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India / Main Slide / News / Politics / West Bengal

PM Modi Renews Attack on Mamata Government: TMC Now Stands for ‘Tu, Main aur Corruption’

- by Chirag Goyal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), accusing them of creating an environment conducive to “crime and corruption” in West Bengal. Addressing a rally in Krishnagar on Saturday, PM Modi asserted that the TMC has now become synonymous with “atrocities” and “betrayal.” He alleged that the TMC’s primary focus lies not on the development of Bengal but on fostering corruption, nepotism, and betrayal. According to him, the TMC aims to perpetuate its political agenda and games by keeping the people of Bengal impoverished.

PM Modi’s address follows a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Friday, amid escalating tensions between the BJP and TMC, with Sandeshkhali emerging as a focal point of contention.

Sandeshkhali Incident and Political Strife;
The recent arrest of Shahjahan Sheikh, accused of “sexual assault and land grabbing” in Sandeshkhali, has exacerbated the ongoing political turmoil in the region.

PM Modi took a swipe at Mamata Banerjee over the Sandeshkhali incident, stating, “In Bengal, it’s the criminals who decide when they should be arrested, not the police.”

He commended the women of Sandeshkhali for their resilience in protesting against years of oppression and violence, which eventually compelled the ruling party to take notice. PM Modi also applauded the state leaders of his party in West Bengal for standing by these women in their protests.

Infrastructure Development Projects;
PM Modi unveiled a slew of development projects worth Rs 15,000 crore aimed at propelling West Bengal towards economic growth and job creation. These projects include the inauguration of the Farakka-Raiganj section of NH-12 and the Flue Gas Desulfurisation (FGD) system at Mejia Thermal Power Station. Additionally, the foundation stone for the Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station Phase II was laid during the ceremony.

Emphasizing West Bengal’s potential as the “eastern gate” of India, PM Modi pledged to initiate several projects to boost employment and economic growth in the state.

Rail Infrastructure Revitalization:
In a bid to enhance Bengal’s rail infrastructure, PM Modi inaugurated four rail projects worth over Rs 940 crore. He highlighted the government’s efforts to bridge the gap in railway infrastructure and expressed commitment to further investments in the sector.

Ambitious Goals for Lok Sabha Elections PM Modi set ambitious goals for the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, urging the people to ensure a victory on all 42 seats. He expressed confidence in the party’s prospects and rallied the crowd with the slogan ‘NDA sarkar, 400 paar’.

PM Modi’s Meeting with Mamata Banerjee:
PM Modi’s meeting with West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee at Raj Bhavan in Kolkata focused on discussions related to governance and cooperation. Mamata raised concerns about the pending dues owed to the state by the Centre, emphasizing the need for resolution.

PM Modi Renews Attack on Mamata Government: TMC Now Stands for ‘Tu, Main aur Corruption’ Read More
India / Main Slide / News / Politics

Gautam Gambhir Requests BJP Chief JP Nadda to Relieve Him of Political Duties

- by Chirag Goyal

Former cricketer and Delhi MP Gautam Gambhir has made a formal request to BJP president JP Nadda to release him from his political responsibilities on Saturday. Gambhir’s decision stems from his desire to allocate more time to his forthcoming cricket commitments. Expressing gratitude, Gambhir conveyed sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the opportunity to serve the nation.

In a statement, Gambhir stated, ”I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!”

With this move, Gambhir aims to effectively manage his dual roles and responsibilities.

Having joined the BJP in March 2019, Gambhir swiftly emerged as a significant figure within the party in Delhi. He clinched victory in the East Delhi seat during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with a remarkable margin of 6,95,109 votes.

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India / Main Slide / Mumbai / Top News

Indian Security Agencies Intercept Pakistan-Bound Ship from China Carrying ‘Military-Grade Items’

- by Chirag Goyal

Indian security agencies have intercepted a Pakistan-bound ship from China at Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva port over suspicions of a ‘dual-use consignment’ intended for Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile program. Among the items seized was a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine manufactured by an Italian company. A team from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) also inspected the consignment.

The interception took place based on intelligence input, leading customs officials to halt the Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, en route to Karachi on January 23 at the port. The consignment, including the CNC machine, underwent scrutiny by DRDO, which certified its potential use in manufacturing critical parts for Pakistan’s missile development program.

There have been concerns regarding Pakistan’s potential exploitation of China as a conduit to acquire restricted items from Europe and the US while masking identities to evade detection.

Documents such as bills of loading indicated the consigner as “Shanghai JXE Global Logistics Co Ltd” and the consignee as “Pakistan Wings Pvt Ltd” of Sialkot. However, further investigation revealed that the 22,180-kilogram consignment was shipped by Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd, intended for Cosmos Engineering in Pakistan.

