with much
pomp and religious fanfare on April 9.“Dedicated to Goddess Dur-
ga and her various forms, representing the triumph of good over
evil, Chaitra Navratri holds significant cultural and spiritual impor-
tance. This is our humble effort for devotees who despite aspira-
tions are unable to visit these temples and other religious places
across the country,” said ZMP president Pradeep Jangam. Pradeep
along with his team of volunteers has been playing an instrumental
role in dedicatedly hosting the festivities by creating replicas of
various religious places for the past 12 years. -SURESH GOLANI
12-year-old boy booked for killing student in Thane during fight
Mumbai: A 12-year-old boy was booked on Thursday in
connection with the death of a student in Thane, police
said. The case was registered on the complaint of the
deceased’s father, the Kapurbawdi station official said. “The
Man beaten
to death
in Malvani
MEGHA KUCHIK / MUMBAI
A labourer was allegedly
beaten to death near Hussain
Chowk in Malvani on
Wednesday for suspected ve-
hicle theft. Police filed a case
against one Imran Ansari, 26,
on Thursday.
According to the FIR, the
deceased, Sachin Jaiswal, 25,
the complainant Akash Gaik-
wad, 32, and two others went
to Hussain Chowk on
Wednesday to buy drugs.
Upon reaching, Jaiswal asked
Gaikwad to wait near their
vehicle while he went inside a
lane to buy ganja. When
Jaiswal did not return, Gaik-
wad went to look for him.
Jaiswal was later found ly-
ing unconscious on the road.
Subsequently, Gaikwad took
Jaiswal first to Saraswati
Hospital in Charkop, then to
Mangalmurti Hospital in
Borivali. He later died at
Shatabdi Hospital.
An individual told Gaik-
wad that Jaiswal was trying
to start a two-wheeler belong-
ing to Ansari. Ansari saw him
and suspected theft, which led
to a physical assault.
Haji Ali underpass flooding:
BMC begins work on drains
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI
The BMC has undertaken
construction of the main
stormwater drains adjoining
the Haji Ali Coastal Road’s
pedestrian underpass (PUP)
to prevent entry of seawater
during high tide. A of alleged fraud. Vaibhav has
catchment tank will be set up
to collect the overflowing sea-
water and channel it out
through outlets, civic officials
said on Thursday.
The PUP of the Mumbai
Coastal Road Project (MCRP)
was flooded on Wednesday af-
ternoon during high tide.
Civic officials immediately
shut down the gates of the
PUPs, while the shrine was
also closed between 11.45am
and 2.30pm. Water levels re-
ceded only after 3pm.
The administrative officer
of Haji Ali Dargah Trust, Mo-
hammed Ahmed Taher, said,
“Earlier there was a pathway
where seawater once entered
would drain itself. After con-
struction of PUPs, where will
the water go? While con-
structing coastal roads, they
should have first created
stormwater drains. If it gets
flooded at just high tide, it will
be very difficult during the
monsoon.”
Zoru Bhathena, an envi-
ronmental activist, said, “It
is surprising that the BMC
has designed a pedestrian
GRAND WELCOME
The Vasant Kunj Co-operative Society in Dadar (East) welcomed the Sai Baba Palkhi from Sai Shrad-
dha Mandal (Saat Rasta) on April 7. The families took the blessings of Sai Baba and welcomed all the
yatris with grace. This was the society’s 11th year celebrating the Palkhi.
City cops bust illegal stock
trading call centre in MP
VISHAL SINGH / MUMBAI
The Mumbai Police have un-
covered a fake stock trading
call centre operating from Uj-
jain, Madhya Pradesh, and
arrested three people who
were part of a gang that
cheated investors by promis-
ing them hefty returns, an of-
ficial said on Thursday.
The call centre, which was
detected during a raid, was
used to lure investors by
promising them very high re-
turns on investment in share
markets, he said.
During the raid, a police
team recovered data consist-
ing mobile phone numbers
of three lakh customers, said
the official. The police action
was part of an investigation
launched after a 56-year-old
child, 10 at the time, had quarrelled with the accused, also
a student of the same school, on January 11 last year. The
accused allegedly pushed the deceased to the ground and
strangled him. No arrest has been made,” the official said.
Bandra battles a traffic nightmare
As new cafés and restaurants pop up, residents complain of never-ending traffic problems
DHAIRYA GAJARA / MUMBAI
Bandra (West)’s upmarket
bars and cafés are a hit with
the young and fashionable
set, especially over weekends,
but the area’s popularity has
led to complaints from locals
about never-ending traffic
problems.
Several well-known café
and restaurant chains have
opened their outlets in the
narrow bylanes of Rebello
Road, Veronica Road and
Chapel Road. They often pro-
vide valet parking services to
their patrons. Residents
allege that valet drivers park
the cars in the bylanes, which
are no-parking zones, and
cause congestion.
Rebello Road, for example,
is often used as a bylane to
connect with Hill Road and
Bandra Reclamation. Cus-
tomers and valet drivers often
park their cars on both the
sides of the road, making it
difficult for other motorists.
Areas around Veronica’s,
Subko, Birdsong Café and
Truefit Gourmet Bistro are
especially prone to traffic
underpass without taking
into account the tide levels.
The effects of such an ill-de-
sign are now visible for all to
see.”
The coastal road has
around 20 PUPs providing
pedestrians access to various
locations. “Before construc-
tion of the coastal road, the
pathway that provided access
would flood during high tide,
Action was part of an
investigation launched
after a 56-year-old
man from Matunga,
Chandrashekhar
Taware, was duped of
`8.33 lakh
man from Matunga, Chan-
drashekhar Taware, lodged a
complaint, alleging he was
duped of Rs8.33 lakh on pre-
text of investing in stock
markets, he said.
During the probe, it came
to light that there were 39 cas-
es pending against the three
accused of duping investors
using the same modus
operandi, the official said.
(Left) Traffic jam on Veronica Road (right) A car parked under a missing no-parking sign
snarl-ups. These roads are
mostly one-way, and a lot of
motorists enter from the
wrong side, said Mario Fish-
ery, a resident of Chapel
Road.
“The Bazaar Road junction
is dug up and the added traffic
causes congestion for people
to even walk on these roads.
obstructing the movement of
devotees,” a source said.
A coastal road project offi-
cial said measures will be tak-
en to avoid water logging dur-
ing the monsoon. “We are
putting a line parallel to the
coastal road at the Haji Ali
outfall with a pumping facili-
ty. Also, the construct of a
stormwater drain is under-
way,” he said.
According to the official,
the complainant received a
call in February when the
person on the other side ex-
plained him about invest-
ment in markets and hefty re-
turns from equity trading.
The caller asked him to
download an app, ‘Profit
Bull’, on his mobile and in-
vest through it. Initially, the
complainant put in Rs7,500
and received good returns.
After gaining his confidence
the caller asked him to in-
vest more, he said. In all, the
man invested Rs8.33 lakh
but did not get returns on it.
Feeling cheated, he ap-
proached the Matunga Po-
lice Station with a bring community members
complaint and a case was
registered against unidenti-
fied cyber fraudsters.
Even if people halt their cars
for a minute, it will cause a
traffic jam throughout the
lane. These restaurants have
started becoming a problem
for us,” he said.
The Mumbai North Cen-
tral District Forum
(MNCDF), a citizen welfare
forum, has written to the
Cricketer’s
stepbrother
held for fraud
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI
The Economic Offences
Wing (EOW) has arrested
Vaibhav Pandya, 37, the step-
brother of Hardik Pandya,
the Indian all-rounder and
the captain of Mumbai Indi-
ans, in a three-year-old case
been sent to five-day police
custody.
As per the EOW, Hardik
and his elder brother Krunal
He allegedly caused
Hardik Pandya loss
of `4.3 crore
started a polymer firm in
2021 in partnership with
Vaibhav, wherein the former
two agreed to invest 40%
each and their step brother
20% but with full responsibil-
ity to run the firm. The profit
earned was also to be divided
in the same proportion.
However, Vaibhav alleged-
ly violated the partnership
terms and started another
polymer firm with the profits
from the parent firm without
the knowledge of his two
brothers, thereby causing
them a loss of Rs4.3 crore.
An EOW official said that
the profit of the partnership
company decreased by Rs3
crore and Vaibhav allegedly
increased his profit from 20%
to 33.3%.
Celebrating a community,
by helping those in need
DHAIRYA GAJARA / MUMBAI
The Memon community will
celebrate World Memon Day
through the weekend as Eid
celebrations coincide with
the community’s annual day
on April 10
For the past nine years, the
community has been cele-
brating World Memon Day
on April 10 to promote its cul-
ture, embrace communal
harmony and organise social
welfare initiatives. This year,
although the community in
India started the celebrations
a day prior, the
celebrations will
continue through
the weekend
since the day has
coincided with
Eid al-fitr.
The All India
Memon Jamat
Federation
(AIMJF) in
Mumbai started
the celebrations a
day earlier by dis- Memons celebrate World Memon
tributing rations Day with social initiatives and
to needy families.
The youth wing donation drives around the world
also organised
cloth distribution at orphan-
ages. Moreover, the jamat in
Nanded and Malegaon also
distributed clothes and
footwear to around 1,500 chil-
dren. Similarly, Memon ja-
mats across the globe has
held similar initiatives.
Iqbal Memon Officer, pres-
ident of AIMJF, said, “I
thought that there is a Fa-
ther’s Day, Mother’s Day and
a long list of such days... we
should also have a Memon
Day. The only aim was to
together and do social works
to uplift the needy.”
The Memon community,
BMC and Bandra traffic po-
lice regarding the issue. The
forum has also alleged that
no-parking signs in the area
have been mischievously re-
moved.
“These roads are in
Bandra gaothan so they are
narrower than the rest of the
area,” said Advocate
4 held in drugs case, `1cr assets frozen
The mastermind of the drug network is a Nigerian national from Goa, says NCB
SOMENDRA SHARMA / MUMBAI
Four persons, including a
Nigerian national, have been
arrested by the Narcotics
Control Bureau (NCB) of Goa
in a cocaine trafficking case.
The agency has frozen assets
worth Rs1.06 crore of the ac-
cused Stanley, a Nigerian na-
tional and his wife, Usha C,
residing in Candolim.
According to Mumbai NCB
zonal director Amit Ghawate,
based on credible input on
February 13, the NCB Goa
team seized 7.35gm of cocaine
from the possession of one
Raju S resident of Saligao in
North Goa.
On February 16, NCB Goa
arrested another peddler
2 Filipinos among 3 held for smuggling gold
SOMENDRA SHARMA / MUMBAI
Customs officials at Chhatra-
pati Shivaji Maharaj Interna-
tional Airport have arrested
three people, including two
Philippines nationals, for al-
legedly smuggling gold worth
Rs2.06 crore.
As per officials on the night
duty of April 10, they received
information that two interna-
tional passengers, Mary Jane
Mella and Maila Lacson Or-
donez, were to hand over gold
to a housekeeping staff
named Rubina Bano Khaja
which was earlier Hindu Lo-
hanas of Sindh, embraced Is-
lam in the 15th century, and
migrated to Kutch,
Kathiyawad and Okha in Gu-
jarat. Subsequently, these
families spread out to differ-
ent parts of the country and
across the globe.
To have a day to celebrate
the roots of the community
was the brainchild of Officer.
When Officer became the
community’s president in
2015, he expressed his wish
that Memons observe a day to
celebrate the community, and
on the first Memon Day in
2015, the AIMJF carried out
social welfare works with
mere Rs10,000.
The next year, more jamats
across the country started
joining this initiative and in
2019, jamats across the world
decided to follow the tradition
and Memon Day changed
into World Memon Day. The
community has nominated
brand ambassadors of World
Memon Day in countries like
Japan, Australia, Kuala
Lumpur, United Kingdom
and more to attract more
members of the community
to join the celebrations.
MUMBAI
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
Trivankumar Karnani,
founder of MNCDF. “Bou-
tique restaurants are coming
up in these lanes to benefit
from the aesthetics and
cheaper rent, but they are
causing problems to the resi-
dents. The traffic police in-
spector has assured that he is
looking into the matter.”
T he NCB arrested a 44-year-old man from Indira Nagar
in Santacruz on Wednesday for allegedly possessing
28,245 tablets of Nitrazepam. The accused told the NCB
about his role in conspiracy to procure, possess, transport
and import the tablets, an official said.
named Michael, a taxi driver
residing in Candolim. Follow-
ing his lead, the agency
raided Stanley’s house, but he
was arrested by the Telan-
gana police on February 5 in a
drug case.
According to the NCB’s ini-
tial probe, the accused were
drug peddlers working for a
network run by Stanley, who
allegedly provided drugs in
bulk quantities to locals for
delivery to various cus-
Pasha Shaikh, working in a
lounge at the airport. The of-
ficers then reached the spot to
search and question Shaikh,
who admitted that she had re-
ceived two pouches from the
foreigners and had kept them
in the staff toilet’s lounge.
The officers, in Shaikh’s
presence, searched the toilet
and recovered two pouches
concealed in two panties that
contained gold dust in wax
form weighing 3,460gm worth
Rs2.06 crore.
The official added that
Shaikh voluntarily recorded
Tribunal asks BEST
to pay `15.6L to kin
of accident victim
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI
The Motor Accident Claims
Tribunal (MACT) has direct-
ed BEST to pay Rs15.66 lakh
as compensation to the kin of
a 47-year-old man who died in
an accident involving the
civic undertaking’s bus.
Umakant Yadav was
hit by a BEST bus
while crossing the Umakant
road in Kalachow- Yadav was hit
ki in February by a BEST bus
2018 and died. In
their application, while crossing the sence of any
Yadav’s wife and road in
daughter claimed Kalachowki
the bus was driven
rashly, while BEST
contended the deceased was
under the influence of
liquor. The woman and her
daughter sought Rs25 lakh
and interest as compensa-
tion after submitting that
Yadav was working in an oil
depot and was earning
Rs15,000 per month at the
time of the accident.
In its order of April 3,
tomers.
During further investiga-
tions, Usha C was also found
to be involved in drug traf-
ficking and in handling the
money derived through this
network. She was arrested on
February 21, and proceedings
for identifying the illegal
properties acquired by them
were initiated to weaken the
drug network, according to
officials.
The officials said that ille-
Gold worth `2 crore
seized from a staff
lounge toilet at
Mumbai Int’l airport
her statement on April 10, ad-
mitting the possession, car-
riage, recovery and smug-
gling of the seized gold for
Rs20,000. However, she said
that the consignment did not
belong to her.
The Customs then
recorded the statements of
the two foreigners wherein
MACT Mumbai said the
claimants had proved that
the accident took place due to
the bus being driven negli-
gently. MACT said BEST had
not brought on record any ev-
idence to show Yadav was
drunk at the time of the acci-
dent. The tribunal, however,
noted that the family of
the deceased could
not prove his occu-
pation and in-
come.
“In the ab-
proof of income,
but considering
the fact the deceased
was maintaining a
family of four persons, it
would be just and proper to
consider Rs8,000 per month
as notional income of the de-
ceased,” the order said and
directed BEST to pay Rs 15.66
lakh plus interest as compen-
sation. MACT said Rs7 lakh
from this amount will go to
the deceased’s daughter and
the rest to his widow.
gal properties worth Rs1.06
crore acquired by Usha C and
Stanley were identified and
frozen by the NCB on April 4.
On April 10, NCB Goa arrest-
ed Stanley, and further inves-
tigations are underway.
In another case, acting
upon information regarding
in-house cannabis cultiva-
tion, a team of NCB Goa raid-
ed the house of Jason I, a
British national in Socorro,
North Goa. During the
search, 33 newly grown
cannabis plants, 10gm ganja
and proceeds worth Rs40,000
were recovered from his
house. The cannabis plants
were found in flower pots,
placed with ornamental
plants on the terrace.
they admitted the possession,
carriage and smuggling of
the gold in addition to hand-
ing over the gold dust in a wax
pouch valued at Rs1.03 crore
to Shaikh for monetary gains.
Advocate Prabhakar Tri-
pathi who appeared in the
court on behalf of all three ac-
cused said, “I have submitted
before the court that no recov-
ery was made from any per-
son as the gold was recovered
from the toilet and the two Fil-
ipino women have nothing to
do with the case as they were
transit passengers.”
 CONTEST
MUMBAI
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

Celebrating Teen Reviewers The Free Press Journal’s unique reviewing contest for teenagers
met with super success in its second rendition this year
W
riting is an essential part of
human lives, while one may
write to convey thoughts and
meanings, others may only pick a
pen to write grocery lists and an-
swers in an exam hall. For some, it is
a means to transport into another
world, for others, it is simply a meas-
ure to communicate. However, one
may seem to perceive writing, it can-
not be denied that we all have a
unique approach and our own pecu-
liar way of making others under-
stand our thoughts.
Pen to Paper, an initiative by
The Free Press Journal, does exact-
ly that. It allows teens to review any-
thing under the sky. The initiative
aims to cultivate writing habits
among students and express their
thoughts. Everyone can write, how-
ever, not everyone gets a platform to
choose a topic of their liking. FPJ
understands this and aims to bridge
this gap.
In the second edition of the review
writing contest, the top 22 winners
were chosen from the hundreds of
those who applied worldwide. The
winners were felicitated at the FPJ
office, with renowned Children's au-
thor, Abhishek Talwar gracing the
event and holding a ‘young authors
writing boot camp’ for winners.
Talwar during his speech at the
event said that he was amazed by the
brilliant writing of the students and
jokingly added, “I had to bring my
dictionary to read some of the words
you guys had written.”
The topics ranged from ageing,
cafe reviews, movie reviews to Ram
Mandir event and book reviews.
Shreya Arora, one of the winners
from Dhirubhai International
School, expressed, "Entering and
choosing a topic to write about was
an exciting opportunity for me."
Regarding her choice of topic for
the P2P contest, Shreya explained, "I
selected the inauguration of the Ram
Mandir as one of my topics because
it was a significant event happening
at the time, with profound historical
implications for India."
Elaborating on her writing process
she further stated, "I found it rela-
tively easy to write about because I
often draw inspiration from personal
experiences, anecdotes, and observa-
tions. Whether it's something from
my childhood or a recent event, a
connection always sparks my writ-
ing."
Mohammad Ismail Palekar, a win-
ner from Lodha World School, LSG
Palava, shared his motivation behind
the chosen topic, saying, "I selected
the topic because it resonated with a
book I recently enjoyed. The paral-
lels between the book's political
themes and the current landscape of
Indian politics compelled me to write
about it."
Acknowledging his impatience
with the writing process, Ismail ad-
mitted, "Translating my narrative
ideas onto paper can be frustrating at
times. With more practice and pa-
tience, I believe I can improve the
quality of my writing."
Parushni Jathar, winner from KC
college, emphasized the importance
of captivating introductions: "I tend
to overthink, especially when craft-
ing an engaging start. The beginning
should hook the reader, leading to
constant revisions."
Aanya Thakur, winner from
Dhirubhai Ambani International
School wrote a book review on ‘All
the light we cannot see’ by Anthony
Doerr. She said, “People need to pay a
lot more attention to history than
they normally do. It is often said that
we should not repeat the mistakes we
made in history. Reading the history
of people from over 100 years ago is a
very humane and enriching experi-
ence.”
Thakur further expressed her in-
sight on the bootcamp workshop and
said that learning from a published
author always helps. “It will definite-
PICS: SALMAN ANSARI
ly help my writing process and when
I go back home today.”
Shreshta Verma, winner from Po-
dar International School, Nerul
chose a very different topic to review.
Verma who chose to write on aging
said she chose the topic from her
own observations and surroundings.
“Everyone in my family is nearing
their 60s and I am the only one who
is young. Looking at what is going to
happen to me beforehand always
kind of scares me and thus, the topic
is very near and dear to my heart.”
Sharing on how was her writing
journey, Verma said, “I wrote the
whole article one day before my
board exams.”
“Nostalgia played a very big part
when I chose the topic. This is the
movie that I have grown up watch-
ing, and seeing it again opened doors
of memories,” said Dhruv Soni, win-
ner from Pravin Gandhi College of
Law. Soni wrote a review on the
movie, ‘Charlie and the chocolate fac-
tory- 2023 version’.
Shravani Prashant Hegishte, win-
ner from Girton High School, picked
up the task to review the television
serials out of sheer annoyance. “Peo-
ple spend a considerable amount of
time watching these serials so I
thought this is the best way to make
them understand the consumption of
logical content,” she said.
Another winner on the list was a
restaurant review written by Annika
Lohchab from Aditya Birla World
Academy. Lohchab wrote a review of
a Japanese restaurant, Izumi. “I love
descriptive writing and tried to in-
corporate visual imagery in my writ-
ing as much as possible. Besides this,
I also loved the place and wanted to
write about it since it was my first
time visiting a restaurant like this,”
she said.
On experience with facing writer's
block, Lohchab says, “Midway I did
feel like I couldn't continue writing
this and I did have to kind of draw
myself back and go through a reflec-
tion process.”
“Ikigai, it's a reason to live. Many
people have negative reasons to end
their lives but the book is about how
to enjoy the little moments and find
happiness in your life,” said Chiran-
tan Nataraj from CP Goenka Interna-
tional School, Ulwe.
Nataraj’s urge to write a review on
the book also prompted him to read
the book all over again. “I read all
about the authors, the book and
delved deeper into it.”
As Maya Angelou, American mem-
oirist and poet rightly said, “there's
no greater agony than bearing an un-
told story inside you.”

‘TOUGHEST TO WRITE
remember reading Jim Corbett’s
books when I was 13 and enjoying
them. I still read them and I still
enjoy them. Because he is writing
for himself. He is writing to
you see it affecting their
reading habits in the future?
Is there writing that is too simplis-
tic because people believe they're
writing for children and it should
Children might feel
constrained by a set formula
for storytelling and it might
hold back their creativity. You
found your voice through

FOR CHILDREN’
Abhishek Talwar, creator of Biplob the Bumblebee series, chats
with Tanvi Dalvi on why it took him 35 years to discover his love
for nature writing, why he dislikes the label “children's books”, and
how he helps kids tap into their inner storytellers.
You have mentioned that you
did hotel management and
have no training in writing.
What drove you to become a
storyteller?
I believe there is a storyteller in all
of us. No matter what profession
we are in, we are trying to tell sto-
ries. When my kids were growing
up, I found that the easiest way to
explain things to them was by
making up stories.
I would weave in the functionali-
ty or the reason behind why some-
thing is the way it is within that
story, and then it would come out in
a manner that they would never
forget. That's how the whole aspect
of storytelling or story-writing be-
gan. I used to make up stories for
them and then my wife said, "Why
don't you write these stories down?"
Are there any books that stand
out to you in your memory?
In terms of books that I would re-
member, back in the day, I loved
books by Ruskin Bond, Jim Cor-
bett and Enid Blyton.
Can you talk about what it’s
been like for you as a
children’s writer?
I have always found that it is
toughest to write for children. One
big mistake that we make is believ-
ing that if we are writing for chil-
dren, we need to dumb it down. We
don't. It actually has to be a lot
smarter when you are writing for
children. Because you not only
need to ensure that you're holding
their attention with every single
word, but also bring the message
across without being too verbose.
A child has a shorter attention
span than an adult. So if it's a book
that's well-written for kids, trust
me, adults would enjoy them.
Children are expected to write
essays and stories for school,
but they are rarely encouraged
to pursue writing as a
profession. When does a child
progress from writing a school
essay to writing for passion?
All of us have had to do things in
school that we don't like doing.
Some don’e like Math, some don't
like Science. Is there parental pres-
sure or peer pressure or the per-
ceivable lack of opportunities that
are stopping students from taking
up writing as a profession? Possi-
bly. But I think the bigger road-
block is - Whether I am good
enough to get published?
It is so easy to get your work
published today. But who's buying
that work? There are scores and
scores of books that are published
that nobody is buying. Does that
mean that you don't write? For
every successful actor or entrepre-
neur, there are a hundred thou-
sand who are unsuccessful.
How can we help kids find
that love for writing?
If your child has a passion for
writing, please encourage them to
pursue it. Success or failure is de-
pendent on so many variables.
There is no way that any of us can
control them. Put in the right ef-
fort, and there's no reason why
success will not eventually follow.
narrate what happened to him.
I have had a lot of adults come up
to me and tell me that they really
enjoy reading my books.
The phrase "children's books"
can be very limiting. Because
children's books are a way of
tapping into our inner child.
And we all have one. Even in
books for "adults", that is who
we are looking for.
That's a great observation. I
think we should not call them chil-
dren's books. We should start call-
How can we make adults see ing them books that are "appropri-
the value and depth in ate for children" or for the child
Children’s books? in you.
I haven't come across too many
children's books that treat You mentioned that there's a
entertaining the child as the dumbing down of children's
primary motive, and where literature in India. You find
everything else comes as a books saying "the grass is
byproduct. The minute you have a green" or "the flower is red"
book that's designed in that and it underestimates a child's
fashion, you'll find that it ability to imagine and to grasp
entertains a reader across ages. I beyond the obvious. Do
be that way? Of course that con-
tent exists. And the market puts it
in its place. There's also content
that's ahead of its time. Is there
merit in us creating content that is
intelligent? Absolutely. I'm not so
sure if the dumbed-down content
is going to have so much of an im-
pact on a child's ability to read or
comprehend going forward. Be-
cause they're just going to move
away from it.
Humans are very intelligent.
Children are smart. Every genera-
tion is smarter than the previous
ones. My kids are smarter than
me. You are smarter than I am.
The kids who come after you are
going to be smarter than you are.
You can't get away with rubbish
with them. You can't get away with
things that are factually incorrect.
Because there are so many media
and means through which infor-
mation is flowing through that
everything is questioned. There is
so much instant gratification and
constant gratification that is hap-
pening, that unless and until you
are content and the book ticks off
all the boxes in terms of being
gripping — or if it's a picture
book, if it's visually engaging —
you're not going to be able to hold
the child's attention. This automat-
ically ensures that the chaff is sep-
arated from the wheat.
Do you notice any differences
in the trends that girls and
boys like to read?
I actually just discovered that I
used to like fairy tales when I was
young. I didn't know that they
were written for girls. I don't
think of my audience as a girl
or a boy or anything else. I
think of my audience as a
reader.
Biplob The Bumblebee. How do
you help children find their
own unique storytelling voice?
The only way you can do that is by
completely opening up a whole
gamut of subjects that children
should be encouraged to write
about. The idea is to get kids to
find their voice by writing on
every conceivable subject under
the sun. We don't know what we
like till we get out there and do it.
It took me 35 years to figure out
that I like writing about nature. If
you're really lucky, you may get to
a point where you can write about
anything under the sun, but you
will write it in your inimitable
style, and you'll enjoy doing it.
As an author focusing on
environmental themes, what
impact do you think your
stories will have on young
readers?
My philosophy is that I write my
stories so that my kids will fall in
love with nature. Because our
natural world is so explicitly
beautiful, there's no way you can't
fall in love with nature. We are
creatures of nature. Everything
within us finds resonance in
nature. You just need to pick a
child up and put her in a park or
in a garden or in the woods and
look at the sea change that goes
through her. How can you not love
nature? What we're doing in a
more structured approach
through our stories is to get
children to hopefully fall in love
with nature and the beauty that
nature has to offer, and get them to
see the importance of cherishing
and protecting what we have vis a
vis our natural environment,
while also building a more
sustainable world by empowering
them with the tools to do so. As
long as our stories tick off these
goals, I believe we've done our job
well. But the caveat is that every
single story is couched in a
complete out and out entertaining
fashion. So the message comes out
- Read the books because they're
funny and entertaining.
Seekh apne aap aa jayegi.

Adani Group acquires 25-acre land parcel in Haveli
PUNE: The Adani Group has
secured leasehold rights for a
sizable land parcel spanning over
25 acres in Pune's Haveli, for a sum
of ₹470 crore from Finolex
Safety, inclusivity & sustainability
GAURAV KADAM &
ANKIT SHUKLA
Women constitute 48.6 per
cent of Pune's electorate, to-
talling 9,96,298 female voters
out of 20,47,389. Despite this
significant portion of the
electorate being women, men
predominantly dominate po-
litical discussions. To address
this disparity, we sought the
perspectives of Pune's female
voters on their expectations
from their new MP.
Manjiri Prabhu, an author,
emphasised safety for women
and senior citizens as her pri-
mary concern. She advocated
for more inclusive opportuni-
ties for single women and sen-
iors and stressed the need for
sustainable development in
the city. "Besides, there
should be more green spaces
and parks for nurturing cre-
ativity and emotional well-be-
ing," she added.
Prajakta Divekar from the
Vetal Tekdi Bachav Kruti
Samiti (VTBKS) expressed
her expectation that the MP
should work "in the interests
of the city rather than for the
party". She voiced concerns
about the water crisis, pollu-
tion of rivers, tree felling, and
infrastructure projects
threatening Pune's hills and
heritage. Divekar also high-
lighted the need for an effi-
cient and functional public
transport system in the city.
Shilpa Godbole, a freelance
content writer, lamented the
unfulfilled promises of the
previous MP "such as making
the city pollution-free, ex-
panding green spaces, en-
hancing traffic management,
improving public transporta-
tion, ensuring continuous
water supply, promoting
women's safety, initiating the
construction of an airport at
Purandar, achieving 100%
Civil Court
to Swargate Metro
post-elections
STAFF REPORTER: The launch of the
Civil Court to Swargate underground
metro route is anticipated after the Lok
Sabha elections.
According to a Pune Metro official,
the route is projected to be operational
by mid-June, following the conclusion
of the Model Code of Conduct for the
upcoming elections. "We are optimistic
that the underground metro rail service
from Civil Court to Swargate will com-
mence by June 15," the officer told the
Indian Express. Originally, the deadline
for commencing operations from Civil
Court to Swargate was March 31.
Pune Metro has already conducted a
trial run on this route in February, pass-
ing through Budhwar Peth and Mandai
stations en route to Swargate.
The distances between stations are as
follows: Civil Court to Budhwar Peth
(0.85 km), Budhwar Peth to Mandai (1
km), and Mandai to Swargate (1.48 km).
PRE-MONSOON WORK
PMC launches toll-free
helpline for nullah, septic
tank cleaning in city
STAFF REPORTER
Pre-monsoon preparations
are in full swing in Pune,
with the Pune Municipal
Corporation (PMC) intro-
ducing a toll-free helpline for
the cleaning of nullahs and
septic tanks.
Individuals and societies
are encouraged to dial 14420
to avail of this service. The
PMC aims to ensure the
timely cleaning of septic
tanks across the city.
Meanwhile, the PMC has
imposed a deadline of April
30 to complete all road-dig-
ging projects throughout the
city. Subsequently, from May
1 to September 30, the civic
body has announced its in-
MAHATMA PHULE JAYANTI
Chef Vishnu Manohar makes 10,000 kg misal
STAFF REPORTER
On the occasion of Mahatma
Jyotiba Phule's birth an-
niversary on Thursday, in-
ternationally renowned chef
Vishnu Manohar prepared
10,000 kg of misal at Phule
Wada in Pune's Ganj Peth.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief
Minister Ajit Pawar and
Higher & Technical Educa-
tion Minister Chandrakant
Patil graced the event and
enjoyed the feast.
Organised by the Mahat-
ma Jyotiba Phule and Dr
Babasaheb Ambedkar
Jayanti Samiti, the misal
was distributed for free to all
visitors at Phule Wada
throughout the day. This
marks the second year of the
Industries. Terravista Developers, an
entity under the Adani Group,
intends to utilise this land to
develop a large-scale data centre
facility.
What Pune's female voters want from their new MP
Women seek
recognition for their
talents and involvement in
decision-making. Moreover,
women expect support in
balancing their personal and
professional lives and access
to resources and platforms
enabling them to thrive and
contribute meaningfully to
society. The new MP should
work towards achieving this
- Roshini Desai,
a business developer
segregation of solid waste
and garbage, and completing
the Pune Metro within the
stipulated timeframe". She
further stressed the necessity
for a proactive MP to fulfil the
commitments made in the
last manifesto and propel
Pune's growth.
Radhika Dhingra from the
NGO Badlaav said she would
like the MP to keep the envi-
ronment and people at the
HOLY MONTH DRAWS TO A CLOSE
Muslims congregated at Golibar Maidan in Camp to offer namaz, marking the occasion of
Ramadan Eid, on Thursday
tention to take legal action
against any unauthorised
road-digging activities.
Reportedly, only emer-
gency work will be permit-
ted during this period.
These emergency works
may include tasks related to
stormwater drains, water
supply, roads, electricity
supply, and cellular or in-
ternet supply lines, among
others.
Furthermore, the PMC
plans to demolish 46 dilapi-
dated wadas in prime loca-
tions like Ganesh Peth, Ganj
Peth, Somwar Peth, Kasba
Peth, Ghorpade Peth, Man-
galwar Peth, and others be-
fore the onset of monsoon to
ensure public safety.
"Bhavya Ekta Misal" event.
To prepare this enormous
quantity of misal, a 15 ft by
15 ft large kadhai was
utilised, standing at 6.5 feet
tall and weighing 2,500 kg.
Pune has been
experiencing rapid
unplanned urbanisation and
development that is impacting
the climate conditions and the
environment. The new MP
must prioritise this.
Additionally, there needs to be
more focus on public
transportation and usable
public washroom facilities for
people
- Radhika Dhingra,
NGO Badlaav
forefront of development. She
added, "Pune has been experi-
encing rapid unplanned ur-
banisation and development
that is impacting the climate
conditions and the environ-
ment. The new MP must pri-
oritise this. Additionally,
there needs to be more focus
on public transportation and
usable public washroom facil-
ities for people."
Rajeshwari Lakhani, a so-
Fake share trading racket busted, 5 arrested
ANI
The Cyber Cell of Pimpri-
Chinchwad Police busted a
major share market fraud
through
unsuspecting individuals
which
were duped of several lakhs.
The operation led to the ap-
prehension of five individu-
als involved in the
operation, an officer said.
The arrested individuals
were identified as Juned
Mukhtar Qureshi, Salman
Mansur Shaikh, Abdul Aziz
Ansari, Arif Anwar Khan,
and Taufik Gaffar Shaikh.
According to DCP Sandeep
Doiphode from the Crime
Branch, following complaints
from residents of Pimpri-
Chinchwad, who collectively
lost ₹31 lakh to the fraudsters,
the law enforcement authori-
ties initiated a thorough in-
This kadai was crafted using
a combination of steel, cop-
per, and robust steel, with a
large lid.
Ingredients such as 2,000
kg of matki, 1600 kg of
cial worker, highlighted vari-
ous civic concerns, including
footpath encroachment, traf-
fic congestion and safety,
noise pollution, etc., and said
she would urge the new MP to
address these issues and en-
sure action from the local ad-
ministration.
Roshini Desai, a business
developer, underscored
women's expectations of
equality, respect, and oppor-
tunities free from gender-
based limitations and dis-
crimination. "Women seek
recognition for their talents
and involvement in decision-
making. Moreover, women
expect support in balancing
their personal and profes-
sional lives and access to re-
sources and platforms en-
abling them to thrive and
contribute meaningfully to
society," she emphasised,
stating that the new MP
should work towards achiev-
ing this.
PIC: ANAND CHAINI
vestigation. Using advanced
technical analysis, the police
successfully identified and
apprehended five suspects
linked to the fake share trad-
ing application.
During the operation, po-
lice also recovered a sum of
₹7 lakh, seven mobile phones,
a cash counting machine,
ABVP protests over vandalised
‘Democracy Wall’ banner at GIPE
ANKIT SHUKLA
The Akhil Bharatiya Vid-
yarthi Parishad (ABVP)
protested on Thursday follow-
ing the vandalism of a
'Democracy Wall' banner at
Pune's Gokhale Institute of
Politics and Economics
(GIPE).
The banner, titled 'Democ-
racy Wall', bore logos of GIPE,
the Election Commission of
India (ECI), and the Govern-
ment of India. It was intended
for students to express their
views ahead of the upcoming
Lok Sabha elections. However,
the banner was vandalised,
with the word 'Democracy'
struck through using spray
paint. In the space provided
for writing, 'NOTA (None of
the above)' was prominently
written in bold letters, along-
side 'Inquilab Zindabad' in the
Devanagari script.
Anil Thombre, State Minis-
ter, ABVP, condemned the act,
calling it "anti-national" and
"anti-democracy." He
criticised GIPE's administra-
tion for inaction despite the
banner being up for two days.
"For the last two days, the
Traffic police’s towing vehicle driver
caught taking bribe in Vimannagar
STAFF REPORTER
An X (formerly Twitter) user
shared a video on Wednesday
showing a driver of Pune City
Traffic Police's towing vehicle
accepting a bribe.
In the video, a person is
seen conversing with a traffic
police official. Shortly after,
the person takes out money
from his wallet and attempts
to hand it over to the official.
However, the official instructs
the person to give the money
to the driver of the towing ve-
hicle instead. Subsequently,
the towing vehicle is seen driv-
ing away after receiving the
bribe, while the person re-
turns to his vehicle. The X
user stated that the incident
eight debit cards from
various banks, and 12 cheque-
books from different banks,
Doiphode informed.
"It was found during the in-
vestigation that all five ac-
cused defrauded several peo-
ple of crores of rupees
through approximately 120
bank accounts. They had an
banner has been at the insti-
tute. But it wasn't taken down
by the administration. Elec-
tion Commission and police
officials later took it down. In
the banner, it was clearly
urged to press 'NOTA' during
the upcoming elections. We
condemn this. Democracy
must be saved. The Constitu-
tion written by Dr Babasaheb
Ambedkar must be saved,"
said Thombre.
Regarding the incident, Col
Kapil Jodh, Registrar, GIPE,
said, "Gokhale Institute has
established a vibrant
Electoral Literacy Club under
the aegis of ECI and GoM to
spread awareness and pro-
mote participation in the elec-
toral process. The club under-
takes various activities such
as voter enrollment camp,
Author
Shefali
Vaidya took
to X and
asked, "Is
GIPE the new
JNU?"
VIRAL VIDEO
occurred in Vimannagar.
Meanwhile, several other X
users demanded action
against both the driver and the
traffic police official. "One
user commented, "Nowadays,
traffic police officials are
overseas link as well, as they
also received money from
people off-shore which they
converted into cryptocurren-
cies and diverted to their han-
dlers in Hong Kong,"
Doiphode said.
The senior officer
informed further that the "ac-
cused were unemployed and
used to target people, who
took an interest in share trad-
ing. Later, they used to add
these people to a WhatsApp
group and ask them to invest
for better returns. However,
after some days, the accused
went cold and didn't respond
to messages from depositors."
Doifide also urged citizens to
make investments only
through independent and au-
thentic share trading invest-
ment companies and avoid
falling for fake promises from
unauthentic traders.
onion, 400 kg of ginger, 400
kg of garlic, 1,400 kg of oil,
280kg of misal masala, 80
kg each of red chilli pow-
der and turmeric powder,
100 kg of salt, 280 kg of co-
conut crush, 5,000 kg of
farsan, 1,000 kg of curd,
20,000 litres of water, 250
kg of coriander, and 2,000
lemons were used.
Additionally, one lakh
disposable dishes for eat-
ing misal, one lakh dispos-
able glasses for drinking
water, and three lakh
slices of bread were
utilised. Representatives
from all political parties,
social organisations, and
Ganeshotsav mandals in
Pune participated in the
activity.
PUNE
PUNE | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
awareness march, pledge cer-
emony, etc. As part of the on-
going campaign, the institute
has created a 'Democracy Wall'
to encourage students to ex-
press their thoughts. In an un-
fortunate incident, the wall
was found vandalised by some
miscreants on the evening of
April 10. The institute has tak-
en cognisance and an enquiry
process has been initiated."
Author Shefali Vaidya took
to X (formerly Twitter) and
asked, "Is GIPE the new
JNU?". She also tagged Pune
City Police and the ECI to take
action against the miscreants.
She also tagged Shivajinagar
MLA Siddharth Shirole to
look into the incident.
Meanwhile, a fresh 'Democ-
racy Wall' banner has been put
up.
using wardens, drivers, and
helpers to extort money. They
have also identified blind spots
of the CCTV installed at sig-
nals and accept bribes only in
those blind spots."
Another user remarked,
Army’s Command Hosp
achieves milestone
with special hearing
implant procedure
PTI
A seven-year-old boy suffer-
ing from congenital exter-
nal and middle ear anom-
alies with severe degree of
hearing loss has received a
new lease of life after un-
dergoing a successful im-
plant surgery at the Army's
Command Hospital in
Pune.
The Defence Ministry in
a statement claimed that
the hospital had become the
"first government hospital"
across the country to pro-
cure and conduct the suc-
cessful 'piezoelectric bone
conduction' hearing im-
plant procedure.
The department of ear,
nose and throat (ENT) at
Command Hospital (South-
ern Command) has con-
ducted two piezoelectric
bone conduction hearing
implants (BCI) in a seven-
year-old boy suffering from
congenital external and
middle ear anomalies with
severe degree of hearing
loss; and one adult with sin-
gle-sided deafness (SSD),
the ministry said.
Active piezoelectric bone
conduction hearing
implant system is an im-
plantable medical
electronic device for hear-
ing impaired patients, (con-
ductive loss -- including au-
ral atresia -- mixed hearing
loss and single-sided deaf-
ness). The cost of the equip-
ment has always been a con-
cern, making its reach lim-
ited, the statement said.
Transgenders
banned from
demanding
money at
traffic signals
STAFF REPORTER
Pune Police Commissioner
Amitesh Kumar has issued
orders prohibiting transgen-
ders from congregating at
traffic junctions and forcibly
demanding money from com-
muters in the city. He stated
that the order, under Section
144 of the CrPC, was issued
in response to numerous
complaints received by the
police.
"We have issued a notifica-
tion under Section 144 of
CrPC prohibiting
transgender individuals from
congregating at traffic junc-
tions and forcibly demanding
money from motorists and
commuters. Moreover, it has
also been observed that trans-
genders and others visit hous-
es and establishments during
festivities, births, and deaths,
and forcefully demand money
beyond what people voluntar-
ily offer," Kumar said.
He added that the notifica-
tion prohibits any such unin-
vited visits to houses, and
any violation of this order
shall be dealt with under Sec-
tion 188 (Disobedience to or-
der duly promulgated by a
public servant), 143, 144, 147,
159, 268, 384, 385, 503, 504, 506,
and/or relevant sections of
the Maharashtra Police Act,
as is relevant on a case-by-
case basis. According to the
notification, this order shall
remain in force with effect
from April 12 until May 11 un-
less withdrawn earlier by the
issuing authority.
Kumar had issued similar
orders in Nagpur last year
when he was the Commis-
sioner of Police there.
"The traffic violator should
also be booked because most
of them are very willing to pay
a bribe lower than the official
fine." "This has become a very
common scene in Pune,"
wrote another user.
Recently, another video sur-
faced on social media,
showing a traffic police
official clandestinely accept-
ing a bribe from a man. In the
video, the man approaches the
cop, who is directing traffic,
and discreetly hands over the
bribe money before quickly
walking away.
After the video went viral,
the official, identified as Vijay
Mewalal Kanojia from the
Lashkar Traffic Division, was
suspended.
Active piezoelectric
bone conduction
hearing implant
system is an
implantable medical
electronic device for
hearing-impaired
patients
The ENT department of
the Command Hospital is a
designated neurotology
centre of the AFMS (Armed
Forces Medical Services).
The department has been
providing implantable
hearing solutions to de-
pendent clientele for a num-
ber of years, the statement
said.
There are certain groups
of patients with
"conductive or mixed hear-
ing loss" or patients with
single-sided deafness, who
cannot undergo cochlear
implantation and do not
benefit with hearing aids or
middle ear surgery. To re-
duce the associated disabil-
ity, it is imperative to pro-
vide hearing augmentation
for better academic out-
come in children and social
life in adults, it said.
Bone conduction implan-
tation is the definitive hear-
ing solution in such groups
of patients to rehabilitate
them, and the Armed
Forces Medical Services
(AFMS) were quick to re-
alise this, the statement
added.
 MARATHWADA
Daylight burglary strikes house in Balajinagar
A closed house in Balajinagar in the Waluj area was targeted by thieves on Monday
afternoon, and gold and silver ornaments were stolen. The house belongs to
Gulabrao Sahebrao Aade (39) and his family. He and his wife had gone to their son's
school when the burglars entered their house. A case has been registered at the Waluj
MIDC police station, and the investigation is underway. CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

