Delhi, India’s capital territory, is a massive metropolitan area in the country’s north. In Old Delhi, a neighborhood dating to the 1600s, stands the imposing Mughal-era Red Fort, a symbol of India, and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque, whose courtyard accommodates 25,000 people. Nearby is Chandni Chowk, a vibrant bazaar filled with food carts, sweets shops, and spice stalls.
BJP-led NDA secures a majority, INDIA bloc crosses 200; JD(U) and TDP pledge support for a third term of Modi government
After a prolonged electoral process, the Election Commission of India announced the results for all 543 Lok Sabha seats early this morning. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fell short of an outright majority, necessitating reliance on its allies to form the next government.
The BJP secured a total of 240 seats, just shy of the 272 needed for a majority in the Lok Sabha. To consolidate power, the party has called a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)parties in New Delhi today. Adding the seats won by its allies, the NDA has achieved a comfortable majority.
NDA meeting live updates BJP Opposition alliance INDIA PM Modi Amit Shah Nadda Shiv Sena Shinde Ajit Pawar SAD Manjhi
Election Outcome: BJP secured 240 seats, falling short of the majority mark, and will rely on allies to form the next government. NDA meeting scheduled for today.
INDIA Bloc Performance: The INDIA bloc, despite crossing 200 seats, did not achieve a majority. The bloc will hold a meeting to discuss their next steps.
Ally Support: TDP and JD(U), holding 28 seats, have pledged their support to the NDA, ensuring a stable government under Modi for a third term.
Meanwhile, the Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc, with over 200 seats, will also convene a meeting today to discuss their strategy moving forward. Despite their significant gains, none of the INDIA bloc members reached the majority threshold.
In a significant development, N. Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Nitish Kumar’sJanata Dal (United) hold 28 seats collectively. These key allies have reaffirmed their support for the BJP-led NDA and confirmed their attendance at the alliance meeting. Their backing is crucial in securing the stability of the NDA government for a third term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Chandu Champion
The film will hit theatres on June 14, 2024
New Delhi: Get ready, folks. Kartik Aaryan just dropped the trailer of his highly anticipated film Chandu Champion on social media. In Chandu Champion, Kartik Aaryan steps into the shoes of Murlikant Petkar, a Paralympic gold medalist. Murlikant Petkar won the gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Games and bagged another gold medal at the 1972 Paralympics in Germany. In the gripping trailer, Kartik Aaryan’s character Murli is a man with an ambition to win a gold medal in the Olympics. He faces criticism from his classmates, teachers, and parents. He was nicknamed “Chandu” by his classmates but Murli is determined to prove them wrong and win India’s first gold medal in the Olympics. His journey unfolds as he sets his eyes on representing India in the Olympics, leading him to enlist in the Army to sharpen his skills.
Kartik Aaryan Shines In A Stirring Real-Life Tale Of Struggle And Triumph. The film will hit theatres on June 14
However, fate takes a cruel turn as Murli ends up in a coma for two years after getting shot nine times. Yet, his indomitable spirit shines through as he refuses to succumb to despair. Through a series of compelling sequences, we witness Chandu’s evolution—from his rigorous training in the army to his relentless pursuit of boxing excellence. The audience witnesses Chandu’s arduous journey and the hurdles he overcame to become India’s first Paralympic gold medalist.
Captioning the post on Instagram, Kartik Aaryan wrote, “With immense pride and joy, sharing the trailer of my career’s toughest and most special film that too from my hometown Gwalior, where I dreamt of becoming an actor, Chandu Champion, the story of a man who refused to surrender. Hope it touches your heart, entertains and inspires you to achieve your goals just like India’s pride, Mr. Murlikant Petkar.”
The film’s trailer highlights Murli’s journey from being ridiculed to achieving Olympic dreams, despite immense challenges.
Chandu Champion showcases Murli’s determination, from army training to overcoming a coma, in his quest for gold.
Directed by Kabir Khan, the movie is set to release on June 14, with Aaryan sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram.
The promotional activities had a humorous start with Kartik’s cat, Katori, playfully tearing the film’s poster.
