First India-Mumbai Edition-17th December 2022

CENTURIAN: 100 DAYS OF ‘UNITING INDIA’

Our Yatra is another way of doing politics. This is Gandhiji’s way, and we have had the best response in Rajasthan, he said.

I was also a little distant from public, I personally benefited a lot from the Yatra: RaGa

Kartikey Dev Singh

Jaipur: Walking his way from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, Rahul Gandhi and his ‘brainchaild’ -the Bharat Jodo Yatra- has completed a milestone of 100 days crossing the length of the nation. During this, the yatra, which was launched on September 7 in Kanyakumari, and

its ‘yatri’ Rahul, have traversed eight states Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and now, Rajasthan. With over 2,800 kilometres under his belt, Gandhi has managed to catch the attention of his supporters as well as detractors.

On completion of 100

days of Bharat Jodo Yatra, the Gandhi scion addressed a presser in

RS ADJOURNED AMID UPROAR BY OPPOSITION

New Delhi: Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon on Friday amid uproar as the Opposition’s request to hold a discussion on the India-China border situation was disallowed by the chair.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh repeatedly urged House members to allow the proceedings, citing rules. Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala earlier gave a Suspension of Business Notice under Rule 267 in Rajya Sabha to discuss the border situation with China.

He also asked the Chairman to ask the Prime Minister and the Government to make a statement on the issue.

Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge also sought to raise the issue in the House.

More on P6

asserted that Foreign Minister Jaishankar should broaden his thinking and understanding. “China is preparing for war. The government is ignoring this issue and trying to hide information related to it,” he said, adding, “Our government hides the preparations of China. The Government of India does not work

strategically, it works on an event basis. When it comes to geo politics, events do not work there, strength does.”

Rahul said that no one is asking questions on China. “China occupied 2 thousand square kilometers of land. Martyred 20 soldiers of India. They are beating our jawans in Arunachal Pradesh,” he said.

Rahul Gandhi said that there are many reasons for BJP winning the elections. “They have huge money, they threaten people. We do not do this and we do not have these resources. We don’t have that much money. Turn to P8

Chhapra: As toll rises to 65, now Hooch kills 5 in Siwan, 1 in Begusarai

HOOCH DEATHS

Siwan: Days after the hooch tragedy in Bihar’s Chhapra claimed over 65 lives, at least 5 people died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in the adjoining Siwan district in the state.

All five deceased are residents of Brahsthan and Sondhani villages of Bhagwanpur Police Station area. According to sources, the death toll is expected to rise.

Angry family members of the deceased ob-

structed the SiwanChapra Malmalia main road and undertook a protest. Meanwhile, in the Begusarai district,

JUDICIARY

administration swung into action after one person reportedly died allegedly after consuming liquor. P5

New

New Delhi: The SC on Friday said if it were not to interfere in matters of personal liberty, then “what are we here for”, as it ordered the release of a man sentenced to 18 years in jail for electricity theft in nine separate cases.During the hearing, a bench headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud said, “No case is too small for the Supreme Court and no case is too big because we have to answer the call of conscience and the cry of liberty of our citizens, that is why we are here.”

MVA’s ‘Maha-Morcha’ for ‘political relevance’ in state today!

Sandeep Shukla

Mumbai: The ‘Halla Bol Morcha’ will be taken out on behalf of Mahavikas Aghadi on Saturday to protest against the insult of Chhatrapati Shivaji and other great men, inflation and unemployment. Mahavikas Aghadi will demonstrate its strength through this front just before the winter session of Maharashtra Legislature which is going to start from 19th December in Nagpur.

The Mumbai Police has

given permission to take out the morcha with certain conditions. The police have instructed the leaders to maintain peace and follow the rules during the morcha. All the three parties included in the Mahavikas Aghadi - Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP - along with other smaller parties and some NGOs will also join the front. Efforts are being made by the Aghadi to gather a huge crowd in the front.

Till Thursday evening, the police had not given permission to

take out the morcha. However, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Ajit Pawar had expressed confidence that permission would be given for the march.

BJP LOST SLEEP: PATOLE

State Congress President Nana Patole - “BJP has lost sleep over the December 17 morcha.

In such a situation, to divert the attention of the people, the BJP is doing gimmick by announcing its movement. BJP has used Hindu sentiments only for its political interests. BJP should not talk about Hindu Gods and Goddesses.

should be taken out peacefully through the prescribed route.

Modi Cabinet approves bill to decriminalise minor offences

This morcha will be taken out from Jijamata Udyan in Byculla to Azad Maidan at 11 am on Saturday.

Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister

While giving permission, the police put a condition that no leader would give such a speech during the morcha, which would create tension between the two communities. No objectionable statement should be made during the speech. According to the Arms Act, knife, sword and any other deadly weapon should not be used in the march. No one will be allowed to burst crackers.