Eid-ul-Fitr celebrated with enthusiasm Dr Kalyan Kale pitted against

LOK SABHA ELECTIONS 2024

Raosaheb Danve in Jalna

MANISH GAJBHIYE

The Congress has nominated

MANISH GAJBHIYE
Eid-ul-Fitr, also known as Ramzan
Eid, was celebrated with gaiety and
enthusiasm in the city and the sur-
rounding areas on Thursday. The
Muslim community, after fasting for
the entire month of Ramzan, celebrat-
ed Eid at the end of the month on
Thursday by offering prayers at vari-
ous mosques in the city.
Special prayers were offered at the
Eidgah in the Cantonment area in the
early morning, followed by the ex-
Two die in accident while Two arrested for seeking
change of Eid wishes among people.
The administration made arrange-
ments for offering prayers at the Ei-
dgah, where around 15,000 people
from the city offered Namaz. A large
pandal was erected outside the Ei-
dgah, where eminent dignitaries from
various fields and religions gathered
to convey wishes to the Muslim com-
munity members who came out of the
Eidgah after offering Namaz. Later,
people visited the houses of their
friends and relatives and enjoyed
Sheer Khurma, a special milk drink
served on the occasion of Ramzan
Eid.
Prayers were also offered at 21
mosques and special locations in the
city. The police deployed additional
forces at various places to prevent any
untoward incidents. Policemen were
stationed at stationary and fixed
points, and senior officers closely
monitored every activity in the city
for the past 24 hours. Special prayers
were conducted between 9 am to 10 am
at 21 Eidgahs and mosques in the city.
Around 15,000 people offered Namaz
at the Eidgah in Cantonment, and ap-
proximately 10,000 at the Eidgah in
the Satara area.
Parking arrangements were made
for people coming to the Cantonment
area at Town Hall, Mallick Ambar
Chowk, Makai Gate, Dr Ambedkar
College of Arts and Commerce, Ju-
bilee Park, Mohmood Darwajah,
Millind College, and other locations.
A total of 4 DCPs, 4 ACPs, 33 inspec-
tors, 119 API and PSIs, and 1590 men
and women police personnel were de-
ployed for security.
Dr. Kalyan Kale as its official
candidate from the Jalna Lok
Sabha constituency. The an-
nouncement was made in
Mumbai on Wednesday. The
polling in Jalna is scheduled
for May 13. Dr. Kale, who was
the former MLA from the Au-
rangabad (East) assembly
constituency, is being consid-
ered the better candidate
against the Union Minister of Raosaheb Danve and Dr. Kalyan Kale
State for Railways, Raosaheb
Danve, from the Jalna con- Raosaheb Danve, who is the perts' opinions. However,
stituency. Dr. Kale had con- five-term MP from Jalna. The time will decide whether the
tested the 2009 LS election Congress Party, which is ex- people want a change or pre-
from Jalna against Danve and pecting a change in the coun- fer to continue with the pres-
lost by a minor margin of try’s politics, has strategically ent situation. Still, it is going
8,000 votes. announced the candidature to be a tough game for both
There will be a direct fight of Dr. Kale to counter the sit- the BJP and Congress in the
between Dr. Kalyan Kale and ting MP in Jalna, as per ex- Jalna constituency.
Five in Nanded
booked for
Gambling den operated in
objectable posts farm busted, 13 arrested
PTI: Police have registered
cases against five persons for
allegedly hurting religious
STAFF REPORTER

The special squad of the

The arrested individuals
have been identified as
Prashant Sarda, Santosh Kale,

distributing wedding cards loan on fake gold necklace

PTI
A 22-year-old man and his cousin, who
were out on a motorcycle to distribute
invitation cards for the former's wed-
ding slated for next week, were killed
in a road accident in Latur district on
Wednesday, police said.
The deceased were identified as
Vishal Bhiwa Nilewad (22) and his
cousin Akash Dhondiba Nilewad (25),
residents of Anupwadi village in Ud-
gir taluka of the central Maharashtra
district, they said.
According to the police, Vishal
Nilewad had become engaged to a
woman, and their marriage was
scheduled to take place on April 18. He
and his cousin were out to distribute
wedding invitation cards to their rel-
atives on a motorcycle when their ve-
hicle was hit by a speeding car
coming from the opposite direction
near Lohara village at around 12:20
pm, they said.
The impact of the crash was so
powerful that both of them died on
the spot, said the police.
STAFF REPORTER
The Jawaharnagar police have arrest-
ed two persons who were seeking a
loan from the SBI after producing a
fake gold necklace on Wednesday. The
arrested have been identified as Sadiq
Shamak Shaikh (28, Jalgaon Feran)
and Uddhav Gangadhar Salunke (32,
Golatgaon). The Jawaharnagar police
have registered a case of cheating
against them.
Sadiq and Uddhav purchased a fake
necklace from the Sunday market in
the city. On Wednesday, they went to
the SBI branch at Shivajinagar and
asked the officers to provide them
with a loan and mortgage for the neck-
lace. However, the officers got suspi-
cious and checked the necklace. They
immediately informed the police
about it. A police team rushed to the
bank and nabbed the accused.
Sadiq and Uddhav are educated and
unemployed youths, and they have
huge loans. They were trying to earn
fast money and devised the plan to
dupe the bank but failed. Based on the
complaint lodged by constable Maroti
Gore, a cheating case has been regis-
tered against them.
sentiments through provoca-
tive content on social media in
Nanded district. The offences
were registered against them
in five police stations, police
said on Wednesday.
"The social media monitor-
ing cell has identified five peo-
ple who have created the con-
tent on caste and religion," as
per a release. Police have
booked them under sections
295-A (Hurting feelings or reli-
gious beliefs of any group),
505-II (the dissemination of a
rumour or unsettling news
about religion, race, language,
or community) and 506 (Pun-
ishment for criminal intimi-
dation) of the Indian Penal
Code. The cases were regis-
tered in Himayatnagar,
Mukhed, Ardhapur, and
Mahur police stations, as per
the release.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Balaji Jadhav, Shivaji Nar-
rural police conducted a raid wade, Govind Sawant, Vishnu
on a sweet lime farm in Pa- Maskar, Vinod Khade, Adesh
chod, Paithan taluka, and Rathod, Kalyan Gawali, Dilip
busted a gambling den last Rathod, Gajanan Bhumre,
Monday. Ajay Dukle, and Pankaj Mal-
The police received infor- ode. The seized articles in-
mation that a gambling den cluded ₹1.47 lakh cash, two
was being operated in a hut motorcycles, mobile phones,
under a neem tree in a sweet cards, and other items, total-
lime farm in Pachod. Accord- ing ₹4.22 lakh.
ingly, the squad
conducted a
raid on the
farm behind
Hotel Nisarga.
They found
some people
playing cards.
The police ar-
rested 13 gam-
blers and seized
articles worth
₹4.22 lakh from
them.

NASHIK
Young girl dies by suicide on Harishchandragad
A 22-year-old girl hailing from the Ghatkopar area in Mumbai died by suicide by
jumping down from Konkan kada on Harishchandragad in Ahmednagar. Her body
was retrieved after a few hours. The deceased has been identified as Avani Bhanushali.
She left a suicide note, and her belongings have been taken into custody by the police.
The matter is under investigation.

Onion auction
LOK SABHA ELECTION 2024
Wanted to contest from Shirdi, but it
from Lasalgaon
APMC begins Shobha Bachhav’s candidacy didn’t work out: Ramdas Athawale
ignites rebellion in Dhule
STAFF REPORTER

The Lasalgaon Agriculture

Produce Market Committee
has taken a significant step
by announcing the resump-
tion of onion auctions start-
ing Friday, April 12, after be-
ing closed for the past few
days due to levy disputes.
The decision was made in a
meeting of the Board of Di-
rectors held on Wednesday,
where it was emphasized
that the auction will proceed
in the prevailing manner.
Traders have been urged to
participate, and strict meas-
ures will be taken against
those who do not comply, in-
cluding the possibility of li-
cense cancellation.
Chairman Balasaheb
Kshirsagar, along with other
key members, was present
during the meeting to ad-
dress the concerns of onion-
STAFF REPORTER
In a surprising turn of
events, Dr. Shyam Saner, the
Congress district president
of Dhule, and Dr. Tushar She-
wale, the Nashik district Con-
gress rural president, have
tendered their resignations
following the announcement
of Shobha Bachhav as the
Congress candidate for the
Dhule Lok Sabha constituen-
cy.
Dr. Shewale expressed his
disappointment, stating that
he had hoped to contest from
Dhule, given his years of ded-
icated work in the Malegaon-
Baglan region. Feeling over-
looked by the party's decision
to field an outsider, he empha-
sized the need for timely ac-
tion from the party leader-
ship.
Similarly, Dr. Saner voiced
his discontent, citing unfair
treatment despite his long-
standing loyalty to the party.
He criticized the decision to
nominate an external candi-
date, viewing it as a betrayal
of local party workers. Dr.
Saner has issued a stern ulti-
matum, warning of further
action if the party fails to ad-
dress the candidate change
within two days.
The controversy stems
from Congress's nomination
of Shobha Bachhav, former
mayor of Nashik, for the
Dhule constituency. While
Bachhav has familial ties to
the region, with her mother
hailing from Baglan taluka
and her father-in-law from
Malegaon, local leaders like
Shewale and Saner argue that
the decision sidelines deserv-
ing local candidates.
With the upcoming elec-
tions poised to witness a
fierce battle between
Bachhav, BJP candidate Dr.
Subhash Bhamre, and Abdul
Rehman of Vanchit Bahujan
Aghadi, the issue of local rep-
resentation looms large in the
constituency's political land-
scape.
PTI
Union Minister of State for
Social Justice Ramdas
Athawale on Wednesday said
he wanted to contest the Shir-
di Lok Sabha seat, but it did
work out due to certain al-
liance compulsions.
However, his Republican
Republican Party of
India (A) workers
have asked him to
stay with the ruling
NDA and demand a
cabinet berth at
the centre,
Athawale, a
prominent Dalit
leader from the
state
Party of India (A) workers Lok Sabha and tried to seek
have asked him to stay with the Shirdi seat for it.
the ruling NDA and demand a Maharashtra Chief Minis-
cabinet berth at the centre, ter Eknath Shinde, who heads
Athawale, a prominent Dalit the Shiv Sena, has assured
leader from the state, said ad- the Shirdi seat to his party's
dressing a press conference in sitting MP Sadashiv
Nagpur. Lokhande. "Hence, the seat-
The Rajya Sabha member sharing could not work out,"
said he wanted to go to the he said.

Ramadan Eid celebrated with fervour in Nashik Cotton production in Khandesh

producing farmers. While
this development brings re-
lief to Lasalgaon, questions
linger regarding the status of
onion auctions in other mar-
ket committees across the
district. Kuber Jadhav, Coor-
dinator of Swabhimani
Shetkari Sanghatana
Nashik, emphasized the need
for similar efforts in other
committees to ensure fair
treatment for all farmers.
The decision to resume
auctions reflects the ongoing
challenges faced by farmers
and traders in the onion
market. It underscores the
importance of finding equi-
table solutions to address
levy disputes and ensure the
smooth functioning of agri-
cultural markets. As the situ-
ation unfolds, stakeholders
are urged to engage in con-
structive dialogue to resolve
the underlying issues and
support the livelihoods of
onion-producing farmers in
the region.
STAFF REPORT
Holy Ramadan Eid was cele-
brated throughout Nashik on
April 11 with fervour and en-
thusiasm. Special prepara-
tions were made for mass Na-
maz on the occasion of Ra-
madan Eid on behalf of the
Municipal Corporation to
conduct community prayers
at the historic Shahjani Ei-
dgah ground.
The Muslim festival of Ra-
madan, which fol-
lows a month of fast-
ing and teaches sac-
rifice, dedication,
and brotherhood,
was celebrated in a
traditional manner
in Nashik city on
Thursday. Muslim
brothers offered
prayers at the his-
toric Shahjahani
Idgah ground in fes-
tive and bracing sur-
roundings. City-i-
Khatib Hisamuddin
Ashrafie delivered a
witnesses significant drop
message to the people, em-
phasizing the need for com- VIJAY PATHAK bales. However, heavy rains
munal harmony and unity to led to a decline in cotton pro-
strengthen the country. Ac- In Khandesh, known for the duction due to bollworm in-
cordingly, at eight o'clock in highest cotton production in festation. While 14 lakh bales
the morning, Muslim broth- the state, this year has wit- of cotton were purchased
ers started thronging the nessed a significant decrease from farmers by ginning fac-
Idgah ground. With clear sun- in actual cotton production tories, many bales remain
light, the enthusiasm of Mus- despite large-scale planting. stored in farmers' homes as
lim brothers increased, and Consequently, it is predicted they await a potential price
hundreds attended Eid that cotton sowing in Khan- increase. Yet, considering the
prayers. A special prayer was desh will decrease by ten per- current state of the interna-
made for brotherhood in the cent in the coming year. tional market, prospects for a
country. Cotton serves as the cash price hike appear slim.
crop for farmers in Khan- With the cotton season in
desh, playing a pivotal role in Khandesh drawing to a close,
the region's economy. with many factories operat-
Pradeep Jain, founder presi- ing only for two months,
dent of Khandesh Ginning much of the state's cotton is
Press Karkhandar Sangh, now being exported due to the
highlights that 150 factories prevailing circumstances, af-
Khatib then delivered Eid's who gathered at the ground, result, areas like Bhadrakali, in Khandesh engage in cotton fecting state revenue and em-
special Khutba in the Arabic while mats were used to sit on Main Road, Shalimar, Shivaji ginning, providing ployment opportunities.
language and offered prayers the field. Children also show- Road, and others flourished significant employment op- Avinash Kabra, Director of
for the welfare of mankind. cased their traditional looks with crowds of Muslim broth- portunities. Cotton cultiva- the Factory Association,
The participants responded on the occasion. ers. Despite a significant rise tion spans across Jalgaon, warns of repercussions in
with 'Amen'. Meanwhile, Muslim broth- in inflation this year, the mar- Dhule, and Nandurbar dis- the upcoming year, anticipat-
Traditional costumes like ers crowded the market after ket showed signs of recovery, tricts. This year, cotton was ing a ten percent decrease in
Pathani kurtas, Islamic tur- breaking the fast in the although the budgets of the cultivated on 9 lakh hectares cotton sowing as farmers opt
bans, and skull caps were evening due to the harsh poor and the middle class have of land in Khandesh with an for maize and tur cultivation
worn by the Muslim brothers weather during the day. As a been strained. expected yield of 25 lakh instead.
 BIZ BULLETIN
Bharti Hexacom shares
market debut on Friday
Shares of Bharti Airtel's arm Bharti
India's energy requirement will increase by 2.5 times by 2047
The energy requirements of India will be increased by
2.5 times by the year 2047, and right now around 84
per cent of India's energy is produced using coal, said
Venu Gopal Mothkoor, Senior Specialist- Energy, NITI
Aayog. He further added that achieving CO2 emission
targets necessitates a focus on energy efficiency and
demand electrification, which could potentially reduce
CO2 emissions by 51 per cent by 2047.
MONEY
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

ADB ups India’s GDP growth forecast

Hexacom will make its stock market
debut on Friday, after successfully REVISION IN TREATY
completing the initial public offering last
week. Bharti Hexacom's initial public
offering received 29.88 times Govt ends tax
relief for FPIs
subscription on the last day of bidding

for FY25 to 7%, expects inflation to dip

on April 5.

The Taste Company

launches products in UAE
Hyderabad-based The Taste Company,
which is into the ready-to-eat food
segment, on Thursday announced it has
forayed into the overseas markets by
launching its products in the UAE. The
company is also gearing up to expand its
operations to the UK, the US and
Singapore, a release said here. Currently,
The Taste Company makes 18 products
that comprise five breakfast varieties,
seven types of vegetarian meal and six
non-vegetarian meal varieties, it said.
Hyundai unveils new
Grand i10 NIOS edition
Automaker Hyundai Motor on Thursday
launched the corporate edition of the
'Grand i10 NIOS' at an introductory price
of Rs 6,93,200 in India. The new vehicle
comes available in seven colours -- Atlas
White, Typhoon Silver, Titan Grey, Teal
Blue, Fiery Red, Spark Green, and the
newly added Amazon Grey. "The
'corporate variant' will offer peace of
mind with affordable cost of ownership,
Says robust growth will be driven by public and private sector investment and improvement in consumer demand
PTI / New Delhi
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Thursday raised
India's GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal to 7 per
cent, from 6.7 per cent earlier, saying the robust growth
will be driven by public and private sector investment and
improvement in consumer demand.
In its April edition of the Asian Development Outlook,
ADB said India would remain "a major growth engine" in
the Asia and Pacific region. For the 2025-26 fiscal, ADB
has projected India's growth at 7.2 per cent.
Growth will be robust despite moderating in FY2024
and FY2025, it said. ADB also expects India's inflation rate
to come down going ahead.
The growth estimates for the current fiscal is lower
than 7.6 per cent estimated GDP expansion in 2022-23 fis-
cal. Strong investment drove GDP growth in the 2022-23
fiscal as consumption was muted, ADB said.
The Manila-based multilateral institution in December
last year projected the Indian economy to expand by 6.7
‘Economic performance good, ANALYST REPORT
per cent in the 2024-25 fiscal.
"The economy grew robustly in fiscal 2023 with strong
momentum in manufacturing and services. It will contin-
ue to grow rapidly over the forecast horizon. Growth will
be driven primarily by robust investment demand and
improving consumption demand. Inflation will continue
its downward trend in tandem with global trends," said
from Mauritius
the Asian Development Outlook.
ADB's growth forecast for the current fiscal is in line
with the projections made by the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI).
The RBI last week had said GDP growth in the current
fiscal is projected at 7 per cent on expectations of normal
monsoon, moderating inflationary pressures and sus-
tained momentum in manufacturing and services
sectors. The triggers for growth in FY2024 will come from FPIs originating from
higher capital expenditure on infrastructure Mauritius could face
development both by central and state governments, rise
heightened scrutiny
in private corporate investment, strong service sector
performance and improved consumer confidence. following revisions to the
Growth momentum will pick up in FY2025, backed by
India-Mauritius tax treaty
improved goods exports and an increase in manufactur-
ing productivity and agricultural output, the ADB said.
"Notwithstanding global headwinds, India remains the FPJ BUREAU / Mumbai
fastest growing major economy on the strength of its
strong domestic demand and supportive policies," said The government has ended tax
ADB Country Director for India Mio Oka. relief relief for foreign portfolio in-
vestors (FPIs) from Mauritius.
While an agreement between India
and Mauritius was signed on March
7, the amendment was made public

efforts needed to sustain it’ Telecom Tariff hike imminent;

backed by Hyundai Motor India's robust for the first time on Wednesday,
warranty package and nationwide service April 10, CNBC TV18 reported.
backing," Tarun Garg, COO, Hyundai FPIs originating from Mauritius

expect 15-17% rise post election

Motor India, said in a statement.
TVS SCS hits significant
milestone at Hosur plant
TVS Supply Chain Solutions Ltd on
Thursday said it has achieved supply of
five lakh completely knocked down
(CKD) kits to its major customer and two
wheeler manufacturer TVS Motor
Company. The milestone was achieved
at its dedicated warehouse facility in
Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The facility at Hosur
measures 1.50 lakh sq ft and ensures
defect-free dispatches besides preventing
parts mismatch.
Silicon Valley super
excited about India: TiE
Silicon Valley is super excited about
India, whose leadership has shown a
commitment towards entrepreneurship,
Anita Manwani, TiE president has said.
The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Silicon
Valley is a nonprofit organisation in the
US devoted to entrepreneurs in various
industries. "I am super excited and I
think Silicon Valley is super excited
because we have at the helm of India's
leadership a clear commitment to one
entrepreneurship to open business with
initiatives like the GIFT city, with
initiatives that are making investments
and repatriation of funds back to the
United States, I would say a little easier
than what it was before," Manwani told
PTI in an interview.
PTI / New Delhi
India's economic growth perform-
ance is 'good' and efforts now will be
needed to sustain it, as there are
concerns about the external envi-
ronment, which are not quite set-
tled, Economic Advisory Council to
the Prime Minister (EAC-PM)
member Sanjeev Sanyal said on
Thursday.
Sanyal noted that if the weather
condition and the monsoon turns
out to be favorable, then food prices
will hopefully get tempered as well.
This will lay out conditions that will
be quite conductive for a growth
momentum of 7 per cent or so, to be
carried through even under some-
what uncertain global situations.
"Our current economic growth
performance, I would argue, (is)
rather good. And the game now
from here on is to be able to sustain
it," he told PTI in a video interview.
India's economy grew by better-
than-expected 8.4 per cent in the fi-
Mkts likely to be
volatile on Fri due
to expectation of
rate cut delay in
nal three months of 2023 -- the
fastest pace in one-and-half years.
The growth rate in October-De-
cember was higher than 7.6 per cent
in the previous three years, and it
helped take the estimate for the pre-
vious fiscal (April 2023 to March
2024) to 7.6 per cent.
Recently, the Reserve Bank re-
tained the GDP growth forecast of 7
per cent for 2024-25 financial year.
"... While we are very confident
of our domestic growth momen-
tum in our economy, there are cer-
tainly concerns about the external
environments, which are not quite
settled," he said.
Mutual Funds SIP investments
rise to `2 lakh crore in FY24
PTI / New Delhi
Buoyant economic outlook and
PTI / New Delhi
The telecom industry is expect-
ed to take a 15-17 per cent tariff
hike post general elections, ac-
cording to an analyst report
that termed the tariff increase
in the sector as "imminent"
with Airtel as the biggest bene-
ficiary. The general election in
India is scheduled to be held in
seven phases between April 19
and June 1.
"We expect the industry to
take a 15-17 per cent tariff hike
post the elections," a report by
Antique Stock Broking said, as
it described the tariff hike as
imminent and Bharti as the
biggest beneficiary.
The last hike of about 20 per
cent was in December 2021, it
said. Offering a break-up of
ARPU (Average Revenue Per
User) for India's second largest
telco, the brokerage note said
Bharti's industry-leading cur-
rent ARPU of Rs 208 is set to go
up to Rs 286 by end of FY27.
This will be driven by a tariff
hike contributing Rs 55, upgra-
dation of 2G customers to 4G
contributing Rs 10, and cus-
tomer upgradation to a higher
data plan (both 4G and 5G) and
moving to postpaid delivering
Rs 14 gain. "We expect Bharti's
ence for equities, driven by their
strong performance over the
past year, indicative of investors
subscriber base to grow at
about two per cent per annum,
against the industry growth of
one per cent per annum," it said.
The brokerage expects Sunil
Mittal-led Airtel to ride its best
financial performance phase in
over a decade driven by tariff
hike, 2G upgradation, strong
growth of enterprise and Fibre-
to-the-Home, and a fall in capex
post the 5G rollout, over the
next three years.
"While challenges do exist as
Bharti has chosen a different 5G
rollout path versus key com-
petitors, we believe it is unlikely
to dent Bharti's subscriber base
or growth significantly. We also
believe valuations do not reflect
the emerging highly positive
macro telecom sector environ-
ment," it noted.
Govt’s focus on infra devpt to
nurture sustained revival in
investment cycle: RBI report
PTI / New Delhi
could face heightened scrutiny fol-
lowing revisions to the India-Mauri-
tius tax treaty. The amendment in-
troduces a Principle Purpose Test
(PPT) aimed at curbing treaty abuse
by taxpayers.
According to this rule, foreign in-
vestors must demonstrate to tax au-
thorities that their choice of juris-
diction wasn't solely for the purpose
of accessing advantageous tax rates.
It's a widespread strategy among
international funds, including those
based in the US and Europe, to chan-
nel their investments in India
through Mauritius, Singapore, the
Netherlands, or Luxembourg due to
the favorable tax arrangements his-
torically in place with India.
In February, the Mauritius
cabinet agreed to amend the Double
Taxation Avoidance Agreement
(DTAA) with India to comply with
standards prescribed by the Eco-
nomic Co-operation and Develop-
ment (OECD), an
intergovernmental organisation.
growth, private con-
sumption received

Kingston expands
external SSD lineup
Leader in memory products and
technology solutions Kingston
Technology on Thursday announced the
'XS1000' external SSD (solid-state drive),
a small and sleek file backup solution.
XS1000, which joined XS2000 as a new
product offering in the company's
external SSD product portfolio, comes
available in 1TB and 2TB capacities and
is backed by a limited five-year warranty
with free technical support, according to
the company.
Google Gemini AI arriving
on OnePlus, OPPO phones
Smartphone manufacturers OnePlus and
OPPO on Thursday announced that they
have teamed up with Google to debut
the tech giant's Artificial Intelligence (AI)
model, Gemini 1.0 Ultra, into their
devices. They also aim to launch features
based on the Gemini Ultra platform on
their smartphones later this year. "By
collaborating with Google to integrate
both Gemini and Google Cloud AI into
smartphones, and by forming alliances
with other industry pioneers for a variety
of AI experiences, we are thrilled to
ambitiously broaden the scope of mobile
AI innovations," Nicole Zhang, General
Manager of AI Product for OPPO and
OnePlus, said in a statement.
Essar Power names Ankur
US, say experts
ANI / New Delhi
The Indian stock market gears up
for a cautious opening on Friday, as
the aftermath of high inflation and
deferred rate cut expectations in the
US market. On Wednesday US mar-
kets tumbled after inflation data de-
layed rate cuts hopes beyond June.
The U.S stocks fell sharply on
Wednesday after hotter-than-expect-
ed inflation numbers. "There will be
an impact on Indian market as seen
in the US markets on Wednesday
evening and in Asian markets on
Thursday morning. US inflation
coming ahead of estimates lead to a
fall in the US markets and rise in US
bond yields. Asia has followed with
major markets that are open on
Thursday being lower and Asian
bond yields being up," said Ajay Bag-
ga, banking and market expert.
The latest U.S inflation data re-
veals that March inflation figures
have surpassed expectations, there-
by constraining the Federal Re-
serve's ability to implement rate cuts
as previously anticipated.
increased market participation
helped drive the inflows in the
mutual fund industry through
systematic investment plans or
SIPs route to record Rs 2 lakh
crore in 2023-24, marking a rise
of 28 per cent year-on-year.
In comparison, an inflow of
1.56 lakh crore was witnessed
through this route in 2022-23, Rs
1.24 lakh in 2021-22 and Rs 96,080
crore in 2020-2021, data with the
Association of Mutual Funds in
India (Amfi) showed.
Moreover, mutual fund SIP
contribution has seen over four-
fold rise during the last seven
years. It was Rs 43,921 crore in
2016-17. Additionally, SIP book
Govt extends implementation of spl Majority of principal commodities Income Tax dept
registration, return filing for pan exported to China record positive releases interim
masala, gutkha cos till May 15
PTI / New Delhi
The government
has extended the
deadline for imple-
mentation of spe-
cial procedure for
registration and
monthly return filing of manufac-
turers of pan masala, gutkha and
similar tobacco products till May
15.
has also grown consistently from
Rs 14,276 crore in March 2023 to
an all-time high of Rs 19,270
crore in March 2024, indicating a
growth of 35 per cent.
The SIP contributions consis-
tently exceeding Rs 19,000 crore
for two straight months in Feb-
ruary and March this year signal
a shift towards a more disci-
plined investment strategy
among investors. "This disci-
plined approach is further exem-
plified by the increased prefer-
growth in 2023: Comm Min data
PTI / New Delhi 611.17 million in 2023), spices
The GST law was also
amended via Finance
Bill 2024, to say that man-
ufacturers of pan
masala, gutka and simi-
lar tobacco products will
have to pay a penalty of
up to Rs 1 lakh, if they
fail to register their packing ma-
chinery with the GST authorities
with effect from April 1.
However, this penalty provision
conducting regular portfolio as-
sessments and adjustments,"
Karthick Jonagadla, smallcase
Manager and founder, Quantace
Research, said.
Mirae Asset Investment Man-
agers Vice Chairman and CEO
Swarup Anand Mohanty said
the consistent surge in SIP flows
signals a promising trajectory
and anticipates this momentum
propelling to achieve a milestone
of Rs 25,000 crore by the end of
2024. Industry experts believe
that a buoyant economic
outlook, along with increased
market participation from retail
investors, helped in raising the
SIP inflow.
plan for FY25
As many as 90 principal com-
modities like iron ore, telecom
instruments and electronic
components exported to China
have recorded a positive growth
in 2023 out of the total 161 such
goods shipped to the neighbour-
ing country, according to com-
merce ministry data.
These 90 commodities ac-
count for 67.7 per cent of India's
The government's fo-
cus on infrastructure
support from steady
urban demand.
development, coupled On the sup-
with buoyant business ply side, it added,
optimism, could nur- manufacturing activi-
ture a sustained re- ty strengthened fur-
vival in the investment cycle, ac- ther, benefiting from lower input
cording to a Reserve Bank report. costs and the improvement in
According to the RBI's Mone- global supply chains.
tary Policy Report- April 2024, do- Construction activity re-
mestic economic activity, backed mained firm on the back of buoy-
by strong fundamentals, re- ant housing demand and the gov-
mained robust in the first half of ernment's thrust on infrastruc-
2023-24, weathering challenges ture.
from muted global demand. "Going ahead, private con-
The report further said that sumption will get support from
while the fixed investment and improved prospects for rural de-
the lower drag from net external
demand propelled real GDP
mand and rising consumer confi-
dence,” the RBI report said.
(19.4 per cent to USD 132.26 mil-
lion in 2023), and processed min-
erals (174.19 per cent to USD 129
million in 2023).
For another fifteen products,
the improvement in exports is
in the bracket of USD 10 -100 bil-
lion.
These goods include marine
products, iron and steel,
telecom instruments, vegetable
oils, agrochemicals, paper, pa-
PTI / New Delhi

CEO of Renewables Div
Essar Power
Limited, India's first
private sector
independent
power producer,
on Thursday
announced the
appointment of
Ankur Kumar as
the Chief Executive
Officer of its renewable business
division. Kumar will play a key role in
advancing Essar's commitment to
transitioning into green energy and
establishing a robust renewable
ecosystem in India. With over 24 years
of experience in renewable energy and
public infrastructure sectors, Kumar
brings a wealth of knowledge and
expertise to his new role.
USFDA issues warning
letter to Kilitch Health
The US health regulator has pulled up
Kilitch Healthcare India for
manufacturing lapses, including packing
drugs in insanitary conditions at its
Maharashtra-based plant. In a warning
letter to the company's Managing
Director Paresh Mehta, the US Food and
Drug Administration (USFDA) pointed out
various lapses at the Navi-Mumbai plant,
which produces finished
pharmaceuticals. —Agencies
"U.S march inflation print coming
at 3.5 per cent on an annual basis
against expectation of 3.4 per cent
will certainly constrain the ability
of the Fed to cut rates. This acceler-
ation in price rise from 3.1 per cent
in January and 3.2 per cent in Febru-
ary to 3.5 per cent in March has
dashed hopes of a rate cut in June"
said Dr. V K Vijaykumar, Chief In-
vestment strategist, Geojit Financial
Services.
ADANI GROUP’S KHAVDA RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK
World's largest RE park now in India - 5 times larger than Paris
PTI / Khavda (Gujarat)
A narrow airstrip that doesn't
even have an air traffic controller
to guide incoming airplanes and
whose only infrastructure is a
portable toilet and a make-shift
office in a container in the midst
of miles of barren land
bordering Pakistan is an unlikely
gateway to the world's largest re-
newable energy park.
The airstrip was even smaller
in December 2022, when Adani
group head Gautam Adani, who
was then the second richest per-
son in the world, first used a
small aircraft to reach the barren
Earlier in January, the Central
Board of Indirect Taxes and Cus-
toms (CBIC) had announced the
introduction of a new registration
and monthly return filing proce-
dure effective April 1, 2024.
The move to overhaul the regis-
tration, record-keeping, and
monthly filing of such businesses
was aimed at improving GST
compliance for manufacturers of
pan masala and tobacco products.
area that didn't even have a pin-
code and got its name from a vil-
lage 80-kilometers away.
The land hardly had any vege-
tation due to its highly saline soil,
leave alone any habitation. But
the area with second best solar
radiation in the country after
Ladakh and wind speeds five
times of plains, served as an idle
location for a renewable energy
park.
An 18-km drive from the
airstrip through dusty arid land
is the site for his group's Khavda
renewable energy park spread
over 538 square kilometers
(roughly five times the size of
is yet to be notified.
The procedure was to be appli-
cable for manufacturers of pan-
masala, unmanufactured tobacco
(without lime tube) with or with-
out brand name, 'Hookah' or 'gu-
daku' tobacco, smoking mixtures
for pipes and cigarettes, chewing
tobacco (without lime tube), filter
khaini, jarda scented tobacco,
snuff and branded or unbranded
'Gutkha', etc.
Paris).
When Adani first landed at
Khavda, he joked if anyone could
even find a mosquito in the area,
his executives said.
But since then, his group has
not just laid solar panels that will
convert sun rays into electricity
and wind mills to harness wind
blowing at the speed of 8 meters
per second, but also built colonies
for workers, put up desalination
plants to make saline water
pumped out of 700 meters below
ground portable and utilities
such as mobile phone repair
shops.
Adani Green Energy Ltd, In-
export basket to China, while 71
products that have registered a
negative export growth in 2023
constitute 32.3 per cent, the data
showed.
There are four commodities
level where India has improved
its export to China by more than
USD 100 million in 2023. They
are iron ore (216.8 per cent to
USD 3.33 billion in 2023), cotton
yarn (542.6 per cent to USD
dia's largest renewable energy
company, will invest about Rs 1.5
lakh crore to generate 30
megawatts of clean electricity at
Khavda in Gujarat's Kutch, it's
Managing Director Vneet Jaain
said.
per board, drug formulations,
biologicals, AC, refrigeration
machinery, paint, bulk minerals
and ores, and processed vegeta-
bles.
India's exports of telecom in-
struments and electronic com-
ponents to China rose by 46.45
per cent and 6.75 per cent to
USD 247.54 million and USD
156.55 million, respectively, in
2023, the data showed.
"We have just now commis-
sioned 2,000 MW (2 GW) of capac-
ity at Khavda and plan to add 4
GW in the current fiscal (finan-
cial year ending March 2025) and
5 GW every year thereafter," he
said.
The airstrip is used to ferry
group executives from Mundra
or Ahmedabad a few times a
week.
Air traffic controller or ATC at
Bhuj, some 160-km away, is the
last guide post for airplanes going
to Khavda. But it's reach is only
till 'Tent City' and pilots are virtu-
ally on their own for the last leg
of 80-km or so including landing.
The income tax department has
come out with an interim action
plan for 2024-25 fiscal year, which
include identification of
potential cases of prosecution,
wherein there is short-payment
of TDS and faster disposal of ap-
peals.
The action plan also stipulates
timeline for approval of refunds,
identification of cases where
seized assets are due for release
and release the same by June 30,
2024.
It also called for finalisation of
compounding proposals pending
as on March 31, 2024, and disposal
of at least 150 appeals by June 30.
Priority should be given to dis-
posal of the appeals filed prior to
April 1, 2020, followed by disposal
of appeals filed after April 1, 2020,
it said.
AKM Global, Partner- Tax,
Sandeep Sehgal said the Central
Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)
has unveiled its interim action
plan for FY 2024-25, marking a sig-
nificant stride towards
enhancing tax administration ef-
ficiency. Immediate measures
have been initiated to address
grievances through e-Nivaran
and CPGRAM platforms, which
serve as pivotal mechanisms for
grievance redressal.
 MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024 MONEY
BIZ BULLETIN
Butterfly Learnings
raises `32 crore
Edelweiss Alt completes acquisition Rising mkt of Ayurveda:
What’s behind it?
of L&T Infra Devpt Projs for `6K crore
Pediatric behavioural and developmental
health company Butterfly Learnings on BY TEJI MANDI
Thursday announced a Rs 32 crore

fundraise in a round led by Insitor
Impact Asia Fund II and Enzia Ventures.
CIIE (IIMA Ventures), Foundation Botnar,
9 Unicorns, and Venture Catalysts also
participated in the infusion, which will
be deployed for expansion efforts to
equip neuro-diverse children to integrate
with society and manage their lives
better, a statement said.
Sunflower oil import hits
record 4.45L tn in March
India imported a record crude sunflower
oil of 4,45,723 tonne in March, taking
advantage of lower prices, while the
country's total edible oil imports reached
11.49 lakh tonne in the month, industry
body SEA said on Thursday. Crude
sunflower oil imports stood at 1,48,145
lakh tonnes in March 2023, while total
edible oil imports were 11.35 lakh
tonnes a year ago.
Maldives to hold road
shows to woo tourists
In an apparent bid to woo Indian
tourists back to the Maldives, a major
tourism body here has announced that it
will hold road shows across key Indian
PTI / New Delhi
Edelweiss Alternatives on Thursday an-
nounced that it has completed the Rs 6,000
crore deal to acquire L&T Infrastructure De-
velopment Projects (LTIDPL), which owns
various road assets and power transmission
lines.
The deal to buy LTIPDL, a joint venture
where infra major L&T had a 51 per cent stake
and its partner Canada Pension Plan Invest-
ment Board had the rest, was first announced
in December 2022.
The Edelweiss arm is buying 100 per cent
ownership in the JV and will get a portfolio
comprising seven road assets spanning 4,400
lane-km and a 960 circuit km power transmis-
sion line, according to a statement.
After this acquisition, the infra platform's
overall portfolio will go up to 26 assets, com-
prising 5,000 lane-km of roads, 1,800 ckms of
power transmission assets and 813 MWp of re-
AMID INCREASED IMPORTS FROM CHINA
India’s electronic mfg
newables, with a cumulative annual revenue
of Rs 3,000 crore, it added.
A statement from L&T said the stakes have
been acquired by Epic Concesiones, an in-
vestee company of Edelweiss Infrastructure
Yield Plus Strategy, managed by Edelweiss Al-
ternative Asset Advisors.
The sale is in line with L&T's strategy to
Tata ropes in Shell to set
up EV charging stations
exit non-core businesses to reduce its
exposure to the asset-heavy developmental
projects portfolio to enhance return on equity,
the statement said.
"The transaction is the culmination of a
long journey for L&T that started in the early
2000s in the Developmental Projects business,"
its head of development projects DK Sen said.
Commenting on the latest acquisition, the
managing director of Infrastructure Yield
Strategy at Edelweiss Alternatives
Sreekumar Chatra said the assets have a
proven track record of revenues and opera-
tions, which are geographically dispersed and
have long residual life.
Its head of real assets strategy Subahoo
Chordia said limited partners have a prefer-
ence to invest with managers having a strong
management with decades of industry experi-
ence, on-ground presence of operating team,
sound governance framework and a perform-
ance track record in the strategy.
A
yurveda, an ancient Indian
medicinal system dating
back thousands of years, is
once again making headlines.
Based on herbs and natural
remedies, this medical system is
rapidly gaining popularity not only
in India but also on a global scale. people stay healthy but also
The consequence of this strengthen the Indian economy.
increasing popularity is visible in
What’s in it
the market of Ayurvedic products.
Let's explore the expected surge in for Investors?
the market of Ayurvedic products Several companies and startups
in the upcoming times. are working in the field of
Ayurveda in India, such as
What’s Happening? Baidyanath Ayurveda, Dabur India
According to The Economic Times, Limited, Hamdard India, Jhandu
the Ayurvedic tech startup Care, Kerala Ayurveda Limited,
NirogStreet has released a report and more. However, only a few
stating that there is an anticipated companies are listed on Indian
rapid growth in the market of stock exchanges like NSE and BSE,
Indian Ayurvedic products in the including Dabur India, Patanjali,
next five years. It is believed that Kerala Ayurveda Limited, and
by FY28, this market will reach up others.
to Rs 1.2 lakh crore or
approximately 16.27 billion US
Investors interested in investing in
the Ayurveda sector can make
dollars. This anticipated value is
more than double the current
better investment decisions by
comparing listed companies on
market value of Rs 57,450 crore.
Why is Ayurveda
the stock exchange based on
growth, attractive valuation, P/E
ratio, and other factors.

to grow 41% by FY26

cities. As the number of Indian tourists
to the Maldives continues to decline, the
Maldives Association of Travel Agents
and Tour Operators (MATATO) held
discussions with India's High
Commissioner here, Munu Mahawar, on
enhancing travel and tourism
cooperation between the two countries.
Tata Steel UK plant staff
vote for strike action
Around 1,500 Tata Steel workers based
at two plants in Wales voted in favour of
industrial action on Thursday over the
company's plan to close its blast
furnaces and shed 2,800 jobs. The
Mumbai-headquartered steel major said
it was "disappointed" over the move
while consultation continues and
pointed to "significant irregularities" in
the ballot process in favour of strikes.
Vistara CEO says
'worst is behind us'
ANI / New Delhi
India's electronic manufacturing
industry is set to grow at an an-
nual growth rate of 41 per until
FY 26, as per a recent report by
Equiris Securities. The report
says that by FY 26, the electronic
manufacturing market in India
is expected to reach Rs 5,980 bil-
lion, a significant leap from its
valuation of Rs 1,069 billion in
2021.
The growth trajectory is pro-
jected because of various factors,
including the focus of the gov-
ernment on making India a man-
ufacturing hub for electronics
products through various proac-
tive policies, evolving global
manufacturing trends, and the
abundant availability of skilled
on foreign semiconductors," said
Sandeep Narula, Chairman,
Electronics and Computer Soft-
ware Export Promotion Council.
Narula added that India's deci-
sion to defer import restrictions
on laptops and introduce import
management system until Sep-
tember 30, 2024, signals a strate-
gic move aimed at bolstering do-
mestic manufacturing capabili-
ties.
PTI / Mumbai
Tata Passenger Electric Mobility
Ltd (TPEM) said on Thursday
that it has signed a non-binding
Memorandum of Understanding
with Shell India Markets Private
Limited (SIMPL) to collaborate in
setting up public charging sta-
tions across India.
"The collaboration will
leverage Shell's fuel station net-
work and TPEM's insights from
over 1.4 lakh Tata EVs on Indian
roads to set up chargers at loca-
tions frequently visited by Tata
EV owners. Additionally, both
companies will work towards de-
livering superior charging experi-
ences," according to a TPEM
statement. The two companies are
also exploring introducing con-
venient payment systems and loy-
alty programmes to facilitate
charging for electric vehicles.
Commenting on the partner-
ship, Balaje Rajan, Chief Strategy
Officer, Tata Passenger Electric
Mobility Ltd and Tata Motors Pas-
senger Vehicles Ltd, said:
"Through this partnership, we
aim to grow the existing charging
infrastructure, which is crucial
for mainstream adoption of EVs
in the country, particularly as the
customer base continues to ex-
pand. This strategic alliance will
help in driving up the EV
adoption in the country."
Sanjay Varkey, Director, SIMPL,
said, "Shell is committed to offer-
ing integrated solutions that pri-
oritise convenience, safety, and
sustainability in charging EVs.
Our ultra-fast and reliable charg-
ers ensure that our customers en-
Teji Mandi (TM Investment Technologies Pvt Ltd) is a SEBI registered Research
joy a sustainable, hassle-free and
efficient charging experience.
Becoming So Popular?
There are several reasons behind
this growth:
• Natural Remedies: People
are turning towards natural herbs
to avoid the side effects of
chemical medicines.
• Global Demand: The
demand for Ayurveda is
increasing not only in India but
also in foreign countries.
• Government Initiatives: The
government is taking various
steps to promote Ayurveda, which
is strengthening the industry.
• New Entrepreneurs: To
meet the growing demand, new
entrepreneurs are entering the
Ayurveda sector, fostering
innovation.
This could be the golden era of
Ayurveda. It will not only help
Analyst (RA). Information in this article should not be construed as
investment advice. Please visit www.tejimandi.com to know more.
What’s Next?
According to Invest India, India is
considered the second-largest
exporter of Ayurveda and
alternative medicine at the global
level. Additionally, as per
NirogStreet survey mentioned in
Business Standard, there is an
expectation of rapid growth in the
market of Ayurvedic products and
services. It is anticipated that
there will be a 15% CAGR growth
in the entire Ayurvedic market
from 2021 to 2026. According to
Statista, India's Ayurvedic market
was worth Rs 33.5 billion in
2019. It is estimated that by
2025, this figure will surpass one
trillion rupees. These figures
indicate the pace at which
Ayurveda is progressing.