On Thursday, Kartik Aaryan dropped the first poster of the film. The poster features Kartik Aaryan running on the field, drenched in sweat. The caption on the poster read, “The man who refused to surrender.” The film will hit theatres on June 14 this year. Captioning the post on Instagram, Kartik Aaryan wrote, “Champion Aa Raha Hai… (Champion is coming). Super excited and proud to share the first poster of the most challenging and special film of my career. Chandu Champion in theatres on 14 June.” Take a look at the poster below.
On Wednesday, Kartik Aaryan shared a sneak peek of the film’s first poster on social media. However, things took a surprising turn when his mischievous feline companion, Katori interrupted his promotional diaries. Katori playfully contributed to the promotional efforts by ‘assisting’ in tearing apart the poster. Sharing the video on Instagram, he wrote, “Aaj se promotion ka shubharambh hona tha lekin. Katori ne poster hi phaad dia. Ab kal hi ayega poster (The promotional activities were supposed to begin today but Katori tore the poster. Now, the poster will come tomorrow).”
Directed by Kabir Khan, Chandu Champion narrates the story of a sportsman’s resilience and determination. Kartik Aaryan steps into the role of Chandu. The film is based on the life of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist in freestyle swimming.
On the professional front, Kartik Aaryan was last seen in Satyaprem Ki Katha, co-starring Kiara Advani. Last year, he also made a cameo appearance in Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor’s film Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar. He also has an untitled project with Karan Johar in the lineup.
So I asked the BJP, who is your PM candidate? If they form govt, they will first tackle (UP CM) Yogiji. Then Modiji’s favorite, Amit Shah will be the PM. So, I want to alert the people of the country, that Modiji is not asking for a vote for himself, He is seeking votes to make Amit Shah PM. I want to ask Modiji and Amit Shahji, Who will fulfill Modiji’s guarantee? will Amit Shah do it?
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s recent assertions have injected new vigor into the political discourse surrounding the upcoming elections. By speculating on Amit Shah’s potential ascension to the Prime Minister’s office in 2025, Kejriwal has ignited debates about the BJP’s leadership dynamics and electoral strategy. His claims suggest a strategic move by the BJP, with Modi seemingly positioning Shah as his successor, prompting questions about the party’s long-term vision and succession planning.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal predicts that if the NDA wins the 2024 elections, Amit Shah will become the Prime Minister in 2025.
Moreover, Kejriwal’s promise of full statehood for Delhi as part of an envisaged INDIA bloc government underscores his commitment to bolstering regional autonomy and challenging central authority. By positioning AAP as a key player in national politics, Kejriwal seeks to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction with traditional political structures and offer an alternative narrative of empowerment and decentralization.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal predicts that if the NDA wins the 2024 elections, Amit Shah will become the Prime Minister in 2025. Kejriwal alleges that Modi seeks votes not for himself but to make Shah the PM, raising questions about the BJP’s leadership strategy.
Kejriwal asserts that an INDIA bloc government will be formed after the elections, with AAP’s participation, promising full statehood for Delhi and autonomy from central control. He pledges to work tirelessly to end what he perceives as a dictatorship and ensure Delhi’s empowerment.
Kejriwal accuses the BJP of aiming for 400 seats to alter the Constitution and abolish reservations, vowing to defend democracy vigorously. He contrasts AAP’s focus on development in Delhi with the BJP’s alleged lack of significant accomplishments during its tenure.
At the heart of Kejriwal’s narrative lies a critique of the BJP’s governance model, characterized by what he perceives as a lack of tangible achievements and a focus on divisive rhetoric over substantive issues. By contrasting AAP’s track record of development in Delhi with the BJP’s alleged shortcomings, Kejriwal aims to appeal to voters’ desire for effective governance and inclusive policies.
During these political maneuvers, Kejriwal’s ongoing legal battles, notably his interim bail in a money laundering case, add a layer of complexity to the political landscape. While providing him with temporary respite, these legal challenges also highlight the precarious nature of his political standing and the potential implications for his future aspirations.
In sum, Kejriwal’s recent statements reflect a broader strategy aimed at reshaping the political narrative, challenging traditional power structures, and positioning AAP as a credible alternative on the national stage. As the electoral contest intensifies, his assertions are likely to fuel further debates and shape the discourse leading up to the polls.