Port officials, acting on specific intelligence, alerted Indian defence authorities, leading to the inspection and subsequent seizure of the cargo. This seizure falls within the purview of preventing potential proliferation by Pakistan and China.

CNC machines, operated by computers, offer enhanced efficiency, consistency, and accuracy, making them valuable assets with applications in both civilian and military domains. Since 1996, CNC machines have been included in the Wassenaar Arrangement—an international arms control regime aimed at curbing the proliferation of equipment with dual civilian and military uses. India, among the 42 member countries, actively participates in exchanging information on transfers of conventional weapons and dual-use goods and technologies.

And therefore, Indian port officials have previously seized similar dual-use military-grade items being shipped from China to Pakistan. In February 2020, China attempted to supply an autoclave to Pakistan under the guise of an “industrial dryer.”

Moreover, Cosmos Engineering, a Pakistani defence supplier, has been under scrutiny since March 12, 2022, when Indian authorities intercepted a shipment of Italian-made thermoelectric instruments, once again at the Nhava Sheva port.

Furthermore, in June 2023, the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) imposed sanctions on three Chinese companies—General Technology Limited (autoclave supplier to Pakistan), Beijing Luo Luo Technology Development, and Changzhou Utek Composite Company—for their involvement in supplying missile-applicable items to Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme.

 

Indian Security Agencies Intercept Pakistan-Bound Ship from China Carrying ‘Military-Grade Items’ Read More
India / Main Slide

Pakistani Cricketer Shoaib Akhtar Welcomes Third Child, Baby Girl Nooreh, and Shares Heartfelt Note

- by Chirag Goyal

Former Pakistani cricket star, Shoaib Akhtar, and his wife, Rubab Khan, celebrated the arrival of their third child, a baby girl named Nooreh, born on March 1, 2024. Akhtar expressed his joy and gratitude in a heartfelt note shared on social media.

Known as the ‘Rawalpindi Express’ for his lightning-fast bowling, Shoaib Akhtar retired from cricket after the 2011 World Cup. Since then, he has ventured into various endeavors, including writing, hosting shows, and running a popular YouTube channel. In 2014, Akhtar tied the knot with Rubab Khan, and the couple already shares two sons, Mohammad Mikaeel Ali and Mohammad Mujaddid.

Taking to his official Instagram account, Shoaib Akhtar announced the birth of his baby girl with a heartwarming post. He revealed that Nooreh Ali Akhtar entered the world during the Jumma prayers on March 1, 2024. Expressing his gratitude, Akhtar wrote:
“Mikaeel & Mujaddid have a baby sister now. Allah taala has blessed us with a baby daughter. Welcoming Nooreh Ali Akhtar, born during Jumma prayers, 19th of Shaban, 1445 AH. 1st of March, 2024. Aap sab ki duaon ka talab gaar- Shoaib Akhtar.”


Accompanying the heartfelt message was an adorable picture of Shoaib Akhtar cradling his newborn daughter. While Akhtar sported a black sweater and an LV beanie cap, baby Nooreh was snugly wrapped in a printed swaddle, peacefully asleep in her father’s arms.

With this joyful announcement, Shoaib Akhtar’s family expands, and his sons embrace their new role as loving brothers to their baby sister. The cricketing legend humbly requested prayers from all well-wishers, expressing his gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon his growing family.

Pakistani Cricketer Shoaib Akhtar Welcomes Third Child, Baby Girl Nooreh, and Shares Heartfelt Note Read More
Business / India / Main Slide / News

Financial Intelligence Unit Imposes Rs 5.49-Crore Fine On Paytm Payments Bank For Violating PMLA Norms

- by Chirag Goyal

In a significant development, the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) has taken decisive action against Paytm Payments Bank Ltd for violations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. FIU-IND has imposed a substantial penalty of Rs 5.49 crore on the institution, citing breaches of obligations outlined in the PMLA and related rules.

The investigation into Paytm Payments Bank Ltd was initiated by FIU-IND based on specific intelligence received from law enforcement agencies regarding illicit activities, including online gambling and money laundering, facilitated through the bank.

Following a compliance show cause notice highlighting violations related to payout services, anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CFT), and know your customer (KYC) protocols, FIU-IND concluded that the charges against the bank were substantiated. Consequently, a penalty was imposed on February 15, 2024, under Section 13 of the PMLA.

This action underscores regulatory authorities’ commitment to combating financial crimes and ensuring compliance within the banking sector. Paytm Payments Bank Ltd is expected to adhere to prescribed regulations and take corrective measures to prevent future violations.