How Tesla can reach $3.6 bn in

After facing significant flight disruptions
recently, Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan on
Thursday told the airline staff that the
"worst is behind us" and operations have
already stabilised. Pilot woes have
forced the Tata Group airline to
temporarily cut down capacity by 10 per
cent or 25-30 flights daily. While
acknowledging that things should have
been planned better, Kannan said it has
been a "learning experience".
labour in India.
"Despite robust strides in man-
ufacturing, the import of
laptops, primarily from China,
presents a nuanced challenge,
akin to India's reliance on im-
ported olives for olive oil. This re-
liance underscores the pressing
need to cultivate a domestic
semiconductor ecosystem to mit-
igate the 95 per cent dependency
The report says there's a global
shift towards India, With Chi-
na+1 approach, companies are
turning to India as a viable alter-
native for diversifying their man-
ufacturing bases.
The Indian government,
through various incentive
schemes, has also provided an
outlay of Rs 760 billion for elec-
tronic manufacturing in India.
Stellantis plans
to make India an
EV export hub
PTI / New Delhi
Global automotive major Stellan-
tis plans to make India a hub for
exports of electric vehicles ini-
tially targeting Southeast Asian
revenue from EV sales in India
IANS / New Delhi lishing an official sales and serv-
ice presence in the country, fol-
With Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon lowed by possible manufacturing
Musk confirming his first-ever facilities further out," senior ana-
India visit to meet Prime lyst Soumen Mandal from Coun-
Minister Narendra Modi later terpoint Research told IANS.

Unfazed by impending entry of Tesla, new EV markets, according to a senior

company official.
Stellantis India on Thursday
this month and announce key in-
vestments in the electric vehicle
(EV) space, industry experts on nessing stupendous economic
The current EV penetration in
India is 2.3 per cent, which is like-
ly to reach 28 per cent by 2023.

policy has safeguards: Mercedes-Benz India commenced exports of its Made

PTI / New Delhi
German luxury carmaker Mer-
cedes-Benz is unfazed by the likeli-
hood of Tesla entering India with
imported electric cars at much
lower duty and believes that the
country's new EV policy has safe-
guards for existing players, a
senior company official said on
Thursday.
While the entry of the likes of
Tesla and VinFast will help expand
the market and accelerate EV
adoption in India, Mercedes-Benz
is confident to maintain leadership
in the luxury EV space as the new
entrants would play in the lower
segment. "I think new
competitions and new players are
always welcome. It helps to expand
the market, spread more aware-
ness, which is also the need of the
hour to get more EV penetration,"
Mercedes-Benz India Managing
Director & CEO Santosh Iyer said.
He was responding to a query on
the implications of India's new EV
policy and if it puts manufacturers
which have already invested in the
country at a disadvantage.
"Any duty-free or any reduced-
duty tariffs are always welcome be-
cause we have always been advo-
cating free trade in India and glob-
ally. So for us, any such things are
welcome," he said. Iyer further
said, "We have to go deeper into the
policy and check the implications
but there are caps and ceilings and
there are safeguards put in by the
government. So at this stage it is
not a major threat that we see for
our business.".
Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz on
Thursday reported its highest-ever
retail sales in a financial year in In-
dia in 2023-24, driven by strong de-
mand for its SUV range.
in India 'E-C3' electric car with
the shipment of 500 units to In-
donesia and is seeking to
leverage on India's cost competi-
tiveness in manufacturing to in-
crease its overseas shipments.
"We will be the first 'multina-
tional OEM' in India to achieve
this feat (to export EVs). We also
have plans for a couple of other
markets, Nepal and Bhutan. This
is just the start...the plan is to
take it from there," Stellantis In-
dia CEO & MD Aditya Jairaj said.
Stressing on the significance of
commencement of exports of the
E-C3, he said, "We have a dedica-
tion to the government-led 'Make
in India' initiative. We are focus-
ing on this as a very important as-
pect for Stellantis as a company.
Thursday said that the country
could grow into a considerable
market for him in the foreseeable
future, generating at least $3.6 bil-
lion in revenue by 2030.
The news of Musk arriving
here brought cheer to millions of
Tesla lovers in India, after a deter-
mined PM Modi convinced the
tech billionaire to look at the
country -- which has been wit-
Godrej Properties targets `25K cr
sales bookings in FY'25: Chairman
PTI / New Delhi
Enthused by record sales book-
ings of Rs 22,500 crore last fiscal
on strong housing demand, Go-
drej Properties Ltd Executive
growth across quarters for the
past decade -- as his next destina-
tion to build a Tesla plant and a
global supply chain system.
According to experts, there's a
lot of history and talk about
Musk's intentions to enter the In-
dian market. "The list of possible
announcements includes India
providing duty cuts on imported
Tesla cars, the company estab-
nancial year, banking on the pos-
itive consumer sentiments.
"I think we will see another
good year if the market stays as
strong as it currently is. The
launch pipeline for the current fi-
The electric cars priced around
$25,000 will have at least a 15 per
cent market share by 2030, accord-
ing to the latest industry data. "In-
dia could grow into a considerable
market for Tesla in the long term.
As cars effectively become super-
computers on wheels, we antici-
pate Tesla could achieve $3.6 bil-
lion in revenue from car sales in
India alone by 2030," Mandal said.
Hindalco to file
appeal against
`30 cr penalty levied
under Customs Act
IANS / New Delhi
The Office of the Principal Com-
missioner of Customs, Ahmed-

World goods trade growth in value terms may dip 1.2% in 2024: GTRI
PTI / New Delhi
The growth in the global merchan-
dise trade is likely to decline by 1.2
per cent, in value terms, due to the
ongoing geopolitical
uncertainties, economic think
tank Global Trade Research Initia-
tive (GTRI) said on Thursday.
The US dollar value of world
merchandise trade fell 5 per cent
in 2023 to USD 24.01 trillion, but
this decline was mostly offset by a
strong increase in commercial
services trade, which rose 9 per
cent to USD 7.54 trillion, it said.
This allowed world goods and
commercial services exports on a
balance of payments basis to slip 2
per cent in 2023 to USD 30.8 trillion.
"Despite the World Trade Or-
ganization (WTO) expecting a 2.6
per cent rise in trade volume for
2024, the value of world merchan-
dise trade is still seen to decline by
1.2 per cent in 2024 from 2023, con-
tinuing the trend of trade values
falling behind the trade volumes,"
the think tank said.
The WTO has projected that the
world merchandise trade volume
will grow by 2.6 per cent in 2024
and 3.3 per cent in 2025.
"The WTO forecast does not in-
clude impact on trade values,
which is a commonly used param-
eter to measure trade perform-
ance. Calculating the trade value
is straightforward, as it involves
adding up the values of all trans-
actions. However, calculating
trade volume is not as simple as
just adding up quantities of differ-
ent goods like iron ore and dia-
monds, which could lead to inac-
curate conclusions," GTRI founder
Ajay Srivastava said.
Chairman Pirojsha Godrej said
the company would like to see
some growth even on a high base
and aim to achieve Rs 25,000 crore
pre-sales numbers in 2024-25.
Godrej Properties has sur-
passed the sales booking
numbers of Bengaluru-based
Prestige Group, which has re-
ported pre-sales of Rs 21,040 crore
during 2023-24, and is likely to
emerge as the largest listed real
estate developer in terms of sales
bookings in the 2023-24 financial
year.
Pirojsha Godrej said the com-
pany is expecting another good fi-
nancial year is actually quite a bit
stronger than it was during the
last financial year. So, if the mar-
ket continues to support, I think
we will have another very good
fiscal year," he said.
Asked about the sales bookings
target for the current 2024-25 fis-
cal, Pirojsha said," We would cer-
tainly like to see some growth
even on this high base. So, hope-
fully, we will look at a Rs 25,000
crore kind of number. He said the
company would give sales book-
ings guidance while announcing
the annual financial results for
2023-24.
abad, has passed an order levying
a total fine and penalty of Rs 30
crore on Hindalco Industries.
"Penalty imposed in relation to
pre-import condition, which was
applicable for a limited period, on
import against Advance Authori-
zation," the company said.
"The management does not
reasonably expect the said orders
to have any material impact on
the financials, operations or
other activities of the company.
The company prefers filing an ap-
peal against the matter, and has
strong cases on merit and law,"
Hindalco said.

WTO REPORT
India records 17% jump to become
4th largest exporter of digital services
IANS / New Delhi
India registered a 17 per cent jump
in the export of digitally delivered
services to a staggering $257 billion
to become the world's fourth-
largest exporter in the segment, ac-
cording to the latest Global Trade
Outlook and Statistics report of the
World Trade Organisation (WTO).
India's growth rate was much
higher than the 4 per cent increase
posted by China and Germany.
According to WTO estimates,
global exports of digitally delivered
services rose to $4.25 trillion in
2023, up 9 per cent year-on-year, ac-
counting for 13.8 per cent of world
exports of goods and services.
Unlike trade in goods, which fell
in 2023 globally and in all regions,
exports of digitally delivered serv-
ices continued to thrive. In Europe
and Asia (which hold a global share
of 52.4 per cent and 23.8 per cent, re-
spectively) exports rose by 11 per
cent and 9 per cent, the report said.
"Use of artificial intelligence
(AI), including models capable of
creating content, such as text, im-
ages, music or even videos, in-
creased rapidly in 2023. These tech-
nologies are set to revolutionise
various aspects of the economy,
leading to increased efficiency, in-
novation, cost savings, personalisa-
tion opportunities, creation of new
jobs, and economic growth, further
boosting trade in digitally
delivered services," according to
the report.
Damson Tech to
move smart gadgets
production to India
PTI / New Delhi
Lifestyle and mobile accessories
maker Damson Technologies plans to
move half of its manufacturing
operations from China to India, with
an initial investment of Rs 150 crore
in the current fiscal year, a top
official of the company said.
Electronics manufacturing service
provider Damson Technologies,
managing director, Ritesh Goenka
told PTI that the company has been
manufacturing devices in Beijing and
now moving half of its production to
India due to sanctions imposed by
several countries on China coupled
with benefits under government
schemes in India. "At present, we
generate revenue of over Rs 1,000
crore. We plan to bring around Rs
500 crore worth of business to India
in the upcoming year. Our long-term
vision is to gradually move entire
factory operations to India. We need
some time to build the entire
infrastructure in India," he said.
GARTNER REPORT Vidya Malvade elevates Gudi Padwa
75% of enterprise software engineers
will use AI code assistants by 2028
IANS / New Delhi
About 75 per cent of enterprise
software engineers will use Artifi-
cial Intelligence (AI) code assis-
tants by 2028, up from less than 10
per cent in early 2023, a new
report said on Thursday.
According to Gartner, around
63 per cent of organisations are at
present piloting, deploying or
have already deployed AI code as-
sistants globally.
"Software engineering leaders
must determine ROI and build a
business case as they scale their
rollouts of AI code assistants,"
said Philip Walsh, Senior Princi-
pal Analyst at Gartner.
"However, traditional ROI
frameworks steer engineering
leaders toward metrics centred on
cost reduction. This narrow per-
spective fails to capture the full
value of AI code assistants," he
added.
celebration at Kalyan Jewellers
The report surveyed about 598
global respondents in the third
quarter of 2023. AI code assistants
allow more capabilities that go be-
yond code generation and comple-
tion.
As per the researchers, they are
collaborative assistants that en-
hance developers' efficiency by
stimulating brainstorming and
increasing code quality enhance-
ments which empower developers
to continuously upskill and build
proficiency across programming
frameworks.
Actor and lifestyle in-
fluencer Vidya Mal-
vade, graced the
Gudi Padwa celebra-
tion at Kalyan Jew-
ellers' showroom on
Jalna Road, Sambaji
Nagar. Her presence
enhanced the week-
long festivities, coin-
ciding with the un-
veiling of the brand’s
specially curated
Gudi Padwa line of
jewellery.
With the festive
season in full swing, Vidya Mal- day wear was also prominent
vade undoubtedly added an ex- topics of discussion during the
tra layer of glamour to the interaction. Fitness, yoga and
event. In a one-of-its-kind meet Bollywood also featured promi-
& greet session with her fans nently in the discussions.
and patrons of Kalyan Jew- Patrons looking at exploring
ellers, the actor shared insights the specially curated Gudi Pada
into how she celebrates Gudi line of jewellery can avail of ex-
Padwa and she most loves about citing offers from Kalyan Jew-
the festival. Vidya’s love for tra- ellers. The brand has an-
ditional Indian jewellery and nounced a 25% discount on
her penchant for lightweight di- making charges on all products
amond pieces as regular every- during this season.

CORPORATE GALLERY
Reliance Retail’s Tira Launches first own
label ‘Tira Tools’: A Line of Premium,
Curated Beauty Accessories
Reliance Retail's Tira Beauty announces the launch of its
proprietary brand, "Tira Tools," a distinctive line of beauty
accessories catering to the modern consumer's needs. This marks
Tira's foray into the realm of accessories, presenting a curated
selection of high-quality products designed to elevate beauty
routines effortlessly.
Tira Tools encompasses a range of meticulously crafted
accessories, set to revolutionize the beauty industry. From Pro
Makeup Brushes to Facial Rollers and Beauty Sponges, Tira Tools
promises a comprehensive selection to meet diverse beauty
needs. The brand's commitment to excellence is evident in its
meticulous attention to detail and unwavering focus on quality.
Among the standout offerings within the Tira Tools collection are
the Pro Artistry Kits. These kits combine precision and versatility
to meet the demands of professional makeup artists and beauty
enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the Beauty Sponges feature
cutting-edge designs, while the Facial Rollers and Gua Sha tools
boast premium quality materials such as real jade and quartz. Tira
Tools prioritizes ethical standards, ensuring that all products are
cruelty-free and vegan. These tools are also pro-approved, vetted
by experts, ensuring the highest standards of quality and
performance. Each item in the Tira Tools range is meticulously
crafted to be soft on the skin, making them ideal for even the
most sensitive skin types.
Tira Tools will be available for purchase both online and in-store,
offering consumers unparalleled convenience and accessibility.
Discover the perfect blend of quality and functionality with Tira
Tools, and elevate your beauty routine to new heights.
For more information about Tira Tools and to explore the
complete range of products, please visit Tirabeauty.com or visit
Tira stores.
Send your CORPORATE / EVENTS / HEALTH / ART news and pictures to Sachin Tikare. Email: sachin@fpj.co.in
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
whispersinthecorridors
Dr Suresh Mehrotra
: Efforts to improve electoral
participation in Manipur
The hilly north-east state
Manipur was up in the
flames earlier but the
Chief Electoral Officer, Pradeep Kumar Jha is
making all efforts to improve electoral
participation. He inaugurated a signature
campaign recently. The campaign is encouraging
all eligible voters, particularly the youth, to cast
their votes freely and without any external
influence on Poll Day. The commission is
promoting ethical, informed, inclusive, and
accessible voting. Large hoardings and posters
providing information on empowering voters have
been installed at strategic locations throughout the
state. The polling in Manipur will be held on April
19 and 26.
: Aradhana Patnaik empanelled as
Additional Secretary in GoI
Aradhana Patnaik has been
empanelled for holding Additional
Secretary and Additional Secretary
equivalent posts in the Government
of India. Patnaik is a 1998 batch IAS
officer of Jharkhand cadre.
: Saurabh Kumar accredited Ambassador to
Luxembourg
Saurabh Kumar, presently Ambassador of India to
the Kingdom of Belgium, has been concurrently
accredited as the next Ambassador of India to the
Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with residence in
Brussels. He is a 1989 batch IFS officer.
: Shantanu Sinha promoted to DIG grade
Shantanu Sinha under training at Institute of
Defence Studies and Analysis, New Delhi, has been
promoted to the grade of Deputy Inspector
General of Police (DIG). He is a 2009 batch IPS
officer of Karnataka cadre.
: Ms Gali Anupama selected as Director (Fin), KIOCL
Ms Gali Anupama, GM, NMDC Limited has been
selected for the post of Director (Finance), KIOCL
Limited at a Public Enterprises Selection Board
(PESB) meeting held on April 9, 2024. As many as
11 persons were interviewed for the same.
: Samir Chandra Saxena selected as Director (MO),
Grid-India
Samir Chandra Saxena, ED, Grid India, has been
selected for the post of Director (Market
Operation), Grid Controller of India Limited (Grid-
India) at a Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB)
meeting held on April 9, 2024. As many as 11
persons were interviewed for the same.
: Selvan posted Commissioner, Ranchi
After revocation of suspension S. Ravi Selvan has
been posted as Commissioner, Appeal, GST & CX
Zone, Ranchi. He is a 1992 batch IRS(C&IT) officer.
Check the news online at www.freepressjournal.in/corporate-gallery/
: Himani Pandey empanelled as
Additional Secretary in GoI
Himani Pande has been
empanelled for holding
Additional Secretary and
Additional Secretary equivalent
posts in the Government of India.
Himani is a 1998 batch IAS
officer of Jharkhand cadre.
: Former Rajasthan DGP B L Soni joins BJP
A 1988 batch retired DGP level IPS officer of
Rajasthan cadre, B L Soni has joined Bharatiya
Janata Party (BJP) in order to realise his political
ambitions in Rajasthan.
: Manoj Mittal recommended for CMD, SIDBI
The name of Manoj Mittal has been recommended
for the post of Chairman & Managing Director
(CMD) of Small Industries Development Bank of
India (SIDBI).
: Sanjay Shukla recommended for MD, NHB
The name of Sanjay Shukla has been recommended
for the post of Managing Director of National
Housing Bank (NHB).
: Kamal Kishore Soan empanelled as Additional
Secretary in GoI
Kamal Kishore Soan has been empanelled for
holding Additional Secretary and Additional
Secretary equivalent posts in the Government of
India. He is a 1998 batch IAS officer of Jharkhand
cadre.
: Ms Saxena appointed as MD & CEO Bank of
Maharashtra
Ms Nidhu Saxena has been appointed as the
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD
& CEO) of Bank of Maharashtra. Prior to this
appointment, she was the Executive Director (ED),
Union Bank of India.
: Arvind Kumar selected as Director (Ref), IOCL
Arvind Kumar, MD & CEO, CPCL, has been selected
for the post of Director (Refineries), Indian Oil
Corporation Limited (IOCL) at a Public Enterprises
Selection Board (PESB) meeting held on April 10,
2024. As many as 12 persons were interviewed for
the same.
— Correctness of this content is the responsibility of the author.
By arrangement with whispersintheccorridors.com

4 kids drown in UP pond
AZAMGARH: Four children
drowned while bathing in a pond in
a village in UP’s Azamgarh, police
said on Thursday. The incident took
placein Kushalgaon village in the
NATION
Bardan area of the district, they
said. The bodies of the children --
aged between seven and 10 years -
- were fished out by some villagers,
police said. MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

RIPPLES
Digi Yatra to be
rolled out at 14
more airports
NEW DELHI: Digi Yatra is
likely to be rolled out at 14
more airports by the end of
this month and efforts are
on to make the facility more
user friendly with certain
changes in the architecture,
according to a top
executive. Based on Facial
Recognition Technology
(FRT), Digi Yatra provides for
contactless, seamless
movement of passengers at
various check points at
airports and currently, there
are nearly 5 million users.
The facility is now there at
14 airports for domestic
passengers and discussions
are ongoing with various
stakeholders concerned to
make it available for
international travellers as
well.
No CAA, NRC or UCC in
West Bengal: Mamata
Ready to shed blood for country to stop division, warns chief minister
ARITRA SINGHA / Kolkata
West Bengal Chief Minister
Mamata Banerjee on Thurs-
day reiterated that the state
will not accept the Citizen-
ship (Amendment) Act, 2019
and the National Register of
The TMC supremo took
part in the Eid
celebrations in Kolkata’s
Red Road after the
prayers were offered,
and urged everyone to
stay “united”.
Citizens and Uniform Civil
Code.
The Trinamool Congress
supremo took part in the Eid
celebrations in Kolkata’s Red
Road after the prayers were
offered, and urged everyone
to stay “united”.
Speaking at the occasion,
the CM said, “We are ready
to shed blood for the country
but will not allow any divi-
didate Dilip Ghosh, while
campaigning, paused for a
while to join the Eid celebra-
tions organised by Tri-
namool Congress (TMC)
members.
Talking to the media,
Ghosh said the TMC had in-
vited him to partake in their
celebrations.
“We have Ram Navami
coming. Then, there is the
Bengali New Year also com-
ing. Today is Eid. Politics is
in its place and everyone
should celebrate all the festi-
vals together and in harmo-
ny,” said Ghosh.
TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee addresses people on the Birbhum candidate De-
occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr festival, in Kolkata, on Thursday. West bashish Dhar also took part
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is also seen. in Eid celebrations.
State BJP minority wing
sion. If we live unitedly, no- mata of ‘misleading’ people president Charles Nandi
body can harm us. Some peo- over the CAA issue and asked said, “All minority-
ple will try to create tension everyone to fill up the appli- dominated constituencies
during the elections but no cation forms. are identified and important
one should fall in that trap.” The Kolkata (North) candi- people of the area are work-
The West Bengal Chief date, Tapas Roy, was seen vis- ing as ‘Modi Mitras’ and are
Minister’s comment comes a iting Nakhoda Masjid and informing the people about
day after Union Home Minis- greeting people on the occa- the welfare schemes of our
ter Amit Shah who was in sion. Prime Minister for the mi-
Balurghat had accused Ma- Bardhaman-Durgapur can- norities.”
For Cong, Katchatheevu is
just a vacant plot, says Modi
MANISH GODHA / Jaipur
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi has questioned the Con-
gress party's intentions over
Katchatheevu island and said
that for that party, the island
was just a vacant piece of
land.
Addressing an election ral-
ly in Karauli, Rajasthan, on
Thursday, Modi said, “A sen-
ior leader of the Congress
had said, ‘Katchatheevu is an
island. Does anyone live
there?’ This is their mentality.
For them, this part of the
Prime Minister Narendra Modi being felicitated during a public
meeting in Karauli on Thursday
country is a vacant piece of
land. Tomorrow, these Con- stones were pelted at the Ram relation Rajasthan has with
gressmen can give the vacant Navami procession. These Kashmir. Many heroes of Ra-
land of a border state like Ra- people even boycotted the jasthan have made supreme
jasthan to another country. ‘pran pratishtha’ ceremony sacrifice on the soil of Kash-
Not only is the history of at the Ram temple in Ayod- mir to protect it,” the PM
Congress but its intentions hya,” said Modi, asking the said.
are also dangerous.” voters to “press the EVM but- The PM said Congress, im-
Accusing the Congress of ton to punish the sinners”. mersed in the quagmire of
demolishing temples for ap- Making a connection with nepotism and corruption,
peasement politics, Modi the Rajasthan families, seeks to make profit from the
said, “The list of Congress's whose sons have been guard- public. It is Congress that is
sins, which has been in power ing the borders in Kashmir, making the water crisis “big-
for 60 years, is quite long. Modi said that Congress lead- ger in Rajasthan”. The Cen-
Congress played a dirty game ers asked “what abrogation tral Government started the
in Rajasthan to appease the of Article 370 has to do with Jal Jeevan Mission to provide
vote bank. Congress leaders Rajasthan”. “Go to the homes water to every household, but
demolished temples and took of the brave martyrs of Ra- it got scammed by the Con-
over their lands for appease- jasthan and ask, the soil of gress regime in Rajasthan, a
ment and corruption. Here, their village will tell you what desert state.

Shahjahan changes tune, says Akali leader’s 12 Indians held in UK Cameron to

bahu Parampal visa raids on factories be new British

FESTIVE CHEER: Devotees

CBI probe will be ‘good’ joins BJP
RAJESH MOUDGIL / Chandigarh
envoy to India
PTI / New Delhi / London

Eleven men and one woman,

on their way to offer
'namaz' on the occasion of
Eid-ul-Fitr festival, at the
Shahi Idgah mosque, in
Mathura, on Thursday
Cong-run AJL,
Young India’s
assets attached
NEW DELHI: In a setback
to the Congress ahead of
the Lok Sabha elections,
the Prevention of Money
Laundering Act (PMLA)
Adjudicating Authority has
confirmed the attachment
of over Rs 751 crore
belonging to party-run
Associated Journal Limited
(AJL) and Young Indian,
pointing out that "the
attachment shall continue
during the pendency of
the proceedings and
become final after an
order of confiscation is
passed by the special
court.
ARITRA SINGHA / Kolkata
A day after the Calcutta High
Court ordered a CBI probe
into all cases related to the
Sandeshkhali incident, prime
accused Shahjahan Sheikh
while being taken from jail
for a health checkup said that
the CBI probe will be “really
good”.
Asked about the probe by
the Enforcement Directorate
(ED) in the matter, Shahja-
han again said that it will be
“good”.
A few days ago, Shahjahan
had said that he has been
“targeted” and “political con-
spiracy has been hatched
against him by ‘dalal’s’ of
BJP”.
Bharatiya Janata Party
(BJP) MLA and Medinipur
Lok Sabha candidate Agnim-
itra Paul said that Shahjahan
has now understood that
West Bengal Chief Minister
Mamata Banerjee has “dis-
owned” him.
“One tiger is in the Tihar
jail in Delhi. Now, even Shah-
jahan has understood that
Mamata Banerjee has dis-
owned him and doesn’t need
him and that is why he is
making such a statement. No
matter how bigshot one is, if
they are involved in corrup-
tion, they will be behind
bars,” said Paul.
Meanwhile, CBI has issued
a press statement where the
central agency has
mentioned they have taken
steps to comply with the or-
ders of the Calcutta High
Court regarding complaints
of crime against women and
land grab in Sandeshkhali.
“In pursuance of the order
dated 10.04.2024 passed by the
Division Bench of Calcutta
High Court, CBI has created a
dedicated email ID
sandeshkhali@cbi.gov.in on
which the complaints of the
persons of Sandeshkhali,
North 24 Parganas, West Ben-
gal regarding crime against
women and forcible land grab
may be lodged,” read the
statement.
“The District Magistrate,
North 24 Parganas has been
requested to give adequate
publicity of the said email ID
in the locality and also issue a
Public Notice in the vernacu-
lar dailies having wide circu-
lation in the areas as per the
Hon'ble High Court’s order,”
further read the statement.
Former Punjab IAS officer
Parampal Kaur Sidhu, who
is the daughter-in-law of the
former Shiromani Akali Dad
(SAD) minister Sikander
Singh Maluka, joined the
BJP on Thursday and is like-
ly to be fielded against SAD’s
sitting three-time MP, Har-
simrat Kaur Badal, from
Bathinda seat.
It may be recalled that
Maluka, a senior leader of
SAD is also a member of the
Akali Dal’s manifesto com-
mittee for the 2024 polls.
CM LOOKS ASKANCE
Punjab’s AAP leader and CM
Bhagwant Mann looked
askance at Parampal Kaur
joining the BJP, asking how
could she, an IAS officer, join
the saffron party as the state
government was yet to
accept her resignation.
all said to be Indian nation-
als, have been arrested by
the UK’s immigration au-
thorities in a series of raids
on suspicion of being in
breach of visa conditions
and working illegally at bed-
ding and cake factories.
Immigration Enforcement
officers descended on the
bedding and mattress busi-
ness in the West Midlands
region of England following
intelligence that illegal work
was taking place on-site, the
UK Home Office said on
Wednesday.
“They arrested seven
men, all Indian nationals, for
suspected illegal working,”
the Home Office said.
“Four more Indian men
were arrested at a nearby
cake factory. They were
found to be in breach of
their visa conditions, and
one was also working illegal-
ly. An Indian woman was
then arrested for immigra-
tion offences at a private
home, with further raids
planned throughout the af-
ternoon,” it said.
The officials said four of
the offenders were detained
pending consideration for
removal from the UK or de-
portation to India, and the
remaining eight have been
bailed on the condition they
report regularly to the Home
Office.
The two businesses could
now face substantial fines if
it is established they em-
ployed illegal workers at
their factories and failed to
conduct relevant pre-em-
ployment checks.
“This operation is a clear
example of the way we are
stepping up immigration
enforcement activity across
the country," said Michael
Tomlinson, UK Minister
for Countering Illegal Mi-
gration.
PTI / New Delhi
The UK has appointed Lindy
Cameron as
its new high
commission-
er to India.
Cameron
will succeed
incumbent Alex Ellis.
"Lindy Cameron CB OBE
has been appointed British
High Commissioner to the
Republic of India in succes-
sion to Alex Ellis CMG, who
will be transferring to anoth-
er diplomatic service ap-
pointment," a British readout
said on Thursday.
The readout released by
the United Kingdom High
Commission in New Delhi
said Cameron will take up
her appointment this month.
Cameron has been serving
as the Chief Executive of the
UK's National Cyber Security
Centre since 2020.

Smriti accuses
China says 'stable ties' in ED seeks arrest of AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan
Rahul of taking
PFI support
common interest after GAURAV VIVEK BHATNAGAR Waqf Board regarding which the searches. The agency said ments.

PM's border comment

AMETHI: Union minister
and Amethi MP Smriti
Irani Thursday alleged
that Congress leader
Rahul Gandhi has taken
the support of the banned
Popular Front of India to
contest the Lok Sabha
election from Kerala's
Wayanad seat.
Punjab CM to
address rallies in
Assam
GUWAHATI: Punjab chief
minister Bhagwant Mann
will have canvas for Aam
Aadmi Party (AAP)
candidates in two Assam
constituencies - Dibrugarh
and Sonitpur.
Mann will address an
election rally for
Dibrugarh candidate
Manoj Dhanowar on
Friday and on April 13,
Mann will lead a
roadshow at Biswanath
Chariali in support of
party candidate for
Sonitpur constituency,
Rishiraj Kaundinya. AAP is
only contesting in the
above two Lok Sabha
seats from Assam in the
upcoming elections.
–Digjyoti Lahar
PTI / New Delhi / Beijing
China on Thursday said that
"sound and stable ties" serve
the common interests of Chi-
na and India as it reacted to
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi's remarks that for New
Delhi, ties with Beijing are
important and the "prolonged
situation" at the borders
should be addressed urgently.
In an interview with
Newsweek magazine, which
described India's rise as "un-
stoppable", Prime Minister
Modi expressed hope that
through positive and con-
structive bilateral engage-
ment at the diplomatic and
military levels, the two coun-
tries will be able to restore
and sustain peace and tran-
quillity at their borders.
"China noted Prime Minis-
ter Modi's remarks," Chinese
spokesperson Mao Ning told
a media briefing here when
asked for her reaction to
Modi's interview.
"Sound and stable China-
India relations serve the in-
terests of both countries and
are conducive to peace and
development in the region
and beyond," she said.
In his interview, which is
the first to be given to a US
magazine in the recent past,
Modi said that for India, the
relationship with China is
important and significant.
"It is my belief that we need
to urgently address the pro-
longed situation on our bor-
ders so that the abnormality
in our bilateral interactions
can be put behind us. Stable
and peaceful relations be-
tween India and China are
important for not just our two
countries but the entire re-
gion and world," he said.
PM's response on
China 'ineffective,
feeble': Cong
PTI / New Delhi
The Congress on Thursday
targeted Prime Minister
Narendra Modi for his
"ineffective and feeble"
response to China for its
border transgressions, and
demanded that he apologises
to 140 crore Indians for his
June 2020 statement that no
one has entered India nor has
anyone occupied any post.
Congress general secretary
Jairam Ramesh said that in his
interview to Newsweek
magazine, "the Prime Minister
was at his cowardly worst".
NEW DELHI
In continuation of its actions
against Aam Aadmi Party
leaders, the Enforcement Di-
rectorate has now sought an
arrest warrant for party MLA
Amanatullah Khan in con-
nection with some alleged ir-
regularities in appointments
and leasing out of properties
of Delhi Waqf Board. Khan is
the chairperson of the Board.
The ED had registered a
case under the Prevention of
Money Laundering Act in re-
lation to the irregularities in
the functioning of the Delhi
Apple warns of Pegasus-like
attacks on select individuals
PTI / New Delhi
iPhone maker Apple has
warned its users about ongo-
ing Pegasus-like sophisticat-
ed spyware attacks that tar-
get a very small number of
individuals often journalists,
activists, politicians and
diplomats.
Though deployed against a
small number of individuals
and often involve exceptional
costs, mercenary spyware at-
tacks are "ongoing and glob-
the Central Bureau of Investi-
gation had registered a sepa-
rate case in 2016. The CBI had
accused Khan of illegally ap-
pointing various people to the
Board in the name of filling
non-sanctioned and non-exis-
tent vacancies when he was
its chairman. The central
agency had charged that
Khan had gained financially
from these decisions while
they had caused great finan-
cial loss to the Delhi Govern-
ment.
The CBI had also accused
the AAP MLA of illegally
leasing out Waqf Board prop-
al", according to an Apple
threat notification.
Apple in the threat notifi-
cation issued on April 10 in-
dicated that such attacks
have historically been associ-
ated with state actors as per
past research and reports.
"Apple threat notifications
are designed to inform and
assist users who may have
been individually targeted
by mercenary spyware at-
tacks, likely because of who
they are or what they do.
erties for monetary gains.
Since these dealings involved
money, the Enforcement Di-
rectorate then registered a
case under the PMLA against
Khan and in 2023, it had also
conducted raids on his prem-
ises. Following the raids, the
ED had claimed that it recov-
ered a large amount of “in-
criminating” material during
Such attacks are vastly more
complex than regular cyber-
criminal activity and con-
sumer malware, as merce-
nary spyware attackers ap-
ply exceptional resources to
target a very small number
of specific individuals and
their devices," the notifica-
tion said.
The notification has come
at a time when around 60
countries, including India,
are going for elections this
year.
the physical and digital evi-
dence had pointed to Khan's
alleged involvement in
money laundering offences.
Khan had also moved the
Delhi High Court for anticipa-
tory bail in the case but his ap-
peal was dismissed. The ED on
Wednesday moved in on Khan
by applying to the court of Spe-
cial Judge Rakesh Syal at the
Rouse Avenue Court for a non-
bailable arrest warrant against
him. The court had while tak-
ing cognizance of the appeal
posted the matter for April 18
as the ED said it needed time to
file some supporting docu-
Ahmedabad cafe in hot water after
serving non-veg burger to vegetarian
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / Ahmedabad
Days after the uproar caused
by a Vadodara restaurant sell-
ing beef samosas, another
Ahmedabad establishment
found itself in hot water for
serving a non-vegetarian burg-
er to a customer who specifical-
ly ordered a vegetarian option.
Mocha Cafe's Gulbai Tekra
branch is facing accusations
of serving non-vegetarian
food to a customer who specif-
ically ordered a vegetarian
option.
The incident unfolded on
The Special Judge ac-
knowledged the receipt of the
application from Ed and said
it was being “checked and
registered” as per the Special
Public Prosecutor rules since
the agency had sought time to
file the supporting docu-
ments.
Incidentally, like Kejriwal,
who had skipped 9 ED sum-
mons before he was finally ar-
rested by the agency in the
Delhi liquor policy case,
Khan had also ignored six
summons issued by the
agency to him between Janu-
ary 23 and March 4.
Wednesday evening when
four friends - Vitasta Vyas,
Ruchita Shah, Vela Pandya,
and Arjvi Shah - visited the
cafe and ordered a vegetarian
burger. However, upon taking
a bite, they discovered, to
their horror, that the patty
was made of chicken.
"We ordered a veg burger,
but what we received was a
non-vegetarian one," recount-
ed Vitasta Vyas to the media.
"Two of my friends had al-
ready eaten half the burger
before realising it looked like
chicken."