BJP TO HOLD ITS OWN PROTEST

TODAY

Mumbai: The ruling BJP would organize its own protest in Mumbai on Saturday demanding apology from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for `insulting’ Dr B R Ambedkar and Hindu deities, it announced. Mumbai BJP president Ashish Shelar told reporters on Friday that Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut tried to create a controversy over Ambedkar’s birthplace, while another leader Sushma Andhare `insulted’ Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, saint Dynaneshwar and saint Eknath as well as the Warkari community. “Is this not anti-Maharashtra?” he asked.

New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved a bill to decriminalise minor offences by rationalising related provisions under different ministries to ensure ease of doing business, sources said on Friday.

Sources said that the Cabinet discussed the Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Living (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2022 in a meeting and has approved it. The bill proposes to rationalise about 110 provisions across 35 Acts administered by 16 ministries/departments.

One of the sources said that taking the reform agenda to the next level, the government is focussing on reducing the overall compliance burden for businesses and citizens.

Devendra Fadnavis said on Friday that there was no problem in giving permission to the morcha. The march

Sharad Pawar

Uddhav

Thackeray

Nana Patole

INDIA-CHINA BORDER ROW

PLA PATROL WAS ‘FIRMLY CONTESTED’

BHUTTO’ PAKISTAN’S ‘PAPPU’: BJP

COURT TO HEAR AAFTAB’S BAIL PLEA ON DECEMBER 17

SC RELEASES MAN SENTENCED TO 18 YRS FOR POWER THEFT

MLAs CREATE RUCKUS IN HOUSE

PIL IN SC SEEKS SIT PROBE IN BIHAR

Kolkata: GOC-in-C Eastern Command, Lt Gen Rana Pratap Kalita on Friday said that the transgression by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) patrol was “contested firmly”. He also informed that a flag meeting at the delegation level at Bumla has helped in further resolving the matter. “The PLA patrol transgressed and which was contested very firmly,” he said.

New Delhi: The BJP on Friday slammed Pakistan’s Bilawal Bhutto for his objectionable comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that he represents a “morally, intellectually and financially bankrupt” nation which has no credibility due to its support to terrorism. Union minister Anurag Thakur said Bhutto’s comments might be an outcome of the pain in Pakistan of its loss to India.

New Delhi: Shraddha Walkar murder case accused Aaftab Poonawala on Friday moved an application in Delhi’s Saket Court seeking bail, which the court is likely to hear on Saturday. Poonawala, who has been arrested based on his confession of killing Walkar and chopping her body into 35 pieces to dispose it of, was arrested last month and is currently lodged in Tihar jail. On December 9, he was produced before a court via video conferencing and his judicial custody was further extended by 14 days.

Patna: Opposition MLAs created ruckus in the Bihar Assembly on Friday as Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav was speaking in the House on Friday. One of the Legislators could be seen carrying a chair.

Delhi: A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court, seeking an independent probe by a special investigation team (SIT) into a recent hooch tragedy in Bihar, in which at least 30 people have lost their lives.

BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha with legislators shouts slogans during a protest against Bihar government over the Chhapra Hooch tragedy, in Patna on Friday. —PHOTO BY PTI

Congress members protest in the well of the Rajya Sabha during Winter Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Friday. —PHOTO BY PTI

Jaipur gave advice to the Foreign Minister on the issue of China. He

“The day Congress understands itself, it will win every election”

Bharat Jodo Yatra is getting strong support in Rajasthan as lakhs of people from all over the state are reaching for the yatra. Rahul Gandhi wants to remove fear and hatred from the country. This is not a political yatra

—Ashok Gehlot, Chief Minister

Rahul Gandhi walks during the yatra’s leg in Rajasthan as CM Ashok Gehlot, Govind Singh Dotasra, Sachin Pilot, Pratap Singh and Danish Abrar accompany him.

On this day in 1971, India defeated Pakistan’s army and after that crushing defeat, his (Bilawal) maternal grandfather wept bitterly. It seems that Bilawal Bhutto is probably still in his pain.Such a statement does not suit the Foreign Minister of Pakistan. The world has seen the real face of Pakistan

—Anurag Thakur, Union Minister

14 DISPUTED VILLAGES REMAIN UNMOVED BY BORDER DEBATE

Residents say they enjoy benefits from both Maharashtra and Telangana Chandrapur

(PTI):

The ongoing Maharashtra-Karnataka row may have brought the border dispute between states under focus, but people living in 14 disputed villages along the Maharashtra-Telangana border appear to be unmoved by this debate. This is because they are enjoying the benefits of schemes implemented by both neighbouring states.

The residents of these villages say that they have no problem in going with any of the two states if the local government awards ownership of their farmlands to them.

All these 14 villages located in Jiwati taluka of Chandrapur district (according to Maharashtra map) figure in the voters list of both the states and people there enjoy dual identity, entitling them to take benefits of all the basic facilities including political status from both Telangana and Maharashtra.

Earlier Andhra Pradesh, and now Tel-

angana (after division) claimed that these villages fall under their territory. However, the issue has remained unresolved so far.