In related news, Vijay Shekhar Sharma has resigned from his position as part-time non-executive chairman of Paytm Payments Bank’s board amid ongoing regulatory concerns. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has prohibited PPBL from accepting deposits and credits from customers beyond March 15 due to persistent non-compliances and supervisory concerns.


On Friday, shares of One 97 Communications Ltd, the parent company of Paytm, concluded trading at Rs 425.45 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), marking a rise of 5 percent.

Financial Intelligence Unit Imposes Rs 5.49-Crore Fine On Paytm Payments Bank For Violating PMLA Norms Read More
Bangalore / Main Slide

Explosion at Rameshwaram Café in Bengaluru Leaves Several Injured

- by Chirag Goyal

An explosion at Rameshwaram café in Bengaluru has resulted in injuries to four individuals. Suspected to be a cylinder blast, the incident is currently under investigation by bomb squad and police officials from various stations.

At least four people, including three café staff members and a customer, have been reported injured in the blast, as per TV reports.

The bomb squad has promptly arrived at the scene in Brookefield, where the explosion occurred around 1:30 pm today. Forensic teams, accompanied by police officials from HAL, Whitefield, and Indiranagar police stations, are also present for investigation.

Initial reports indicate that it was a minor blast, suspected to be caused by a cylinder explosion. The injured individuals have been swiftly transported to the hospital. The incident, occurring between 1:30 and 2 pm, is currently being probed from all angles, stated a police officer speaking to news agency PTI.

Rameshwaram Café, established in 2021 by CA Divya Raghavendra Rao and Raghavendra Rao, pays homage to the late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s birthplace with its name.

The café is renowned in Bengaluru for its stringent food quality regulations, including careful ingredient selection, absence of artificial coloring or flavoring in recipes, and operating without refrigeration. Additionally, it is known for its late operating hours, remaining open until 2 am.

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Automobile / India / Main Slide / Top News

Xiaomi Enters the Electric Vehicle Market: Unveils First EV as Smartphone Giant Diversifies into Automobile Industry

- by Chirag Goyal

Chinese technology giant Xiaomi has introduced its inaugural electric vehicle, the SU7 sedan, at the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona. Although Xiaomi initially revealed the EV in China last December, the MWC event marks its global debut.

We had the opportunity to closely examine the Aqua Blue SU7 on the exhibition floor, and it’s truly impressive. Drawing inspiration from supercars like the McLaren 750S, the vehicle features striking headlights and LED accents. The rear design is notable for its sleek wraparound taillights connected by an LED strip, lending the sedan a futuristic appearance. Higher trim levels will boast additional features such as an active rear wing and lidar sensors, complemented by 19 and 20-inch wheels, giving the SU7 a sporty allure.

While the interior was somewhat obscured by tinted windows, Xiaomi has previously showcased a minimalist cabin design centered around a large touchscreen devoid of physical buttons.

The SU7 will be offered with a choice of battery packs. The standard 73.6 kWh battery offers an impressive range of 668 km, while the higher-end 101 kWh battery extends the range to 800 km on a single charge. Customers can also choose between rear-wheel drive with a 299 PS motor or a more powerful 673 PS dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration.

Although Xiaomi is renowned for its affordable smartphones and gadgets, the company has emphasized that the SU7 will compete in the premium segment, targeting established players like Porsche. It remains to be seen if Xiaomi can succeed in this ambitious endeavor within the fiercely competitive Chinese market. However, Xiaomi’s expansion into diverse product categories, including lifestyle devices and home appliances, is well-documented. In 2021, the company announced a $10 billion investment in electric vehicles over the next decade, with the SU7 sedan being the first outcome of this initiative.

In addition to its performance and range, the SU7 comes equipped with an array of high-tech features such as adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, entertainment screens, a 25-speaker system, and various connectivity options.

While initial SU7 sales will commence in China, with deliveries expected to begin in the second quarter, the SU7 showcased at MWC 2024 could potentially pave the way for exports to global markets like India in the future.

Xiaomi Enters the Electric Vehicle Market: Unveils First EV as Smartphone Giant Diversifies into Automobile Industry Read More
India / Main Slide / News / Rajasthan

“Supreme Court Upholds Rajasthan’s Two-Child Policy, Bans Government Jobs for Those with More Than Two Children”

- by Chirag Goyal

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has upheld Rajasthan’s policy requiring candidates for government jobs to adhere to a two-child norm. This decision asserts that the policy is not discriminatory and does not contravene the Constitution.

The Rajasthan Various Service (Amendment) Rules, 2001, prohibit individuals with more than two children from applying for government positions.

The apex court, while endorsing the two-child norm, dismissed the appeal filed by ex-serviceman Ramji Lal Jat. Jat had sought a constable’s position in the Rajasthan Police on May 25, 2018, subsequent to his retirement from the military in 2017.