BEST FIGURES IN DECADE

TB treatment success rate up to 86.9% until Dec 2023
ANI / New Delhi
The tuberculosis treatment suc-
cess rate has increased to 86.9
per cent until December 2023,
which is reportedly the highest
in nine years, as per sources.
The Government of India un-
der the leadership of Prime Min-
ister Narendra Modi, is striving
to eliminate TB from the country
by 2025, five years ahead of the
2030 timeline for the achieve-
ment of global sustainable devel-
opment goals related to TB.
According to the sources, how-
ever, there was a marginal in-
crease to 85.5 per cent in 2022.
"Over the last 9 years, despite
one-third of notifications com-
ing from the private sector, the
programme was able to sustain a
treatment success rate of above
80 per cent. In 2021, the success
rate had reached 84 per cent and
in 2022, it marginally increased
to 85.5 per cent," sources told
ANI.
The Union Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare implement-
ed the national TB Elimination
Programme with five objectives,
namely early diagnosis, prompt
treatment with quality drugs, en-
gaging with patients seeking
care in the private sector, pre-
vention strategies including con-
tact tracing in high-risk and vul-
nerable populations, airborne in-
fection control and multi-sec-
toral response for addressing so-
cial determinants.
Under the National Strategic
Plan for TB Elimination, over 1.4
billion people live in more than
800 districts and reporting units
and are responsible for carrying
out the Government of India's
five-year National Strategic
Plans for TB Elimination along
with the States/UTs.
The National Strategic Plan for
TB Elimination was launched to
achieve the target of ending TB
by 2025 in mission mode. It is a
multi-pronged approach that
aims to detect all TB patients,
with an emphasis on reaching
TB patients seeking care from
private providers and undiag-
nosed TB in high-risk popula-
tions.
"The programme has been im-
plementing the four strategic pil-
lars of Detect-Treat-Prevent-
Build (DTPB) of the National
Strategic Plan 2017-2025, which
has led to the scaling up of free,
high sensitivity diagnostic tests
and algorithms and ensuring
free TB drugs for all TB cases,"
said a source with knowledge of
the National Strategic Plan 2017-
2025.
India ranks number 10 in
cybercrime, says study
PTI / New Delhi
India ranked number 10 in
cybercrime, with frauds
involving people to make
advance fee payment being
the most common type, ac-
cording to a new research
that surveyed cybercrime
experts around the world.
An international team
of researchers has com-
piled the 'World Cyber-
crime Index' that ranks
roughly 100 countries and
identifies key hotspots, ac-
cording to various cate-
gories of cybercrime, in-
cluding ransomware, cred-
it card theft and scams.
Russia topped the list,
and was followed by
Ukraine, China, the US,
Nigeria and Romania.
North Korea was at the
seventh position, while the
UK and Brazil were at the
eighth and ninth
positions, respectively, ac-
cording to the research
published in the journal
PLoS ONE.
NATION
PM to address rally in Assam on April 17
GUWAHATI: Prime Minister Narendra
Modi is scheduled to address an election
rally Nalbari on April 17 to campaign for
Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) founder Phani
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024 Bhushan Choudhury, who is contesting
from Barpeta. The seat is currently held by
the Congress’ Abdul Khaleque. Along with
Barpeta, THe AGP has fielded Zaved Islam
from Dhubri. Both seats Muslim majority
constituencies. - Digjyoti Lahkar

BJP tries to
pacify seer
RAJASHEKARA S / BENGALURU
Worried over the decision of
a prominent seer’s announce-
ment to contest the Lok Sab-
ha election as an Independ-
ent, the BJP is attempting to
pacify the religious leader to
reconsider his decision.
The swift move by the BJP
comes a day after the Con-
gress said that they were not
averse to fielding Dingalesh-
wara ‘Swamiji’ as party can-
didate instead of Vinod
Asooti from Dharwad.
Karnataka BJP president
BY Vijayendra said the party
is reaching out to ‘Swamiji’ to
persuade him not to contest.
He said his father and former
chief minister BS Yediyurap-
pa will meet ‘Swamiji’ soon.
“We are confident that the
‘Swamiji will withdraw,’’ he
said. Yediyurappa, who is
considered as undisputed
Lingayat leader, will have his
task cut out if the Lingayat
seer decides to go with the
Congress as the seerwill in-
fluence five other seats:
Haveri, Belgaum, Chikkodi,
Bijapur and Bagalkot.
Demands from wife’s parents for
child support not dowry: HC
ONLINE REPORT
PATNA: A recent Patna
High Court obeservation
stated that a husband’s de-
mand for money from his
wife’s parents to meet the
expenses of raising the
couple’s newborn child
can’t be considered as
dowry harassment.
Justice Bibek Chaud-
huri made the observation
while setting aside a man's
conviction for dowry ha-
rassment, according to Bar
and Bench.
The wife claimed that
three years after their
daughter's birth, her hus-
band and his relatives de-
manded ₹10,000 from her
father to meet expenses of
taking care of the girl and
that she was subjected to
NIA arrests key
Naxal member after
raids in two states
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / GUWAHATI
The National Investigation
Agency arrested an armed
cadre of the Naxal group Peo-
ple's Liberation Front of In-
dia (PLFI), following joint
raids in Jharkhand and As-
sam, an official statement is-
sued on Thursday said.
NIA teams conducted raids
on Wednesday with the help
of local police at two locations
each in Jharkhand and As-
sam, the statement said.
The raids led to the arrest
of one Binod Munda alias
Sukkhwa from the Khunti
district of Jharkhand, ac-
cording to NIA’s statement.
The central probe agency
said that the accused is an
armed cadre of the PLFI, a
splinter Naxal group, and
was wanted in four PLFI cas-
es in Jharkhand.
The statement added that
he had been arrested in a case
related activities to the revive
torture for being unable to
fulfil this demand.
The Court noted that the
main question before it
was whether any demand
for money to support the
maintenance of the cou-
ple's child amounts to a
dowry demand.
It said that the
husband's request was not
linked to marriage, but
was for the maintenance of
their daughter
couldn’t be considered
and
dowry.
The Court also noted
that the couple came from
a community where ex-
penses of newborn chil-
dren are generally borne
by the "Mayka", parental
home of married women,
till the child is six months
old.
PLFI. These included gener-
ating funds through
extortion from various coal
traders, transporters, railway
contractors, and business-
men in Jharkhand, Bihar,
Chhattisgarh and Odisha,
NIA said in its statement
The NIA said thay also
seized a host of
incriminating material, in-
cluding PLFI-related docu-
ments, two walkie-talkies,
five mobile phones, SIM cards
and Rs 11,000 cash during the
searches.
Two accused were
arrested earlier in the case,
along with Rs 3 lakh cash,
arms and ammunition. The
case was registered on Octo-
ber 11, 2023, under relevant
sections of the Unlawful Ac-
tivities (Prevention) Act
against one Martin Kerkatta
and other members of the
PLFI for trying to revive the
outfit after the arrest of its
supremo Dinesh Gope.
DV Act for
all: HC
IANS / NEW DELHI
The Delhi High Court
recently stressed the
universal applicability
of the Protection of
Women from Domestic
Violence Act, 2005, say-
ing that the statute is
designed to provide so-
cial justice to all
women, irrespective of
their religion or socie-
tal status.
Justice Anoop Kumar
Mendiratta made the
observation while dis-
missing a petition filed
by a man and his rela-
tives, challenging a low-
er court's decision to re-
instate a domestic vio-
lence complaint filed by
his wife.
15 Naxals surrender
Minor and two women among cadre who surrendered
PTI / RANCHI
In a major success for
security forces ahead of the
Lok Sabha polls, 15 Maoists,
including a minor and two
women, laid down their arms
in Jharkhand's West Singhb-
hum district on Thursday.
The Naxals belonged to the
squad of wanted red rebel
Misir Besra and were operat-
ing in Saranda, Asia's densest
Sal forest, in Kolhan region in
southern Jharkhand. A sen-
ior police officer told PTI that
Besra, CPI (Maoist) politburo
member, carries a bounty of
Rs. 1 crore.
West Singhbhum is consid-
ered to be one of the worst
left-wing extremist-affected
districts in the country. It had
witnessed 46 Maoist-related
incidents, resulting in 22
deaths last year.
"It is a big achievement and
will contribute significantly
to conducting free and fair
elections in Singhbhum con-
stituency without an element
of fear," West Singhbhum
‘Funds frozen but INDIA is fighting’
DIGJYOTI LAHKAR / GUWAHATI
“We have no money to fight
the upcoming Lok Sabha elec-
tions. We are facing difficul-
ties in supporting our candi-
dates due to the funds crunch.
They (BJP government) have
seized all our accounts,” said
Jairam Ramesh, All India
Congress Committee (AICC)
general secretary, Jhere on
Thursday.
“Despite all obstructions,
India Bloc will be able to put
up a good show in the
election and secure a clear
and convincing majority,”
Ramesh said addressing a
gathering at the Guwahati
Press Club.
“INDI bloc will get a clear
majority of over 272 seats.
All regional parties from the
Northeast will line up to join
the anti-BJP coalition after
the results are out on June
4,” Ramesh promised.
Twelve CPI-Maoist rebels surrender at Chaibasa town in Jharkhand's
West Singhbhum district on Thursday.
Deputy Commissioner
Kuldeep Chaudhary told PTI.
On May 13, many interior
areas in the Maoist affected
regions of the Singhbhum
Lok Sabha seat in Jharkhand
will witness voting for the
first time, or after decades-
long gap.
Polling teams and materi-
als will be air dropped from
“BJP is trying to scare us,
but we are not scared. The
party is scared and that is
why it is trying to scare us,"
Ramesh said.
The Congress leader
claimed that the BJP was
making all-out efforts “to
scuttle the progress of India
Bloc. Our bank accounts have
been frozen and Rs 300 crore
money received through pub-
lic funding has been stolen by
the Prime Minister”.
After a recovery notice was
issued by the Income-Tax de-
- PTI
helicopters to enable people
living in Saranda to exercise
their franchise.
West Singhbhum has been
critical for CPI (Maoist) due to
its proximity to its ERB com-
mand in Kolhan area led by
its central committee mem-
bers Misir Besra, Patiram
Manjhi alias Anal and Asim
Mandal.
partment on February 13,
multiple bank accounts of
the Congress were attached
and frozen as part of a
routine procedure followed
by the I-T department to re-
cover dues. On March 29, the
I-T department issued a fresh
notice to the Congress party
to pay Rs 1,823 crore for dis-
crepancies in tax returns for
previous years. “We are fac-
ing difficulties. The attempt
is to disable us, but we will
not. We will stand on our feet
and fight back," he asserted.
“We are humiliated every
day and such attacks are be-
ing led by Assam chief minis-
ter Himanta Biswa Sarma,”
he alleged. Ramesh said that
the upcoming Lok Sabha elec-
tion is to save democracy, the
Constitution and the
diversity of the country.
“BJP is trying to scare us,
but we are not scared,"
Ramesh said.
IN THE COURTYARD
Delhi HC: No bar on
parties from contesting
municipal polls
New Delhi: The Delhi High The petitioner, Lokesh
Court has said there is no Kumar, unsuccessfully con-
bar under the Constitution tested the 2022 MCD elec-
on political parties, which tion from Green Park as an
are granted recognition by independent candidate and
the State Election Commis- had challenged certain
sion (SEC), from contesting rules of the 2012 MCD
municipal polls. Rules, which grant power
The court has also said to the SEC to recognise na-
the allocation of poll sym- tional and state parties for
bols to political parties by municipal polls and adopt
the SEC for municipal elec- their election symbols.
tions is reasonable and not The court said the SEC,
arbitrary. The court passed in the symbol order of 2022,
an order to this effect while granted recognition to the
dismissing a petition that national and state parties
had sought a direction to already recognised by the
the SEC to stop putting the Election Commission and
reserved symbols for politi- provided for allotment of
cal parties on the list of symbols to the contesting
contesting candidates. candidates.
HC dismisses CPI(M) leader's plea
against Cong leader’s poll win
Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Thursday rejected
CPI(M) leader M Swaraj's plea seeking invalidation of the
election of Congress leader and former Kerala minister K
Babu from the Thrippunithura seat in the 2021 assembly
polls. In the petition, Swaraj had accused Babu and other
Congress workers of canvassing votes in the name of
Lord Ayyappa. As a result, the election was vitiated by
corrupt practices under several provisions of The Repre-
sentation of the People Act.
SC to hear plea on Lyngdoh panel report
New Delhi: The Supreme Court will hear a plea challeng-
ing a recommendation by the Lyngdoh Committee on stu-
dent union elections on July 23. The plea came up for
hearing on Wednesday before a bench of Justices Surya
Kant and K V Viswanathan. The top court is hearing a
plea filed by Uttarakhand resident Naveen Prakash Nau-
tiyal and others against recommendation 6.5.6 of the Lyn-
gdoh Committee.
SC stays warrant against cleric in
2010 Bareilly riots case
New Delhi: In a relief to prominent Muslim cleric,
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, the Supreme Court has
granted an interim stay on the execution of the non-bail-
able warrant issued against him in the 2010 Bareilly com-
munal riots case. The top court was hearing an appeal
filed by the cleric against the March 19 order of the Alla-
habad High Court. The Uttar Pradesh government had
told the high court that Khan was "the mastermind of
communal riots.”