On May 3, 2024, Senior Advocate A.M. Singhvi, representing Arvind Kejriwal, concluded his arguments challenging the legality of the Delhi Chief Minister’s arrest. Singhvi reiterated his stance that the arrest did not adhere to the criteria outlined in Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, during the previous hearings. The Bench, after instructing Singhvi to wrap up his arguments, tasked the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to respond to the timing of Kejriwal’s arrest.
Singhvi highlighted that according to Section 50 of the PMLA, a person summoned by the ED does not assume the status of an “accused.” He emphasized that Kejriwal’s transformation into an accused coincided with his arrest on March 21, 2024, just five days after receiving the last summons. Singhvi also pointed out the lack of clarity regarding Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia’s involvement in the case, indicating that the evidence may not sufficiently implicate Kejriwal as the mastermind behind the Liquor Policy case.
The hearing delved into the interpretation of “reason to believe” as stipulated in Section 19, with Justice Khanna noting the importance of scrutinizing all relevant material in possession of the investigative agency. As arguments continued, the Court hinted at the possibility of considering interim bail for Kejriwal due to the protracted nature of the legal proceedings, especially with the looming elections on May 25. Further deliberations on this matter are slated for the upcoming sessions, with S.V. Raju scheduled to continue arguments on May 7, 2024.
A 45-year-old painter from Delhi, who lost both hands in a train accident, is set to be discharged from Ganga Ram Hospital tomorrow after undergoing a groundbreaking bilateral hand transplant surgery lasting over 12 hours.
NEW DELHI: A painter who lost both hands in a devastating accident is now on the verge of reclaiming his passion for painting, all thanks to a miraculous surgery conducted by doctors at Ganga Ram Hospital. The 45-year-old, who underwent Delhi’s first successful bilateral hand transplant, will bid farewell to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital tomorrow. His life changed dramatically when he suffered the loss of both hands in a tragic train accident back in 2020.
A compassionate gesture from a woman who was declared brain dead paved the way for a new chapter in the painter’s life. Her generous pledge of organ donation granted hope to a man hailing from a financially struggling background, who had lost all prospects of leading a fulfilling life.
The intricate surgery spanned over 12 hours and involved meticulously connecting every blood vessel, muscle, tendon, and nerve between the donor’s hands and the recipient’s arms.
Despite ongoing farmer protests, Delhi police have stepped up surveillance and tightened security measures at all borders of Delhi. Section 144 has been imposed in several areas of Delhi, and no permission has been granted for any demonstrations.
New Delhi: Today marks the 23rd day of the farmer agitation. Once again, farmers are gearing up for the Delhi march. However, what’s noteworthy is that farmers from Haryana and Punjab are not participating in today’s protest. Instead, farmers from various parts of the country have begun marching towards Delhi. However, those coming from afar will not reach Delhi today; it will take them 2-3 days to arrive. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher explained that it was previously announced that farmers from other states would join the protest march on March 6, but those coming from long distances will not reach Delhi today. He stated that farmers coming by road or train from Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, or South India would take about 2-3 days to reach Delhi, hence the situation will clear up by March 10.
Haryana-Punjab Farmers Not Marching to Delhi –
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher clarified that farmers from neighboring states have already decided not to move forward. It’s clear that the farmers stationed at the Shambhu border in Punjab are not heading towards Delhi. Farmers from various states across the country have already set out for Delhi, and they will also take some time to arrive. Meanwhile, in view of the farmer protests, the police are on high alert. Police have increased surveillance at all Delhi borders and tightened security measures. Section 144 has been imposed in several areas of Delhi. No one has been granted permission to hold demonstrations.
Strict Security at Bus Terminals –
Railway Stations Farmers had announced that they would once again reach Delhi on Wednesday to protest. Farmer organizations – Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and United Farmers Front (non-political) had called on farmers from across the country to reach Delhi on Wednesday. Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at Singhu and Tikri borders. Additional police and paramilitary forces have already been deployed at railway and metro stations and bus terminals, as stated by a senior police officer. No one will be allowed to violate the law.