A bench led by Justice Surya Kant determined that Rule 24(4) of the Rajasthan Police Subordinate Service Rules, 1989, which disqualifies candidates with more than two children born after June 1, 2002, is not discriminatory and aligns with constitutional principles.

The bench, which also included Justices Dipankar Datta and K V Vishwanathan, emphasized that the provision aims to encourage family planning and is thus consistent with constitutional values.

Jat’s candidacy was rejected under Rule 24(4) due to his having more than two children post-June 1, 2002, in accordance with the Rajasthan Various Service (Amendment) Rules, 2001.

Despite Jat’s appeal to the Rajasthan High Court, the court upheld his disqualification, stating that the rule in question pertains to policy matters and does not warrant judicial intervention.

he ex-serviceman, however, argued that while there are rules regarding the two-child eligibility norm, there are separate rules for the absorption of ex-servicemen that do not specify the condition of not having more than two children.

“Even if this is true,” the court responded, “such an argument does not strengthen the appellant’s case. It is undisputed that the appellant applied for the position of Constable in the Rajasthan Police, which is governed by the Rajasthan Police Subordinate Service Rules, 1989.

“These 1989 Rules are explicitly listed as Serial No.104 in the Schedule attached to the 2001 Rules. Therefore, we see no reason to overturn the decision made by the High Court,” the apex court stated in its judgment.

 

“Supreme Court Upholds Rajasthan’s Two-Child Policy, Bans Government Jobs for Those with More Than Two Children” Read More
Entertainment / India / Main Slide / News

Luxury Cars, Cash Hoards Seized in Raids on Tobacco Baron’s Mansion

- by Chirag Goyal

New Delhi: Rolls Royce, Porsche, Lamborghini – all adorned with ‘4018’ on their license plates, and before them stands a man exuding the flamboyance reminiscent of Hrithik Roshan’s character in a popular song from ‘Kaho Na Pyaar Hai’. He is Shivam Mishra, scion of a tobacco company at the center of multi-state raids by the Income Tax department.The raids, reminiscent of a cinematic spectacle, were conducted across five states, targeting every facet of the Banshidhar Tobacco Company.

The Income Tax department conducted a series of raids on Banshidhar Tobacco Company, uncovering a labyrinthine network of financial manipulations stretching across various states and even overseas. The raids, spanning 20 locations including Kanpur, Delhi, Mumbai, and Gujarat, have brought to light alleged irregularities in the company’s reported turnover, with sources indicating a staggering disparity between the declared income and the actual turnover.

At the core of the scandal lies KK Mishra, the patriarch of the tobacco business. Banshidhar Tobacco Private Limited is a major player in the tobacco industry and is renowned for supplying products to major pan masala groups. Reports suggest that the company has declared an income of ₹ 20 to 25 crore when the actual turnover was estimated at ₹ 100-150 crore.

Moreover, the raids have unearthed not only violations of Income Tax regulations but also blatant breaches of Goods and Services Tax (GST) protocols, further exacerbating the legal woes surrounding the company.

 

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Bihar / India / Main Slide / News

Videographer Fatally Shot as Camera Battery Dies During Birthday Event in Bihar

- by Chirag Goyal

A tragic incident unfolded in Makhnaha village, Bihar, where a 22-year-old videographer, Sushil Kumar Sahni, lost his life after being shot by Rakesh Sahni. The shooting occurred when Sushil’s camera battery died while recording a birthday party. The incident has sparked outrage among villagers, who are demanding Rakesh’s immediate arrest, especially given his alleged involvement in the illegal liquor trade.

Sushil Kumar Sahni, a resident of Makhnaha village, was hired by Rakesh Sahni, a co-villager, to film his daughter’s birthday celebration. However, the recording was abruptly halted when Sushil’s camera battery drained during the festivities. Enraged by this interruption, Rakesh verbally abused Sushil before fatally shooting him in the mouth.

Despite rushing Sushil to Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), he succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Shocked and angered by the senseless violence, villagers staged protests, blocking traffic on Laheriasarai main road. Their demands included the immediate apprehension of the accused, Rakesh Sahni.

The situation escalated further as villagers disrupted traffic for hours, causing a significant traffic jam. It was only after Benipur SDPO Sumit Kumar intervened and assured action against the culprit that the blockade was lifted.

An FIR has been filed against Rakesh Sahni, who is currently on the run. Investigations have revealed his alleged involvement in the illegal liquor trade. Three individuals have been detained for questioning, and efforts are underway to apprehend the accused.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of senseless violence and highlights the urgent need for justice and accountability in society.

Videographer Fatally Shot as Camera Battery Dies During Birthday Event in Bihar Read More