FROM FRONT PAGE
JAIL GAURANTEE V/S ...
Lalu’s daughter Misa made it clear at the
outset that her angst stems from allegations
against her family, that they have taken land
plots and in turn provided jobs to the
unemployed. Going off the tangent, possibly
to put the ruling party on defensive, she
declared, “Allegations are made against our
family that we have taken land plots in lieu
of jobs. I want to ask the Prime Minister
about ED-CBI raids, which were conducted to
force companies to purchase electoral bonds.
Even the Supreme Court is asking, why the
PM is silent on election bonds? If INDIA
forms a government at the Centre, Modi and
other BJP leaders will be put in jail.”
Misa’s brother and former deputy chief
minister Tejashwi Yadav, sensing that he was
stepping into a political minefield, avoided
giving a direct reply and merely stated, “Let
us talk about issues, as there is no meaning
in discussing who said what. Work should be
done. When the Prime Minister visits Bihar,
he should tell what he will do for the state
for the next five years.”
Hitting back at Misa for her ‘unsavoury’
remarks against the PM, deputy chief
minister and senior BJP leader Vijay Kumar
Sinha said that people would know who
would go to jail after the polls were over.
“Lalu’s family used to stay in a peon’s
quarters and now owns a farmhouse and a
shopping mall. They should explain how they
have created such huge property,” he added.
On the other hand, BJP’s in charge of Bihar
and party general secretary Vinod Tawde
asserted that Bharti’s statement was
reflective of the new low in Bihar political
discourse. Instead of speaking on issues, the
(opposition) leaders are making objectionable
remarks against the PM and even talking
about putting him in jail, he added.
Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad
cautioned Misa against making “irresponsible
and shameful” statements and also reminded
her of corruption cases in which she and her
family members were accused. Lok Janshakti
Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan alleged
that Misa’s comment against the PM reeked
of the RJD’s vendetta politics. “It is an open
secret that RJD leaders are involved in
corruption,” he charged.
Rang De Mohe Gerua...
However, not everyone is supportive of the
decision. Former SP minister Manoj Rai
criticized the move, dubbing it as
disrespectful to religious sentiments and
urging the intervention of the Election
Commission to prevent such experiments
during election periods.
Rai emphasized that saffron attire has a
different import and is associated with saints
and sages, cautioning against its
politicization.
On the first day after directive, a few
policemen were seen attired in saffron
manning the sanctum sanctorum of the
temple while a few others were there in a
khaki dress. It was not clear whether the
policemen in saffron had undertaken the
proposed training.
The controversy surrounding the deployment
of police in saffron attire underscores the
delicate balance between religious
symbolism, public perception, and law
enforcement duties, with stakeholders
urging a reconsideration of the decision
amid ongoing discussions.
Vietnamese tycoon...
saying Lan was at the helm of an
orchestrated and sophisticated criminal
enterprise that had serious consequences
with no possibility of the money being
recovered.
Her actions “not only violate the property
management rights of individuals and
organizations but also push SCB (Saigon Joint
Stock Commercial Bank) into a state of special
control; eroding people's trust in the
leadership of the Party and State,” the
judgement was cited as saying.
Lan's arrest in October 2022 was among the
most high-profile in an ongoing anti-
corruption drive in Vietnam that has
intensified since 2022.
It’s the scale of Lan's loot that has shocked
the nation. Her company was among
Vietnam's richest real estate firms, with
projects including luxury residential buildings,
offices, hotels and shopping centres.
Incidentally, Lan started as a market stall
vendor, selling cosmetics with her mother, but
began buying land and property after the
Communist Party ushered in a period of
economic reform in 1986. By the 1990s, she
owned a large portfolio of hotels and
restaurants, reports BBC.
Analysts said the scale of the scam raised
questions about whether other banks or
businesses had similarly erred, dampening
Vietnam's economic outlook and making
foreign investors jittery at a time when
Vietnam has been trying to position itself as
the ideal home for businesses trying to pivot
their supply chains away from China.
Drunk driver at wheel
According to a preliminary report, the driver
happened to be drunk; he tried to overtake
another vehicle but lost control and the bus
overturned. He allegedly jumped out of the bus
just before it rammed into a tree. He has been
taken into custody along with the principal and
the secretary of the trust that runs the school.
Even though passersby rushed to the spot and
took out the injured children and rushed them
to the nearby hospital, some of them were
declared brought dead and some were found to
be grievously injured.
The school was open despite it being a holiday
on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. The police said it
was shocked to note that the bus fitness
certificate had expired six years ago. The six
children succumbed to their injuries in the
hospital and the condition of at least two more
was critical.
Even though eyewitnesses held that the driver
was drunk, the police said his medical
examination was underway.
Woman to pay Rs10k...
“As the husband is unable to maintain himself,
the wife, who has a source of income, is liable
to pay interim maintenance,” the judge said.
The HC dismissed the woman’s petition
challenging the order of the family court
passed in March 2020, directing her to pay
monthly maintenance of Rs 10,000 to her
former husband. The family court had granted
the couple divorce and allowed the man’s
application seeking maintenance. He had
claimed that due to certain medical ailments,
he was unable to work and hence, was
entitled to maintenance from his ex-wife, who
was employed as a bank manager.
The woman challenged the order before the
HC, contending that she had resigned from her
job in 2019 at the time when the family court
passed its order, and hence, had no source of
income. She had also claimed that she was
bearing the liability of the repayment of a
home loan, as well as caring for their minor
child.
The HC noted that in such a case, it was
necessary for the woman to have disclosed
how she was taking care of the expenses,
without a job. Also, presently, the woman has
not disputed that she is earning.
Opposing her plea, the man said that the
woman had not submitted any documentary
evidence to show that she was without a job.
He claimed that due to medical ailments, he
was not in a position to earn and sustain
himself.
DM’s nod needed to...
“We’ve observed a lapse in adhering to the
prescribed procedure for applications seeking
permission for Hinduism to Buddhism
conversions. Furthermore, we’ve received
feedback from applicants and autonomous
bodies suggesting that prior permission is
unnecessary for such religious conversions,”
the notification said.
The relevant Act was introduced by the
government with the aim of curbing religious
conversions achieved through methods such as
allurement, coercion, misrepresentation, or any
other fraudulent means. In an amendment
introduced in 2021, the Act was revised to
explicitly prohibit forced religious conversions
through marriage. The Act includes stringent
penalties, with offenders facing a maximum
sentence of up to 10 years in prison and fines
reaching up to Rs 5 lakh. Notably, the burden
of proof rests on the accused, and
investigations into such matters are to be
conducted by officers holding the rank of
deputy superintendent of police or higher.
However, the amended Act has faced legal
challenges, with its validity currently being
contested before the Gujarat High Court.
FROM 2ND FRONT PAGE
Credible proof of desire...
The court, however, decided to take a closer
look into whether the religious conversion
was voluntary or simply undertaken to
overcome legal hurdles or under pressure.
It, therefore, granted time to the State
counsel to verify whether the religious
conversion was only undertaken for the sake
of marriage or not.
The matter will be heard next on May 6.
Advocate Chandra Prakash Singh appeared
for applicants (including the accused man).
Additional Government Advocate SD Pandey
appeared for the State.
Hospitals are reneging on..
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi and advocate
B Vijayalakshmi Menon appeared for the
society. The bench proceeded to issued limited
notice to the Attorney General in the matter
and listed it for further consideration on April
17, after noting that the issue has large
ramifications.
"But can you challenge a policy like this? You
see, for example health care rates in northeast
are very affordable and it will get
affected,"Justice Dhulia remarked during the
course of the hearing.
PM Modi’s boast sets cat...
assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in
New York and Indian fingerprints were
discernible in the death of Hardeep Singh
Nijjar, shot outside a gurudwara in June last
year in Canada.
Addressing an election rally in Rishikesh on
Thursday, Modi said the echoes of 'Phir Ek Baar
Modi Sarkar' (Modi government once again)
were being heard across the country as people
have seen the benefits of a stable government.
“Enemies took advantage and terrorism spread
whenever there were weak and unstable
governments in the country. But under a strong
Modi government, our forces are killing
terrorists on their own turf," he said.
In 2023, India-Canada relations nosedived
when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
had said authorities were "actively pursuing
credible allegations" linking New Delhi's agents
to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader, an
assertion India quickly dismissed as "absurd".
Foreign policy experts say that for the Prime
Minister to resort to such statements was
“penny wise and pound foolish”.
SBI parries RTI on...
The bank denied the information citing two
exemption clauses given under the Right to
Information (RTI) Act -- section 8(1)(e) that is
related to records held in a fiduciary capacity
and section 8(1)(j) that allows withholding
personal information.
"Information sought by you is containing
details of purchasers and political parties
and hence, cannot be disclosed as it is held
in fiduciary capacity disclosure of which is
exempted under sections 8(1)(e) and (j) of
the RTI Act," was the response furnished by
the central public information officer and
deputy general manager of the SBI.
Batra had also sought the details of the fees
paid by the SBI to senior advocate Harish
Salve to defend its case against the
disclosure of the electoral bonds' records,
citing that the records are held in a fiduciary
capacity and the information is personal in
nature.
It is "bizzare" that the SBI denied the
information that is already on the EC's
website, Batra told PTI.
On the question of Salve's fee, he said the
bank has denied information that involves
taxpayers' money.
The EC published the data furnished by the
SBI on its website on March 14, with the
details of the donors and political parties
that redeemed the bonds.
On March 15, the apex court pulled up the
SBI for not furnishing the complete
information by withholding the numbers
unique to each electoral bond that would
help match the donors with the recipient
political parties, saying the bank was "duty-
bound" to reveal the information.
A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice D
Y Chandrachud said it had directed the
disclosure of all the details of the bonds,
including the names of the purchasers,
amounts and dates of purchase.
All details have to be furnished by the SBI,
the CJI observed, as the court admonished
the bank for furnishing incomplete
information, a day after the EC put out the
entire list of entities that purchased the
bonds for making political donations.
The SBI had said a total of 22,217 electoral
bonds of varying denominations were
purchased by the donors between April 1,
2019 and February 15 this year, of which
22,030 were redeemed by political parties.
Centre fires Kejriwal’s PA
The action comes two days after the
Directorate of Enforcement (ED) questioned
Bibhav Kumar, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)
MLA, Durgesh Pathak in a money laundering
probe related to irregularities in the Delhi
Excise Policy 2021-22 case.
ED investigators questioned Bibhav on
Monday soon after he deposed before them
in the morning, while Pathak's questioning
began when he reached the agency office in
the afternoon following summons issued
against them separately.
Earlier in February, the ED also questioned
Bibhav and recorded his statements in
connection with the case under the
provisions of the Prevention of Money
Laundering Act (PMLA).
Bibhav now plans to move the Central
Administrative Tribunal (CAT) against his
termination from services by the Directorate
of Vigilance (DoV), the Aam Aadmi Party
(AAP) legal team said on Thursday.
BJP leaders on Thursday said the removal of
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's private
secretary from his post by the Vigilance
Directorate was an administrative decision
that will pave the way for a probe into the
alleged excise policy scam.
The anti-corruption stand and high moral
ground claimed by the AAP and its leaders
like Kejriwal have fallen flat with Kumar's
removal, Delhi BJP secretary Harish Khurana
said.
SC frowns at social media...
Such conduct needs to be taken up
extremely seriously when parties attempt to
interfere with pending proceedings and
prejudice the administration of justice, the
Court emphasised.
The main dispute between Barbhuiya and
Laskar is rooted in the 2021 election of
Barbhuiya from the Sonai Legislative
Assembly constituency. Laskar, then part of
the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), had lost to
him in that election.
Later, based on information obtained under
the Right to Information Act (RTI Act), Laskar
filed an election petition challenging
Barbhuiya's election.
The plea alleged discrepancies in the
educational qualifications stated in the
AIUDF leader's election affidavit.
Barbhuiya was said to have submitted in an
election affidavit that he graduated from the
Choudhury Charan Singh University in
Meerut in 2019. However, the State
education board stated that there was no
record of him having passed the class 12
examination. The Election Commission still
let him contest the polls.
Laskar later moved the High Court with an
election petition challenging the move.
On April 26 last year, the Gauhati High Court
rejected Barbhuiya's application to dismiss
Laskar's election petition, prompting the
AIUDF leader to approach the top court for
relief. The court issued notice in the matter
in May 2023, staying the High Court
proceedings.
On April 8 this year, it ruled in Barbhuiya's
favour, on finding that the allegations
against him were bald and vague.
However, Laskar then drew the Court's
attention to the Facebook post made by
Barbhuiya even before the judgment was
pronounced.
In the said March 20 post, the AIUDF leader
is reported to have prematurely claimed that
the Supreme Court had ruled in his favour.
The said post added that all attempts to
defame him (Barbhuiya) had "fallen flat" and
that he was right all along, the Court was
told.
Taking exception to such conduct, the
Supreme Court opined that Barbhuiya
appears to have attempted to interfere with
pending case proceedings and the
administration of justice and issued notice in
Laskar's contempt plea against the AIUDF
leader and posted the matter for further
hearing after four weeks.
OJ, ex-NFL star acquitted...
Imprisoned at 61, Simpson served nine years
in a Nevada prison before being granted
parole in 2017. Following his release, he
retreated to Florida, where he pursued a
quiet life, often seen on the golf course.
In a controversial turn of events, Simpson
published the book ‘If I Did It’ in 2006,
where he hypothetically detailed how he
would have committed the murders. The
victims' family members expressed
frustration in their attempts to recover
damages from him.
CBI arrests Kavitha
The CBI is probing the conspiracy aspect of
the case, in which Delhi chief minister
Arvind Kejriwal, former deputy CM Manish
Sisodia and senior Aam Aadmi Party leader
Sanjay Singh were also arrested in the past.
The case of the investigating agencies is that
she was part of the “South Group” lobby of
liquor traders from which Rs 100 crores was
demanded in kickbacks. It was also alleged
that Rs 45 crore out of this was spent by
AAP on the February 2022 Goa Assembly
elections.
During her current stay in Tihar Jail, the CBI
had taken permission from a Delhi court to
examine Kavita in judicial custody. She was
accordingly questioned on April 6 regarding
the WhatsApp chat details recovered from
the phone of a co-accused Buchi Babu and
about documents pertaining to a land deal.
According to the CBI, it had recorded
Kavitha’s statement and got some vital leads
through it. Her questioning, according to CBI
officials, revealed that one of the accused in
the case, Vijay Nair, who was also the
Communications in-charge of AAP, had
allegedly received kickbacks to the tune of at
least Rs 100 crore from the South Group
controlled by Aurobindo Pharma director
Sarath Reddy, Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy
and Kavitha on behalf of AAP leaders.
Incidentally, AAP has all along maintained
that the case is politically motivated and in
their initial statements both Sarath Reddy
and Magunta Reddy had not named any of
their leaders, including Kejriwal, and that
they only did so later under duress.
Kavitha, who has now been arrested by the
CBI under sections pertaining to criminal
conspiracy and falsification of accounts of
the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of
Corruption Act, is now likely to be taken by
the CBI to its lockup at its headquarters on
Friday.
GOA
Friday April
log on to thegoan.net
22 structures in Sangolda
to be demolished today
STRONG POLICE FORCE DEPUTED TO TACKLE LAW & ORDER
THE GOAN I NETWORK
PORVORIM
The Administrator of Comu-
nidades (North) is set to de-
molish 22 structures on Comu-
nidade property in Sangolda
on Friday in accordance with
High Court directives and will
submit a compliance report by
April 25.
The order of the High Court
also directs the Executive En-
gineer, Work Division-XIII,
PWD, Mapusa-Goa to provide
necessary cooperation to the
Deputy Collector and other
agencies in effectively carry-
ing out the demolition.
“Failing to comply with the
said order, the departments
concerned will have to face
contempt proceedings says
the order,” stated an order is-
sued by Deputy Collector and
SDM Bhagwant Karmali, who
is also Incharge of the Demoli-
tion Squad, North Goa.
The deputy collector has
IN SHORT >>
Infant succumbs in
Usgao road mishap
PONDA: A 6-month-old baby
succumbed to injuries at the
Goa Medical College Hospital
at Bambolim, following a
mishap between a passen-
ger bus and a car at Usgao
on Wednesday evening.
According to sources, there
was a delay in arranging a
108 ambulance to admit the
infant to GMC. 
Tourist held in fatal
hit, run mishap
MAPUSA: Colvale police
arrested a tourist from Jam-
shedpur in connection with
a hit and run incident which
claimed the life of a pedestri-
an near Sirsaim panchayat.
The rent-a-car has also been
seized. 
6 students killed in
Haryana mishap
CHANDIGARH: Six schoolchil-
dren were killed and around
20 were hurt after a bus
carrying them overturned in
Haryana on Thursday.
WEATHER >>
Max: 34 C
Min: 25 C
Humidity: 86%
TIDES
Low: 06:58 19:28
High: 00:17 13:57
FROM PARENTAL MEDDLING TO EGO CLASHES
Surge in marital disputes takes Goa by storm to wrest South Goa seat
THE GOAN I NETWORK
IT TAKES TWO TO TANGO, BUT…
PANAJI
A
woman who frequent-
ly savoured authentic
Goan pav-bhaji at a local
restaurant every Sunday found
herself unable to do so one
particular Sunday as guests
were scheduled to arrive at her
in-laws place.
She agreed to make up for
it by going out the following
Sunday on being convinced by
her husband. However, what
unfolded next escalated into a
major dispute.
She shared her plans with
her mother over the phone,
and news of the arrangement
reached her father, who was 5
kms away from her in-laws res-
idence. Shortly he arrived with
a parcel of the Goan pav-bhaji
MONDAY | AUGUST
29, 2022
12, 2024
@thegoanonline
Some of the houses which face demolitions in Sangolda.
granted the demolition squad
to the Administrator of Comu-
nidades North Zone, on Friday
at 9.30 am onwards to demol-
ish the 22 structures in Survey
81/1 of Sangolda.
The Superintendent of Po-
lice, North has also been di-
rected to depute 100 armed
police including 25 lady police
constables and IRB personnel
on Friday at 9.30 am.
The Dy Collector will also
depute the Executive Magis-
trate/Mamlatdar to effectively
AUSPICIOUS DAY: Muslims offer prayers at Jama Masjid Panjim on the occasion of Eid-Ul-
Fitr on Thursday. The occasion marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and is a
time of joyous celebration. 
No more Rest Houses, election
babus to stay at Utorda resort
THE GOAN I NETWORK
MARGAO
Goan hospitality is
second to none, so goes the
saying. When the all wom-
en team of Election Observ-
ers descend in South Goa to
oversee the May 7 Lok Sab-
ha polls, be rest assured that
Task cut out for BJP, Cong
„„An average of 12-15
marital disputes reported
every month
„„Several cases presently
pending in courts
„„Women’s Commission
also grappling with a
multitude of cases
„„Cases relate to disputes
between couples fuelled
by ego clashes, parental
meddling and lack of
family values
for his daughter.
This is just one instance
of parental interference in
marriages that reached the
doors of the Court for final
Facebook.com/thegoan
carry out the demolition and
also to take care of law and or-
der problems.
The Executive Engineer,
Work Division-XIII, PWD, Ma-
pusa has also been directed
to assess the requirement of
manpower and machinery
in advance and provide re-
quired/sufficient demolition
squad to demolish the illegal
constructions.
The departments have also
been directed to disconnect
electricity and water connec-
Narayan Pissurlenkar
the district election officials
will play a perfect host to
the officials.
The South Goa election au-
thorities during the 2022 As-
sembly election had depart-
ed from the norm of putting
up Election Observers at the
government Rest House or at
Mormugao Port Authority’s
„„Disputes with neigh-
bours second most
prevalent category
„„Every week around four
settlement.
While there are matters in
the Court, Goa State Women’s
Commission is also currently
grappling with a multitude of
The Goan E-Paper (Playstore/IOS)
tions to the houses earmarked
for demolition.
The deputy collector also
made it clear that if the dem-
olition is not completed with-
in a day, the demolition shall
be continued on next day, the
authorities/agencies should
co-ordinate among and com-
plete the demolition.
It may be noted that the Ad-
ministrator of Comunidades,
North Zone, could not carry
out the demolition of 22 hous-
es located in Survey 81/1 of
Sangolda on February 27 as
the Demolition Squad did not
report at the site.
The High Court of Bombay
at Goa in an order dated Feb-
ruary 6, 2024 had dismissed
the petition of the owners of
22 houses seeking extensions,
after noting that the appli-
cants kept on applying for
extensions and once the ex-
tensions were finally refused,
they refuse to comply with
their undertakings.
guest house or Goa Tourism
Development Corporation’s
Residency located along the
coastal belt.
In fact, if the Election Ob-
servers for the 20 Assembly
constituencies were put up
at starred hotel at Arossim
read more on thegoan.net
couples land up at the
Women’s Commission for
counselling
„„An average of one out of
every 15 cases reaches the
courts
FACT FILE: Govt had last
year disclosed that around
1,200 divorce cases were
registered from 2020 to
June 2023, with the first
half of 2023 witnessing a
peak of 254 divorces
cases involving disputes be-
tween couples fuelled by ego
clashes, parental meddling,
and lack of family values.
The Commission has re-
Instagram.com/thegoanonline
Officials pulled
up over ‘excuses’
PORVORIM: The High Court
has pulled up officials over
excuses for non-compliance
of demolition of structures
at Sangolda and said the
excuse of Code of Conduct,
which was diffidently
made, cannot be allowed to
prevail.
Justices M S Sonak and
Valmiki Menezes made their
observations following an
application for an extension
of time filed by the Deputy
Collector, who was directed
to remove encroachments
on Comunidade property
and file compliance report
along with photographs.
read more on thegoan.net
NCB sleuths nab
UK national for
growing cannabis
THE GOAN I NETWORK
PANAJI
A British national named Ja-
son I was on Thursday arrest-
ed by the Narcotics Control
Bureau (NCB) Goa for illicit
cannabis cultivation at his
residence in Socorro.
The arrest ensued following
a tip-off regarding the culti-
vation of cannabis concealed
among other plants to evade
detection.
Additional Director of NCB
Goa Amit Ghawate informed
media that the search yielded
33 newly cultivated cannabis
plants, along with 10 grams
of Ganja and illicit proceeds
amounting to Rs 40,000.
“The cannabis plants were
grown in flower pots along
with other plants to avoid de-
tection, and kept on the ter-
race at his residence. All these
are seized and will be sent for
forensic analysis,” he said.
Jason was previously arrest-
ed by the NCB Goa on Novem-
ber 28, 2022, during which the
NCB sleuths found 107 Ecsta-
sy tablets, 40 gms of MDMA
powder, and 55 gms of Charas
in his possession, which were
subsequently seized for inves-
tigation purposes.
The accused was on bail
when the NCB arrested him
for the second time in the
present case.
corded a high number of cases
concerning marital discord
compared to other types of
disputes filed with them, with
the second most prevalent
category being disputes with
neighbours, those resulting
in the violation of women’s
dignity.
Commission Chairperson
Ranjit Pai has conceded
the rise in such cases, with
an average of 12-15 marital
disputes being reported each
month. “While we endeavour
to mediate and reconcile the
parties involved, in some in-
stances, one or both spouses
are determined to take legal
recourse through a divorce,”
she explained speaking to The
Goan.
read more on thegoan.net
Minor mishap takes violent
turn, cop brutally thrashed
Two arrested after high-speed chase by 5
police vehicles, two others on the run
THE GOAN I NETWORK
PANAJI
In a scene straight out of a
movie, a gang, who fled after
brutally assaulting a newly
recruited constable, found
themselves chased by five po-
lice vehicles over a distance of
about 80 kms.
What started as a minor
accident between two cars in
Mapusa took a violent turn,
with the assailants leaving
no opportunity to thrash one
of the three constables in the
other car. Two of those ac-
cused have been arrested, one
of whom also faces a murder
charge while two others are on
the run.
The incident took place dur-
ing the early hours of Thurs-
day when one group of men
verbally abused and physi-
cally attacked the occupants
of the other vehicle, including
three off-duty policemen.
The police have shared only
the basic details with the me-
dia as North Goa Superinten-
dent of Police Akshat Kau-
NRIs who invested in flats
stuck for resale over rules
Sub-registrars refuse to register resale for lack
of NOC from DMU panel at time of purchase
THE GOAN I NETWORK
PANAJI
Non-resident Indians and for-
eign nationals holding Over-
seas Citizen of India (OCI)
cards who purchased apart-
ments (flats) in Goa in the
2013-18 five-year period are
caught in a bind: they are una-
ble to sell as officials are refus-
ing to endorse the deals citing
the lack of an NOC from the
Debt Management Unit (DMU)
Committee set up by the State
government on the prompting
of the Reserve Bank of India.
Sub-registrars are refus-
ing to register second sales of
such apartments pointing out
the lacunae that at the time
of their purchase, although
the incumbent then, had en-
dorsed the deal between the
real estate developer and
the NRI buyers without the
NOC from the DMU panel.
One such Goan native, now a
Singaporean National, stuck
with an apartment flat he
purchased in 2015 from prom-
inent Goan real estate com-
pany Models Construction,
has now knocked the doors of
THE GOAN I NETWORK
MARGAO
Bharatiya Janata Party’s Mission
Salcete seemed loud and clear –
go all out in the minority domi-
nated Salcete to try and reduce
the vote margin of rival Congress
in the taluka with eight Assem-
bly segments at stake.
What’s Congress’ agenda in
the eight Assembly segments
in the hinterland talukas of
South Goa constituency, in-
cluding Madkai and Sanvor-
dem – retain and improve its
vote lead in Salcete and stop
BJP’s free run in the hinter-
land segments.
Well, results of the 2014 Lok
Sabha polls and the 2019 elec-
tion provide an insight as well
as a clear message to the two
EARLY MORNING ROAD RAGE
„„Incident took place during the early hours of Thursday
after a minor accident
„„One group of men verbally abuse, physically attack occu-
pants of other vehicle, including three off-duty policemen
„„Verbal spat and physical altercation take violent turn
wherein the cop was verbally abused, brutally assaulted
and threatened
„„Assailants attempt to flee after the attack
„„PCR vans from Mapusa and Bicholim were called in to
chase the car
„„Accused drive nearly 80 kilometers before being inter-
cepted around 3:30 am, arrested
shal stated that the incident Initially, there was a verbal
occurred around 1:45 am. spat and physical altercation
The police records mention between Tirke and Joodi. Tirke
that Pavan Tirke and Jovit then called his accomplices
Coutinho were traveling in a Raj and Elrich Fernandes to
black Skoda Octavia (regis- the scene. Subsequently, there
tration No. GA-03-H-0569) was a violent clash wherein
from Mapusa towards Aldo- Joodi was verbally abused,
na via Alankar Theater when assaulted brutally and threat-
the car collided with a Maruti ened by the accused.
Baleno GA-03-Z-7133 driven by SP Kaushal stated that
Mallesh Joodi, accompanied both Coutinho and Fernandes
by Mahesh Dalvi, Tejas Gurav,
and Sharad Bhatkande. read more on thegoan.net
REGULATORY TANGLE
„„NRIs, OCIs who purchased flats in Goa in 2013-18 five-
year period unable to sell
„„Officials refusing to endorse deals citing lack of NOC from
Debt Management Unit Committee
„„Sub-registrars refusing to register second sales of such
apartments pointing out lacunae that at the time of their
purchase
„„One such Goan native, now a Singaporean National, is
stuck with an flat he purchased in 2015
Law Minister Aleixo Sequeira, saying the then Sub-Registrar
seeking a solution to his pre- improperly registered my pur-
dicament. chase of the apartment from
Elston Soares, a journal-
ist formerly in Goa but now a
Singaporean national based
Models Developer in 2015,”
Soares wrote in his letter to
Sequeira.
there, has requested Sequeira According to Soares, the
to use his offices to find a res- Tiswadi sub-registrar Rishwa
olution to his predicament af- Prabhu contends that apart-
ter he got stuck in the bureau- ments in Goa bought or sold
cratic red-tape of the process by OCIs/NRIs between 2013
to register the sale of his flat to
a buyer he found,
and 2018 needed a NOC from
the DMU, or Debt Manage-
“I have been trying to sell ment Committee, set up by the
my apartment in Taleigao, State government under guid-
Goa for the past few months. ance from the Reserve Bank of
I have found a buyer for my India.
apartment. Still, I cannot sell “I bought my apartment in
it as the Sub-Registrar has
declined to register the deal, read more on thegoan.net
political arch rivals – either Madkai and Sanvordem.
perform exceptionally well in In fact, the results of the 2014
their respective strongholds and 2019 Lok Sabha polls hold
and work hard to reduce the a lesson or two for the Congress
vote margin in the enemy ter- and the BJP as the two parties
ritory or perish. have descended on the ground
In fact, the Lotus had for the May 7 election.
bloomed in South Goa in the A glance at the 2014 poll
2014 Lok Sabha polls when statistics shows that the Con-
the party had a virtual free run gress candidate Reginaldo
in the hinterland Assembly Lourenco had lost the seat
segments coupled with the by a whopping 32,330 votes
fact that the party had man- to BJP’s Narendra Sawaikar
aged to reduce the Congress’ despite the fact that minority
vote lead in Salcete. Salcete had rallied behind the
The 2019 Lok Sabha polls Congress by giving the party
saw exactly the opposite. Not an unassailable 31,527 vote
only the Congress wrested lead over the BJP.
the seat from the BJP after the These statistics may throw
party increased its vote lead in up a question or two – how
Salcete, but effectively reduced come the Congress failed to
BJP’s free run in the eight hin-
terland segments, including read more on thegoan.net
GUJARAT
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
SURAT BUSINESSES AIM TO
TAP INTO CHICAGO MARKETS
MELVYN THOMAS / SURAT
Surat's food processors, farm-
ers, and textile entrepreneurs
are poised to tap into a mas-
sive export market in Chica-
go, US. The opportunity
comes courtesy of the South-
ern Gujarat Chamber of
Commerce and Industry
(SGCCI) and their recent
Global Connect Mission 84.
"The food processing units,
farmers, textile entrepre-
neurs etc. have a huge export
market in Chicago," said
Ramesh Vaghasia, president
of SGCCI. "Thanks to the
SGCCI, business tycoons and
entrepreneurs from Gujarat
and other parts of India resid-
ing in Chicago have shown
their interest in importing
products from Surat and
south Gujarat."
As part of Mission 84, a del-
egation led by Vaghasia visit-
ed Chicago to connect with lo-
cal businessmen and explore
the potential for importing
products from Surat and
South Gujarat. Their efforts
yielded promising results.
Cong’s Ahmedabad East
LS candidate joins BJP
MELVYN THOMAS / SURAT
Rohan Gupta, a prominent
figure within the Congress
party and the slated
candidate for the Ahmedabad
East Lok Sabha seat, has
made a startling defection to
the Bharatiya Janata Party
(BJP). Gupta's transition
marks a dramatic turn in Gu-
jarat's political landscape, de-
picting the fluidity of al-
liances and the intricacies of
individual motivations with-
in the realm of Indian poli-
tics.
Initially named among the
seven candidates announced
by the Congress for the Gu-
jarat Lok Sabha elections on
March 12, Rohan Gupta's
journey took an unexpected
twist as he opted out of the
electoral race citing personal
reasons. Gupta's decision to
withdraw from the contest
was attributed to his father's
ailing health, a factor that he
reiterated upon his resigna-
tion from the Congress party.
Vadodara beef
supplier arrested
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / VADODARA
Vadodara City Police have ar-
rested Fardeen Mohammed,
the supplier of cow beef al-
legedly used in samosas sold
at the popular Hussaini
Samosa Centre. This brings
the total number of arrests in
the case to eight.
Fardeen, a resident of
Bhalej in Anand district, is
Imran Yusuf Qureshi’s busi-
ness partner, who was previ-
ously apprehended on April 8
for supplying the meat to the
samosa shop owners Yusuf
Sheikh and Naeem Sheikh.
Fardeen was apprehended
in Anand on Tuesday in a
joint operation between the-
Vadodara police, SOG
(Special Operations Group),
and officials from the Vado-
dara Municipal Corporation's
health and food department.
The investigation is under-
way, with authorities looking
into the possibility of similar
beef samosas being sold at
franchise outlets of Hussaini
Samosa Centre in other cities.
Unseasonal rain to provide
respite from scorching heat Pipavav-Mumbai ferry service plans underway
FPJ NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD
While Gujarat swelters under
the rising mercury, there's
some respite on the horizon.
The India Meteorological De-
partment (IMD) has predicted
unseasonal rains and thun-
dershowers in parts of North
Gujarat, South Gujarat, and
Saurashtra-Kutch over the
next 48 hours.
This unseasonal rain, po-
tentially accompanied by
lightning, is a welcome
change from the relentless
heatwave. The maximum
temperature in most districts
is expected to drop by 2-3 de-
grees over the next three
The SGCCI delegation met
with Chicago businessman
Rashid Aziz, urging him to
connect Surat and South Gu-
jarat entrepreneurs with po-
tential Chicago partners.
Another crucial meeting
involved Mafatbhai Patel,
owner of over 65 grocery
stores across the US, who of-
fered his full cooperation in
connecting businesses.
"They import mangoes,
pulp, namkeen, and various
After a hiatus of 25 days fol-
lowing his departure from the
Congress ranks, Rohan
Gupta resurfaced in the polit-
ical arena, this time on the
BJP's side. In a ceremony held
in New Delhi on Thursday,
Gupta officially joined the
BJP amidst the presence of
National General Secretary
Vinod Tawde and Union Min-
ister Hardeep Singh Puri. His
defection was accompanied
by allegations of humiliation
and character assassination
by his former colleagues
Additionally, the police are ex-
ploring the involvement of
other individuals within
Vadodara who might have
been part of the meat supply
chain.
On Saturday last, the Local
Crime Branch of Vadodara
City Zone 4 raided Hussaini
Samosa's Chhipwad outlet,
seizing a significant amount
of evidence. This included 113
kg of cow beef and 152 kg of
filling used in the samosa
preparation. Six individuals,
including the shop owners
Yusuf Sheikh and Naeem
Sheikh, along with employees
Hanif Bhathiyara, Dilawar
Pathan, Moin Habdal, and
Mobin Shaikh, were arrested
at that time.
This latest arrest signifies
the Vadodara police's contin-
ued efforts to investigate and
dismantle the alleged opera-
tion behind the sale of cow
beef samosas at Hussaini
Samosa Centre. The investi-
gation's scope may widen to
encompass potential fran-
chise violations.
days. Notably, Wednesday
saw the peak in temperature,
and cloudy skies are already
offering some relief.
The IMD's five-day forecast
predicts dry weather for the
next 48 hours across the state.
However, rain with thunder is
a possibility afterwards in
various districts. During this
initial period, cloudy weather
is expected, particularly in
Ahmedabad and
surrounding areas.
A western disturbance cur-
rently impacting Rajasthan
and surrounding areas in
North India is responsible for
the upcoming change. It will
bring partly cloudy skies
with chances of rain in some
foods from Bardoli in Surat
district," Vaghasia said. "This
presents a golden
opportunity for South Gu-
jarat's food processing indus-
tries to export directly to
Patel Brothers." Patel Broth-
ers, he explained, acts as a
gateway for Surat entrepre-
neurs into the Chicago mar-
ket.
The delegation also met
with leading Chicago busi-
nessmen like Haribhai Bhen-
within the Congress party.
Rohan Gupta's trajectory
within the Congress party is
noteworthy, having held posi-
tions of prominence such as
the Chairperson of Social
Media and Digital Platforms
before being elevated to the
role of national-level
spokesperson. However, his
tenure was marred by inter-
nal strife and perceived
slights, culminating in his de-
cision to sever ties with the
Congress and embrace the
BJP fold.
Surat’s Muslims celebrate
Eid with delectable delights
FPJ NEWS SERVICE
GANDHINAGAR
"Surat Nu Jaman, Ane Kashi
Nu Maran" (Eat in Surat and
die in Kashi). This proverb
perfectly captured the spirit
of Eid al-Fitr in the city's
walled areas and Rander
town, where Muslims cele-
brated with a delightful indul-
gence in traditional Surti del-
icacies.
Following the holy month
of Ramadan's 30-day fast, the
festive morning witnessed a
vibrant scene. Muslims,
dressed in their Eid finery of
kafnis and skullcaps,
thronged the Eidgah grounds
in Rander for prayers. The
celebrations extended far be-
yond the religious aspects. Af-
ter the Eid Namaz, a wave of
happy customers swept
through the city's farsan
shops, eager to savour their
favourite treats.
Considering the high de-
mand, farsan shops opened
their doors as early as 6:30
am, ensuring a warm wel-
districts after 48 hours.
"There's a possibility of
normal rain with lightning in
South Gujarat districts like
Surat, Navsari, Valsad,
Bharuch, and Saurashtra-
Kutch's Gir Somnath and
some areas of Kutch starting
April 13th," says Ramashray
Yadav, a scientist at the IMD.
Similar rain is forecast for
Narmada, Chotaudepur, Ar-
avalli, Sabarkantha, Gir Som-
nath (Saurashtra), and Kutch
on April 14th. Scattered rain
is expected in Sabarkantha,
Mahisagar, Aravalli, and Da-
hod on April 15th. Ahmed-
abad and surrounding areas
will likely experience cloudy
weather but minimal rain.
sania, Ghanshyambhai San-
gani, and Chaturbhai Savalia,
among others. While time
constraints limited further
meetings, SGCCI plans to en-
gage with a wider range of
US businessmen in the fu-
ture.
"Due to the short notice,
not many industry leaders
could be contacted," Vaghasia
admitted. "However, in the
coming time, a large number
of US businessmen will be en-
gaged to express their com-
mitment to increase interna-
tional trade and assure full
cooperation."
The initiative opens a sig-
nificant door for Surat's busi-
nesses. By forging direct con-
nections with established
Chicago players like Mafatb-
hai Patel, Surat's food proces-
sors, farmers, and textile en-
trepreneurs can gain a strong
foothold in the US market.
With continued efforts from
SGCCI, this mission has the
potential to significantly
boost international trade and
economic opportunities for
Surat and South Gujarat.
Insects found
in popular
Vadodara cafe
FPJ NEWS SERVICE
VADODARA
Diners at Gaylord Cafe, a
popular eatery situated be-
hind Vadodara Railway Sta-
tion, have been left disgusted
after a customer twice found
insects in his food. The inci-
dent sparked an
investigation by the Vado-
dara health department,
raising concerns about hy-
giene standards at the estab-
lishment.
The customer, identified as
Kartik, recounted his ordeal
to the media. "Two days back,
I ordered a dosa, a South Indi-
an dish, and to my horror, I
found an insect in it," he stat-
ed. "I immediately informed
the manager, who apologised
and assured me it wouldn't
happen again. Considering it
a one-time mistake, I let it go."
He added, "Today, I revisited
the cafe and ordered the same
dosa again," he continued, "but
to my utter disbelief, there
were insects and even mosqui-
toes present in the food."
come with fresh, steaming
delicacies. The aroma of
fried delights filled the air as
families and friends em-
barked on a culinary adven-
ture.
"After a month of fasting,
it's finally time to pamper our
taste buds with some delec-
table fafdas and jalebis," ex-
claimed Rashid Shaikh, a
readymade garment retailer
from Chowk Bazaar. "We all
had planned to visit the
farsan shop after Eid prayers
and indulge in these tradi-
tional sweets together."
WATER TRANSPORT
FPJ NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD
Following the resounding
success of the Ghogha-Hazira
Ro-Pax ferry service connect-
ing Bhavnagar and Surat,
plans are underway to estab-
lish another such service be-
tween Pipavav and Mumbai.
This move aims to further de-
velop the Saurashtra water-
way and capitalise on the ex-
isting infrastructure at
Ghogha and Mumbai ports.
The impetus for this
project stems from a broader
national goal to leverage In-
dia's extensive 7,500 km coast-
line for water transportation.
Extensive surveys are being
conducted to reduce the bur-
RIL completes construction of parapets around open wells in Gir forest
Ahmedabad: Reliance Industries Ltd in collaboration with the
Forest Department, has successfully completed the construction of
parapets around 1534 open wells located within the Gir Protected
Area. The initiative aims to safeguard the area's wildlife, particularly
the majestic Asiatic Lion from potential injuries and deaths caused
Man smokes
on Surat
flight, held
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / SURAT
Surat Police have registered a
complaint against a 23-year-
old passenger travelling on
an Air India Express flight
from Delhi to Surat on April
10. Kostav Satyajit Biswas, a
resident of West Bengal, was
accused of smoking a ciga-
rette in the aircraft's wash-
room, putting the lives of all
onboard at risk.
Despite clear regulations,
Biswas reportedly boarded
the plane with cigarettes and
a matchbox. Upon takeoff
from Delhi, Biswas allegedly
entered the aeroplane lavato-
ry and lit a cigarette.
He raised suspicions after
spending an extended period
in the restroom. Upon notify-
ing the crew, a staff member
approached the lavatory and
knocked. When Biswas
opened the door, thick smoke
and strong cigarette odour
filled the aisle. Confronted by
the crew, Biswas reportedly
confessed to smoking inside
the bathroom.
Upon landing at Surat In-
ternational Airport, the crew
member informed Air India
Express ground staff, who
subsequently filed a police
complaint against Biswas.
Kshatriya Samaj to host Asmita Sammelan
MELVYN THOMAS / SURAT
In a bold display of solidarity
and assertion of identity, the
Kshatriya Samaj, under the
banner of the Rajput Coordi-
nation Committee, has de-
clared its intention to hold the
grand Gujarat Kshatriya As-
mita Sammelan in Rajkot.
This resolute move comes
in response to the recent con-
troversial remarks made by
union minister Parshottam
Rupala, setting the stage for a
significant gathering on April
14, just days before Prime Min-
ister Narendra Modi's sched-
uled visit to Gujarat.
Ramjubha Jadeja, a promi-
nent leader within the Ksha-
triya community, revealed
that tens of thousands of
Kshatriyas from Gujarat and
several neighbouring states,
including Rajasthan, Madhya
Pradesh, Mumbai, and Uttar
Pradesh, are poised to partici-
pate in the monumental sam-
melan.
Notably, invitations have
been extended to the Jamsa-
heb of Jamnagar, whose re-
cent communications have
Salim Nalbandh, a resident
of Mughal Sarai, echoed the
sentiment. "During
Ramadan, we mostly focus on
fruits, juices, and light meals.
But on Eid, there's nothing
better than starting the day
with hot locho and khaman,"
he shared.
The sight of Muslims rel-
ishing Surti's famed farsan –
from the melt-in-your-mouth
khaman and dhokla to the
crispy fafdas and syrupy
jalebis – was a testament to
the city's unique culinary
heritage.
den on already congested
road, rail, and air networks.
The Ghogha-Hazira Ro-Pax
ferry service, currently In-
dia's largest water transport
project, serves as a prime ex-
ample of the potential bene-
fits. Inspired by its success, a
Polyester chip maker
faces e-auction of assets
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / SURAT
Nakoda Limited,
prominent manufacturer of
a
polyester chips, yarns, and
other textile products based
in Surat's Mandvi taluka, is
set to undergo an e-auction of
its assets. The move comes
under the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016,
following an order by the
Ahmedabad bench of the Na-
tional Company Law Tribu-
nal (NCLT).
Nakoda Limited (liquida-
tion) is owned by the Jain
brothers—Babulal Jain and
Devender Jain, who faced a
money laundering case in
connection with defrauding
about 13 banks of Rs 2,107
crore. The Jain brothers
availed the amount as loan
from a consortium of 13
banks, led by Canara Bank,
allegedly through fake in-
voice and document.
As per a notice issued by
Ravindra Kumar Goyal, the
appointed liquidator for
Nakoda Limited, the e-auc-
tion for the company's assets
is scheduled for May 6, 2024.
The assets on the block in-
clude the company's Surat
Ramjubha Jadeja, a prominent leader within the
Kshatriya community, revealed that tens of
thousands of Kshatriyas from Gujarat and
several neighbouring states are poised to
participate in the monumental sammelan.
stirred considerable attention
on social media platforms.
Set against the backdrop of
escalating demands for the
cancellation of Rupala's can-
didacy from the Rajkot Lok
Sabha seat, the venue for the
convention has been finalised
at the Ram Mandir near
Ratanpar village, situated
along the Rajkot-Morbi road.
Proposal for
new safari
under review
FPJ NEWS SERVICE
GANDHINAGAR
Tourists visiting the Statue
of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat,
might soon have the opportu-
nity to witness Asiatic lions
and tigers in a single expedi-
tion.
The Gujarat government's
ambitious proposal for a
‘twin-adventure’ safari park
is currently under review by
the Central Zoo Authority of
India (CZAI).
"The plan involves estab-
lishing separate yet intercon-
nected safari parks for lions
and tigers near the Statue of
Unity," revealed a senior offi-
cial. "This will allow tourists
to experience both these mag-
nificent creatures in one
trip."
The project envisions two
distinct safari zones spread
across a 100-hectare area, sit-
uated roughly 6 kms from the
iconic monument. These
zones will be designed to
replicate the natural habitats
of the respective animals.
Pipavav-Mumbai route is
now under serious considera-
tion.
Last year, the Government
of India's Sagarmala project
initiated the first phase of
surveys to launch 45 ferry
services along the country's
by accidental falls into these wells. The company constructed 638
parapet walls around open wells in Savarkundla and Tulsishyam of
the Gir East Region. Additionally, 896 parapets were built in Maliya,
Talala, and Kodinar of the Gir West Region, all addressing the critical
threats to the Asiactic lions posed by open wells.
NCLT's Ahmedabad bench had previously
ordered the liquidation of Nakoda Limited
manufacturing plant, esti-
mated to be worth Rs 206
crore. Additionally, a residen-
tial flat in Surat valued at Rs
13.77 lakh and nine
windmills located in Tamil
Nadu with a combined value
of Rs 6.41 crore will also be
part of the e-auction.
The NCLT's Ahmedabad
bench had previously
ordered the liquidation of
Nakoda Limited and appoint-
ed Mr. Goyal as the official
liquidator. In accordance
with the IBC, Mr. Goyal is
now entrusted with manag-
ing the company's affairs,
This gathering marks the cul-
mination of a series of dis-
trict-wise conventions, em-
phasising the widespread res-
onance of the community's
concerns.
Addressing the significance
of the Jamsaheb's statements,
Ramjubha Jadeja emphasised
the committee's commitment
to engage with the esteemed
Gujarat braces for
hike in power demand
FPJ NEWS SERVICE
GANDHINAGAR
The Gujarat energy sector is
gearing up for a surge in pow-
er demand as the state braces
for scorching heat and rising
mercury levels in May. Ex-
perts predict consumption to
climb above 23,500 MW, sur-
passing the previous peak of
22,843 MW recorded on Tues-
day this week. This signifi-
cant increase highlights the
growing strain on the state's
power grid during the sum-
mer months.
"Due to the scorching heat
and soaring mercury in May,
power consumption may rise
above 23500MW," a statement
from the State Load Dispatch
Centre warned. This projec-
tion comes as Gujarat wit-
nesses a record-breaking de-
mand for electricity, exceed-
ing the highest single-day
consumption of 20,747 MW
recorded during the same pe-
riod last year.
To meet this unprecedent-
ed demand, Gujarat procured
coastline. Among these, stud-
ies are specifically examining
the potential of Pipavav and
Dwarka in Gujarat for Ro-Pax
ferry services. Notably, Mum-
bai and Ghogha already pos-
sess the necessary infrastruc-
ture, and with the develop-
ment of similar facilities at
Pipavav, a Ghogha-Pipavav-
Mumbai route could become
a reality in the near future.
The Ghogha-Hazira serv-
ice, launched with two daily
ships, has demonstrably
eased transportation woes.
This pilot project's success
has fueled discussions about
Pipavav-Mumbai. While the
road distance between Pi-
pavav and Mumbai stretches
a staggering 537 kms, taking
business, and property. He
acts solely as an agent for the
company and does not incur
any personal liability, as au-
thorised under the
provisions of the Insolvency
and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Nakoda Limited's manufac-
turing units are situated in
Karanj, which falls under the
Mandvi taluka of Surat dis-
trict. The e-auction of these
assets marks a significant de-
velopment for the company
and its stakeholders, and the
coming weeks may see in-
creased activity as the auc-
tion date approaches.
figure, underscoring his
revered status within the com-
munity. Furthermore, he iter-
ated the Committee's stance
that any decision regarding
Rupala's candidacy must be
guided by principles of socie-
tal welfare, devoid of political
or personal motivations.
The palpable discontent
within the Kshatriya commu-
nity has manifested in wide-
spread protests and the erec-
tion of banners across Gu-
jarat. In Vatva village, Ahmed-
abad, banners explicitly state
the community's resolve to
bar BJP representatives from
entering until Rupala's ticket
is rescinded. Similar demon-
strations are being staged in
various villages across the
state, signalling a groundswell
of dissent.
“Gujarat Kshatriya Asmita
Sammelan, the event assumes
pivotal significance in the so-
cio-political landscape of the
region. It not only focuses on
the Kshatriya community's re-
silience but also highlights the
complexities of identity poli-
tics in contemporary India”
said a political analyst.
33 million units from the pow-
er exchange, marking the
highest single-day procure-
ment this summer.
"The industrial segment
accounts for approximately
50% of power demand, with
agriculture following closely
behind," explained an official
from the State Load Dispatch
Centre. To ensure a smooth
power supply during the up-
coming summer months, the
Gujarat government and
power distribution compa-
nies are taking proactive
measures like strategic
power cuts in certain areas
during peak hours, ramping
up power generation from
thermal and solar plants, and
exploring additional power
procurement options from
the national grid.
Residents and businesses
in Gujarat are advised to
adopt measures including
switching off appliances
when not in use, utilising en-
ergy-efficient alternatives,
and minimising the use of air
conditioners in peak hours.
approximately 14 hours to
cover, the waterway distance
is a mere 152 nautical miles. A
ferry service could slash trav-
el time to just 7 hours, repre-
senting a substantial reduc-
tion in both time and fuel con-
sumption.
This potential for faster
and more economical travel
strengthens the the case for a
Pipavav-Mumbai Ro-Pax fer-
ry service. With proper plan-
ning and infrastructure de-
velopment, this project has
the potential to significantly
improve connectivity within
the region, contributing to
the overall development of
the Saurashtra waterway and
unlocking the immense po-
tential of India's coastline.
CM Revanth asks officials to take adequate measures in purchase of paddy
HYDERABAD: Stating that the State government is committed to purchase the paddy
produce from farmers, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has asked the officials concerned to
take adequate measures in this regard. Responding to a news report incident of the
Jangoan agricultural market on X on Thursday, the Chief Minister directed the officials to file
REVANTH ATTENDS EID CELEBRATIONS
AT SHABBIR ALI'S RESIDENCE
FPJ BUREAU/HYDERABAD
In a remarkable display of
communal harmony and cele-
bration, an illustrious array of
personalities, including Chief
Minister A. Revanth Reddy
gathered at the residence of
Mohammed Ali Shabbir, Advi-
sor to the Telangana Govern-
ment on Thursday to mark the
occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. Distin-
guished figures from diverse
spheres of life converged at
Shabbir Ali's residence in Ju-
bilee Hills to extend their
warm wishes on the auspi-
cious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Chief Minister Revanth
Reddy visited Shabbir Ali's
residence early in the morn-
ing before his departure to
Delhi. He spent an hour with
the family and relishing the
traditional Eid-ul-Fitr delica-
cy Sheer Khorma.
In the afternoon, some 150
select guests, including As-
sembly Speaker Gaddam
Prasad Kumar, Deputy Chief
Minister Bhatti Vikramarka,
Ministers Ponguleti Srinivas
Reddy, D Sridhar Babu and
Ponnam Prabhakar, AICC
Telangana Incharge Deepadas
Mahatma Jyothi Rao Phule
remains immortal: KTR
FPJ BUREAU/HYDERABAD
BRS party working president
K T Rama Rao today said Ma-
hatma Jyothi Rao Phule was a
person, who remained im-
mortal, irrespective of the
times. "Phule fought against
caste discrimination and in-
equality. He said equality
comes only through educa-
tion and he worked with Sav-
itribai to provide education to
all,” KTR added.
The birth anniversary of
Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was
celebrated at the BRS party
headquarters Telangana Bha-
van here. KTR along with
MLC Madhasudana Chari,
Karne Prabhakar and Pon-
nala Lakshmaiah paid trib-
utes to Phule on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion,
KTR said "KCR was a leader
who put Phule's ideals into
practice. More than 1,000 gu-
rukuls have been set up to
provide quality education. In
gurukuls, Rs. 1.25 lakh was
spent on each student. The
programme was inspired by
Jyotiba Phule. Every school
has been upgraded to an in-
termediate college and 33 de-
gree residential colleges have
been set up for BC students. A
scholarship of Rs 20 lakh
each has been given to those
studying abroad.
“Dalits, tribals, Bahujans
and upper caste poor have not
been discriminated against
in this regard. It is not just the
Tatas and Birlas that are im-
portant, but the caste occupa-
tions of the grandfathers are
equally important and practi-
cally they have been given a
form and respect. When the
whole country was talking
about skill development, KCR
is the one who spoke about
the expertise of Bahujan
communities that have been
available for centuries. The
Whom do you emulate? Dear Madras Music Academy?
C From Chilkur Balaji Temple, we sincerely
arnatic singer TM Kr-
ishna being conferred
the Sangita Kalanidhi
award by you, the Madras
Music Academy has not only
divided the music scene but
also has inflicted deep
wounds on devout music
lovers like us who are in
crores. While some musi-
cians have come in his sup-
port, others have registered
their protest by returning
awards and boycotting the
Music Academy Conference
2024.
From Chilkur Balaji Tem-
ple, we sincerely request the
Music Academy to rethink
their decision since it has
brought fissures and cacoph-
ony in pure divine music
which should be soul stirring
but not stirring a hornets
nest.
On March 18, you, the
Madras Music Academy an-
nounced that you are confer-
ring TM Krishna with the
Sangita Kalanidhi, the high-
est award in the Carnatic
music scene
Music without devotion is
poison and it is a contagious
Munshi, Khairatabad MLA
Danam Nagender, Siasat Urdu
Daily Editor Amer Ali Khan,
TPCC Working president Mo-
hammed Azharuddin, Con-
gress senior leaders K. Jana
Reddy, Madhu Yashki Goud,
Suresh Kumar Shetkar, Zafar
Javeed, Rohin Reddy, Feroz
skill of weaving a saris in a
matchbox has been re-identi-
fied,” he said.
KTR also said a number of
initiatives had been taken up
for the weaker sections of the
society by preserving their
outstanding skills and pro-
viding them security. He also
said Yadavas and Mudirajs
through their professional-
ism had made the State a
leader in their fields in the
country. He said the weavers
stood by KCR's schemes and
developed the toddy tapper
workers with welfare
schemes. “A corporation has
been set up at a cost of Rs
1,000 crore for MBCs.
Schemes like Dalit Bandhu,
BC Bandhu and Rythu Band-
hu have changed the stage of
the respective communities,”
he added.
KTR said the BRS was the
only party that has given
seats to the weaker sections
of the society in the assembly
elections and added that half
of the general seats in Parlia-
ment had been given to the
BCs. "We are a party that is
working not only for welfare
and development pro-
disease.
In the past, A book by Car-
natic vocalist T.M. Krishna
on the the Dalit Christian
makers of the mrdangam, a
percussion instrument
launched at Chennai amidst
Political fanfare reminds me
of another painful infliction
on the traditional practition-
ers who have kept this tradi-
tion alive against all odds.
criminal cases against four traders who tried to cheat the farmers and also extended
congratulations to Additional Collector Rohit Singh who ordered the suspension of the
market secretary for negligence. "It will not be tolerated if any market committee officials
colluding with the traders try to cheat the farmers," Revanth Reddy clarified.
Khan, Syed Nizamuddin,
Muzaffarullah Khan, Mateen
Shareef, Vijaya Reddy, MLAs,
MLCs, chairpersons of vari-
ous corporations, and other
dignitaries attended the deli-
cious lunch hosted by Shabbir
Ali. The other guests included
Jamaat-e-Islami president Dr
grammes when it is in power,
but also for political opportu-
nities when it is in Opposi-
tion,” he noted.
He accused the Congress
party of cheating in the name
of BC Declaration. He de-
manded that the BC declara-
tion given before the elections
should be treated as a vote
bank and given to get votes
from them should be imple-
mented immediately.
He said although the Con-
gress party promised to set up
a BC sub-plan with Rs 20,000
crore in the name of Mahat-
ma Phule, not a single rupee
has been allocated in the vote-
on-account budget. He de-
manded that Rs 20,000 crore
should be allocated to BCs in
the upcoming budget.
Reminding the promise of
setting up of international
level Gurukuls for BCs, KTR
said one school per mandal
should be started immediate-
ly. He reminded that their par-
ty leader K. Kavitha had de-
manded that a statue of Jyoti
Bapu should be installed in
the Assembly and asked the
State government to fulfil the
demand.
cacophony in pure divine music which should
be soul stirring but not stirring a hornets nest.
Sangita Gyanamu Bhakthi
vina...Sanmargamu ledu...is
the great verse of Saint Thya-
gayya. Which means, Knowl-
edge of Music without devo-
tion is waste, he says emphat-
ically.
We feel at Chilkur that TM
Krishna has been hijacked
by certain elements to whip
anti Brahmin sentiments in-
stead of doing his basic fun-
Khaled Mubashir, Jamiat-ul-
Ulema-e-Hind Telangana &
AP Secretary-General Hafiz
Peer Khaleeq Ahmed Sabir,
Moulana Jaffer Pasha Hussa-
mi, Tahreek Muslim Shabban
President Mohammed Mush-
taq Mallik, Imam of Mecca
Masjid Hafiz Mohammed
BJP MLA should stop talking
nonsense: Komatireddy
FPJ BUREAU/NALGONDA
Refuting the remarks of BJP
MLA Alleti Maheshwar Red-
dy who alleged that there are
many Eknath Shindes in
Telangana Congress, Minis-
ter for Roads and Buildings
Komatireddy Venkat Reddy
said the BJP leader should
stop talking nonsense.
Komatireddy Venkat Reddy
along with former minister K
Jana Reddy and Nalgonda
Congress MP candidate
Raghuveer Reddy participated
in the prayers at Eidgah on
Munugode road in Nalgonda
town on the occasion of Eid-ul-
Fitr on Thursday.
Later, speaking to the me-
dia, the Minister said that
there are no groups in the
Congress party and all lead-
Shivali bags two more Guinness Records DEAR program at St. Peter's
FPJ BUREAU/HYDERABAD
Shivali Johri Srivastava,
along with her mother Kavita
Johri Srivastava and father
Anil Srivastava, alumni of
GITAM Deemed-to-be Univer-
sity, Hyderabad (2016-20), have
jointly secured their two
more (16th & 17th) Guinness
World Record for the largest
display of 1,900 origami dogs
and 3,400 origami dinosaurs.
This remarkable achieve-
ment has just been confirmed
after the validation and sub-
mission of a corroborating
video. The record also marks
the highest number of
records held by one family in
Hyderabad, with a total of 15
Guinness World Records. The
family expressed their grati-
tude for the support and en-
couragement provided by GI-
TAM Hyderabad Pro Vice-
Chancellor Prof. D.S. Rao,
Resident Director DVVSR
Varma, Dr Mallikarjun, and
request the Music Academy to rethink their
decision since it has brought fissures and
damental duty of singing
and singing alone since he is
a gifted musician.
You said you have con-
ferred the award on TM Kr-
ishna for his Social reform
more than the music.
This debate on Social Re-
form in Sanatana Dharma is
necessary...very much neces-
sary because the Tiruppanal-
war who was carried by a
Brahmin Archaka into Sri-
rangam Temple is wor-
shipped in all Temples for
over 27 centuries now....
The lower Caste Shudra is
the Religious saint Nammal-
war for Srivaishnavas. This
is why Dr BR Ambedkar had
recorded that Ramanuja's
philosophy is the solution to
change the mindset of the So-
ciety.
From Chilkur, the Priest
Chief Minister Revanth
Reddy visited Shabbir
Ali's residence early in
the morning before his
departure to Delhi. He
spent an hour with the
family and relishing
the traditional Eid-ul-
Fitr delicacy Sheer
Khorma.
Rizwan Qureshi, and repre-
sentatives of Ahle Hadees,
among others. They were
treated to a sumptuous feast
featuring a delectable spread
of Haleem, Biryani, Double
Ka Meetha, and other Hyder-
abadi dishes and Sheer Khor-
ma.
Shabbir Ali said the Con-
gress Government had made
elaborate arrangements for
the peaceful conduct of Ra-
madan festivities for the
month. Arrangements at the
mosques across Telangana,
shops and establishments in
Greater Hyderabad were per-
mitted to function till 4 am.
ers are working under the
leadership of Chief Minister
Revanth Reddy.
He also slammed BJP MLA
Maheshwar Reddy and BRS
MLA Harish Rao for mislead-
ing the people by indulging in
false propaganda against the
Congress party and said that
both leaders should keep
their tongues under control.
the entire GITAM family. Be-
fore the latest record, the Sri-
vastava family had secured 15
Guinness World Records for
various displays including
handmade paper dolls,
quilled flowers, origami
whales, penguins, citrus
fruits, maple leaves,
pigs/boars and more. In addi-
tion to their Guinness World
reenacted the same Muniva-
hana Utsavam in Telangana
and Andhra Temples in 2018.
Alwars Pasurams when
sung by different musicians
are a living cultural heritage,
their timeless music is
marked by an improvisation-
al style of singing, accent on
individual differentiation
and aesthetic refinement.
These qualities, in turn, are
rooted in the radical sense of
freedom engendered by the
centuries-old Bhakti move-
ment that held sway over
every aspect of life. Of direct
relevance to the controversies
of our times is how religious
worship was revolutionised,
by an emphasis on establish-
ing a direct communication
between devotees and their
deity.
One among umpteen in-
HYDERABAD | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
If Cong returns to power,
there will be communal riots
& curfews in country: Kishan
FPJ BUREAU/HYDERABAD
Union minister & BJP State
president Kishan Reddy today
asserted that curfews and
communal riots will start
again in the country if the
Congress party returns to
power in the country. He also
said if the United Indi Alliance
comes to power, prime minis-
ter will change within three
months. He reminded that the
Congress party was the care of
address of corruption.
On Thursday, Kishan Red-
dy took out a jeep yatra in
Musheerabad assembly seg-
ment of Secunderabad parlia-
mentary constituency. Speak-
ing on the occasion, he said.
"It has not been even four
months since the Congress
party came to power in Telan-
gana, blackmailing started
and Rahul Gandhi has been
collecting taxes by threaten-
ing realtors, builders and con-
tractors. Crores of rupees are
being sent to Delhi. If The
Congress comes, they said
there will be a change. Is this
the change?" Kishan Reddy
asked.
He said the entire country
believes that the it needs a sta-
ble government and an effec-
tive leadership, which is pos-
sible only with PM Narendra
Records, Shivali also holds 15
Assist World Records and ten
Unique World Records.
GITAM School of Technol-
ogy Director Prof. V.R.Sastry,
Associate Director Prof.
N. Seetaramaiah, HoDs,
faculty, and students all con-
gratulated the Srivastava
family on their incredible
achievement.
stances of how the Bhakti
saints levelled the field
comes from Nammalvar,
foremost among the 12 Vaish-
navite minstrels of thou-
sands of years ago.
“What though a person be
of lowly birth — even a
Chandala of the lowly Chan-
dalas — if he is a devotee of
my discus-bearing gem-Lord,
his servant’s servant shall be
my master, just see,” he says
in the Tiruvai mozhi.
Annamacharya, though
born in a traditional family,
had fought against the social
discrimination prevalent in
those days by bringing
awareness among the people
through his keertans. The
songs Brahmamokate
Parabhrahmamokkate, Aye
kulajudemi Evarainanemi
etc. speaks tons about his
views on the society.
Annamayya keerthanas
are sung by lakhs of people
all over the world from all
backgrounds. They used to
be sung during farming by
farm labourers by Chenchus
in Ahobilam just to sample
the universality of Carnatic
The entire country believes that the it needs a
stable government and an effective leadership,
which is possible only with PM Narendra Modi.
Modi. He said the BJP would
once again win power at the
Centre and added that their
party was going to win a ma-
jority of the MP seats in
Telangana. He reminded that
the MP elections were not
Telangana elections or Hy-
derabad elections, but All In-
dia elections.
"All of you have to vote for
the country in this election.
We have to vote for our future.
You have to vote for right-
eousness and honesty. We
have to vote for the defence of
the country. Votes should not
be cast against bomb blasts
and communal riots. You
have to vote for peace. We
have to vote for development
in the country. We have to vote
for a stable government and
effective leadership. Modi has
shown solutions to many
problems in our country.
Some 13 crore toilets have
been constructed to protect
the self-respect of the girl
child.
“Earlier, Pakistan's ISI ter-
rorists used to come to Hyder-
abad and carry out bomb
High School on April 13
FPJ BUREAU/HYDERABAD
DEAR (Drop Everything And
Read), a unique program to
cultivate the habit of reading,
particularly among pre-pri-
mary and primary kids an-
nounced by St. Peter's High
School here.
In a pressnote issued on
Thursday, Dr K. Suvarna,
Principal of the Bowenpally-
based school said the initia-
tive is planned for April 13 at
8.30 am for an hour. This will
be held for the kids of Nurs-
ery till III and V class.
“We have invited the entire
strength of class Nursery to
III and V. We expect 200 and
odd kids and their parents to
turn up for the unique initia-
tive”, Dr Suvarna added.
This is an initiative to en-
able children to read books
along with their parents. For
this purpose, the entire
music for hundreds of years
and it does not need so called
self styled activists to por-
tray themselves as champi-
ons of making music univer-
sal.
TM Krishna has our fami-
ly name Madabhushi but
seems to have been abducted
by elements detrimental to
Bhakthi. We welcome TMK
to chilkur to come here and
personally sing before
Chilkur Balaji Nammalwar
Pasurams and Tiruppanal-
war's Amalanadipiran here.
We may not be able to guar-
antee any Awards for him
but Our Lord will give him
the right direction to use mu-
sic for devotion but not for
Politics.
Indeed, India’s musical
trajectory has evolved over
the centuries, transformed
through temple recitations,
court performances, bhajan
sampraday, adaptations on
the silver screen and com-
mercial patronage in our
time.
But an undercurrent
through these innumerable
blasts and cross over to the
country. Ak-47 rifles were
fired upon. Innocent people
and children were killed in
the bomb blasts in Lumbini
Park, Gokul Chat and Dilshuk
Nagar. After Modi's arrival, he
cracked down on terrorism.
In the last ten years, there
have been no curfews and no
bomb blasts. The ISI has been
destroyed. Atrocities on girl
children have stopped. Pak-
istan's tail was cut off and that
country's cord was broken.
There is no food to eat in that
country. Our Narendra Modi
has isolated Pakistan and
brought it to a point where it
can beg. Modi needs to win
once again for the sake of
peace," Reddy said.
He claimed that Prime
Minister Narendra Modi
saved lives by providing free
vaccines to 140 crore people
during the covid-19 crisis.
"Even now, Modi is giving free
rice. Cooking on a firewood
stove is equivalent to drink-
ing 400 beedis. That's why
Modi distributed LPG gas
cylinders to every household.
school campus will be turned
into a reading zone. Theme-
based reading corners are be-
ing set up , where kids will
read books along with their
parents, added T. Alphonse
Reddy, Correspondent of the
school.
Reading is important be-
cause it develops the mind and
gives knowledge and lessons
of life. But, reading habit is
slowly and steadily decreas-
ing. Technology is impacting
how we read and write. With
smart phones, tablets, and e-
readers, children have become
'screenagers' (using mobile,
tablet, PC, Laptop, OTT, TV,
Cinema and many other such
screens). It is no surprise that
kids of the day read more dig-
itally. This shift in reading
habits has prompted much
discussion about the future of
book reading. In this light of
background,
transmutations is the stamp
of individuality and authori-
ty that artistes bestow on
their performances; chal-
lenging convention for its
own sake and repudiation of
dogma. Qualities that made
Ravi Shankar, Bhimsen
Joshi and Mangalampalli
Balamuralikrishna who they
were. But whom will you em-
ulate Dear Madras Music
Academy?????
Dr CS Rangarajan,
Chief Priest,
Lord Balaji Temple,
Chilkur, Hyderabad
 CHHATTISGARH
Seven civil judges promote
BILASPUR: Seven senior category civil judges have
been promoted as Additional District and Sessions
Judges by the Chhattisgarh High Court Administration.
70 judges have been transferred.
CHHATTISGARH | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

Congress is at peak of frustration: BJP Top leaders to

C’garh FM STAFF REPORTER / Raipur

O P Chaudhary With the first phase and sec-

meets
Governor Bais
STAFF REPORTER / Raipur
Chhattisgarh Finance Min-
ister O P Chaudhary made
a courtesy call to Maha-
rashtra Governor Ramesh
Bais on a visit to Raipur.
Finance Minister Chaud-
hary shared the informa-
tion about the meeting on
social media site X. He
states that last night he met
Maharashtra Governor
Ramesh Bais at his resi-
dence and presented him a
shawl and quince as a mark
of respect.
Maharashtra Governor
Ramesh Bais has reached
Raipur on a 5-day visit. He
will participate in many
personal programs. Gover-
nor Bais's grandson is also
getting married. Governor
Bais will return to Mumbai
on the evening of April 12.
Chhattisgarh Bharatiya Janata Party State Convener of Lok Sabha Election Management Committee, Shivratan Sharma addressing media
with state president of Scheduled Tribe Morcha Vikas Markam, state media in-charge Amit Chimnani, and state spokesperson Amit Sahu,
Umesh Ghormode.
STAFF REPORTER / Raipur
Chhattisgarh State Vice
President of Bharatiya Jana-
ta Party and State Convener
of Lok Sabha Election Man-
agement Committee, Shiv-
ratan Sharma on Thursday
said with continuous loss in
elections, Congress has be-
come too frustrated that the
Congress leaders are praying
for the death of Prime Minis-
ter Narendra Modi.
Interacting with the me-
dia, he said Congress has
been badly defeated in a dem-
ocratic manner the last two
elections. The panic of Con-
gress is so much that its lead-
ers are praying for the death
of Modi. The people will def-
initely answer this.
He said there have been
continuous statements being
made by Congress leaders
against the country's Prime
Minister Narendra Modi as a
conspiracy. The silence of
top Congress leaders shows
that these controversial
statements have their tacit
approval and encourage-
ment. The statements of
Congress leaders are a mat-
ter of concern for the civi-
lized society of the entire
country.
Sharma said Kawasi
Lakhma broke the democrat-
ic norms in the election
meeting and gave a Mohalla Manpur of Raj-
statement using words like
‘Marega’ for PM. In Bastar,
Kawasi Lakhma is encourag-
ing the youth to drive away
the police personnel by
killing them with bows and
arrows. Anyway, Kawasi has
been a suspect in many cases
including Jheeram.
Earlier, while addressing
the nomination rally of Bhu-
pesh Baghel in Rajnandgaon,
Leader of Opposition
Charan Das Manhat said
that Modi’s head should be
broken with a stick, such an
MP should do it. Shiv
(Dahriya) can only abuse
Modi, whereas Bhupesh
Baghel can break his head.
Modi should be harassed and
sent to China.
He adds Surju Tekam of
nandgaon Lok Sabha (arrest-
ed) had given a call to the Con-
gress MLA while he was on
the stage that those coming to
ask for votes for BJP should
be killed. Later a BJP worker
ond phase of polls nearing, a
visit Chhattisgarh
galaxy of top leadership from
Bharatiya Janata Party and
Congress are lined up for the
election campaign in Chhat-
tisgarh.
Congress leader Rahul
Gandhi will be arriving on
April 13. Defence Minister
Rajnath Singh is also expect-
ed on April 13 and he is ex-
pected to hold public meet-
ings at Dantewada and
Khairagarh. Home Minister
Amit Shah is likely to hold a
meeting at Rajnandgaon
April 14.
The first phase of voting
will be held in Bastar on April
19th and in the second phase
in Rajnandgaon, Kanker and
Mahasamund on April 26th.
The Congress party this, the strategy for the meet- gress Party has started all the
sources stated that Congress ing of Congress National preparations. He will hold a
General Secretary Priyanka President Mallikarjun in Jan- meeting at Lal Bahadur Shas-
Gandhi can campaign for jgir-Raigarh has been made. tri Stadium in Jagdalpur.
Bhupesh Baghel in Raj- Keeping in view the visit of Congress candidate from Bas-
was also murdered. Isn't all nandgaon on April 20 for the Congress MP Rahul Gandhi tar Lok Sabha, Kawasi
this Congress sponsored? second phase. Along with to Bastar on April 13, the Con- Lakhma is in the fray.
He pointed out that Imran
Masood of Uttar Pradesh said
‘I will destroy Modi’. Madhya
Pradesh Congress leader Raja
Pateria said that ‘Modi will
Brijmohan seeks suggestions
from people of Raipur LS
have to be killed’. Slogans
were raised in Muslim Uni-
versity in JNU, ‘Modi, your
grave will be dug on JNU soil’.
Slogans of ‘Mar Ja Modi Mar
Ja Modi’ have also been
raised in the rallies of Khalis-
tanis. Recently a newspaper
has reported that Naxalites
are intimidating people to
vote for Congress. After all,
what is the matter that the
statements of Congress are
becoming like not only Pak-
istan, Khalistani but also
Naxalites. They are all speak-
ing the same language.

Chhattisgarhi film actor Mehar dies in road mishap

STAFF REPORTER / Raipur
Suraj Mehar(40), who was
casted in Chhattisgarhi
films in negative shades,
was a rising star in Chhattis-
garhi film industry, died in a
tragic road accident on
Wednesday. The untimely
demise of the actor created
panic in the Chhattisgarh
film industry.
The actor's first film Tor
Maya ke Chinha ( Signature
of Your Love ) was released
in January 2024.
He played the role of vil-
lain in his second film
Akhiri Faisla, then-after he
died in a tragic road
accident in Bilaigarh, on
Wednesday.
Local journalist Deepak
Bawankar who broke the
news of the demise of the
rising star of the Chhattis-
garh film industry said,
Mehar was a dedicated actor
and the lone bread winner
of the family.
As per information re-
ceived the engagement of
Mehar had to be scheduled
on April 10 in the morning
Bhathli village of Odisha.
Unfortunately, before he suc-
ceeds in attending his en-
gagement ceremony, the ac-
tor died in a road accident.
After completing the shoot
in the intervening night of
Tuesday-Wednesday, the
actor was returning to his an-
cestral village Saria, Bi-
laigarh in a scorpio but acci-
dently he met with a tragic
road accident near Pipardula
village, Sarsiwan Police Sta-
tion. Suraj died on the spot,
the local villagers said.
Suraj was quite Junior to
me, we shot the climax scene
of the film upto very late
hours of the Tuesday night,
and the unit was freed
around 2:30 on Wednesday
wee hours, Pradeep Sharma,
Senior Artist of the film
Akhri Rasta said.
During the shoot, the guy
got several calls from his rel-
atives to leave early, but the
guy ignored calls and also
missed the train, and finally
met the tragic end, we all are
shocked, he added.
Brijmohan Agrawal released the phone number along with Raipur MP Sunil Soni, state spokesperson Kedar
Gupta, senior BJP leader Chhagan Lal Mundra, Raipur district media co-in-charge Vandana Rathore.
STAFF REPORTER / Raipur
Chhattisgarh’s Higher Education and Culture
Minister Brijmohan Aggarwal and Raipur
Lok Sabha constituency BJP candidate said
Raipur Lok Sabha will develop only when the
responsible representatives communicate di-
rectly with the public.
Sharing mobile numbers at a press confer-
ence, he said as part of innovative mode to re-
main in touch with public and continuous
communication, he had sought the people’s
views for the progress and prosperity of
Raipur Lok Sabha constituency.
He said based on the feedback, further strat-
egy will be made. On April 15, a nomination
rally will be taken out from Ekatm Complex in
the presence of the state’s Chief Minister
Vishnudev Sai and BJP State President Kiran
Singh Dev, which will go up to Ghadi Chowk to
file the nomination.
Aggarwal said, “In the last 35 years, the peo-
ple of Raipur Lok Sabha have elected me as
MLA 8 times and been a cabinet minister five
times and whenever I got the responsibility of
any department, I fulfilled it with full dedica-
tion.”
Taking dig at Congress, he said that Con-
gress is deeply scared of the apparent defeat in
the Lok Sabha elections. The top leadership of
Congress has no control over the state leaders.
Senior Congress leaders Charan Das Mahant
and Kawasi Lakhma are showing their mental
bankruptcy by talking about breaking the
head and killing the country's Prime Minister
Narendra Modi.
Aggarwal said that Congress is saying that
if we come to power, we will re-appeal Article
370 from Kashmir. The Congress is misleading
women by offering Rs 1 lakh every year. When
the country's budget is Rs 50 lakh crore, then
from where will they bring so much money.