Waman Pawar, former sarpanch of Paramdoli gram panchayat said, “The dispute between the two states (Maharashtra and Telangana) has remained unsettled since my childhood.”

“But we are utilizing the schemes of both

CRUCIAL READ

11 EX-SENA (UBT)

COUNCILLORS JOIN SHINDE REBEL CAMP

Nashik: As many as 11 former councillors of the Shiv Sena (UBT) in Nashik city have joined the Eknath Shinde faction (Balasahebanchi Shiv Sena). Former leader of opposition Ajay Boraste, Suryakant Lavte, Suvarna Matale, RD Dhongde, Jyoti Khole, Sudam Demse, Jayashree Kharjul, Pratap Meheroliya, Chandrakant Khade, Poonam Mogre and Raju Lavte joined the Shinde faction, sources said. Along with them, Sachin Bhosale of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena ( MNS) also joined the Shinde faction.

IAS PRASHANT GOYAL APPOINTED TO BOM BOARD

states. There are 300-400 farmers in the 14 disputed villages and they are ready to go with any government that provides permanent pattas to farmlands,” he said.

Patta is a legal document that includes the details of the legal owner of the land property.

Chandrapur Guardian Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar said the villagers have been enjoying benefits offered by governments from

both sides since many years.

“Nobody is interested in settling the issue and no correspondence (for merger into any state) has been made by the villagers. The issue of these 14 disputed villages is still unsettled,” he said.

Congress MLA Subhash Dhote from Rajura constituency in Chandrapur said, “Over 80% of residents from these villages are Marathi-

IN A STRADDLE

After Buldhana merger bid, govt starts road works

First India Bureau

Buldhana: Days after residents of four villages in Buldhana district demanded merger of these places into the neighbouring Madhya Pradesh alleging lack of facilities at the local level, the state government has initiated the process to build new roads there.

Mumbai: Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Prashant Kumar Goyal, has been appointed as a director on the Bank of Maharashtra’s board. Among other state-owned entities, Goyal is also a board director of United India Insurance Company. Goyal also holds the position of, the Director of the government’s Department of Financial Services.

SHRADDHA WALKAR’S FATHER MEETS NEW MBVV POLICE COMMISSIONER

Thane: Vikas Walkar, father of Shraddha Walkar, who was murdered allegedly by her live-in partner Aaftab Poonawala in Delhi, on Friday met Madhukar Pandey, the new Police Commissioner of Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar (MBVV) to discuss the case with him. Walkar raised the issue of delay in action by the local police, he said. MBVV police chief Pandey assured the delegation that the police will not spare anyone and appropriate action would be taken against the guilty, he added. The meeting between Walkar and Pandey lasted 40 minutes.

REMARKS

BMC APPROVES GOKHALE BRIDGE CONTRACTOR

Nashik: ‘Warkaris’ (followers of Lord Vithoba) in Nashik held a ‘dindi’ (religious procession) protest on Friday against the objectionable remarks made about them and various Hindu deities by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare. Though she has reportedly apologized for the remarks, the protesters demanded Uddhav Thackeray remove her from the party. The protest march began at Lord Kalaram Temple and ended at Ramkund on the banks of the Godavari river. with participants singing hymns and reciting ‘mantras’.

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved the contractor finalized to build the Gokhale Road bridge above the railway tracks in Andheri, a top BMC official said on Friday. A tender of Rs84 crore for the reconstruction of the bridge was floated on November 12 and A B Infrabuild Limited, which submitted the lowest bid of Rs74.5 crore, was selected for the project. The BMC appointed a contractor three years ago to build slopes on either side. However, it eventually decided to demolish and reconstruct the entire bridge.

speaking, mostly hailing from Nanded, Latur and Parbhani districts (in Maharashtra). But once their Aadhaar is linked to their mobile phones, these people cannot cast their votes in both states and can exercise their franchise in any one of them only.”

Dhote said the local population does not exceed 3,000 and people have been availing benefits from both states since 1970.

In a letter, written to the district administration last week, people residing in the four villages - Bhingara, Gomal-1, Gomal-2 and Chalistapari - in Jalgaon Jamod taluka of Buldhana, had made the demand for merger, in which they also claimed that they have been struggling to get their rights since the last 75 years. Their demand came against the backdrop of Karnataka Chief Minister recently claiming, amid tension over a border dispute, that some villages in Sangli district once wanted to be part of Karnataka because of their acute water problem.

Pawar welcomes Udayanraje’s stand

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Friday praised Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Udayanraje Bhosale for taking an aggressive stance on the controversy over ‘insults’ against Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Phule.

Talking to media persons, the NCP supremo said, “Udayanraje has

taken a good stand. But the role of the state and the Central government remains to be seen. People are expressing their

anger because of this (the remarks). The statement made by the governor (Bhagat Singh Koshyari) about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was wrong. I am sure, sooner or later, the Central government will have to take a decision on the same. We will see that change soon.”

Sources say, Pawar may be referring to the rumours of Governor

Koshyari’s removal from his position.