‘Rail Roko Andolan’ by Farmers on March 10
It’s worth mentioning that farmers have also called for a nationwide ‘Rail Roko Andolan’ (rail blockade protest) for 4 hours on March 10 in support of their various demands, including legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops. It should be noted that farmers began their protest march on February 13, but their attempt to march to Delhi was thwarted by the police. This led to clashes at the Haryana-Punjab border, and tear gas shells were also fired. Farmer leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal have stated that the sacrifices of farmers will not go in vain. The struggle will continue until demands are met.
The Delhi High Court has revised the annual income limit for school admissions in Delhi under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category to Rs 2.5 lakh. This decision follows a petition filed by the Directorate of Education (DOE) challenging a previous ruling by Justice Kaurav. The court emphasized the need for the government to consider the beneficiaries’ living standards, highlighting Delhi’s comparatively lower threshold compared to other states.
NEW DELHI: On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court revised its previous order regarding the annual income limit for admissions to Delhi schools under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category.
During the hearing, a division bench led by acting Chief Justice Manmohan increased the existing threshold from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh. The court considered a petition filed by the Delhi government’s Directorate of Education (DOE), contesting a December 14 ruling issued by a bench headed by Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav.
Justice Kaurav’s ruling suggested raising the current income threshold for EWS reservation in the city to Rs 5 lakh until the Delhi government revises the threshold. The court urged the government to set the threshold at a level commensurate with the living standards of the intended beneficiaries.
The judge argued that the current threshold fails to accurately reflect the economic challenges faced by families today. Delhi’s requirement was notably lower compared to the Rs 8 lakh annual threshold adopted by most states.
According to the Delhi School Education (Free Seats for Students Belonging to Economically Weaker Sections and Disadvantaged Group) Order, 2011, children whose parents earn less than Rs 1 lakh per year and have resided in the Capital for the past three years are eligible for admission under the EWS quota. During Tuesday’s proceedings, the DOE, represented by standing counsel Santosh Kumar Tripathi, expressed concerns that the sudden increase in the threshold could negatively impact labor candidates earning Rs 1 lakh. Additionally, it could undermine the fundamental right to free and compulsory education guaranteed by Article 21A of the Constitution.
Media reports indicate that Tripathi further argued that the current admission system in the EWS category, based on parents’ self-declaration of income, was sufficient and did not require any alterations. He also contended that the government was unable to comply with the single judge’s directives as the admission process had already begun in November.
Moreover, the court stated that the ruling would remain in effect until changes were made to the 2011 reservation scheme. The Delhi School Education (Free Seats for Students Belonging to Economically Weaker Sections and Disadvantaged Group) Order, 2011, mandates schools in Delhi to reserve at least 25% of Class 1 seats for students from the EWS category. This order also ensures that these students receive free and compulsory elementary education in accordance with the Right to Education Act.
NEW DELHI: An Indian national lost his life on Monday when an anti-tank missile struck an orchard near Israel’s northern border in Margaliot. At least two others were injured when the missile, fired from Lebanon, hit the area, officials confirmed.
According to Zaki Heller, spokesperson for rescue services Magen David Adom (MDA), the missile hit a plantation in Margaliot in the Galigee region of northern Israel around 11 am on Monday. “Patnibin Maxwell from Kollam in Kerala was killed in the attack. His remains were identified at Ziv hospital,” official sources stated. Bush Joseph George and Paul Melvin, also from Kerala, sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in different hospitals.
The Israel embassy in India condemned the anti-tank missile firing by Lebanon, terming it a cowardly terror attack. They extended prayers to the families of the deceased and injured. “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the death of one Indian national and the injury of two others due to a cowardly terror attack launched by the Shia Terror organization Hezbollah,” the embassy of Israel in New Delhi stated.
“George was taken to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva after suffering injuries to his face and body. He underwent surgery and has been kept under observation. He was able to communicate with his family in India,” an official source informed PTI.
Melvin, a native of Kerala’s Idukki district, is currently receiving treatment at Ziv Hospital in the northern Israeli city of Safed.
In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, the embassy assured that Israeli medical facilities are fully available to those injured in the incident.
We are deeply shocked and saddened by the death of one Indian national and the injury of two others due to a cowardly terror attack launched by Shia Terror organization Hezbollah, on peaceful agriculture workers who were cultivating an orchard at the northern village of Margaliot…
“Our prayers and thoughts naturally go to the families of the bereaved and those of the injured. Israeli medical institutions are completely at the service of the injured, who are being treated by our very best medical staff,” the embassy added.