Reservation will never end, Congressmen

are spreading confusion: Sai
STAFF REPORTER
Raipur / Mainpur
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister
Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday
said Congress is spreading lies
and creating confusion among
the voters that if BJP comes to
power again, it will end reser-
vation. The reservation will
never end.
Assuring the tribes, he said
no power can end reservation.
The Congressmen have no is-
sues left, so now they are un-
der the illusion of ending
reservation.
Sai addressing a public
meeting at Guruji Bhatha of
Mainpur in Gariaband
district lambasted Kawasi
Lakhma and Congress by tak-
ing a dig at Lakhma’s ‘Modi
die’ statement, he said that the
Congressmen have lost their
mental balance.
He said that in the entire
Chhattisgarh, Congress lead-
ers have lost their minds and
their peace of mind has gone
haywire. He said the son of a
poor person, the son of a tea
seller is the Prime Minister of
the country. The Congressmen
are not able to digest this at all.
CM appealed to the public
not to get influenced by the
words of the Congressmen,
they have to be taught a lesson
and Congress should not be al-
lowed to open its account in
Chhattisgarh in this election.
Sai said Congressmen have
no right to make indecent
comments on the world’s most
popular leader.
Attacking the Congress, Sai
alleged under the leadership
of Bhupesh Baghel, Chhattis-
garh had become a crime den
and a den of corruption. Out
of 36 promises, not a single
one was fulfilled properly. The
state was made poor by loot-
ing. By committing a scam in
Narva Garva Ghurva Bari,
they also pocketed the cow
dung money.
EOW arrests former official in liquor scam
STAFF REPORTER / Raipur
The Chhattisgarh Economic
Offenses Investigation Bu-
reau (EOW) has intensified
its action after the Supreme
Court cancelled the Enforce-
ment Directorate (ED) case in
the alleged liquor scam of Rs
2,000 crore.
On Thursday, EOW arrest-
ed Arun Pati Tripathi, the
then Special Secretary of the
Excise Department and MD
of Chhattisgarh State Mar-
keting Corporation. Arun
Pati had got bail from the
High Court just two months
ago in February after spend-
ing 9 months in jail. The ED
had arrested him on May 12
last year.
The legal sources said that
EOW has arrested him from
Bihar on Thursday. A team of
the Bureau had been keeping
him under continuous sur-
veillance since he came out
on bail.
AP Tripathi's arrest is the
the next day.
At present, Arvind Singh
and Anwar Dhebar are in re-
mand, who are to be present-
ed in the court on Friday.
There is a possibility that the
Bureau will also present Tri-
pathi in the court on Friday
and then get the remand of
all three together. EOW has
arrested AP Tripathi at a
time when the ED case has
been rejected by the
Supreme Court whereas the
EOW conducts raids at 24 places EOW had registered the case
itself based on the ED
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh Economic Offence Wing-Anti Corruption report. Now the question is
Bureau jointly on Thursday conducted raids at 24 places across the state being raised as to what are
for collection of evidence in the alleged Rs 2,000 crore liquor scam. The the major reasons behind
raid was conducted at 9 places at Raipur, Durg-Bhilai-07, Rajnandgaon - the action of EOW, in which
04 and Bilaspur -04. The officials have recovered Rs 19 lakh cash, the Bureau team is engaged
electronic equipment like laptop, pen-drive, bank statements, in swift action.
documents related to assets, jewellery worth crores, crores of On Thursday itself, the
investment in banks along with other vital documents. The documents Bureau team raided the
include general investment and layering through shell companies, premises of Pappu Bansal
unsecured loans and investments. and Vijay Bhatia in Khursi-
par and Nehru Nagar areas
third arrest made by EOW in rested Arvind Singh as soon of Bhilai. EOW has also
the alleged liquor scam. Earli- as he came out of jail and made both of them accused
er, the Bureau team had ar- businessman Anwar Dhebar in its FIR.
Rain, cloudy condition
drops temperature
STAFF REPORTER / Raipur
The people of Chhattisgarh got
relief from the heat including
the capital city Raipur. It
rained early in the morning
and there have been clouds in
the sky since then which con-
tinued till late evening. Due to
the cloudy sky, the maximum
temperature was two degrees
below normal.
The Meteorological Depart-
ment predicted that sporadic
rains will continue in the state
in the coming days. Moist
winds are continuously arriv-
ing in the state. Today on
Thursday, there is a possibility
of rain in many districts of
Raipur, Bilaspur and Durg di-
visions of the state.
Also, there is a possibility of
thunderstorms and lightning
at one or two places. There is a
possibility of rain and thun-
dershowers in the state tomor-
row (March 12). Also, there is a
possibility of winds blowing at
30-40 km per hour. Due to the
gradual rise in temperature,
there will be no extreme heat
for a week and will have to wait
for the temperature to reach 42
degrees again. On Wednesday,
due to clear clouds, the maxi-
mum temperature of the
Raipur city was recorded at
36.3 degrees, which was two de-
grees less than normal.

LAST WORD

Is hurling abuses during polls a strategy among political leaders?

DR. K.N. KISHORE
For more than two decades from now, a
new trend has started more often in high
pitch during the state assembly and Lok
Sabha polls. Such an act where not much
in picture earlier where politicians were
at least decent in remarks against their
opponents except for raising the corrup-
tion or failure of governance is con-
cerned or fulfilling the promises made.
To make a point is recent example of
Chhattisgarh where one of the senior
most Congress leaders from the state,
having held the position of Chhattisgarh
Pradesh Congress Committee, Minister
with undivided Madhya Pradesh, Union
Minister of state and former Speaker of
State Assembly Dr Charan Das Mahant.
He addressing the public rally after
the nomination of former Chief
Minister Bhupesh Baghel at Raj-
nandgaon said, “Bhupesh Baghel should
be elected with a majority so that you can
be protected. In the days to come, he can
stand by you, whether it is a question of
respect for a nurse or a sister, whether it
is a question of respect for a farmer or a
sailor, there needs to be a guardian who
can beat you with a good stick. If anyone
could rise against Narendra Modi then
your MP could. And this Devendra could
also stand. Shiv remains holding the
stick? We need a man with a stick.”
He went on to add, “Narendra Modi
needs a man who can harass him day and
night and be sent to China.” After BJP
took it in a campaign form, he can regret
the remark even after justifying it as a
‘Chhattisgarhi’ proverb or used in com-
mon.
During Karnataka assembly elections,
Congress President Mallikarjun
Kharge’s legislator son Priyank Kharge
labelled Prime Minister Narendra Modi
as a ‘nalayak beta’ (worthless son), even
Khare had hurled a barb at Modi describ-
ing him as ‘venomous snake’.
Countering it, Modi at a rally mentioned
that Congress leaders have hurled 91
abuses at him. Later Congress leaders
went on the defensive and Mallikarjun
Kharge retracted his remark.
The Prime Minister reacting to a re-
mark of Gandhi that Indians use ‘Made
in China’ mobile phones, without nam-
ing (Rahul Gandhi) said that he is a
leader of stupid people. He said a wise
man of Congress was saying that people
of the country only have made in China
mobile ‘Arree ‘moorkhon ke sardar’,
which world do you live in. Congress
leaders have a habit of ignoring India’s
achievement. “I wonder what foreign
glasses they have worn that they are not
able to see in India.”
Countering, Rahul Gandhi said that the
PM uses bad words against him and talks
nonsense. He goes to say, “jitna paisa
Narendra Modi Adani ko deta hai utna
paisa me gareebo ko dunga (I will give as
much money to the poor people of the
country as Narendra Modi gives to
Adani).” One of the most controversial
statements which drew much furore in
political circles was of Rahul Gandhi
terming the Prime Minister as ‘Pannauti’
after India lost the World Cup final.
Interestingly, the former Congress
Chief Ministers mainly of Chhattisgarh
Bhupesh Baghel and his counterpart
Ashok Gehlot could be seen defending
Rahul Gandhi on his all abusive state-
ments made and reacting to Modi’s state-
ment on Rahul Gandhi. Several such ex-
amples can be found since 90’s after de-
cline in the poll prospects of Congress
and BJP gaining upper hand at assembly
and Parliament level.
If political observers are to be quoted,
one observes there is decline of Congress
due to its failing organisational structure
across the country. They are more de-
pendent on the regional party of alliance.
If one goes to history, there was only Con-
gress across the country both in states
and parliament but with dissatisfaction
among the Congress leaders they formu-
lated regional parties at state-level slowly
eroding the base of Congress. BJP came
late in the electoral fray. But Congress
failed to look into their failures and work
on it. They started to retort to the use of
abusive language to the opposition lead-
ers, which other parties and regional par-
ty leaders also started to be part of. Inter-
estingly, Congress stays silent on any con-
troversial statement made by its alliance.
This point can be proved in Chhattis-
garh, where Congress was in power for
the last five years with maximum major-
ity in the history of the state. But with
power concentrated to one person, the
party lost its base and party workers.
Congress leaders can be seen shifting al-
liances to BJP or other parties. But still
Congress leaders are not ready to accept
it instead are abusing the BJP and its
policies including its own leaders have
abandoned the party.
This political abuse will increase more
in coming years or decency will be main-
tained is a question of research and
analysis. But for now, we are going to
hear more and more such abuses till
June 2024, till the results will be out.
 MADHYA PRADESH MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

Rain damages wheat in 30 districts ‘UPA committed

Rs 12L cr worth
OUR STAFF REPORTER
city.bhopal@fpj.co.in Inclement Worst affected are Kamal Singh Anjana, Bharatiya
Kisan Sangh (BKS) leader said,

Khutwasa village, Narmadapuram
Around 30 districts in Malwa, Ni-
mar, Gwalior, Chambal, Ma-
hakoshal, and Vindya regions are
the worst affected by the recent
spell of rain and hail in the state.
Naramadapura and Betul dis-
tricts have also been affected.
Wheat is sown early in some dis-
tricts of Malwa, Nimar, Gwalior,
and Chambal region and here
crops have been harvested, but in
Mahakoshal and Vindya, it is
sown late and the crop is still
standing in the field. According
to farmers, in both cases the
crops are damaged due to rain
Irregularities at RGPV
weather is likely Malwa, Nimar, Gwalior,
to continue for Chambal, Mahakoshal,
next 5 days and Vindya regions
and hail increases the moisture
content. Also, farmers have to
buy plastic sheets to cover their
harvested crops lying on the field.
If the wheat has not been harvest-
ed, it loses its shine due to the
rain. Kedar Sirohi, a farmer,
said, "Malwa, Nimar, Gwalior,
Chambal, Mahakoshal, and Vin-
dya regions are worst affected.
Malwa, Nimar, Gwalior and
Chambal where wheat is sown
early so crops have been harvest-
ed, but they are kept for drying on
the field. In Vindhya and Ma-
hakoshal, crops are shown late
and are yet to be harvested. So
whether it is standing crops or
harvested crops, the ongoing
spell of rain has caused damage."
"Rain has damaged the wheat
crops in the state in several dis-
tricts. In some cases, rain has dam-
aged crops being transported to
scam in 10 yrs’
warehouses in open trucks."
AMIT SHAH’S
Govt to provide speech centres
compensation around corruption
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav
said, "Government will provide
and Ram temple
compensation for damage to crops OUR STAFF REPORTER
and animals due to rain. Food Cor- BHOPAL
poration of India (FCI) has been
instructed that farmers should not Union Home Minister
face any problems in case of poor Amit Shah has said that
quality of wheat." the UPA government was
involved in a scam worth
Rs 12 lakh crore in its ten
Bal Sanskar years' rule, so those who
committed such a serious
Ramlala's b’day to

Former VC, ex-registrar face

be celebrated
Kendra training crime have to go to jail.
He made the statement at
after 500 years
public meetings in Khaju-
session held raho and Mandla Lok Sab- Union Home Minister Amit
Shah said that the

charges beyond fin anomalies

ha constituencies on
Indore: The Vishwa Hin- Thursday. Congress came in the way
du Parishad organised a Those who have looted of the construction of Ram
one-day training session the public money have to temple, but because of the
at the regional office in return each penny, he efforts made by Prime
Indore for the Bal said. Minister Narendra Modi,
the temple was

ABSCONDING RGPV EX-VC, PROF

OUR STAFF REPORTER pees in the name of Sanskar Kendra. Women BJP candidates Faggan
city.bhopal@fpj.co.in DUO ACCUSED OF awarding hostels’ mess from all five districts of Singh Kulaste and VD constructed in five years.
Now, Ramlala's birthday
COMMITTING work. He allegedly did not the Indore division at- Sharma are contesting the

KUMAR, ARRESTED IN RAIPUR

Even as investigations
into the financial anom-
alies at Rajiv Gandhi
Proudyogiki Vish-
wavidyalaya are already
underway, former vice
chancellor Professor Sunil
Kumar and ex registrar
RS Rajput face other
charges including that of
irregularities in recruit-
ments, and purchases
were being done.
The former VC and regis-
trar are being probed for
allegedly transferring Rs
19.48 crores into the pri-
vate accounts.
They are accused of
making appointments at
the varsity sidelining the
norms and also commit-
ting anomalies in purchas-
es at the university.
One Pradeep Soni had
lodged a complaint with
Economic Offences Wing
(EOW) in 2022 accusing
the then VC Sunil Kumar
of appointing around 12 to
15 employees without issu-
ing any recruitment ad-
vertisement and holding
tender process. The uni-
versity made a payment of
around Rs 1 crores in two
years to these appointees
as salary.
Besides, Prantiya Takni-
ki Atithi avam Samvida
Pradhyapak Mahasangh
WRONGDOINGS IN
RECRUITMENTS,
PURCHASES,
SCHOLARSHIP
AWARD
had also lodged a com-
plaint with EOW in July
2021 claiming gross irreg-
ularities in purchases
done by RGPV’s registrar
Dr RS Rajput and others.
The organisation’s state
president is Devansh Jain
while Dr Ashish Khare is
its vice president.
The organisation
claimed that RS Rajput is
involved in committing ir-
regularities in purchases
and other administrative
works like awarding schol-
arships, PhD file and
other works.
Rajput has been accused
of committing irregulari-
ties in the name of hostel
mess arrangement, com-
puter purchase etc. Even
in the State Assembly, a
question was raised
against the alleged cor-
rupt practices of Rajput.
The Mahasangh has al-
leged that in 2017-18 and
2018-19, Rajput had com-
mitted financial irregu-
larity worth crores of ru-
invite any comprehensive
tender for the work.
The organization also ac-
cused Rajput of commit-
ting financial anomalies
in computer purchases. In
2018, computers were pur-
chased by his order.
Against the full payment
of 60 computers, only 55
computers were pur-
chased.
On the date of computer
supply, the market price of
per computer was Rs
62,000 and while the pay-
ment was made at the rate
of Rs 83,350 per piece.
The organisation
claimed that in the execu-
tive committee meeting
held on March 26, 2019, an
approval was given to de-
velop 10 smart classrooms
at a cost of Rs 1,13,34,999.
However, the work heads
were changed and sum
was used to develop 3 lec-
ture theaters in place of 10
smart classes.
Later then vice chancel-
lor Kumar had written a
letter to the principal
secretary of Governor in
2022, saying that a five-
member team was
formed to probe the mat-
ter. He had termed the al-
legations as baseless and
requested to close the
matter.
OUR STAFF REPORTER
city.bhopal@fpj.co.in
The Special Investigation
Team (SIT) of police suc-
ceeded in arresting ex-vice
chancellor of Rajiv
Gandhi Proudyogiki Vish-
wavidyala (RGPV), Profes-
sor Sunil
Kumar from
Raipur on
Wednesday.
After his ar-
rest, he was
brought to
Bhopal
amidst tight
security. Prof Kumar has
been accused of commit-
ting financial irregularity
to the tune of Rs 19.48
crore in the varsity. The ar-
rest of Professor Kumar is
the first major arrest in
the financial irregularity
case of RGPV. The other
accused including ex-reg-
istrar RS Rajput and for-
mer financial controller
Rishikesh Verma are still
absconding. The SIT is
hoping that interrogation
of Prof Kumar will unrav-
el many things, including
how the accused commit-
ted the financial scam. It's
widely believed that the fi-
'ABVP movement
led to arrest'
Akhhil Bharatiya Vidyarti
Parishad (ABVP) regional
secretary Sandeep
Vaishnaw said that it is
due to result of movement
by the organisation that
ex-VC of RGPV, Professor
Sunil Kumar has been
arrested. The ABVP has
also demanded arrest of
RS Rajput and Rishikesh
Verma at the earliest.
nancial scam could be
more than the preliminary
estimates. Recently, SIT
had declared a cash
reward of Rs 30,000 on the
arrest of absconding ac-
cused and even issued look
out notices against them to
prevent them from leaving
the country. Earlier, SIT
had arrested three accom-
plices of the main accused;
banker Mayank Kumar,
Dalit Sangh Member Sunil
Raghuvansi and then man-
ager of Axis Bank (Pi-
pariya Branch) Ramku-
mar Raghuvansi. Apart
from this, the driver of RS
Rajput was held with sacks
of documents belonging to
the varsity.
tended the session, where
over 45 women learned
about the management of
the Bal Sanskar Kendra
and how to establish it.
Central Matrushakti coor-
dinator Meenakshi Pish-
we provided guidance to
all the women in three
sessions. Additionally,
prant organisation minis-
ter Khagendra Bhargav,
prant deputy minister
Dilip Jain, and Ma-
trushakti prant coordina-
tor Aarti Ajay Jayaswal
were present for
guidance. Bal Sanskar
Kendra prant president
Shiv Kumari Shrimalli
provided information to
the women on how to es-
tablish the centre through
practical demonstrations.
Not allowed to perform my mother’s
last rites in Emergency: Rajnath
BJP does not make
any difference
between Hindus
and Muslims
OUR STAFF REPORTER
BHOPAL
Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh has said he had been
Lok Sabha election from
Mandla and Khajuraho
constituencies, respective-
ly. Those who have formed
an alliance to remove
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi are interested only
in promoting their chil-
dren, Shah said, adding
that every leader is trying
to make his son chief min-
ister.
Sonia Gandhi wants her
Rahul Gandhi to become
the prime minister, and
Kamal Nath and Banthad-
har (spoiler) have not done
anything for the state, and
he has come with docu-
ments containing their
misdeeds, Shah said. The
BJP MPs have worked in
their constituencies, but in-
stead of voting for them for
will be celebrated in the
temple after 500 years, he
said.
their work, Modi should be
elected to make India great,
the Union Home Minister
said.
The Congress, an anti-
OBC party, swept Kaka
Kalelkar and Mandal Com-
mission reports under the
carpet, Shah said.
Twenty-seven ministers
and 37% of MP in the BJP
government come from the
OBC category, he said.
Once every Tom, Dick
and Harry could easily in-
trude themselves into the
country, but after the surgi-
cal strike and air strike,
nobody dare do it anymore,
he said.

Smartwatch helps cops nab BJP social media in-charge seeks votes in jail for two and a half
months during the Emer-
gency when his mother

accused in Rs 50L burglary
OUR STAFF REPORTER
city.bhopal@fpj.co.in
through his wedding card, goes viral was ill and passed away. that five Muslim countries But Modi has done it in
But he was not allowed to handed the highest just ten years, he said,
FP NEWS SERVICE perform her last rites, civilian award to Prime adding that the Congress
Anuppur Singh said at two public Minister Narendra Modi. has turned into a piece of
Accused except meetings in Rewa and Sat- The Congress is rusted the gold; whereas
minor remanded A wedding card went viral on social media na Lok Sabha constituen- defaming the Prime Minis- the BJP is 24-carate gold,
in police custody not because it contains something out of cies. ter in the name of Hindu the Defence Minister said.

A stolen smartwatch
helped police in nabbing
five accused, including a
minor house help, involved
in the Rs 50 lakh robbery in
Shahpura on Monday
night.
The Chunabhatti police
traced the location of the
smartwatch and learnt that
the last location was Rehti
in Sehore district. They
hightailed it to the spot and
nabbed the accused.
The clever move came
from Dr Anshul Singh,
daughter of the head of the
victim's family, Gyanendra
Singh Parihar. After Pari-
har and his family came
home and discovered the
burglary, they swiftly in-
formed the police of the in-
cident. As told to Free Press
by Chunabhatti police sta-
tion house officer (SHO)
Bhupendra Kaul Sandhu,
the next day, when all the
family members were try-
ing to evaluate all the booty
that had been stolen, Dr An-
shul discovered that her
If candidate attends mass feast to meet
voters, expense to be added to poll spend
OUR STAFF REPORTER
city.indore@fpj.co.in
If a candidate for the Lok
Sabha polls attends any
community feast or langar
to meet the voters, then the
expenditure incurred on
such social function will
be considered as election
expenditure of the candi-
date and it will be included
in his election expenditure
account.
The Election Commis-
sion of India has issued
fresh directives in this re-
gard. The Commission has
said that the expenditure
A
s of Thursday, all the
accused, excluding the
minor boy, involved in
the crime were produced in
the court, who have been
sent to police custody till
April 14, said Additional DCP
of Zone-4 of the city,
Malkeet Singh. He added that
the minor has been sent to
the correction home.
smartwatch had also been
missing. Realising that it
had been stolen by the ac-
cused, she eventually down-
loaded the application of
the company to which the
watch belonged.
As she checked on the app
about the watch’s location,
it showed Rehti as the last
location. She promptly in-
formed the police about the
same, who sent a team to
Rehti. Two accused named
Santosh Kumar Jangde and
Sonu Ahirwar were nabbed
from there, who spilled the
beans about their accom-
plices.
of any such community
lunch and dinner pro-
grammes organised to
meet the voters called by
any name and organised
by the candidate himself
or by any other person will
be included in the election
expenses of the candidate.
The Election Commission
has also clarified that this
instruction will not apply
to the general feast of lan-
gar, banquet or a function
like wedding, death etc.
traditionally organised by
religious communities in-
side their institutions.
The expenditure in-
the ordinary, but because the persons who Some people say that the and Muslim, he said. He said the Central Gov-
got it printed sought votes for the BJP. BJP discriminates According to him, the ernment had done so many
But the Election Commission remained against the Hindus and Pak-occupied Kashmir welfare works that if he be-
quiet on the issue. the Muslims, but the truth (POK) belonged to India gan to count them, it would
Alkesh Mishra, in-charge of the BJP’s is just the opposite, for the and it will remain so. take several hours.
social media in Manpur assembly seat, party does not engineer The people of POK feel In terms of economy, In-
which comes under the Shahdol Lok any rift between the Hin- that Pakistan cannot work dia was on the 11th posi-
Sabha constituency, got a wedding card dus, Muslims, Sikhs and for their welfare, and only tion in the world, but now,
printed. Christians, the Defence Modi can do so, Singh said. the country reached the
He sought votes for the party through Minister said. The Congress has ruled fifth position, Rajnath
this card that says the Tilak ceremony of media. The Congress sharply reacted to Rather, the BJP believes the country for 50 years, said.
Alkesh Mishra will take place on April 17 the wedding card. in maintaining harmony but it failed to take the na- India will achieve the
and wedding ceremony on April 20. Whether the EC will act against the wed- among the people of all re- tion to the pinnacle of glo- third position by the year-
The wedding card went viral on social ding card or not only time will tell. ligions, he said, adding ry, Singh said. end, he said.
Sanadhya Brahmin body
Cong plays emotional card to counter BJP’s strategy
pledges 100% voting
Indore: The Sanadhya
Brahmin Sabha Yuva Mandal
organised a bhajan evening Nath and Diggi making appeals to voters’ sentiments
at La Omni Garden, where
they pledged to achieve a OUR STAFF REPORTER
BHURIA, TOO,
hundred per cent voter city.bhopal@fpj.co.in
turnout. The programme
was hosted by the Sanadhya
Association, in the presence
of mayor Pushyamitra
The BJP is contesting each Lok
Sabha seat with a strategy. To APPEALS TO
Bhargava, MLA Golu Shukla,
and former MLA Sanjay
counter it, the Congress has begun
to play emotional card.
The party is making emotional
VOTER’S SENTIMENTS
Shukla. appeal for votes. Digvijaya Singh
in Rajgarh, Kamal Nath in F ormer Union minister Kantilal Bhuria,
contesting from the Ratlam-Jhabua
constituency, is also trying to cash in on
Chhindwara and Kantilal Bhuria
the people’s sentiments. The entire
in Ratlam are appealing to voter’s
sentiments. family of Bhuria has swung into action.
Bhuria is focusing only on the Bheel
Former chief minister Kamal
Nath, seeking votes for his son
community which the BP candidate
belongs to. Bhuria is telling the Bheels
curred on such communi- Nakul Nath, is making touching
that it is going to be his last election. His
ty feast, langar etc. will appeals to voters.
son, Vikrant Bhuria, has become an
not be included in the elec- Nath is telling people that he has MLA. The family members of Bhuria also
tion expenditure of the spent his entire youth for Chhind- say that it will be his last election.
candidate provided that wara and will do so in his old age, peal as a sword to seek votes for Considered influential among the tribal people in rural areas, Bhuria is
the candidate participates and that he will serve the people his son. Now, Kamal Nath is lead- seeking votes on the ground of his age-old relation with the tribal people.
in it as an ordinary visitor. till death. ing the campaign from the front
The Commission has also Nath is using this emotional ap- pushing Nakul back.
given instructions to the
monitoring parties and
election officials to ensure
that the candidate has not
Digvijaya, too, gives an emotional turn
made any financial contri-
bution in such community
banquets etc. and that no
T wenty-five days are left for electioneering in Rajgarh. Singh, who has given an emotional turn to his campaigning, is neither speaking about what he
did for the state nor about the Congress. He is only talking about himself. Singh has adopted two different strategies – by holding closed door
meetings and by addressing public rallies. Singh is seeking votes saying that it will be his last election. The purpose of his emotional appeal is to ensure an
political campaign has honourable exit from politics. There are many elderly people who support Singh in Rajgarh. He does not have much influence among the youths. So, he
been carried out in any is appealing to the sentiments of the elderly people as well as to the younger generation. He has made his son Jaivardhan active among the youths, and is
way in such community also seen walking with his grandson. He is trying to make his electioneering emotional by using his family as well as by connecting it to his prestige.
banquets.
 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Progress lies not in enhancing what is,
but in advancing toward what will be.
— KAHLIL GIBRAN
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
EDIT
SINCE 1928

SC shows the way on climate change & human rights

FOUNDER EDITOR: S SADANAND
Across the Mumbai harbour, in Pardiwala and Manoj Misra led by are important sources of the right to plan in which ecology provides the

Mumbai Navi Mumbai, the first strokes of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud — ex- a clean environment and the right context for development. This also

Let armed forces Naama

summer showed up in the DPS Lake
which environmentalists recorded
this week as totally dry with the lake
panded the scope of the Articles and
placed climate change impacts
within the ambit of human rights, in-
against the adverse effects of
climate change,” it said.
The bench was hearing a petition
means people working collectively
in neighbourhoods can now demand
of their local authorities, or work by

remain apolitical
bed showing deep cracks. Shocked at cluding the Right to Life. to protect the Great Indian Bustard themselves, to map and record natu-
this, they pointed to the intense heat On the right to a clean environ- from losing its habitat due to the lay- ral areas in their neighbourhoods as
÷Smruti Koppikar as well as the blocking of the water ment, the bench noted: “Without a ing of power transmission lines, not a prelude to providing them statuto-

T
flow to the Thane Creek after the lo- clean environment which is stable a plea dealing directly with climate ry protection. Cities and states will

he Indian armed forces remain one of the most re-
spected institutions in the country because of their
dedication to duty, loyalty to the nation, and willing-
ness to make the supreme sacrifice. They have proved it
time and again, both during war and natural calamities.
They have always been kept aloof from politics. That is pre-
cisely why the newly formed government in India did not
permit the merger of Subhash Chandra Bose’s Indian Na-
tional Army (INA) with the Indian Army. Instead, the INA
was disbanded. While many countries that became inde-
pendent in the ’40s and ’50s came under army rule, there
was never an occasion when the Indian army’s integrity or
motives were questioned. It has always remained above
suspicion. It is difficult to say whether the highest apolitical
standards of the armed forces are still maintained.
Take the case of the Sainik schools. There are, in all, 33
such schools run by the Sainik Schools Society under the
defence ministry. They were set up with the aim of catching
soldiers, especially officers, at a young age. Students select-
ed through a merit-cum-means system are given regular
education with an emphasis on equipping them with the
ability to lead the armed forces from the lowest rank to the
highest rank. These schools have stood the test of time and
the requirements of the armed forces. The Modi govern-
ment’s decision to enrol girls in these schools was excellent,
as no ranks in the armed forces are now barred for women.
They can even aspire to become the general, the admiral,
and the air chief marshal. Equally praiseworthy was the
decision to increase the number of Sainik schools.
In a letter to President Droupadi Murmu, who is the
Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces,
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, who is the leader of
the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, asked for a withdrawal
A
s summer heat courses
through Mumbai, congested
and chaotic as ever, mixing
with humidity levels and making
our days unbearable, trees offer
shades of respite from it. Our lived
experience tells us that the more
wooded and greener an area is, the
cooler it tends to be. Research has
provided evidence and climate sci-
ence leaves us in no doubt that trees
are the bulwark against its worst im-
pacts. From lowering heat stress to
limiting the Urban Heat Island
effect, from preventing rainwater
runoff to recharging ground water,
from providing shade and tranquilli-
ty to promoting physical and mental
well-being, trees are our ally in fac-
ing climate change.
Yet, Mumbai lost 21,028 trees over
the past six years between 2018 and
2023, according to the Brihanmum-
bai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
data provided to a newspaper under
the RTI Act. The data also showed
that though the civic body claimed to
have transplanted as many trees,
their survival rate was low when
checked in nine of the city’s 24
wards. The number of trees felled in-
cludes the more than 2,000 hacked
overnight in 2019 in the Aarey forest
for the metro car shed. Like this, the
green cover was scythed for a host of
infrastructure plans including the
coastal road, link roads, Mumbai-
Ahmedabad bullet train and similar
projects.
cal authority, CIDCO, constructed a
road to the water transport
terminal; the road goes over one of
the inlets connecting the lake and
the creek. Another inlet is often
closed by fisherfolk in the area.
Ergo: the lake dried up to the extent
of showing cracks.
These are only two examples of the
many that abound in our cities
across India, in the towns and vil-
lages too, of pursuing 'development'
at the cost of nature and ecology,
and, through it, intensifying the var-
ied impacts of climate change. Iron-
ically, it was the BMC that steered
the Mumbai Climate Action Plan
(MCAP) two years ago which held
out a small promise of a considered
response but the same BMC belliger-
ently pushed ahead with the coastal
road which, in the climate change
era, has been called ‘maladaptive in-
frastructure’ by scientists at the In-
tergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) in its last report.
Why all this now? This is because
the Supreme Court spoke in unam-
biguous words last month — the judg-
ment was only uploaded earlier this
week — that Articles 14 and 21 includ-
ed “the right against the adverse ef-
fects of climate change”. This is In-
dia’s first-ever judgment recognising
and bringing on record the perils of
climate change, and linking its im-
pact to human rights enshrined in
Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution.
The bench — comprising Justices JB
and unimpacted by the vagaries of
climate change, the right to life is not
fully realised. The right to health
(which is a part of the right to life
under Article 21) is impacted due to
factors such as air pollution, shifts
in vector-borne diseases, rising tem-
peratures, droughts, shortages in
food supplies due to crop failure,
storms, and flooding. The inability
of underserved communities to
The thrust of urban planning itself will have to change.
Cities and states will now have to take their climate
action plans more seriously than before
adapt to climate change or cope with
its effects violates the right to life
(Article 21) as well as the right to
equality (Article 14).”
It further stated that the impor-
tance of the environment, as indicat-
ed by Article 48A (the State shall en-
deavour to protect and improve the
environment and to safeguard the
forests and wildlife of the country)
and Clause (g) of Article 51A (it shall
be the duty of every citizen of India
to protect and improve the natural
environment), becomes a right in
other parts of the Constitution. “Ar-
ticle 21 recognises the right to life
and personal liberty while Article 14
indicates that all persons shall have
equality before law and the equal
protection of laws. These Articles
change. But the significance of its
judgment on two aspects — expand-
ing the scope of the two fundamental
Articles and reading human rights
to include climate change impacts —
cannot be overstated. These words
from the apex court have come not a
day too soon.
The judgment offers the people of In-
dia the strongest-ever suit to take on
governments at state and local level in
the absence of clear climate mitigation
and adaptation efforts and plans. State
and city governments will have to now
prioritise sustainable development
and environmental conservation in
cities, recognising and restoring the
green and blue ecological networks,
and give primacy to nature as climate
threats loom larger. It is the only way
forward to safeguard lives, livelihoods
and property. Going further, this can
mean that all development and infra-
structure projects will have to be eval-
uated for their climate impact and lev-
els of the adverse climate effects they
may cause to people.
Indeed, the thrust of urban plan-
ning itself will have to change from
the present land-use plan without an
ecological context to a nature-based
now have to take their climate action
plans more seriously than before.
And the MCAP, or any climate plan
that replaces it, will have to be a
statutory plan rather than a wish list
of changes that should ideally hap-
pen in Mumbai to mitigate and
adapt to climate change.
Far away in Strasbourg, France,
another court showed more possibil-
ities this week. The European Court
of Human Rights held that the Swiss
government had violated its
citizens’ human rights by not meet-
ing its targets on climate and not do-
ing enough to stop climate change.
The Swiss government argued that
the human rights law does not apply
to climate change but the court held
otherwise and ordered it to pay Eu-
ros 80,000 ($87,000) to the group that
brought the case to the judiciary.
India may be eons away from the
point where governments can be held
guilty of not meeting climate targets
but the Supreme Court has put us on
that path. The intersection of human
rights and climate change now has a
clear focus. Every tree, stream, river
lake and hill in our cities needs to be
protected if we are to face climate
change with minimal damage.
Smruti Koppikar, senior journalist and
urban chronicler, writes extensively on
cities, development, gender, and the
media. She is the Founder Editor of the
award-winning online journal
‘Question of Cities’

Why financial discipline is important for banks

of the decision to hand over such schools to private entities.
Under a private-public partnership agreement, private par-
ties would run such schools, for which the government
would provide a certain amount as subsidy. It is Kharge’s
contention that most of the parties who benefited from the
scheme are those close to the RSS, the umbrella organisa- wicked sense of humour especially ments banks can but accept deposits RBI crackdown on Paytm Payments secrecy law thrown in.
in election rallies with a particular of a maximum of Rs 1 lakh and Bank Ltd that the idea of a Payment bank or regular full-
tion under which comes the ruling BJP. The government
has flatly denied the allegation. If there is an element of Rational reference to how the fugitive Vijay
Mallya bent the system to get the
couldn’t lend nor issue credit cards
made them hermaphrodite banks if
payments bank was flawed as the
rump model of business, as it were,
fledged bank, they are both
amenable to misuse and abuse. Yes
truth in Kharge’s letter, the decision will strike at the roots
of the apolitical and secular nature of the armed forces.
Analysis government to throw good money
after the bad to his now grounded
one may say so, given the fact that
lending is the second arm of any
engendered by wrenching away of
the freedom to lend, has been tempt-
Bank is a full-fledged bank whose
promoter Rana Kapoor was deri-
Kingfisher Airlines Ltd. The dan- bank with the first being acceptance ing them to follow some sharp prac- sively called the lender of the last re-
÷ S Murlidharan
Father-son disconnect gerously rising spectacle of non-
performing assets (NPA), a euphe-
of deposits. Soon payment banks
were bestowed with the description
tices including playing the hand-
maiden role in money-laundering. It
sort — wannabes denied loans by
other banks went to him and got the

I L
’affaire Paytm has once again
n the annals of political rigidity, AK Antony stands as brought to fore the debate on
a testament to the discipline that transcends even the why financial discipline and
grandeur of a chief minister’s inauguration. His saga regulations are more important to
banks than for other industries. In-
unfolds like a Shakespearean comedy, with a twist of polit-
dira Gandhi rolled out the process
ical irony. For “Saint” Antony, the separation of his person- of bank nationalisation in 1969 at
al and political realms was more sacrosanct than the Bibli- the height of her socialistic deal so
cal verses. When faced with the monumental task of lead- that banks could serve the poor
ing Kerala, he sent his son dutifully to school, lest the heav- more and the incestuous practice of
industrial houses using their own
ens crumble under the weight of familial presence at Raj banks’ funds to further their own
Bhavan. Truly, a man of impeccable priorities! But as time causes including diversion of funds
weaves its tapestry, even the most disciplined threads fray. was foiled. For the same reason, two
Enter Anil Antony, the rebellious scion who dares to defy years later ie, in 1971 she nation-
alised the general insurance busi-
the patriarch's political gospel. Like Oedipus before him, he
ness by consolidating the private
challenges the oracle, likening his father to a relic of ones into four regional insurers —
yesteryears, while extolling the virtues of Modi, the mod- namely United India based in Chen-
ern-day Caesar. nai, Oriental based in Delhi, Nation-
Anil Antony’s reverence for Modi clashes with the sacred al based in Kolkata and New India
based in Mumbai with General In-
scriptures of Indian tradition, where filial piety is akin to surance Corporation parenting all
a religious creed. In a land where Rama's obedience to his the four.
father is enshrined in epics, Anil's homage to the 'world's It is moot if what she did served
greatest leader' echoes more of a political creed than a fa- the purpose they were supposed to,
but it certainly gave rise to behest
milial bond. As Antony Senior graces the Congress Work-
lending whose most blatant version
ing Committee with his octogenarian wisdom, while his was “phone banking” as Prime Min-
son seeks votes on the BJP ticket, one can't help but marvel ister Narendra Modi puts it with a
at the paradox he embodies. In a world where politics often
blurs the lines between personal and public life, his stead-
fast commitment to compartmentalisation is both ad- Can lack of support be
mirable and confounding. So, as the saga of the father and
termed ‘violence’?
his “prodigal son” unfolds, we're left to ponder: is it disci-
pline that drives him, or a disconnect from the very fabric — Swami Brahmavidananda Saraswati
mism for bad debts, was engendered
as much by behest lending as by the
politically more popular loan melas
both of which promoted the smug
notion that such loans from banks
were not meant to be repaid!
After liberalisation in the early
nineties of the previous century,
wisdom dawned on the policy
wonks and the government that na-
tionalisation after all was an inap-
propriate solution to a genuine
problem of lopsided lending. The
UPA government’s blue-eyed boy
Raghuram Rajan, the then RBI gov-
ernor, warmed up to the idea of a
payments bank in 2013, and thus
was born the first payment bank of
Bharti Airtel. Payments banks give
many attractions to their customers
including the convenience of
mobile number doubling as savings
account number, nil minimum bal-
ance, cash back and what have you.
Paytm Wallet and its sister company
Paytm Payments Bank Ltd made the
most of the void left by the demon-
etisation of Rs 1000 and Rs 500 notes
announced on November 8, 2016 by
Prime Minister Modi. That pay-
TO THE EDITOR
Dangerous inequality
of fintech firms as they were mo- is suspected that the auditors found loan sanctioned for a quid pro quo
bile-driven. thousands of accounts in the Paytm was the ED’s charge against him.
Payments banks were a perfect fit Payment Bank opened on the back RBI cannot be faulted for cracking
in a milieu where the mobile phone of the same Aadhaar number. the whip on Paytm Payments Bank
jettisoned many gadgets and utili- The popular perception that any- by asking it to cease all business
ties including cameras, calculators, thing routed through banking chan- from March 1. A bank is like the
proverbial Caesar’s wife — should
be beyond reproach and suspicion.
Exemplary punishments must be prescribed for Bank failures have a ripple or conta-
banks deviating from the straight and narrow gion effect which is why the govern-
ment orders bailout as it did for Yes
of banking norms Bank. In its absence, the health of
other banks which have lent to the
failed bank is also impacted. Exem-
wallet and even bank passbook and nels is deemed to be white money plary punishments must be pre-
cheque book. was busted when in October 2016 as scribed for banks deviating from the
Paytm and other mobile wallets many as 2 lakh bank accounts of straight and narrow of banking
are different from Google Pay or shell companies were frozen by the norms.
Gpay in a vital sense — in Gpay you government. While there is no stop- While behest lending has indeed
pay from your bank account linked ping shell companies from opening slowed down under the Modi gov-
to your Gpay app in your mobile but bank accounts, it is perfectly kosher ernment, onboarding of dubious ac-
Paytm is a wallet to which you for the authorities to look into the counts hasn’t. It is time the riot act
transfer money from your bank ac- dealing of such companies which was read out to all banks. After all,
count which more often than not is are often opened for money launder- we are not Switzerland where the
from your Paytm Payments Bank ing whose main adjunct is multi-lay- Swiss law itself winks at banking
thus allowing the wallet company ering ie, building wheel within secrecy and duplicity.
the luxury of float or interest-free wheel set of arrangement to frus-
funds from the date of transfer to trate investigation what with the S Murlidharan is a freelance columnist
utilisation. trail often disappearing into foreign and writes on economics, business,
It now turns out from the recent bank accounts with banking legal and taxation issues
LETTERS Household debt
has surged
Preserve and protect trees
T he report ‘BMC on tree pruning spree for
safe monsoon’ (Apr 8) is good but right
I ndia’s household debt levels are
believed to have touched an all-time
high of 40% of Gross Domestic Product
now heat wave is on, so will trees be able
to withstand it? Will this pruning affect the
trees ? As it is the trees on roadside are a