Incidentally, Udayanraje is a direct descendent of the 17th century warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

After Koshyari’s statement, Bhosale organized a programme ‘Nirdhar Shivsanmanacha’ at Raigad. He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed his feelings on the matter.

‘We may have 180 MLAs in new year’

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Hinting at defection of MLAs, state Industries Minister Uday Samant said the number of MLAs in the Maha Yuti alliance of Balasahebanchi Shiv Sena and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) “may go up to 182 in the new year.”

Speaking to the reporters in Ratnagiri, Samant responded to the government’s criti-

cism by the Opposition and said, “Around 10 to 12 MLAs are in touch with us. Another 10 to 12 people are in touch with Eknath Shinde (chief minister) and Devendra Fadnavis (deputy CM). Therefore, our majority figure can go to 180. You will know what the new developments are

in the new year.”

Although, Samant did not mention any party in his statement, sources believe that it is directed at the Shiv Sena Udhhav Balasaheb Thackeray group. He further stated, “The real explosion happened five months ago and its impact will be felt in the new year.”

NEED ANSWERS

The letter, written on December 06 by Bhingara sarpanch Rajesh Mohan, said among other things, that the residents of these villages find it difficult to get the Scheduled Tribes certificate even though they are tribals.

According to one of the signatories of the letter and resident of Bhingara village Sardar Awase, soon after the letter, Jalgaon Jamod MLA Sanjay Kunte initiat-

ed the road construction work from Teen Kothi to Bhingara village on December 12.

Similarly, the district administration also started distributing caste certificates and so far given these documents to a few villagers, he said.

“This is a good step, but the caste certificates should be issued to all the tribal residents which is a long-pending and important demand,” Awase said.

Raj Thackeray meets Dy CM in Mumbai after Konkan tour

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray met Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the latter’s official residence after returning from his Konkan tour on Friday.

The meeting has given way to various discussions in political circles by linking it with the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. Afterwards, during an interaction with the media, Fadnavis cleared the air about the reasons behind the meeting.

Talking to mediapersons, Fadnavis said, “Raj Thackeray had met me regarding the incomplete work on Konkan Highway. He just came from there

and met me to appeal that the work be done quickly. I informed him that Union minister (Road Transport & Highways) Nitin Gadkari has taken the initiative in this regard.”

While on the Konkan tour, Thackeray had spoken about the stalled municipal elections in the state, and said, “The pipeline of elections has been broken for the last 2.5 years.” Thackeray also promised to visit the Konkan region again in January, which is interesting as elections would be held in February and March next year.

Rly Min delaying Pune-Nashik semi high-speed rail project: Pawar

Pune: The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has claimed that despite all approvals the central government is simply delaying the Pune-Nashik semi highspeed railway project.

Maharashtra Opposition leader Ajit Pawar said that the Pune-Nashik high-speed railway project is important and received 200 permissions, technical clearance.

“When I was the fi-

nance minister, I had approved all funds. The only permissions remained were that from

the railway ministry and cabinet minister, however, the central government is simply

delaying the project,”Pawar said. He further added, “Chief minister Eknath

Shinde and deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis need to meet with the railway minister and seek approval.”

Earlier, when Fadnavis met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav during his Delhi visit in October, questions were raised about the feasibility of the high-speed ‘atgrade’ track between Pune and Nashik.

“We do not want to bring politics in development projects. Not

just NCP, but many other parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs have given letters to approve the project, but it is being delayed,” added Pawar.

Shirur MP Amol Kolhe who is representing these areas said, “The project has been approved at all levels except the railway ministry. For the last six months, the ministry is just sitting on it and raising various doubts that are invalid.”

Security beefed up at the Karnataka-Maharashtra border amid protests over the border dispute at Chikodi in Belagavi. —PHOTO BY ANI

In a letter, written to the district administration last week, villagers had made the demand for merger; they also claimed that they have been struggling to secure their rights for the past 75 years

First India Bureau

Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar

—FILE PHOTO

NCP chief Sharad Pawar

Uday Samant —FILE PHOTO

CRIMES AGAINST GIRLS

17-yr-old killed by fam members; 2 detained

First India Bureau

Jalna: In a spine-chilling incident of honour killing, a young girl was reportedly killed by her family members in Pirpimpalgaon village of Jalna district in the state on Tuesday. Police have detained the victim’s father and brother for questioning after finding them at a funeral ghat. They suspect the crime to be an honour killing.

Prima facie, 17-yearold Surekha aka Suryakala Santosh Sarode, 17, eloped with her lover, who was her distant relative, last week. Her father asked her to come back home promising that the family would get her married to her boyfriend.

The returned home

after three days and found that all the wedding preparations had been done with limited relatives around. However, just before her marriage rituals were about to commence,

CRUCIAL READ

HOUSE BREAK-IN: MAN HELD FOR STEALING `20.57 LAKH IN CASH AND VALUABLES

Thane: A man was arrested for alleged involvement in a house-breaking theft incident in which gold, silver and cash totalling Rs20.57 lakh were stolen, a police official said. A senior police official said that incident took place on the intervening night of November 26-27 in Oak Baug area of Kalyan. “We caught accused from Moholi Road. The entire loot was recovered from him, including 46 tolas of gold. He is also involved in eight other crimes, six of which now stand solved with his arrest,” he said.