The embassy emphasized that Israel treats equally all nationals, whether Israeli or foreign, who are affected by terrorism, pledging support to the families and offering assistance.
According to MDA, a total of seven foreign workers were injured in the attack, two of them seriously. They were transported to Beilinson, Rambam, and Ziv hospitals via MDA ambulances and Israeli Air Force helicopters.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) responded to the incident by shelling the launch site with artillery.
Additionally, the IDF targeted a Hezbollah compound in the southern Lebanese town of Chihine, where members of the group were gathered, as well as another site belonging to Hezbollah in Ayta ash-Shab.
Hezbollah has been conducting attacks on Israel’s northern communities and military posts since October 8, claiming to do so in support of Gaza.
These clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have resulted in the deaths of seven civilians and 10 IDF soldiers on the Israeli side.
Hezbollah has reported 229 members killed by Israel during recent flare-ups, with most casualties occurring in Lebanon but also some in Syria.
Since October 8, another 37 operatives from other groups, a Lebanese soldier, and at least 30 civilians have also been killed.
A section of the roof at Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj, Delhi, collapsed during routine maintenance work, stirring concern but thankfully causing no injuries.
A video circulating online captures the unsettling moment as debris cascades onto escalators and railings within Delhi’s Ambience Mall. (Image Source: X/@ShantanuGuhaRay)
It’s raining collapses in Malls in NCR. Today roof of Ambience Mall at Vasant Kunj collapsed. Poor maintenance by owners is a factor. MCD must inspect all Cinemas and Malls lest a major accident happens again @ArvindKejriwal @LtGovDelhi @AmitShah pic.twitter.com/QYV6nTWm2Z
— Shantanu Guha Ray (@ShantanuGuhaRay) March 4, 2024
In a concerning turn of events, a substantial portion of the concrete roof collapsed in the central hall of Ambience Mall, situated in southwest Delhi’s Vasant Kunj, in the early hours of Monday. According to reports from news agency PTI, the incident occurred past midnight, yet no injuries were reported.
Authorities stated that the roof gave way partially around 12:45 am, scattering debris throughout the central section of the mall. While fortunate that no casualties occurred, an investigation into the cause of the collapse has been initiated, as confirmed by the police.
A circulating video offers a glimpse of the unsettling scene, capturing the falling debris as it descends onto escalators and railings within the mall.
The incident adds to a string of structural concerns in malls across the National Capital Region (NCR). With the Ambience Mall’s temporary closure for maintenance and safety checks, authorities aim to mitigate any potential risks before resuming operations.
Authorities have closed the mall temporarily as a precautionary measure, ensuring the completion of necessary maintenance work before reopening to the public.
The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) administration has yet to respond to the recent incident of clashes among students, and no information has been provided regarding the number of injured students.
New Delhi: Once again, an incident of student clashes has emerged at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi. The clash occurred during the School of Languages’ General Body Meeting (GBM). During the altercation between ABVP and leftist-supported groups over the selection of election committee members, some students were injured on Thursday night. A university official stated that some students have been admitted to Safdarjung Hospital. A purported video of the incident has surfaced, showing an individual assaulting some students with a stick, while another clip shows a person throwing a bicycle at students.
Clashes between ABVP and Leftist Groups:
Another purported video of the incident shows some individuals assaulting others, while university security personnel attempt to intervene. Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and leftist groups have lodged complaints against each other with the police.
Students Injured in JNU Clash:
As of now, the university administration has not responded to this incident, and no information has been provided about the number of injured students. According to Delhi Police, a quarrel among students was reported late at night. Sources indicate that medical treatment has been provided to three injured students. The police have not yet received any written complaints in this matter, but necessary action is being taken.
Previous Clashes in JNU: It’s worth noting that such incidents of clashes among students in JNU are not unprecedented. OnFebruary 10, a clash erupted between ABVP and leftist supporters during a student union election meeting, during which both sides claimed injuries to some of their members. Both sides have accused each other of the clash, while the JNU administration has yet to respond. The University General Body Meeting (UGBM) was convened at the Sabarmati Dhaba on campus to elect members of the election commission for the 2024 JNU Student Union elections, during which a clash ensued between student groups.