I
of familial reverence that defines our cultural ethos? Only
time will tell, as the political pendulum swings between
obedience and rebellion.
n a conversation with a
young woman in her
early thirties who is
working for an NGO, she
INDIA 75 YEARS AGO said, “There are many
FPJ Archives women who want to get
MARCH 12, 1949 into the workforce but
their families are not very
supportive.” She wanted to
classify this as violence
against women.
I asked, “Are you sure? At
best, this can be classified
as lack of support or rather
lack of unconditional sup-
port because these
women are being sup-
ported in other ways.”
In the professional
domain, there is no
support for the
woman’s ca-
reer.
GUIDING LIGHT
She was in-
sisting that this was vio-
lence. I wondered, if this is
classified as violence, a
huge set of problems will
appear.
How would one classify
verbal abuse? Something
more than violence? Or
emotional abuse? Or even
physical abuse? More than
violence?
By using a disproportion-
ately loaded word, like “vi-
olence” for “lack of sup-
port”, we end up abusing
the word and then, we have
JEWS SIGN TRUCE WITH TRANSJORDAN no word left to describe
real cases of violence.
No Moves On Akaba Front Not only that, if you clas-
Rhodes, March 11. Transjordan and Israel signed a formal cease- sify this as violence in the
fire here today after pressure from Palestine Mediator, Dr. Ralph name of changing the soci-
Bunche, to avert complete breakdown of their armistice talks over ety you will lose the sup-
military activity in the Negev "wedge".
port of most of the men.
You will lose the support of
most of the women as well,
as they wouldn’t want their
husbands or fathers or
brothers to be arrested for
“violence”, just because
their career is not being
supported.
If this is the attitude of
people working in our NGO
sector, how does one really
hope to change society?
She further said, “This is
because of religion, espe-
cially Hinduism.”
This is a confusing
statement. There
may be Hindus who
are not supportive
of career women,
as in all soci-
eties. But
Hinduism as
a religion is never against
working women. The Vedic
and the Pauranic period in-
dicate that a lot of women
had very respectable pro-
fessions as scholars,
judges, teachers, pandits
etc.
Some sort of wokeism or
distorted thinking is com-
ing into our youngsters. Of-
ten, these are entitled peo-
ple who are working in the
NGO sector without know-
ing the ground reality of
society. It is most unfortu-
nate.
The writer is the founder of
Aarsha Vidya Foundation. You
can write to him at
aarshavidyaf@gmail.com
T he latest World Inequality Lab report
says that India’s top one percent of the
population holds 40.1 percent of the
nation’s wealth. The Billionaire Raj headed
by India’s wealthiest few is now more
unequal than the British Raj headed by the
colonialist forces. Such a huge and wide
gap in economic wealth in India is likely to
facilitate disproportionate influence on
society and government. Rising inequality
in wealth will lead to slower poverty
reduction, undermine the sustainability of
economic growth, compound the
inequalities between men and women, and
drive inequalities in health and education.
The continued rise of economic inequality
in India is a clear result of policy choices.
Governments can start to reduce inequality
by rejecting market fundamentalism,
opposing the special interests of powerful
elites, and changing the rules and systems
that have led to where we are today.
Robust reforms must be implemented in
such a way that money and power are
redistributed to level the playing field.
Ranganathan Sivakumar, Chennai
MIKA’S MATRIX
(GDP) by December 2023, a research
report from financial services firm Motilal
Oswal has said, indicating rising financial
distress in the country. At the same
time, net financial savings had likely
dropped to their lowest level at around 5%
of GDP, the report added. In September
2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
estimated that households’ net financial
savings had fallen to 5.1% from 11.5% in
2020-21 — a 47-year low. The Finance
Ministry countered this claim, saying that
households are now adding fewer financial
assets than in the past because they have
started taking loans to buy real assets such
as homes and vehicles. Over the first nine
months of last year, households’ gross
financial savings rose to 10.8% of GDP,
from 10.5% in the corresponding period of
2022-23, but financial liabilities also rose
by a similar extent to 5.8% of GDP from
5.5% of GDP. Households’ annual
borrowings surged to 5.8% of GDP in
2022-23, the second highest in the post-
Independence period.
MR Jayanthy Anandambal, Chennai
neglected lot and they sustain themselves
on their own. In this heat they need water,
not pruning. Agreed, it is important for pre-
monsoon pruning as many casualties
happen due to trees falling, but it is also
very important to nurture those trees as
green cover is decreasing day by day.
Maya Bhatkar, Mumbai
At least ink is the same!
I t is said everything is fair in love and war,
including winning elections in India. In
this game of power, people are transferred,
policies are changed, rules twisted, voters
and candidates kidnapped, people bribed,
but thank God the colour of the indelible
ink remains the same — Prussian blue, and
it has not been changed to orange!
TS Karthik, Chennai
Dear reader,
We are eager to know your opinions, comments and
suggestions. Write to letters@fpj.co.in with the title of the
letter in the subject line. Using snail mail? Send your letters
to The Free Press Journal, Free Press House, Free Press
Marg, 215 Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021.
Australian women lose bid to sue Qatar Airways
Melbourne: An Australian court has rejected a case brought by
five women seeking compensation from Qatar Airways over
invasive gynaecological examinations conducted on passengers at
Doha's airport in 2020, but their case against the airport’s operator
GLOBAL
BULLETIN
17 die in Pak
bus mishap
Karachi: At least 17 people were
killed and 38 injured when a bus
carrying pilgrims fell into a deep
ravine near a border town of
Pakistan’s Sindh and Balochistan
provinces, police said on
Thursday. The pilgrims were
going to pay homage at the
remote Muslim Sufi shrine Shah
Noorani in the Khuzdar district of
Balochistan when their bus fell
into the ravine in the Hub town
on Wednesday. All the
passengers belonged to Thatta
town in the Sindh province. “The
vehicle left Thatta around 2 in
the afternoon on Eid day and
met with the accident around 8
pm on Eid day (Wednesday),”
Naqvi said.
Philippine copter
crash kills pilots
Manila: A Philippine navy
training helicopter crashed near a
seaside city, killing the two pilots
on board and narrowly missing a
fruit market and neighbourhood,
where some horrified residents
ran for their lives, officials and
witnesses said on Thursday.
Military spokesperson Col. Francel
Padilla said the cause of the crash
of the Robinson R22 helicopter in
Cavite City, 21 kilometres south of
Manila, was not immediately
known, but the two pilots had
“executed emergency
procedures”. Police investigator
Armangel Genuino told AP the
helicopter took off from Sangley
Airport for a routine training flight
around Cavite province and
crashed less than 10 minutes
later. The instructor pilot and his
navy colleague were extracted
from the wreckage by paramedics
and rescuers but were later
declared dead in two hospitals,
Genuino said.
Heavy-lift rocket
test launched
Moscow: Russia on Thursday
successfully test-launched a new
heavy-lift rocket from its Far
Eastern space complex, a lift-off
that comes after two aborted
attempts earlier this week. The
first attempt to launch the
Angara-A5 rocket from the
Vostochny spaceport on Tuesday
was cancelled about two
minutes before scheduled liftoff
because of a failure of the
pressurization system in the
central block of the rocket. The
second attempted launch on
Wednesday was also aborted by
the automatic safety system,
which registered a flaw in the
engine start control mechanism,
said Yuri Borisov, head of Russia's
space corporation Roscosmos.
Crossword #1103
Across
1 Used to be
5 __ Mahal : the wonder
at Agra?
8 Cook
12 European - "T-lab"
anagram?
13 Unseal - poetically
speaking !
14 Ireland, once
15 Beauty queen and
actress ___ Sen
17 Curb, check
18 Suffer
19 Looked lasciviously at
21 City in Bihar
24 Famous American march
composer
25 Under-cooked 50 John for the Welsh
26 Massive wild ox 51 Upper limbs
27 Steal from 52 Distance Measuring
30 Notable interval
Equip.
31 Trunk 53 Sea wall
32 Central Technical Down
Operations 1 Weight and Balance Sys.
33 A longing for a Japanese 2 Water in France
coin? 3 Literary monogram
34 Keep afloat; sustain 4 Petroleum byproduct
courage or spirits of? 5 Hard work
35 Go away! 6 Fitting
36 Stretch of lawn 7 The green-eyed monster?
38 Purchaser 8 The largest asteroid
39 Correct bad habits 9 Pecking order
41 Horizontal Situation 10 Huron's neighbour
Indicator 11 ___ for oneself : be on
42 Love, to Livy one's own, in a way?
43 Taking as one's own 16 ___ Farrow : ex-
48 Company
Hollywood star - "Aim"
49 Pinch or bite
anagram?
41 Hope, 44 Dim, 45 Ivy, 46 Oak, 47 NNE.
26 Gourmand, 28 Otoe, 29 Boor, 31 T-bar, 35 Suited, 37 Worms, 38 BSP, 39 Rafa, 40 Emir,
9 Hierarchy, 10 Erie, 11 Fend, 16 Mia, 20 Euro, 21 Prey, 22 Aare, 23 Transform, 24 Sarod,
52 DME, 53 Dyke. Down: 1 WBS, 2 Eau, 3 RLS, 4 Ethane, 5 Toil, 6 Apt, 7 Jealousy, 8 Ceres,
36 Sward, 38 Buyer, 39 Reform, 41 HSI, 42 Amor, 43 Adoption, 48 Firm, 49 Nip, 50 Evan, 51 Arms,
21 Patna, 24 Sousa, 25 Rare, 26 Gaur, 27 Rob, 30 Era, 31 Torso, 32 CTO, 33 Yen, 34 Buoy, 35 Shoo,
Across: 1 Were, 5 Taj, 8 Chef, 12 Balt, 13 Ope, 14 Eire, 15 Sushmita, 17 Rein, 18 Ail, 19 Leered,
FPJ - SUDOKU - 96
WHAT TO DO: Fill in the grid so that
every row, every column and every 3x3
box contains the digits 1 to 9. Every
puzzle has only one correct solution.
BIDEN VOWS ‘IRONCLAD’ SUPPORT
US President reiterates commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran
AGENCIES / WASHINGTON
The US has reiterated its
“ironclad” support for Israel,
following Iran’s remark that
it would retaliate for the re-
cent deadly strike on the
Iranian embassy in Syria.
“As I told Prime Minister
Netanyahu, our commitment
to Israel’s security against
these threats from Iran and
its proxies is ironclad. Let me
say it again: ironclad. We're
going to do all we can to pro-
tect Israel's security,” US
President Joe Biden said at a
White House press confer-
ence with visiting Japanese
Prime Minister Prime Minis-
ter Kishida Fumio on
Wednesday.
The two leaders, in their
earlier Oval Office meeting,
“addressed the Iranian
threat ... to launch a signifi-
cant attack on Israel”, Biden
said according to the Times
of Israel.
Karen militia claims
seizure of key base
AP / BANGKOK
Guerrillas from the Karen
ethnic minority on Thursday
claimed to have captured the
last of the army's outposts in
Myawaddy township in east-
ern Myanmar, virtually clear-
ing the way for them to take
over the town of Myawaddy,
the major crossing point for
trade with Thailand.
The Karen National
Union, the ethnic group's
leading political body, said on
Facebook that its armed
wing, acting together with
the affiliated Karen National
Defence Organisation and al-
lied pro-democracy forces,
had captured the garrison of
the army's Infantry Battalion
275, about 4 km to the west of
the town before dawn on
Thursday, after besieging it
20 Continental exchange
21 Animal's quarry
22 Swiss river - change of
"area"?
23 Remodel
24 Amjad Ali Khan's forte
26 Epicurean
28 Oklahoma Indian
29 What a rude person he
is!
31 Ski lift (1-3)
35 Well matched?
37 Creeping insects
38 Mayawati's party
39 Nadal's nickname
40 Arabian prince
41 Be an optimist, perhaps?
44 Not bright
45 A climbing vine
46 Sturdy tree
47 North North East
Solution
Level: Very easy
is going ahead. The five, whose identities have been concealed by
the courts, were among hundreds of women forcibly removed from
airliners in Doha on October 2, 2020, as officials searched for the
mother of a newborn baby found dumped in a terminal trash can.
Hours earlier, Iran's
Supreme Leader Ayatollah
Ali Khamenei said Israel
“must be punished and it
shall be” for allegedly attack-
ing an Iranian consular
building in Syria's Damas-
cus, killing two generals
among several Islamic Revo-
since the start of the week.
The fall of Myawaddy
would be another major set-
back in the army's war
against resistance forces
since last October, when an
alliance of three other ethnic
rebel groups launched an of-
fensive in the northeast.
Over the past five months,
the army has been routed in
northern Shan state, where it
surrendered control of sever-
al border crossings with Chi-
na, and in Rakhine state in
the west, and is facing active
challenges elsewhere.
The nationwide conflict in
Myanmar began after the
army ousted the elected gov-
ernment of Aung San Suu
Kyi in February 2021 and
suppressed widespread non-
violent protests that sought a
return to democratic rule.
YOUR DAY By Vinayak Vishwas Karandikar
ARIES: Today is the
day for family
responsibilities and
banking work. Expect
to spend on vehicle or house.
Those in banking and vehicle
business will get success. Some
people may spend their day doing
household activities with family.
TAURUS: Today
confidence will be
your main strength.
Expect expenditure for
health and communication. People
working in the field of
communications or advertising
will do well. Your morale and
confidence level will be high.
GEMINI: Today is a
day for travel and
expenditure. You may
invest or spend for
your family needs. Those in
banking or investment will get
success. You may enjoy shopping
or a long journey with your
family. Some people may feel
nervous or isolated.
CANCER: Today is the
day to fulfil all your
desires. Expect
expenditure for
health, friends and elder sibling.
Those who are self-employed will
get success. In business or job,
your personal efforts will lead you
towards success.
LEO: Today is the day
to travel and invest.
Expect expenditure for
business, career and
travel. People from tourism,
hospital and marine sector will
get success. Long journey or ill
health of family member is
indicated.
VIRGO: Today your
luck will be with you.
Expect expenditure for
travel and education.
Those in education and travel will
get success. Your father’s advice
will help you. A long journey or
religious trip is indicated. Some
people may suffer from muscle
pain.
lutionary Guard Corps
(IRGC) officers. The IRGC is
a US-designated terrorist or-
ganization, Times of Israel
reported.
Biden elaborated on dis-
cussions with Netanyahu,
emphasising mutual
backing for a ceasefire and
Albanese welcomes news
on Assange prosecution
AGENCIES / CANBERRA
Australian Prime Minister
Anthony Albanese on Thurs-
day welcomed news that US
President Joe Biden is con-
sidering a request to drop the
prosecution of WikiLeaks
founder Julian Assange.
Biden said on Wednesday
that he is considering a re-
quest from Australia to drop
the decade-long US push to
prosecute Assange for pub-
lishing a trove of American
classified documents.
Assange has been indicted
on 17 espionage charges and
one charge of computer mis-
use over his website's publi-
cation of a trove of classified
US documents almost 15
years ago.
“We're considering it,”
Biden said when asked about
the request on Wednesday, as
he hosted Japanese Prime
Minister Fumio Kishida for
an official visit.
For years, Australia has
called on the US to drop its
prosecution against Assange,
an Australian citizen who
has fought US extradition ef-
forts from prison in the UK.
American prosecutors al-
lege that Assange, 52, encour-
aged and helped US Army in-
LIBRA: Today you
may face commercial
loss and trouble in
your daily activities.
Expect expenditure for premiums,
commission, repairing and
maintenance. Family life may be
disturbed due to workload. Some of
you may suffer from indigestion.
SCORPIO: You will be
engaged in travel and
business. Expect to
spend on higher
education or travel. People from
communication, education, travel
and lodging will get success.
Happy family time is indicated.
Some lower back pain.
SAGITTARIUS: Today
you will be engaged
in solving your
business or
relationship problems. Expect
expenditure for premiums, health
and maintenance. People in
medicine and finance will be
benefited. Some people may
suffer from knee pain.
CAPRICORN: Enjoy
life today, full of love
and entertainment.
You may spend for
children or entertainment. People
in share market or entertainment
will get success. Those who are
in a relationship will spend time
together.
AQUARIUS: Today is
the day to learn and
earn. Expect
expenditure for house,
vehicle and health. People in
fields like fabrics or liquid items
will be benefited. Ill health of or
dispute with mother is indicated.
You may have a stomachache.
PISCES: Today is the
day to enjoy
communication and
travel. Expect
expenditure on children and
entertainment. People in fields
like share market, art and
entertainment will get success. A
fun time with siblings is indicated.
Some of you may have back pain.
efforts towards a hostage
deal. Urgent attention to ad-
dressing the humanitarian
crisis in Gaza was also un-
derscored during their dia-
logue.
“What I'm calling for is for
the Israelis to just call for a
ceasefire, allow for the next
six, eight weeks, total access
to all food and medicine go-
ing into the country,” he said,
according to the Times of Is-
rael.
A senior White House offi-
cial told The Times of Israel
afterwards that he was refer-
ring to the hostage deal being
negotiated by the US, Qatar
and Egypt.
“About my discussions
with Netanyahu, as well as
our relationship with Israel,
I have been very blunt and
straightforward with the
Prime Minister, as well as his
war cabinet, as well as the
cabinet,” he said.
Biden disclosed that he en-
telligence analyst Chelsea
Manning steal diplomatic ca-
bles and military files that
WikiLeaks published. Aus-
tralia argues there is a dis-
connect between the US
treatment of Assange and
Manning. Then US President
Barack Obama commuted
Manning’s 35-year sentence
to seven years, which allowed
her release in 2017.
“I believe this must be
brought to a conclusion and
that Assange has already paid
a significant price and
enough is enough,” Albanese
told state media Australian
Broadcasting Corporation tel-
evision. “There’s nothing to
be gained by Assange’s con-
tinued incarceration, in my
very strong view,” he said.
Assange, who founded
WikiLeaks in Australia in
S Korea’s PM
offers to resign
post poll loss
AP / SEOUL
South Korea’s prime minis-
ter Han Duck-soo and senior
presidential officials offered
to resign en masse on Thurs-
day, after their conservative
ruling party suffered a
crushing defeat in parlia-
mentary elections.
The results of Wednes-
day's elections were a huge
political blow to President
Yoon Suk Yeol, likely setting
back his domestic agenda
and leave him facing an in-
tensifying political offensive
by his liberal opponents dur-
ing his remaining three
years in office.
Han and all senior presi-
dential advisers to Yoon, ex-
cept those in charge of secu-
rity issues, submitted their
resignations, according to
Yoon's office. It didn't say
whether Yoon accepted their
resignations. Yoon said he
will “humbly uphold” the
public sentiments reflected
in the election outcome.
Pompeii project yields banquet hall
AP / ROME
Archaeologists excavating
new sites in Pompeii have
uncovered a sumptuous ban-
quet hall decorated with in-
tricately frescoed mythologi-
cal characters inspired by
the Trojan War, officials said
on Thursday.
The hall, which features a
mosaic floor, was uncovered
as part of a project to shore
up the areas dividing the ex-
cavated and unexcavated
parts of Pompeii, the ancient
city near Naples that was de-
stroyed in 79 AD when Mt.
Vesuvius erupted.
The banquet hall was used
for refined entertaining and
features black walls, a tech-
nique that prevented the
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
gaged in an extensive conver-
sation with Netanyahu. “Ne-
tanyahu and I had a long dis-
cussion and he agreed to do
several things that related to,
number one, getting more
aid, both food and medicine,
into Gaza and reducing sig-
nificantly the attempts the
civilian casualties in any ac-
tion taken in the region,”he
said.
The US President empha-
sised the commitment of his
administration to this cause.
“We were meeting with the
Vice President and our Na-
tional Security Advisor,” he
said.
Biden affirmed the ongo-
ing efforts to secure the re-
lease of hostages held by
Hamas, stating that there are
American hostages as well.
“They know how committed
we are to getting their loved
ones home and we're not go-
ing to stop until we do,” he
said.
2006, is trying to appeal his
extradition from the UK to
the US to face trial for the
2010 leaks.
The UK High Court in
March asked the US for as-
surances that Assange would
have a fair trial and not face
the death penalty if
convicted before making a fi-
nal decision in May on
whether he can appeal the ex-
tradition order.
Albanese in February sup-
ported a motion raised in the
federal parliament by inde-
pendent MP Andrew Wilkie
calling for Assange's return
to Australia. Wilkie was
among a delegation of MPs
who in September traveled to
Washington where they
urged politicians and
officials to abandon extradi-
tion efforts for Assange.
Ukraine law to boost conscripts
AP / KYIV
Ukraine's parliament passed
a controversial law on Thurs-
day that will govern how the
country recruits new
soldiers to replenish depleted
forces who are increasingly
struggling to fend off
Russian troops.
Lawmakers dragged their
feet for months over the new
law, and it is expected to be
unpopular. It comes about a
week after Ukraine lowered
the draft-eligible age for men
from 27 to 25.
Thursday’s vote came after
the parliamentary defense
committee removed a key
provision from the bill that
would rotate out troops who
served 36 months of combat
— a key promise of the
Ukrainian leadership. Law-
maker Oleksii Honcharenko
said in a Telegram post that
he was shocked by the move
to remove the provision.
The committee instructed
the Defense Ministry to draft
a separate bill on demobiliza-
tion within several months,
smoke from oil lamps from
being seen, said Gabriel
Zuchtriegel, director of the
Pompeii archaeological
park.
The figures painted
against that black backdrop
include Helen of Troy and
WORLD
‘We have stood up
for Canadians’
Trudeau tells public inquiry panel about
stand on Nijjar killing
AGENCIES / OTTAWA
“We have stood up for Cana-
dians, including in the very
serious case that I brought
forward to Parliament of the
killing of (Hardeep Singh)
Nijjar,” Canadian Prime
Minister Justin Trudeau
said.
Trudeau’s remarks are a
reference to the June 2023
killing in Surrey of Nijjar,
who has been designated a
Khalistani extremist by the
Indian government.
“Anyone who comes to
Canada from anywhere in
the world has all the rights of
a Canadian to be free from
extortion, coercion, interfer-
ence from a country that they
left behind,” Trudeau said,
adding that Canada’s stand
on the issue “demonstrates
our government's commit-
ment to defending the rights
and freedoms of Canadians”.
“The suggestion that we
haven't and we won't do
everything we can to defend
Canadian rules and values
and defend Canadians from
foreign interference is
simply misplaced," Trudeau
is heard saying in a video
shared by Canadian newspa-
per The Global and Mail.
“Our government has al-
ways stood up to defend mi-
norities in Canada and the
rights of minorities to speak
out even if it irritates their
China sanctions 2 US
defence companies
AP / BEIJING
China on Thursday an-
nounced rare sanctions
against two US defence
companies over what it said
is their support for arms
sales to Taiwan, the self-
governing island democra-
cy Beijing claims as its own
territory to be recovered by
force if necessary.
This freezes assets of
General Atomics Aeronau-
tical Systems and General
Dynamics Land Systems
held in China and bars the
companies' management
from entering the country.
“The continued US arms
sales to China's Taiwan re-
gion seriously violate the
news reports cited ministry
spokesperson Dmytro
Lazutkin as saying.
The law on recruiting sol-
diers, which will become ef-
fective a month after Presi-
dent Volodymyr Zelenskyy
signs it, was passed on
Thursday against the back-
drop of an escalating
Russian campaign that has
devastated Ukraine's energy
infrastructure in recent
weeks. Authorities said Russ-
ian overnight missile and
drone attacks again struck
infrastructure and power fa-
cilities across several regions
and completely destroyed the
Trypilska thermal power
Apollo. Experts said the ref-
erence to mythological fig-
ures was designed to enter-
tain guests and provide con-
versation starters.
The room, which is about
15 metres (yards) long and 6
metres (yards) wide, opens
home countries overseas,”
Trudeau said in the video of
the hearing of the Foreign In-
terference Commission
headed by Quebec judge
Marie-Josee Hogue.
Trudeau was testifying at
the hearing that was looking
into foreign interference in
Canada’s electoral processes,
with the investigation into the
allegations being triggered by
several media reports that cit-
ed unnamed sources and
leaked documents.
A briefing document
from the Canadian Security
Intelligence Service (CSIS)
says that China "clandes-
tinely and deceptively" in-
terfered in the last two fed-
eral elections.
Trudeau appeared before
the national public inquiry
after several days of testimo-
ny from members of his cab-
inet, political party represen-
tatives, intelligence officials
and senior bureaucrats.
one-China principle and the
provisions of the three Chi-
na-US joint communiqués,
interfere in China's internal
affairs, and undermine Chi-
na's sovereignty and territo-
rial integrity,” China's For-
eign Ministry said.
It insists that the main-
land and the island to which
Chiang Kai-shek's National-
ist forces fled amid civil war
in 1949 remain part of a sin-
gle Chinese nation.
Beijing has long threat-
ened such sanctions, but
has rarely issued them as
its economy reels from the
Covid-19 pandemic, high
unemployment and a
sharp decline in foreign in-
vestment.
plant, the largest power-gen-
erating facility in Kyiv re-
gion.
With Russia increasingly
seizing the initiative, the law
came in response to a request
from Ukraine's military,
which wants to mobilise up
to 500,000 more troops, Zelen-
skyy said in December. In-
cumbent army chief Olek-
sandr Syrskyi and Zelenskyy
have since revised that figure
down because soldiers can be
rotated from the rear. But of-
ficials haven't said how many
are needed.
The law will make it easier
to identify every draft-
eligible man in the country.
onto a courtyard near a stair-
case leading to the first floor
of the home, the park said in
a press release.
Excavations in Pompeii
have recently focused on ar-
eas of the city where the mid-
dle classes and servants
lived, while previous ones
have concentrated on the
elaborately frescoed villas of
Pompeii's upper classes.
The excavations that yield-
ed the new banquet hall are
designed to improve the hy-
drogeological structure of
the entire park, to make it
more sustainable as the re-
gion copes with climate ex-
tremes — heavy rainfall and
intense heat — that are
threatening the UNESCO
World Heritage Site.
 TEN TO TANGO
'Angad smiles
at me & that's
all I need'
AGENCIES / MUMBAI
Team India and Mumbai In-
dians pacer Jasprit Bumrah
opened up about his best feel-
ing in the world after becom-
ing a father. Bumrah became
a father to a baby boy, Angad
Bumrah in September last
year.
Jasprit Bumrah had to
leave the squad in midday
through Asia Cup last year in
order to be with his wife San-
jana Ganesan for the best of
their first child. The 30-year-
old took to his X handle (for-
merly Twitter) to announce
the arrival of his son.
"Our little family has
grown & our hearts are fuller
than we could ever imagine!
This morning we welcomed
our little boy, Angad Jasprit
Bumrah into the world. We
are over the moon and can’t
wait for everything this new
chapter of our lives brings
with it - Jasprit and Sanjana."
Bumrah wrote. In an interac-
tion on Jio Cinema, Jasprit
Bumrah shared his feelings
on becoming a father to An-
gad and said that his son
smiling at him is the best feel-
ing in the world.
"When I look at Angad,
that's the best feeling in the
world then he smiles at me
and that's all I need, I don't
need any other quiet places."
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bum-
rah is currently the part of
Mumbai Indians in the ongo-
ing Indian Premier League
(IPL) 2024. The 30-year-old is
currently the second-highest
wicket-taker of the team with
five scalps at an average of
19.60 and with an economy
rate of 6.12 in 4 matches.
Faltering DC eye improvement
Lucknow Super Giants look to keep winning juggernaut rolling
PTI / LUCKNOW
Delhi Capitals' bowling unit
will have to punch above its
weight against an in-form
Lucknow Super Giants, who
will start as overwhelming
favourites in an Indian Pre-
mier League match here on
Friday.
LSG, who sit on the third
spot on the points table, seem
to have all their bases covered
even though rookie pacer
Mayank Yadav, who bowls
thunderbolts in excess of 150
kmph, is likely to miss the
match because of an abdomi-
nal niggle. The 21-year-old
bowled just one over against
Gujarat Titans before walk-
ing off the field, complaining
of soreness last week.
In Yadav's absence, another
rookie pacer, Yash Thakur
starred with a five-wicket
haul against GT. He will have
the company of Naveen-ul-
Haq, Krunal Pandya and leg-
spinner Ravi Bishnoi among
others. LSG boasts of a strong
opening pair of Quinton de
RAJASTHAN ROYALS FALL SHORT IN NAIL-BITING FINISH AGAINST GUJARAT TITANS
Sangakkara praises rising star Parag
PTI / JAIPUR
Rajasthan Royals director of
cricket Kumar Sangakkara
has praised the inform Riyan
Parag, saying his potential is
there for everyone to see but
the Sri Lankan legend fell
short of stating that the
youngster deserves a place in
India's T20 World Cup squad.
The 22-year-old is second
only to Virat Kohli in the lead-
ing run-getter's list this IPL
season having scored 261
runs, with a top score of 84
not out and a strike rate ex-
ceeding 158.
The hard hitter's 76 off 48
balls went in vain as Gujarat
Titans overhauled the impos-
ing 196-run total off the last
ball of the innings here on
Wednesday to break the Roy-
als' four-match winning
streak on Wednesday.
"I think his (Parag's) poten-
tial is there for everyone to
see. I think for Riyan it's
really about concentrating on
Rajasthan and this season,
and whatever happens (being
Printed and Published by Girdharlal Lakhotia for the Proprietors, Indian National Press (Bombay) P. Ltd., at Journal Press, Free Press House, Free Press Journal Marg, 215, Nariman Point, Mumbai-400 021. Tel: 69028000, Advt. Dept. 69028026. E-mail: mail@fpj.co.in • OFFICE: Indore: 3/54, Press Complex, A. B. Road, Indore-452 008, Tel: 2555111-2, Fax: 2558555,
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MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
Ishan and Surya light up the sky
Karthik and Bumrah shine at Wankhede stadium, Mumbai Indians win seven wickets
HARIDEV PUSHPARAJ / MUMBAI
Suryakumar Yadav struck a
17-ball 50 while Ishan Kishan
smashed a half-century in
style as the Mumbai Indians
made shortwork of Royal
Challengers Bengaluru’s
(RCB) target of 197, to win
their IPL match by seven
wickets at the Wankhede Sta-
dium, here on Thursday.
SKY’s 52 off 18 balls at a
strike rate of 288 and
Kishan’s 69 off 34 balls struck
at 202.94 were the highlights
of the Mumbai Indians bat-
ting as they reached 199/3 in
15.3 overs.
Rohit Sharma’s 38 and
skipper Hardik Pandya’s un-
beaten 21 off six balls also
helped the home side get over
the line after Jasprit Bum-
rah’s fifer helped them re-
strict RCB to 196/8 in 20 overs.
Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah’s
fifer and Dinesh Karthik’s
masterful half-century en-
sured Mumbai Indians and
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
were even stevens at the
halfway mark.
Bumrah’s exceptional spell
of 5/21 in four overs at an
economy of 5.25 made all the
difference for the home side
but that effort was
neutralised towards the end
by Karthik’s explosive in-
nings at the back end as RCB
accumulated 196.
The Bengaluru side’s total
was owed largely due to the
efforts of Dinesh Karthik,
who played a supremely bril-
liant knock of 53 at a strike
rate of 230. Quickfire knocks
from Rajat Patidar (50) and
Faf Du Plessis (61) also con-
tributed to RCB’s eventual to-
tal.
Earlier, RCB were off to a
fairly sedate start with Faf
Du Plessis scoring a four and
a six in the first and second
overs off Mohammad Nabi
and Gerald Coetzee.
Virat Kohli was the quieter
of the two and when Jasprit
Bumrah was introduced he
was unable to get the score-
board ticking along.
After two dot balls off the
Head-To-Head
DC LSG
03 Matches Played 03
0 Won 03
03 Lost 0 The major concern for the
189 Highest score 195
143 Lowest score 193
Kock and KL Rahul. The
South African has scored two
half-centuries but the captain
is yet to convert his starts into
considered for T20 World
Cup) will happen after that,"
said Sangakkara in response
to a question about whether
the Assam cricketer could be
in line for an India berth for
the World Cup later this year
in the West Indies and the
USA.
first two balls, Bumrah got
his man when Kohli’s big
heave to the leg side was
found the inside edge and Is-
han Kishan made no mistake
to take a good catch diving to
his left.
New man Will Jacks had
clearly come with intent in
his mind as he squatted Bum-
rah’s full ball on his toes for a
four between fine leg and
deep square leg.
RCB were struggling at
18/1 after three overs and
Bumrah had done the big
damage that he was expected
to do.
Mumbai Indians made
something meaningful. The
flamboyant Nicholas Pooran
has been in sensational form,
adding meat to LSG's total at
the fag end of the innings.
Lucknow outfit, however, re-
mains Devdutt Padikkal who
is yet to reach double digits.
The visitors, on the other
hand, are looking like an out-
fit bereft of a Plan B as it be-
came apparent in their 106-
"I think you should never
get too ahead of looking at
things to find the future. As
long as he keeps his head
down, he is working hard, he
is batting well, he is very or-
ganised, he's worked hard in
the off-season, he just needs to
keep doing those good things
things doubly harder for RCB
as Akash Madhwal showed
Jacks the way to the dressing
room getting him to commit
to a big shot that found Tim
David at mid-on.
Du Plessis was waging a
lone battle for RCB as he was
going at a strike rate of 157 af-
ter the end of the powerplay
with his team at 44/2.
The South African had
cracked two fours and as
many sixes in his 22 off 14
balls at the end of six overs.
The 50-run partnership be-
tween Du Plessis and Rajat
Patidar came up in the ninth
over in just 30 balls.
TEAMS (FROM): DC: R
Pant (c&wk), D Warner, P
Shaw, Y Dhull, A Porel, A
Patel, L Yadav, M Marsh, P
Dubey, V Ostwal, A Nortje,
K Yadav, J F-McGurk, K
Ahmed, I Sharma, M Kumar,
T Stubbs, R Bhui, K
Kushagra, R Dar, J
Richardson, S Kumar, S
Chikara, S Hope.
LSG: KL Rahul (c), Q de
Kock, N Pooran, A Badoni,
K Mayers, M Stoinis, D
Hooda, D Padikkal, R
Bishnoi, N-ul-Haq, K
Pandya, Y Singh, P Mankad,
Y Thakur, A Mishra, S
Joseph, M Yadav, M Khan,
K. Gowtham, A Kulkarni, M.
Siddharth, A Turner, M
Henry, M A Khan.
run hammering by Kolkata
Knight Riders. The latest loss
to a struggling Mumbai Indi-
ans has left them languishing
at the bottom of the points
table with the worst net run
rate of -1.370.
and, if he does all that, good
things will happen," added
the charismatic former Sri
Lankan, one of the greatest
batters with more than 12,000
Test and 14,000 ODI runs.
Sankakkara also defended
his star spinner Ravichan-
dran Ashwin, who went wick-
SCORE BORAD: RCB: V Kohli c I Kishan b Bumrah 3, Faf du Plessis
c David b Bumrah 61, W Jacks c David b Madhwal 8, R Patidar c I
Kishan b Coetzee 50, G Maxwell lbw b Gopal 0, D Karthik 53*, M
Lomror
lbw b Bumrah 0, S Chauhan c Madhwal b Bumrah 9,
V Vyshak c M Nabi b Bumrah 0, A Deep 2*
Extras: (b-1, lb-1, w-8) 10
Total: 196-8
FoW: 1-14, 2-23, 3-105, 4-108, 5-153, 6-153, 7-170, 8-170
Bowling: M Nabi 1-0-7-0, G Coetzee 4-0-42-1, J Bumrah 4-0-21-5,
A Madhwal 4-0-57-1, S Gopal
4-0-32-1, R Shepherd 2-0-22-0, H Pandya 1-0-13-0
MI: I Kishan c Kohli b A Deep 69, R Sharma c Topley b Jacks 38, S
Yadav c Lomror b Vyshak 52, H Pandya 21*, T Varma 16*. Extras:
(w-3) 3 Total: (15.3 Ov) 199-3
FoW: 1-101, 2-139, 3-176
Bowling: R Topley 3-0-34-0, M Siraj 3-0-37-0, A Deep 3.3-0-55-1, G
Maxwell 1-0-17-0, V Vyshak 3-0-32-1, W Jacks 2-0-24-1
Controversy
rocks RR, GT
encounter
ROHAN SEN / JAIPUR
A massive controversy
rocked the Indian Premier
League (IPL 2024) match be-
tween Rajasthan Royals and
Gujarat Titans when a dubi-
ous umpiring call made
Shubman Gill furious. The
incident happened in the 17th
over when Mohit Sharma
bowled a slower ball to Sanju
Samson which was ruled a
wide by the third umpire.
After looking at the replay
on split-screen, the umpire
overruled the on-field offi-
cial's decision and called it
'Not' a wide.
RR skipper Sanju Samson,
who was batting on 48 at the
time, consulted with his part-
ner Riyan Parag (66*) and de-
cided to challenge the TV um-
pire's call and took their DRS
chance.
But strangely, the TV um-
pire suddenly decided that
the ball was indeed a wide de-
spite the batter having shuf-
fled across outside the off-
stump.
I think his (Parag's)
potential is there for
everyone to see. I think for
Riyan it's really about
concentrating on Rajasthan
and this season, and
whatever happens (being
considered for T20 World
Cup) will happen after that
– Kumar Sangakkara,
RR director of cricket
84
Unbeaten is
his highest
score
261
Parag runs
is second
to Kohli in
this edition of IPL
etless in his four overs on
Wednesday, with pacer
Kuldeep Sen (3/41) and leg
spinner Yuzvendra Chahal
(2/43) grabbing the spotlight.
"Ash (Ashwin) is one of the
greatest spinners to play the
game and you can't have great
days all the time.
MI SIGN DESAI FOR
INJURED VISHNU
VINOD
Mumbai: Mumbai Indians on
Thursday announced the
signing of Saurashtra
wicketkeeper-batter Harvik
Desai as a replacement for
Vishnu Vinod who was ruled
out of the ongoing IPL with a
forearm injury. This will be 24-
year-old wicket-keeper batter's
first stint in the IPL. Desai has
played 27 T20s, 40 List A and
46 First Class games for
Saurashtra. "Mumbai Indians
announce that Harvik Desai
will join the squad as a
replacement for Vishnu Vinod,"
an IPL media release stated.
The 30-year-old Vinod, who
plays for Kerala in the domestic
circuit, picked up an injury in
his left forearm.
POINTS TALLY
Teams M W L PT NRR
RR 5 4 1 8 0.871
KKR 4 3 1 6 1.528
LSG 4 3 1 6 0.775
CSK 5 3 2 6 0.666
SRH 5 3 2 6 0.344
GT 6 3 3 6 -0.637
MI 5 2 3 4 -0.073
PBKS 5 2 3 4 -0.196
RCB 6 1 5 2 -1.124
DC 5 1 4 2 -1.370
IPL SPARKS TALENT
Malan hails rising Indian youngsters ahead of T20 World Cup
PTI / NEW DELHI
With Indian cricket bursting
at the seams with young tal-
ent, the Rohit Sharma-led
squad could set the stage
ablaze at the upcoming T20
World Cup if the selectors
make the "right choices",
reckons England's swash-
buckling batter Dawid Malan.
The T20 global showpiece
will be held across June in the
West Indies and USA, and in-
augural edition winners
India will enter the tourna-
ment as one of the favourites
to lift the trophy.
"With the ongoing IPL, we
are seeing the rise of several
new Indian players making a
mark and if the board makes
the right choices there is
enough and more talent to
help India excel at the upcom-
ing T20 World Cup," Malan
said on Thursday.
"Further, while Virat
(Kohli) has been away from
T20 cricket, his performances
(in IPL) certainly show that
he makes a strong contender
for making the final team," he
Sunny praises Rashid
Khan's commitment
Agile fielder and match-winning batsman
PTI / NEW DELHI
Rashid Khan's commitment
towards all aspects of the
game make him one of the
most sought-after commodi-
ties in T20 leagues across the
globe, feels the legendary
Sunil Gavaskar.
Needing 15 in the final
over and two off the last ball,
Gujarat Titans scripted a
sensational last-ball win
with the Afghan leg-spinner
hitting an unbeaten 24 off 11
deliveries. With the ball, he
took just one wicket but gave
away just 15 runs from his
four overs.
"Yeah, he didn't hit the
wickets like he usually does,
but when he was needed with
the bat he came and deliv-
ered," Gavaskar said on Star
Sports Cricket Live.
"This is the reason he's
such a wanted player by fran-
chises all around the world.
They want him because they
SPORTS CAFE
Rayudu on Rohit Sharma's IPL future
Mumbai: Former India cricketer
Ambati Rayudu is not one to
mince his words and therefore,
he feels that Rohit Sharma will
leave the Mumbai Indians in the
near future and go to a franchise
which "treats him better".
Rayudu was referring to the
captaincy row at MI after Hardik
Pandya took over the job,
replacing Rohit Sharma who had won the IPL title a record 5
times before he had to give way to the younger all-rounder.
Talking about the 36-year-old's future in the league, Rayudu said
that any franchise would be lucky to have him as their captain.
Notably, Rayudu played with Rohit at MI for 7 seasons from
2011 to 2017. "It's Rohit's call at the end of the day wherever he
would want to go, he can go. All the teams would love him and
have him as a captain for sure. It's Rohit's call."I'm sure he'll go
to a franchise which treats him better than what has happened
here (Mumbai Indians)," Rayudu said on Star Sports.
Samson fined for slow over-rate
Jaipur: Rajasthan Royals skipper
Sanju Samson has been fined
₹12 Lakh after his team
maintained a slow over-rate
during IPL 2024 clash against
Gujarat Titans at Sawai
Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on
Wednesday. Sanju Samson-led
RR suffered their first defeat of
the ongoing IPL season with a
three-run loss to GT. After posting a total of 196/3, thanks to
brilliant performances by Riyan Parag and Sanju Samson, the
hosts failed to defend it as Gujarat Titans chased down the 197-
run target on the final ball over of the match. Rashid Khan (24*)
and Rahul Tewatia (22) were the game-changers for Gujarat
Titans backed by Shubman Gill's captain knock of 72 off 44 balls.
In a statement released by IPL on its website, Rajasthan Royals
committed the first offence of slow over-rate breach in IPL 2024
and thus skipper Sanju Samson has been handed INR 12 lakh
fine. "Sanju Samson, the Rajasthan Royals captain, has been
fined after his team maintained a slow over rate during their
TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Gujarat
Titans at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on April 10."
statement read.
Pandya's stepbrother Vaibhav arrested
Mumbai: Mumbai Indians'
captain Hardik Pandya and his
sibling Krunal Pandya recently
encountered a significant
financial setback when their
stepbrother Vaibhav engaged in
deceitful activities, swindling
them out of ₹4.3 crore. In a recent development, the Mumbai
Police apprehended Vaibhav Pandya on charges of conning the
Pandya siblings through a deceitful scheme in a business venture
initiated by the trio in 2021. According to various media outlets,
Vaibhav is alleged to have misappropriated around ₹4.3 crore
from the enterprise, inflicting substantial financial damage on
Hardik and Krunal. The Economic Offences Wing of the Mumbai
Police has formally accused Vaibhav of committing acts of fraud
and falsification relating to the matter. Reports suggest that
Vaibhav surreptitiously founded a separate entity under the same
industry banner without the knowledge of his stepbrothers,
thereby contravening the agreed-upon partnership terms.
added. of discussion.
While youngsters such as Malan was speaking after
Mayank Yadav and Riyan entering into a partnership
Parag have impressed with with Linebat News, an inter-
their speed and consistency national sports gaming com-
respectively, superstar Kohli pany.
is currently the leading Malan though remains
scorer with 316 runs from five hopeful of finding a place in
innings, though his strike the England squad for the T20
rate of 146 remains a matter World Cup.
Look at the way he gives everything while he's fielding.
Bowlers sometimes can be a little concerned about diving
on their bowling shoulder, because if they dislocate their shoulder
careers are in threat
– Sunil Gavaskar, former Indian batter
can see his commitment, bat- fielder who is well capable of
ting, bowling and fielding," putting in the dives.
he said. "Not with Rashid Khan, he
Apart from his batting and just wants to give 100 per
bowling, Rashid is an agile cent."
GAMES MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
Nagal takes a set off Rune before exiting Monte Carlo Masters
Monte Carlo: Putting up a brave fight, India's Sumit Nagal took a
set off world number seven Holger Rune before losing his rain-hit
second round match of the Monte Carlo Masters, here Thursday.
However, he lost his serve twice in the final set. The Indian qualifier
was behind 1-2 against seventh seed Rune in the second set, when
the heavens opened up. He lost 3-6 6-3 2-6 after battling hard for
two hours and 11 minutes in the prestigious clay court event. Nagal
had taken a set off the great Roger Federer at the 2019 US Open.