TWO COPS HELD FOR ACCEPTING

`

37,000 BRIBE

Mumbai: Two police personnel have been arrested by the Maharashtra Anti-Corruption Bureau for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe, an official said. The complainant, who is an accused in a case registered with Colaba police station, approached the ACB with a complaint said that two police personnel, including an assistant inspector, had demanded a bribe of Rs1 lakh to help with his case. “We verified the claims and laid a trap for the two accused and arrested them while accepting Rs37,000,” said an ACB official.

THREE FRIENDS GO MISSING, CASE OF KIDNAPPING FILED

Thane: Three teenage boys from Uttan in Thane district went missing from their locality, after which, the police have registered a case of kidnapping against unidentified persons, an official said. The boys, who are aged around 16 years, have been missing since Wednesday evening, he said. “The children had gone out to play but did not return home. Their family members carried out a search but failed to find them. After that, they approached the police and lodged a missing person’s report,” said an official.

40-YEAR-OLD MAN FROM MADHYA PRADESH RAPES STRAY DOG IN NAGPUR, ARRESTED

Nagpur: A 40-year-old man was arrested for allegedly committing a sexual crime on a stray dog in Nagpur’s Hudkeshwar area, a police official said. A video of the man committing the horrifying act had been doing rounds on social media. Inspector Lalit Vartikar of Hudkeshwar police station said that the accused belongs to Madhya Pradesh and works as a labourer here. He has been charged under Section 377 (carnal against the order of nature), 294 (obscenity) and other offences, he added.

MAN GETS 10 YEARS IN JAIL FOR RAPING TEEN GIRL

Mumbai: A man has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment by a Thane court for rape of a teen girl. Special Judge MP Patwari convicted Ashwin Tarpe (28) under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for the crime. A fine of Rs5,000 was also levied on the accused. After considering all the facts and circumstances of the case, as well as, the nature of the offence and age of the accused, the court sentenced the man to 10 years in prison.

SIX HELD FOR CHEATING TOP RBI OFFICIAL OF `65 L

Navi Mumbai: Sanpada police have arrested six persons for cheating a high-ranking RBI official of Rs65 lakh over a two-year period by offering him good returns in online trading. The 57-year-old complainant, posted at RBI’s Fort branch first got a call on December 18, 2020, from a woman who identified herself as Shashi Jain and asked him to invest in trading. “The accused kept assuring that more the investment, greater the returns. She kept asking him to transfer more money in order to purchase more shares,” said police official.

37-YEAR-OLD MAN SWINDLED OF `44 LAKH

FRAUDSTER FOR ‘CASHBACK’

BY CYBER

Thane: A 37-year-old man from Kalyan allegedly lost nearly Rs44 lakh after an unidentified person lured him into paying money by promising commission for using a gaming application, police said. The accused forwarded a link to a gaming portal to the victim and told him that he would get good cashback and returns on the game. After depositing an amount to the tune of Rs43,76,254 on different occasions, the victim realised that he has been duped and approached the police, he added.

her father Santosh, and uncle, Namdev Sarode, dragged her away from the wedding mandap to a tree near their house. They then proceeded to tie a knot to her neck and hung her

from the tree.

Later, they brought down her body and cremated her on a pyre in order to destroy the evidence, said police.

The victim’s brother Namdev Sarode also al-

HEINOUS CRIME

The returned home after three days and found that all the wedding preparations had been done with limited relatives around. However, just before her marriage rituals were about to commence, her father Santosh, and uncle, Namdev Sarode, dragged her away from the wedding mandap to a tree near their house.

They then proceeded to tie a knot to her neck and hung her from the tree. Later, they brought down her body and cremated her on a pyre in order to destroy the evidence, said police.

legedly helped his father dispose of his sister’s body.

After receiving a tipoff from a neighbour, a patrol team comprising Jhalwar Deshmukh, Jitendra Tagwale and other personnel of Chandanzia police station were sent to the village. That is when the team spotted the men at the cremation site.

“When confronted by the team, Santosh and Namdev spilled the beans. A case has been registered against them under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 302 (murder),” said an official.

According to a neighbour, the girl’s father and uncle killed her to avoid being disgraced in society. All this was done to show that the girl had committed suicide.

First India Bureau Thane: The Mahatma Phule Chowk police have arrested suspected of raping and killing a nine-year-old girl on December 01. The child’s body was found in a Kalyan railway station building. The suspect, identified as Suraj Shankar Singh alias Virendra Shankar Mishra, was earlier convicted of child sexual assault & child sex abuse and served 10 years in prison. He was released on bail on November 14. The police said the victim was sleeping with her parents and two siblings on the footpath

near Abha building. After picking her up, he raped her and slit her throat. The police arrested the suspect, a native of Madhya Pradesh, from Bhiwandi area in Thane. He was produced in the Kalyan court and has been remanded in police custody till December 23. Police said that we are trying to fast-track this case.