SPORTS CAFE
Udit in line for maiden senior Asian gold
Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan): Young wrestler Udit got himself in
contention for a maiden title at the senior Asian Championships
by storming into the men's free-style 57kg final, while three
PRAGG, VIDIT WIN BIG
The 17-year-old Gukesh continues in joint leader board
Raphinha brace
powers Barca
other Indians reached the bronze-medal play-offs here on
Thursday. Reigning U20 Asian champion Udit ensured that the PTI / Toronto The Catalan giants overcame PSG 3-2 in
country's good record in the category, which has had some
proven performers like Ravi Dahiya and Aman Sehrawat over the Grandmaster R Prag- CL first leg quarters
last few years, continues. India have won four Asian titles in a gnanandhaa and Vidit Gu- AP / Paris Christensen's 77th-minute
row in the 57kg category through Olympic silver medallist Ravi jrathi scored crushing victo- goal.
(2020, 2021, 2022) and Aman (2023). It will be Udit's second ries, while D Gukesh held on With his team trailing 2-1 and The imposing Christensen
medal at the senior level, having won a silver at the UWW to the joint top spot with a Paris Saint-Germain pushing headed Ilkay Gündogan's
Ranking Series event in Tunisia in 2022. It was a tough opening draw in a brilliant sixth- hard for another goal, corner from the left past Gi-
bout for Udit, who was up against Ebrahim Mahdi Khari but the round outing for the Indian Barcelona coach Xavi anluigi Donnarumma from
Indian got past his Iranian rival with a close 10-8 win. men's team at the Candidates Hernández's substitutions close range as the PSG goal-
Chess Tournament here. paid off immediately. keeper stood rooted to his
Jyothi Yarraji to train in Spain Pragnanandhaa prevailed Midfielder Pedri set up the line instead of challenging
New Delhi: Asian Games medallist sprinter Jyothi Yarraji's over Nijat Abasov of Azerbai- equalizer for Raphinha with- for the ball.
proposal to train in Tenrife, Spain ahead of the upcoming season jan, while Gujrathi got the in a minute of coming on at After that goal, PSG coach
and Paris Olympics was on Thursday cleared by the government. better of Frenchman Alireza. Parc des Princes stadium. Luis Enrique's head dropped.
The 24-year-old, who won the silver medal in the 100m hurdles Gukesh's draw came against Then, two minutes after "We made things a bit diffi-
event at the Hangzhou Asian Games, will fly to Spain for 45 American Hikaru Nakamu- his introduction, central de- cult for ourselves. We man-
days, according to a statement by the Sports Ministry's Mission ra. fender Andreas Christensen aged to turn things around in
Olympic Cell (MOC). The government will bear the cost of her With eight rounds still re- headed home from a corner the second half and could
airfare, boarding/ lodging cost, visa application fees, facility maining, the 17-year-old to give Barcelona a 3-2 win in have had a third (goal)," En-
access cost, sports massage expenditure, local transportation Gukesh and Ian Nepomni- the first leg of their Champi- rique said. "Everything's still
cost and out-of-pocket allowance, among other expenditures. achtchi continue to share the Kateryna Lagno of Russia. Results (Rd-6; (Indians unless specified) ons League quarterfinal on open for us and we will go
MOC also approved India shuttlers Chirag Shetty and lead in the men's section with Vaishali, who is the elder sis- V Gujrathi (3) bt F Alireza (Fra, 1.5); D Gukesh (4) drew with H Wednesday. there with ambition."
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy's proposal for financial assistance four points each in their kitty. ter of Praggnanandhaa, now Nakamura (USA, 3); R Praggnanandhaa (3.5) bt N Abasov (Aze, "Pedri came on and helped Raphinha's lively perform-
towards sparring partners to train ahead of the Paris Olympics. Russian Nepomniachtchi, has a lot of ground to cover if 1.5); I Nepomniachtchi (Fid, 4) drew with F Caruana (USA, 3.5). us a lot. I'm very proud of the ance and finishing
The star shuttlers will train with Alexander Dunn and Adam Hall who is playing under the she has to come back in the Women: R Vaishali (2.5) lost to K Lagno (Fid, 3.5); K Humpy (2) team. Christensen also came contrasted with a lackluster
of Scotland in Mumbai in June followed by the Indonesian pair FIDE flag, played out a draw tournament. lost ot T Lei (Chn, 3); Z Tan (Chn, 4.5) bt A Muzychuk (Ukr, 2); A on and helped," Xavi said. performance from Kylian
of Rain Agung and Berry Agriawan in Hyderabad in July. with top seeded American Koneru Humpy also lost, to Goryachkina (Fid, 4) bt N Salimova (Bul, 2.5). "Tactically we did really Mbappé, who has scored a
Fabiano Caruana. Tingjie Lei of China, while well." club record 251 goals for PSG
Salunkhe moves to quarterfinal There was disappointment Nurgyul Salimova of Bulgar- Raphinha was the pick of but did not hit the target this
New Delhi: Top-seeded Indian Akanksha Salunkhe advanced to for India in the women's com- ia found her nemesis in Alek- Praggnanandhaa shares not far behind on the joint Barcelona's players on the time or make many of his
the quarterfinals of the RC Pro Series squash tournament in St petition as R Vaishali sandra Goryachkina of Rus- the third spot with Caruana fifth spot alogside Nakamura night, and the Brazil forward trademark electric runs from
Louis, USA. Akanksha, the reigning National Games squash suffered a reversal, losing to sia. on 3.5 points and Gujrathi is with three points. had scored twice before deep.
champion, edged out Madeleine Hylland of Norway 3-2 (13-15,
11-6, 9-11, 11-5, 11-6) in 41 minutes in the second round on
Wednesday. She had received a bye in the opening round. The
player from Goa will meet Jana Swafy of Egypt in the
quarterfinals at the USD 15,000 prize money PSA Challenger RBI secures spot in Neeraj close to breaching 90m mark
RCF T20 final
Tour event.
Olympic gold medallist feels he might cross the barrier soon
Ashok believes in Indian hockey team
New Delhi: Former India hockey player Ashok Kumar, son of PTI / New Delhi I will try to breach the
legendary Dhyan Chand, opined that the current Indian team
has the winning spirit to be on the podium at the Paris
FPJ NEWS SERVICE / MUMBAI BRIEF SCORES: DTDC
Olympic gold-medallist
89.94 90m mark before that
Express SC: 179-5 (J Chopra's (Paris Olympics). Hopefully, it
Olympics. After his retirement, Ashok Kumar began coaching Reserve Bank of India dis- Randhwa 82, V Jadhav 32, A javelin thrower Neeraj best throw happens before Paris,
youngsters and the current team features two of his disciples; played unwavering determi- Chopra is aiming to breach in
Yadav 27, O Ghule 19; A competition everything is going on
Vivek Sagar Prasad and Nilakanta Sharma. They are currently in nation as they edged out de- Dandekar 2/25) the 90m mark before the Paris at 2022 smoothly, so (people) might
Australia, preparing themselves for the Paris 2024 Olympics. In fending champions DTDC lost to RBI: 180-7 (J Chhaya Olympics and says the way Diamond not have to wait till the
the latest episode of Hockey Te Charcha, the 73-year-old stated Express in a thrilling semi-fi- his preparations are going, it League
57, S Chag 42, R Kumar 26*, Olympics, it might happen
his expectations for the current Indian men's team, saying nal encounter of the Dr. R Singh 19; A Yadav 2/25, A could happen anytime soon. before that. The preparation
"People were hockey fanatics back when I used to play, there Babasaheb Ambedkar T20 Singh 2/29) Chopra's best throw in is good."
was a pride associated with the sport in India. No other country Cup Inter-Office Cricket competition came during the – Neeraj Chopra,
has been able to match the feat of India winning 8 gold medals Tournament. 2022 Stockholm Diamond Olympic gold-medallist
and we have to protect this legacy at any cost. Opting to bat first, DTDC rounder Ameya Dandekar League, where he hurled the
Express set a respectable total claiming two wickets for 25 spear to a distance of 89.94m.
Indian Super League final on May 4 of 179 for the loss of five wick- runs. While he has breached 90m in season, the focus was on fit-
Mumbai: The final of the Indian Super League 2023-24 season ets in their allotted 20 overs. In response, Reserve Bank training, he has yet to match ness and strength and no spe-
will be on May 4 with the playoffs scheduled to start from April Japjeet Randhwa led the of India faced early setbacks it in competition. cific javelin training. I think I
19, the organisers of the football tournament said on Thursday. charge with a blistering 82, but eventually chased down The 26-year-old, who will be is going on smoothly, so (peo- fact that he has had a good off got a lot of improvement in
The venue of the final will be announced soon, Football Sports ably supported by Viraj Jad- the target, reaching 180 for aiming to retain his Olympic ple) might not have to wait till season, where he focused on technique because of that.
Development Limited (FSDL), the league's organiser said. "The hav's 32. Contributions from seven wickets in 20 overs. Jyot gold in Paris, said on Thurs- the Olympics, it might hap- fitness and strength, coupled Besides, the strength and con-
season final will be held on May 4. The fight for a place in the middle-order batsmen Ajit Chhaya 57 and Shubham day, "I will try to breach the pen before that. The prepara- with the success he has ditioning training in South
final starts from April 19 with the knockout matches followed by Yadav (27) and Omkar Ghule Chag 42 turned the tide with a 90m mark before that (Paris tion is good." The achieved after winning gold Africa and Turkey has also
the semi-finals in home and away format," the ISL said in a (19) bolstered the innings, crucial 74-run partnership Olympics). Hopefully, it hap- reigning world champion's in 2020 Tokyo. gone well," said Chopra dur-
statement. with Reserve Bank's all- for the fourth wicket. pens before Paris, everything confidence stems from the "During the start of the ing a virtual interaction.
 J O U R N A L

Effects of stress on your skin

The appearance of bags under the eyes is characterized by swelling or puffiness
under the eyelids. With age, they become more common as the muscles supporting
the eyes weaken. In addition, as a result of sleep deprivation (a common symptom of
stress), fine lines, reduced elasticity, and uneven pigmentation are caused by stress.
INFO
J O U R N A L
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

Harmonizing home design 1 Almond and

2 Egg whites
Egg whites help to draw
Tips to prevent
large pores
Mamta Khati
with vastu shastra principles honey mask
Almonds have been a go-to
out excess grease from
the skin and are used to
Prioritize
sunscreen: Protect

P
beauty remedy for ages, packed with shrink enlarged pores. your skin from
ores are vitamin E, omega-3s, and antioxidants
Entrance: Kitchen: actually
It also helps to tone sun damage and
Make the Prioritize hygiene and safety by to nourish and rejuvenate skin. They work and tighten the skin. premature aging
openings wonders, minimizing pores and enhancing
JYOTI S entrance grand, placing the kitchen in the south or of hair follicles, complexion. Honey, a natural astringent, Ingredients: One by applying
well-lit, and adorned southeast corner. Keep the sink and egg, 2-3 drops of sunscreen daily.
and each one of tightens and closes pores effectively.
with decorative lemon juice.
gas stove separate, and ensure ample them contains Remove

V
astu Shastra, elements like torans ventilation. Choose durable, easy-to- sebaceous Ingredients: ½ cup of soaked almonds, 2 Procedure: makeup before
rooted in and wind chimes. clean materials for flooring and walls. tablespoons of honey, 3-4 drops of milk. Separate egg yolk
glands that bed: Ensure your
rich Vedic Position it above Living room: are responsible Procedure: Blend soaked almonds into a from white, then pores stay clear
culture, guides ground level to Position the living room in coarse paste, then mix with honey and a whisk the white
for producing by thoroughly
home design for welcome positive the north for positive energy flow. few drops of milk to make a scrub. Gently with lemon juice.
natural oil in the cleansing your
ventilation, lighting, energy. Opt for Maximize space with square furniture massage onto skin in circular motions Apply the mixture
skin, therefore, face before
and positivity. unique patterned and avoid artificial plants. Enhance the for 5 minutes, then rinse with cold to your face, let it dry,
keeping the skin sleeping to
It integrates wooden doors atmosphere with natural elements like water. Store leftovers in the then rinse with lukewarm
moisturized. Pores prevent makeup
Vedic principles, for warmth and an aquarium and uplifting paintings. fridge and use weekly. water. Use weekly.
are mostly visible on buildup.
emphasizing the positivity.
influence of magnetic
the nose and forehead Select suitable
due to the presence of

Home remedies to reduce

forces on elements. products: Choose
large sebaceous glands. skincare products
Proper use of water, The size of the pores
fire, ether, earth, and tailored to your
depends mostly on skin type to avoid
wind fosters luck and

large open pores

genetics, stress, and exacerbating pore
prosperity. Homes unhealthy skin care.
aligned with Vastu enlargement.
Large pores are found So avoid using
Shastra principles mostly on oily skin as
attract positive products that are
the oil settles around not suitable for
energy, guarding the pores, making
against negativity. your skin.
them appear larger
This practice blends as the skin around
scientific and them becomes thick. 3 Sandalwood and 5 Kaolin clay, cinnamon, milk, and honey mask
religious significance Make-up also causes rosewater mask Incorporating clay into your skincare routine can purify
in home design, the pores to appear Sandalwood, known and enhance your skin. Kaolin clay, also known as white or
shaping inviting enlarged if it’s not for its medicinal China clay, is ideal for shrinking pores and absorbing excess
spaces. washed off properly. It properties, is a go-to oil. Its fine texture also brightens dull skin for a clean, fresh
can settle around or in for skin treatments, look. Additionally, cinnamon’s antiseptic properties treat skin
Study room: Bedroom: Bathroom and toilet: the pores and instead protecting against infections like acne, promoting a glowing complexion.
Design the study Ensure peace in Separate bathroom and toilet of hiding them, make- breakouts and Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of kaolin clay, ½ tablespoon of honey,
room for peace and the bedroom with light- areas to optimize space usage. If up tends to highlight tightening pores. ½ tablespoon of cinnamon powder, 1 tablespoon of milk.
focus, placing it in colored shades and proper attached, position them in the them more. Ageing also Combining it with Procedure: Combine kaolin clay,
the North, East, or ventilation. Place it in the northeast direction and away plays a major role in rosewater offers honey, cinnamon powder, and
Northeast. Avoid south or southeast direction, from kitchen walls. Maintain enlarged pores because a natural, gentle 4 Banana peel 6 Cucumber and milk in a bowl to form a smooth
placing the table facing with the door facing north. cleanliness and functionality as the skin ages, the remedy for large Banana peel contains lemon face pack paste. Apply to your face for
the window or door. Keep the bed slightly away with proper ventilation and production of sebum pores, refreshing and lutein, an excellent Cucumber’s silica content 15-20 minutes, then gently
Enhance concentration from the wall for airflow water supply placement. decreases, therefore, hydrating the skin. antioxidant, which helps tightens pores for a youthful massage with water before
with a global map and and prioritize Prayer room: in nourishing the skin. It appearance, acting as a natural
making the skin look Ingredients: ½ cup of rinsing off. Use weekly.
pastel shades. spaciousness. Position the sacred prayer room dull and aged. Also, the sandalwood powder, ¼ also contains potassium astringent. Lemon’s bleaching properties
centrally, surrounded by the living skin loses its elasticity, cup of rosewater. which gives the skin a reduce pore size while exfoliating for
space. Place idols facing east, north, becomes saggy and flawless look. brighter, fresher skin.
Procedure: In a
or west for optimal sunlight exposure. hence makes the pores bowl, add sandalwood Ingredients: One Ingredients: One cucumber, 2 tablespoons
Choose light shades for a divine appear larger. Large powder and mix banana peel of lemon juice.
ambiance. pores can be upsetting rosewater and make Procedure: Gently rub Procedure: In a blender, add few slices
Verandah/balcony: but we have a few home it into a paste. Apply a banana peel on your of cucumber and lemon juice and blend
Utilize the balcony for relaxation remedies that will help it evenly on your face skin in a circular motion them until you get a fine paste. Apply
and gardening, positioning it in the you fight the problem and leave it for 15-20 for 15 minutes. Wash it on the face and leave it on for 15-20
north or northeast direction. Opt for and gain clear and minutes. Wash with off with normal water. Try minutes. Wash it with cool
decorative plants and earthy shades to smooth skin. So, let’s normal water. Use this this remedy two times a water. Use this one time
enhance brightness and tranquility. take a look. once in a week. week. in a week.

Neha Ghosh
Home Remedies:
Salt water rinse
Salt contains
anti-inflammatory and
Milk
Milk is a good source
of calcium that can help
Benefits of breastfeeding
antiseptic properties

for baby and mom

strengthen your teeth and

For bleeding gums

that reduce the pain gums and stop bleeding.
and swelling. Rinsing

B
Drink a glass of cold milk
leeding gum the mouth with salt daily to reduce and soothe
is common water will help kill the inflammation caused
and one
may notice it after Green tea Manuka honey the harmful bacteria by bleeding gums. Dr. Anu Vij Breastfeeding
that is causing your
brushing their Drinking green tea Manuka honey has antibacterial, anti-
gums to bleed. Add ½ Clove oil benefits both babies
can reduce the severity inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties Consultant Obstetrician and
teeth or flossing. teaspoon of salt to a Clove oil contains a and mothers. For infants, it
of bleeding gums. It is that can combat bacterial infections caused Gynaecologist, Medicover
Bleeding gum is glass of water. Swish compound called eugenol reduces ear infections, bacterial
due to the presence of Hospitals, Navi Mumbai
most commonly by gingivitis. It will furthermore help lower that possesses antibacterial meningitis, and eye problems like
a natural antioxidant the salt water around
caused due to the the pain and swelling of the gums. Take a and anti-inflammatory Retinopathy of Prematurity.
the mouth for a few

T
build-up of tartar called catechin in little bit of honey on your fingertips and properties that can help he best time They also experience fewer
green tea that can minutes and spit it out.
or plaque, which massage it gently on your gums. Do this several times prevent plaque and lower to start gastrointestinal issues such as
reduce the body’s
irritates the lining
inflammatory response
Ice pack a day. inflammation. Mix 2 drops breastfeeding diarrhea, constipation, and
of clove oil with 1 teaspoon your baby is
of the sensitive
to the bacteria in the
Applying an ice pack on the bleeding Turmeric of coconut oil. Dab a cotton immediately
reflux, along with a lower
gums causing it gums can soothe minor mouth injuries, Turmeric risk of serious conditions
to bleed. Other mouth. Drink 3 to 4 ball into the mixture and after delivery, if like NEC. Breastfed
such as a cut or scrape and it will help contains a polyphenol
causes of bleeding cups of green tea daily. apply it to your bleeding possible before the babies develop
reduce pain and swelling. Apply an ice pack compound called
gums include on the bleeding gums for 10 minutes. Do this gums. Leave it on for 5-10 umbilical cord is cut. stronger immunity,
curcumin, which has minutes.
using dental floss several times a day. It is widely known warding off colds,
antibacterial and
improperly, using anti-inflammatory Cinnamon oil that breastfeeding has pneumonia,
a hard or worn The antibacterial health benefits for both RSV, and
toothbrush, not Oil pulling properties that can
activity of cinnamon oil the baby and their mother. whooping
Oil pulling is an lower the pain and
brushing your teeth has the potent ability to Breast milk provides a baby cough.
ancient Ayurvedic practice inflammation caused
regularly, gingivitis fight against bacteria that with the ideal nutrition
that involves swishing coconut oil by bleeding gums. Breastfeeding triggers
and taking certain causes dental plaque. Mix and supports growth and But it doesn’t stop
in the mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. Apply turmeric oxytocin and prolactin,
medicines. 2 drops of cinnamon oil development. As your there; breastfeeding
This process draws out bacteria paste on the natural hormones that reduce
Although bleeding with 1 teaspoon of coconut baby grows and develops, offers health
that live in the mouth. Coconut oil bleeding gum stress and promote positive
gums are usually oil. Dab a cotton ball into breastfeeding techniques advantages for
contains anti-inflammatory and and keep it for 10 feelings in mothers, enhancing
not serious, the the mixture and apply it to and the composition of your mothers too. It lowers
antimicrobial properties which are minutes. Rinse it their emotional well-being
gums tend to your bleeding gums. Leave milk change. The nutrients the risk of breast
good for treating bleeding gums off and repeat this and confidence. Breastfed
become tender it on for 5-10 minutes. in your milk continue to and ovarian cancer,
and help prevent the recurrence twice a day. infants cry less and develop
and swollen. evolve to meet the needs type 2 diabetes, and
of plaque in the mouth. Swish of your growing newborn. high blood pressure. stronger immunity and bones.
Here, we
coconut oil in the mouth for 10 Eat crunchy Tips to prevent bleeding If you or your infant are Plus, it aids in Additionally, breast milk is
provide
you with to 15 minutes and then spit it vegetables gums exposed to a new bacteria postpartum recovery always clean and at the ideal
out. Do this twice a day. Consuming Use a toothbrush that or virus, the anti-infective by promoting weight temperature. Breastfeeding
some home
crunchy veggies such has soft bristles. qualities of breast milk also loss and shrinking strengthens the mother-child
remedies
as carrots and celery can Floss regularly. become stronger, eventually the uterus, reducing bond through skin-to-skin
that can
help reduce the plaque in your Quit smoking. protecting you and your baby bleeding. Breastfeeding contact, fostering affection and
stop
teeth, maybe because they are Avoid eating processed from certain illnesses and mothers are less trust. This early bonding may
bleeding
rich in fibre and water that can & sugary foods. diseases. Moreover, breastfed likely to experience reduce social and behavioral
gums.
help keep your teeth clean. The Reduce your stress babies have a lower risk of UTIs, anemia, and issues later in life, as mothers
crunchiness can eliminate food level. developing health disorders postpartum depression, learn to understand their
residue from the teeth, thereby Choose a toothpaste like asthma, obesity, type 1 and they have a lower baby’s cues, and babies learn to
preventing gum problems. Eat a with fluoride to strengthen diabetes, and sudden infant risk of osteoporosis trust caregivers, shaping their
bowl of carrots and celery daily. your gums. death syndrome (SIDS). later in life. early behavior.

Amritha K Punarnava (Hogweed): Benefits, nutrition and uses

Reduces stress

S
cientifically known as Treats obesity Protects your liver Manages diabetes Alleviates eye diseases Uses of punarnava
Boerhavia diffusa, punarnava or The herb is a common It is widely used in treating liver Being an adaptogen, The leaves of Punarnava is widely Rich with anti-inflammatory,
hogweed is a potent therapeutic ingredient in almost disorders such as jaundice. The the herb helps in punarnava can help in used for its ability to treat diuretic, antioxidative, antiarthritic,
herb in Ayurveda, widely used in all the herbal slimming hepatoprotective properties of the herb fighting stress. Studies decreasing the glucose various eye disorders. antibacterial, and spasmolytic
India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Its root, formulations. Punarnava protect your liver from toxins and chemicals have revealed that levels in the blood, The leaf extract is used properties; the herb has various uses.
leaves, aerial parts, or the whole plant helps by stimulating the and revitalize and cleanse your liver. the herb extract can thereby increasing the along with honey as an It is used in treating and managing
are utilized for various ailments. removal of extra fluids from Punarnava can help restore the health, combat the biochemical plasma insulin levels eye drop for ophthalmia. the following:
The white punarnava variety is the body, without losing stamina and vitality of your liver and ward indicators of stress in your body. The herb Its root is applied as Swellings or oedema.
commonly used, while the red the necessary potassium or off liver disorders such as hepatitis, jaundice, such as increased blood aids in controlling your collyrium for treating eye Eye disorders.
variety, Trianthema portulacastrum, electrolytes. It helps in iron deficiency anaemia, ascites, glucose and cortisol. diabetes, however, irritations and infections. Itching and irritation.
is used to moderate the potency of promoting urination, anorexia and sluggish liver. It calms your mind, you must consult your The antimicrobial Constant watering of the eyes.
punarnava roots. With centuries of through which the relieving you of the doctor before taking activity possessed by the Immature cataract.
traditional use in Indian medicine, unnecessary fluids will stress. the herbal extract to herb wards off infection- Night blindness.
punarnava treats conditions from exit from your body, Treats urinary Fights inflammation manage your diabetes. causing germs like E. Rheumatic disorders.
abdominal pain to heart issues. promoting weight loss. Punarnava possesses coli, S. aureus, and P. Skin disorders.
tract infection
Its bioactive compounds include Fights respiratory Punarnava anti-inflammatory Enhances Kidney aeruginosa, thereby Rabies.
hypoxanthine 9-L-arabinofuranoside, problems has diuretic, properties which help in Function protecting your eyes Alcohol-related issues.
serratagenic acid, boeravinone A Acting as an excellent treating inflammation Punarnava is against infections or Intestinal colic and worms.
antimicrobial, anti- Used as a muscle strengthener and
to F, liriodendron, ursolic acid, and expectorant, the herb inflammatory and caused by coronary recognized for its diseases.
oleanolic acid, contributing to its helps in clearing out heart disease, efficacy in treating Supports Heart Health fodder for livestock.
antispasmodic properties
healing properties. Punarnavine, any congestion or which can all be associated rheumatoid arthritis, kidney-related ailments, With its cardiotonic Dosage of punarnava
an alkaloid rich in potassium salts, blockages. Punarnava with treating UTIs. It can diabetes, asthma and including nephrotic properties, punarnava The normal recommended dosage
is its active principle. Punarnava has been used in be used in limiting the onset other ailments. The syndrome and kidney enhances heart function of the herb is about 2-5 teaspoons twice
is a common ingredient in anti- treating asthma of recurrent urinary tract enzyme secretory stones. It aids in kidney and reduces the risk of a day (general average). Punarnava
obesity medications and is available due to its ability infections (UTIs), including phospholipase A2 regeneration and heart failure. Its phenolic should be consumed with water. The
in decoctions, pills, and powder to relax the airway UTIs during pregnancy as well. (sPLA2) in the herb reduces oxidative stress compounds act as root powder dosage is 3 to 6 grams and
forms. It aids in treating indigestion, and curb spasms. A The herb is safe to be used on a produces inflammatory caused by excessive antioxidants, combating the decoction dosage is 5 to 10 ml.
asthma, diabetes, and cancer, making decoction of the herb is pregnant mother for UTI as it will mediators that can oxalate excretion, thus oxidative stress and *Caution: You must talk to an
it a versatile remedy for various the most effective remedy not cause any adverse effects reduce inflammation preventing calcium protecting the heart from Ayurvedic specialist or a physician
ailments. Its effectiveness highlights for bronchial asthma. It is on the mother or the and pain. oxalate stone deposition. hypertrophy. before using the medicine.
its significant benefits for both body used as a natural remedy for infant.
and mind. treating tuberculosis as well. Disclaimer: The Free Press Journal bears no responsibility for the content that appears on this page.

Aamir Khan,
CJ DESK
his sons Junaid,
Azad distribute
sweets to paps
O n the special occa-
sion of Eid, Aamir
Khan, along with his
sons Junaid Khan and
Azad Rao Khan,
stepped out to cele-
brate this day with his
fans and paparazzi.
Dressed in white eth-
nic outfits, Aamir, Ju-
naid and Azad posed for the camera. The 3 Idiots actor
also distributed sweets to the paps and fans. He obliged
fans with the selfies.
Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal,
the 10th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festi-
val is of great significance due to the moon sighting
which has been part of Islamic culture for a long time.
Meanwhile, on the work front, as a producer, Aamir is
also coming up with Lahore 1947, which
stars Sunny Deol in the lead role. It is
directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. Preity
Zinta, Shabana Azmi, Karan Deol and
Ali Fazal are also a part of
the film.
PICS: VARINDER CHAWLA
Ali’s direction saves our mood
ROHIT BHATNAGAR
riter-direc-
W tor Ali Ab-
bas Zafar
brings yet FILM
another save-
the-nation tale in
REVIEW
his trademark style.
High octane action, slow-mo
and heroic entries, stylised se-
quences, Bade Miyan Chote
Miyan has everything that an
Akshay Kumar and Tiger
Shroff film
stand for.
From start to fin-
ish, the film is a
bonafide good versus
evil drama.
Two court marshalled In-
dian force officers Captain
Freddy (Akshay Kumar)
and Captain Rocky (Tiger
Shroff) are appointed by
Colonel Azad (Ronit Bose
Roy) to get an important pack-
age back to India safely along
with the help of Captain
Misha (Manushi Chhillar), Dr
Parminder/
Pam (Alaya F), an AI re-
searcher Priya (Sonakshi Sin-
ha), that is robbed by Kabir
(Prithviraj Sukumaran). Will
they all succeed?
Ali’s film’s first half didn’t
take much time to get engaged
with the core plot. However,
the runtime of 2 hours and 43
First look
from Phule
Game of he cast of Wicked has gotten bigger with the addition of Game of Thrones
Thrones star T star Peter Dinklage. As per news agency, Peter has come on board for Universal’s
upcoming two-part musical Wicked to voice the character of Dr. Dillamond. This
Peter Dinklage update was shared in Las Vegas as Universal closed out its CinemaCon presentation
by unveiling new footage of Wicked, which hits theatres over Thanksgiving of this year.
comes on board Universal and director Jon M. Chu made the film in two parts, with the second installment set
to open over the year-end holidays in 2025. It is the movie adaptation of the iconic
for Wicked Broadway musical. —ANI
MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024
EID MUBARAK Bhaijaan’s advance Eidi
FROM STARS
Actor announces his new film Sikandar,
collaborates with AR Murugadoss
CJ DESK
uperstar Salman Khan never
S misses a chance to make Eid
special for his fans. This Eid-ul-
Fitr he announced his new film
Sikandar, which is directed by AR
Murugadoss.
In his Instagram post, Salman Khan
also gave a shout out to Akshay Kumar
and Tiger Shroff ’s Bade Miyan Chote
Miyan and Ajay Devgn’s Maidaan -
Missing sheer khurma, both Eid releases.
Revealing the film’s title on Insta-
biryani back home: PeeCee gram, Salman wrote, “Iss Eid ‘Bade
A ctor Priyanka Chopra is missing the Eid
festivities back home especially
scrumptious delicacies.
Miyan Chote Miyan’ aur ‘Maidaan’ ko
dekho aur agli Eid Sikandar se aa kar
Milo (Watch Bade
Bollywood stars on the occasion of Eid,
Salman Khan appeared on the balcony
of his Galaxy Apartments pad in Ban-
Extending warm Eid greetings, Priyanka Miyan Chote dra and waved out to thousands of his
on her Instagram Story wrote, “Missing Miyan and Maid- fans jostling for vantage spots to cap-
sheer khurma and biryani back home. aan on this Eid, ture the moment on their phone cam-
Eid Mubarak to everyone celebrating (red next Eid, meet eras.
heart emoji).” Sikandar). Wish Backed by Sajid Nadiadwala and
Meanwhile, on the work front, Priyanka u all Eid helmed by Murugadoss, the movie will
is gearing up for her next Hollywood film Mubarak!” be released in theatres on Eid 2025. AR
Heads Of State. Taking to Instagram, With this up- Murugadoss made his Hindi debut with
Priyanka gave a glimpse of the script. The date, Salman once Ghajini, which crossed Rs 100 crore at
page had the film’s title and mentioned that again gave fans the the box office. He also helmed Akshay
Harrison Query wrote it. It also has the best Eid gift. Kumar’s film, Holiday: A Soldier Is
Priyanka’s name watermarked on it. In the tradi- Never Off Duty.
Sharing the photo, she wrote, “And we’re tion of For years Salman has
back.” She will be seen in Heads of State been coming up with
alongside John Cena and Idris Elba. films on Eid. The first
film of the actor to
release on Eid was
SRK’s Eid tradition continues to delight fans back in 1997 with
Judwaa and since
then he has been
I n a heartwarming dis-
play of tradition and af-
fection, Bollywood icon
kurta-pyjama ensemble,
the father-son duo captured
the hearts of onlookers as
making sure to
entertain his
fans on Eid with
Shah Rukh Khan contin- they waved and blew kisses his films. His
ued his annual ritual of to the throngs of adoring movies like Da-
greeting fans on the auspi- fans gathered outside. bangg, Body-
cious occasion of Eid, Last year’s Eid saw a sim- guard, Ek Tha
marking yet another mem- ilar spectacle as Khan gra- Tiger, Bajrangi
orable moment at his resi- ciously emerged onto the Bhaijaan, Sul-
dence, Mannat. Dressed balcony of Mannat, de- tan, Bharat
impeccably in a white lighting fans with his pres- and Kisi Ka
pathani kurta salwar, King ence and heartfelt greet- Bhai Kisi Ki
Khan stepped out onto the ings. SRK expressed grati- Jaan were re-
balcony of Mannat, radiat- tude to his fans, writing, leased on the oc-
ing elegance and charm de- "Eid Mubarak everyone... casion of Eid.
spite the scorching Mum- and thank you for making Eid is undoubted-
bai heat. Accompanied by my day so special. May Al- ly synonymous
his son Abram, who lah bless us all with love, with a Salman
donned a matching white happiness and prosperity." Khan film release.
PICS: VARINDER CHAWLA
Celebs were snapped as they
CAUGHT ON CAM were out and about in Mumbai
Prachi Desai is all Pratik Gandhi and Vidya Balan
smiles as she spotted pose for our shutterbugs during
outside the Mumbai the promotion of their film
minutes seemed too TITLE: Bade Miyan Chote from Pathaan. airport
long but Ali’s direc- Miyan The men, Akshay, Tiger,
tion skills manage to DIRECTOR: Ali Abbas Zafar Ronit and Prithviraj are good,
sail smoothly. With
the current flavour
of the Hindi film in-
CAST: Akshay Kumar, Tiger
Shroff, Alaya F, Manushi
Chhillar, Sonakshi Sinha,
and the ladies Sonakshi,
Manushi and Alaya are
watchable. The background
dustry, possibly all
the big actors have
Prithviraj Sukumaran, Ronit
Bose Roy and others
score is noticeable and one
song in the entire film is the
tried to do their bit, WHERE: In theatres near you biggest relief.
a few good ones, but majority RATING: HH Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is a
of them were a pain, BMCM typical single screen film that
falls somewhere close to the film resembles any of the pre- might suit Akshay and Tiger
average. vious films of Tiger and even fans, and in fact, it is a lot bet-
Ali’s mastery in making fast- Shah Rukh Khan’s Main Hoon ter than those forgetful patri-
paced films helped this one a Naa and Jawan. Ali cleverly otic films.
lot especially with not- infuses a fun banter between
so-surprising in- Bade and Chote that reminds
terval block, of SRK-Salman’s sequence
convenient
screenplay,
and a pre-
dictable
second
half.
Bade
Miyan
Chote
Miyan high-
lights the AI
technology that
is need of the
hour, but sadly
the major
chunk of the
Embody the
12th fail
legendary couple star Vikrant
Massey
spotted
CJ DESK
outside a
film
O
n the 197th birth anniversary of social re-
former Jyotirao Phule, the makers of the production
Phule team unveiled a new poster. house in
In the newly-unveiled poster, lead actors Santacruz
Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, portraying the
iconic couple Mahatma Jyotirao Govindrao Phule West
and his wife, Dnyanajyoti Savitribai Phule, are de-
picted gazing towards the horizon, symbolising the
dawn of a new era--a metaphor for the educational
Medha
revolution initiated by them. Shankr
Speaking about the film, National Award-winning looks
director Ananth Narayan Mahadevan expressed his pretty as
desire to shine a spotlight on the prevailing social she
ills that continue to plague society today. snapped
“Mahatma and Jyotiba Phule fought against caste Elvish Yadav outside a
and gender discrimination, which unfortunately looks cool in
smart casuals film
persists even today. I aim to reignite conversations production
about these pressing issues that demand our atten- as he steps
tion,” remarked Mahadevan. out from the house
airport
 MUMBAI | FRIDAY | APRIL 12, 2024

FAKE NEWS!!!
Actor did not file
police complaint
against trolls over
Family Star’s
negative reviews

A still from Family Star

CJ DESK

ctor Vijay Deverakonda, who is enjoying the

A success of Family Star, has reacted to re-

ports of filing a police complaint against
those publishing negative reviews of the
film. A couple of days back, it was reported that
the actor’s team lodged an official police complaint
with the Cyberabad Police and claimed that the Arjun Reddy
fame was being attacked unnecessarily. Reportedly, the com-
plaint had also stated that Family Star was being targeted by
those with malicious intent.
However, a journalist took to X and shared a
screenshot of his WhatsApp chat with Vijay.
Replying to the journalist’s message, the ac-
tor said that the reports are not true and the
picture that has gone viral along with the
rumours is old.
The photo features the actor along with a

6 years of
police officer addressing a press confer-
ence.
When the journalist asked him if there
was any truth in the report, Vijay replied,
“Nope”. Reacting to the picture, he wrote it is
from “Covid times.”
For the unawares, a member from Vijay’s team

togetherness
had shared a picture in which the actor’s repre-
sentatives can be seen handing over the com-
plaint copy to the cops. He had also called the
trolling against Vijay as “orchestrated attacks
and planned negative cam-
paigns”.
“Cyber Crime Com- CJ DESK
plaint lodged against

A
individuals who s Ankita Lokhande and her husband
are part of or- Vikas Jain completed six years of
chestrated at- marital bliss, the actress said that she
tacks and was unsure how they “ended up
planned nega- here” but are loving it.
tive cam- Ankita Lokhande took to Instagram and
paigns target- shared some glimpses from her six-year an-
ing The niversary celebrations.
#FamilyStar In the images, the husband and wife are
movie and twinning in white. For the caption, she wrote:
actor #Vi- “Last night we celebrated six years of ‘we
jayDever- met, we dated, we’re still not sure how we
akonda. The ended up here, but we’re lovin’ it’ kind of
police offi- love.” Ankita Lokhande was first dating late
cials started star Sushant Singh Rajput in 2010.
taking action In 2016, they parted their ways.
already and are In 2019, she announced that she was in a
tracing the fake relationship with Vikas Jain, a businessman.
ids and users The two got married in December 2021.
and assured Ankita Lokhande and Vikas Jain were
due course,” seen as contestants on Bigg Boss 17.
he wrote.

DISTRESSING The Bhojpuri twist

INCIDENT
Actress reacts to horrifying post of pit bull
Aayush Sharma, Sushrii shake a leg on Lollipop Lageglu
CJ DESK
A still from Ruslaan and Sargam will entertain
attacking boy and stray dogs trying to rescue him the audience with their

T
he stars of the upcom- spellbinding Kathakali per-
CJ DESK ing film Ruslaan, formance.
Aayush Sharma and Yuvraj and Yuvansh
Sushrii Mishraa, will deliver heartfelt shayari

B
ollywood actress Anushka Sharma,
who recently welcomed her second appear on the stage of dance on friendship, evoking
child, a baby boy, with cricketer-hus- realtity show to promote the ac- emotions, while Akhtar
band Virat Kohli, reacted to a post of tion entertainer. Hindustani’s comedy sha-
street dogs saving a boy from pit bull attack Aayush and Sushrii will join the yari will bring laughter to
on Thursday. three deviyaans of dance reality the stage.
On her Instagram story, Anushka re-shared a show’s floor -- Bina, Manjula, and Judge Madhuri Dixit
now-viral post which depicts the distressing in- Shashi. They all set the stage on Nene will be joining
cident of a boy being attacked by a pit bull in fire by dancing to the lively beats Kashvi onstage after her
Ghaziabad. The attack was captured on CCTV. of the Bhojpuri hit Lollipop mesmerising perform-
According to media reports, the 15-year-old Lageglu. ance with Taranjot,
victim was left in critical condition after Judge Suniel Shetty adds to the gracefully blending
being attacked by a neighbour’s dog earlier fervour with his rendition of the upbeat Bho- their Kathak steps.
this week. The viral post, also shared by jpuri track Dil ne ye kaha hai dil se. The stage pulses
Anushka Sharma, shows the harrowing scene The upcoming episode with excitement as a
as street dogs intervened to confront the pit will also see Nitin and flurry of activities
bull while the boy attempted to escape. Gaurav showcasing follows, featuring
Along with the post, the actress wrote, “To the renowned South roti-making competi-
highlight both sides.” The post was first shared Indian dance form tion between the
on Instagram by Dharamsala Animal Rescue, Pili Yesa, judges, balloon antics,
with the caption, “Watch till the end. Adopt adorned with and displays of im-
don’t shop, adopt streeties, adopt dogs, give love tiger skin ac- pressive strength,
a chance, street dog heroes, bravery, worthy, wor- cents for an ex- among others.
thy of love.” tra touch of
grandeur.
Mukesh

Fatwa issued
CJ DESK

T
he film The Diary of West
Bengal produced by
Vasim Rizvi and Sanoj ing with the censor board, but the cant financial losses due to the de-
Mishra will be released chairman of the censor board, Pra- lay in the film’s release. Concern-
on April 27. soon Joshi, or his team, are re- ing this issue, a press conference
A press conference was held in fraining from making any com- was organised with entire team of
Mumbai, regarding the Bollywood ments on the film. Consequently, film The Diary of West
film The Diary of West Bengal, the producers are suffering signifi- Bengal present.
with the entire team present.
In recent days, there have been
discussions surrounding the Bolly-
wood film The Diary of West Ben-
gal. Although the film has been
through the censor board, the
board has not issued a certificate
for its release. The producers-di-
rectors have faced exhaustion deal- Sanoj Mishra
A still from The Diary of West Bengal film director
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 ESTD

1928
THE

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