Mistry car crash: ‘Dr Anahita had not worn seat belt properly’

Mumbai (PTI): Dr Anahita Pandole had not properly worn the seat belt of the car, which she was driving at the time of the accident that claimed the life of industrialist Cyrus Mistry earlier this year, Palghar police said on Friday.

Former Tata Sons chairman Mistry (54) and his friend Jehangir Pandole were killed after the Mercedes-Benz car hit the railing of

the Surya river bridge in Palghar district on September 4. Dr Anahita, who was at the wheel, and her husband Darius suffered serious injuries in the accident.

All of them were returning to Mumbai from Ahmedabad.

“Dr Anahita, who was driving her Mercedes-Benz car, had not worn the seat belt properly as the pelvic belt was not fastened,”

The findings are part of charge sheet, which police will file before the court UNDER DISCUSSION

First India Bureau

Pune: A portrait of last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar hung on the wall of a biryani outlet in Kolhapur city was smashed up by a group of young men belonging to a right-wing outfit. They termed him a “descendant of Aurangzeb”, police have said.

No complaint was filed against anyone regarding the incident that occurred on Wednesday night, an officer of Rajarampuri police station in Kol-

CIVIC POLICING

Clean-up ‘marshals’ will be back on Mum roads soon, says BMC

adjusted the lap belt,” he added.

These findings are part of the charge sheet, which the police will file before the court, he said, adding the police

were waiting for Anahita, a gynaecologist, to get discharged from a Mumbai-based hospital. Dr Anahita, who escaped with injuries in the accident, has been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in south Mumbai and is likely to be discharged in the next couple of days, he said. The Palghar Police had registered a case against her in November.

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Clean-up marshals may soon return to Mumbai streets with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) considering a proposal for the same.

If appointed, these marshals will be in charge of keeping the city clean and beautiful by slapping fines on citizens for littering, spitting, etc.

DRAWING FLAK

After the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, the marshals were given the task to enforce the mandatory mask rule and to penalize those not wearing masks with R200. Their services were discontinued in March 2022 after masks were not mandatory. During these two years, the marshals had penalized more than 35 lakh Mumbaikars and collected over Rs80 crore as penalty. The marshals have faced heavy criticism over alleged extortion.

However, a senior official from the solid waste management de-

The civic body has been receiving a number of complaints over clean-up marshals, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a senior official, “The new marshals, if appointed, will have the power to penalize people.” Another official said that as per the proposal, the civic body is considering appointing 24 contractors in 24 wards for 30 marshals in each ward.

They smashed it after eatery staff did not remove the art on their request

hapur said on Thursday.

“Some young men, who belong to a rightwing organization, were visiting the biryani outlet where they saw Bahadur Shah Zafar’s portrait. They objected to it, saying why the picture of a ‘descendant of Aurangzeb’ had been

hung on the wall and asked the eatery staff to remove it,” he said.

“The staff agreed, but the portrait was not removed. On Wednesday night, the group visited the eatery again, took down the portrait and smashed it up,” said the officer.

Bahadur Shah Zafar was the 20th and the last Mughal emperor and also an Urdu poet. He died at age 87 in 1862 in Rangoon in Burma (present-day Myanmar), where he had been exiled after the 1857 rebellion.

AIMIM seeks 5% quota for Muslims in Maha

First India Bureau

Aurangabad: The All India Majalis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) will take out a march during the upcoming winter session of the Maharashtra legislature in Nagpur to demand 5% reservation for Muslims in the state.

The Asaduddin Owaisi-led party’s MP from Aurangabad and its state unit president Imtiaz Jaleel gave this information by tweeting a poster of the planned march.

The party will take out a march during the upcoming winter session of the Maha legislature

partment said there is a proposal but nothing has been finalized yet.

However, in view of complaints from citizens about clean-up marshals, the BMC is considering checking the educational qualification of the marshals and may put Std X or XII pass as an eligibility criteria.

“The AIMIM will take out march on December 21 from Indora Ground in Nagpur to Vidhan Bhawan during session of the Maharashtra legislature,” it said.

Apart from seeking 5% reservation to Muslims, AIMIM will also highlight the demand of

removal of encroachments from the Waqf land, the tweet said. Provision of Rs 1,000 crore subsidy to Maulana Azad Minorities Financial Development Corporation Limited; awarding ownership of slum land to residents are some other demands the party will raise, it added.

Palghar Superintendent of Police Balasaheb Patil said. “She

had only worn the shoulder harness from the back and had not

z Girl hanged from tree, body cremated to destroy evidence

z Victim was asked to come home for wedding after eloping with lover

KALYAN COPS ARREST SUSPECT FOR RAPE AND MURDER OF 9-YEAR-OLD

Women of the Muslim community gathered at Azad Maidan in Mumbai for the annual ‘Sunni Ijtema’, a religious meet, on Friday. At the public event, community leaders address social issues such as the role of women in society, poverty, ignorance and obscenity in public.

—PHOTO BY BHUSHAN KOYANDE

Bahadur Shah Zafar’s portrait destroyed by right-wing group

These workers will be in charge of keeping the city clean by slapping fines on litterers

CCTV still of the accused.

CHINA’S NEW SPACE STATION OPENS FOR BUSINESS

The International Space Station is no longer the only place where humans can live in orbit

On Nov. 29, 2022, the Shenzhou 15 mission launched from China’s Gobi Desert carrying three taikonauts – the Chinese word for astronauts. Six hours later, they reached their destination, China’s recently completed space station, called Tiangong, which means “heavenly palace” in Mandarin. The three taikonauts replaced the existing crew that helped wrap up construction. With this successful mission, China has become just the third nation to operate a permanent space station.

China’s space station is an achievement that solidifies the country’s position alongside the U.S. and Russia as one of the world’s top three space powers. As scholars of space law and space policy who lead the Indiana University Ostrom Workshop’s Space Governance Program, we have been following the development of the Chinese space station with interest.

China’s space station is an achievement that solidifies the country’s position alongside the U.S. and Russia as one of the world’s top three space powers. As scholars of space law and space policy who lead the Indiana University Ostrom Workshop’s Space Governance Program, we have been following the development of the Chinese space station with interest.

Unlike the collaborative, U.S.-led International Space Station, Tiangong is entirely built and run by Chinahe successful opening of the station is the beginning of some exciting science But the station also highlights the country’s policy of self-reliance

Unlike the collaborative, U.S.-led International Space Station, Tiangong is entirely built and run by China. The successful opening of the station is the beginning of some exciting science. But the station also highlights the country’s policy of selfreliance and is an important step for China toward achieving larger space ambitions among a changing landscape of power dynamics in space.

CAPABILITIES OF A CHINESE STATION

The Tiangong space station is the culmination of three decades of work on the Chinese manned space program. The station is 180 feet (55 meters) long and is comprised of three modules that were launched separately and connected in space. These include one core module where a maximum of six taikonauts can live and two experiment modules for a total of 3,884 cubic feet (110 cubic meters) of

space, about one-fifth the size of the International Space Station. The station also has an external robotic arm, which can support activities and experiments outside the station, and three docking ports for resupply vehicles and manned spacecraft.

Like China’s aircraft carriers and other spacecraft, Tiangong is based on a Soviet-era design – it is pretty much a copy of the Soviet Mir space station from the 1980s. But the Tiangong station has been heavily modernized and improved.

The Chinese space station is slated to stay in orbit for 15 years, with plans to send two six-

month crewed missions and two cargo missions to it annually. The science experiments have already begun, with a planned study involving monkey reproduction commencing in the station’s biological test cabinets. Whether the monkeys will cooperate is an entirely different matter.

SCIENCE AND A STEPPINGSTONE

The main function of the Tiangong station is to perform research on life in space. There is a particular focus on learning about the growth and development of different types of plants, animals and microorganisms, and

there are more than 1,000 experiments planned for the next 10 years.

Tiangong is strictly Chinese made and managed, but China has an open invitation for other nations to collaborate on experiments aboard Tiangong. So far, nine projects from 17 countries have been selected.

Although the new station is small compared to the 16 modules of the International Space Station, Tiangong and the science done aboard will help support China’s future space missions. In December 2023, China is planning to launch a new space telescope called Xuntian. This telescope will map stars

Will 2023 Be a Year of Economic Crisis?

ar in Ukraine.

Protests in China and Iran. Energy shortages in Europe. Protectionism in the United States. Skyrocketing debt in developing countries. And soaring inflation and slowing growth almost everywhere. The last 12 months have piled one challenge for the global economy on top of another.

Multiple plausible scenarios may trigger what would qualify as an “economic crisis” in 2023. If the war in Ukraine escalates further, or tensions with China – for example, over Taiwan – intensify, supply chains may be affected, causing shortages and price increases. Cyberattacks can disrupt key infra-

structure at any time and anywhere, with potentially significant repercussions. And since the financial system is as fragile, dangerous, and distorted as it has ever been (perhaps even more so), a crisis there is certainly possible. Regulators have repeatedly missed opportunities to reform the system

since the 2007-2009 crisis, making it clear that “further crises will come.”

An enormous buildup of risks across the financial system – often ignored by regulators and investors, only to emerge suddenly– is concerning. Many European banks already appear quite weak. According to a

A recent report shows that there is $65 trillion in hidden US-dollar debt in foreign-exchange markets – a much larger sum than prior to 2008 – and points to other risks. According to the World Bank, since 2000, the world’s poorest countries have been spending the highest share of their export revenues on debt-service payments to rich countries

2018 study, “off-balancesheet” debt levels have grown since 2007. A recent report shows that there is $65 trillion in hidden USdollar debt in foreign-exchange markets – a much larger sum than prior to 2008 – and points to other risks. According to the World Bank, since 2000, the world’s poorest countries have been spending the highest share of their export revenues on debt-service payments to rich coun-

tries, and debt-related risks are rising in low- and middle-income economies as well. Central banks routinely intervene to calm turbulent markets, as the Bank of England recently did to prop up the government-bond (gilt) market and protect pension funds. But a crisis involving multiple jurisdictions and key institutions with unsustainable commitments may not be easily contained.

SOURCE: PROJECT SYNDICATE

and supermassive black holes among other projects with a resolution about the same as the Hubble Space Telescope but with a wider view. The telescope will periodically dock with the station for maintenance.

China also has plans to launch multiple missions to Mars and nearby comets and asteroids with the goal of bringing samples back to Earth. And perhaps most notably, China has announced plans to build a joint Moon base with Russia – though no timeline for this mission has been set.

ASTROPOLITICS

A new era in space is unfolding. The Tiangong station is beginning its life just as the International Space Station, after more than 30 years in orbit, is set to be decommissioned by 2030.

The International Space Station is the classic example of collaborative ideals in space – even at the height of the Cold War, the U.S. and the Soviet Union came together to develop and launch the beginnings of the space station in the early 1990s.

By comparison, China and the U.S. have not been so jovial in their orbital

dealings.

In the 1990s, when China was still launching U.S. satellites into orbit, concerns emerged that China was accidentally acquiring – or stealing – U.S. technology. These concern in part led to the Wolf Amendment, passed by Congress in 2011, which prohibits NASA from collaborating with China in any capacity. China’s space program was not mature enough to be part of the construction of the International Space Station in the 1990s and early 2000s. By the time China had the ability to contribute to the International Space Station, the Wolf Amendment prevented it from doing so.

It remains to be seen how the map of space collaboration will change in the coming years. The U.S.-led Artemis Program that aims to build a selfsustaining habitat on the Moon is open to all nations, and 19 countries have joined as partners so far. China has also recently opened its joint Moon mission with Russia to other nations. This was partly driven by cooling Chinese-Russian relations but also due to the fact that because of the war in Ukraine, Sweden, France and the European Space Agency canceled planned missions with Russia.

As tensions on Earth rise between China, Russia and the West, and some of that jockeying spills over into space, it remains to be seen how the decommissioning of the International Space Station and operation of the Tiangong station will influence the China-U.S. relationship.

An event like the famous handshake between U.S. astronauts and Russian cosmonauts while orbiting Earth in 1975 is a long way off, but collaboration between the U.S. and China could do much to cool tensions on and above the Earth.

SOURCE: THE CONVERSATION

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

One who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction, is intelligent among men.

Bhagavad Gita

Rajnath Singh@rajnathsingh

Visited the War Memorial on Vijay Diwas today. Paid homage to Indian Armed Forces personnel who courageously fought in the 1971 War and laid down their lives in service to the nation.

TOP TWEETS

Nitin Gadkari@nitin_gadkari

Congratulations to Team @ DRDO_India for successfully carrying out the night trials of nuclear-capable ballistic missile #Agni5. This is another important step in the direction of Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji’s clarion call for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.

Editor-In-Chief: Dr Jagdeesh Chandra Editor: Kartikey Dev Singh responsible for selection

BIHAR HOOCH TRAGEDY

DEATH TOLL RISES TO 65

Chhapra (ANI): The toll of dead in Bihar’s Chhapra Hooch tragedy has soared to 65, with more people succumbing after consuming spurious liquor in Saran district.

Masrakh Station House Officer (SHO) Ritesh Mishra and Constable Vikesh Tiwari were suspended immediately after the Tuesday night tragedy on the recommendation of Marhaura Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Yogendra Kumar. Most deaths have occurred over Wednesday and Thursday creating an uproar both at the state and national level as sale and consumption of alcohol have been banned in Bihar by the Nitish Kumar government since April 2016.

Nitish Kumar’s former ally, BJP, have come down heavily on him with MPs of the Bharatiya Janata Party from the state raising the issue in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, when questioned regarding the Chhapra Hooch tragedy, on Thursday told media that “if someone consumes liquor, they will die”, that has not gone down well with victim families among others.

“The liquor ban has benefitted several people. A large number of people have given up alcohol...This is good. Several people have happily accepted this. But there are some troublemakers. I have told officers to identify the actual troublemakers and nab them,” Kumar told the media in Patna.

Bihar Excise Minister Sunil Kumar have also promised stringent action against the culprits responsible for the deaths. “Process of filling an FIR is underway. I have spoken over the

Liquor ban has benefitted several.

A large number of people have given up alcohol... Several people have happily accepted this. There are some troublemakers. I have told officers to identify the actual troublemakers and nab them.

—Nitish

Kumar, Bihar chief minister

phone with SP,” Sunil Kumar had said on Wednesday.

Hours after the first few deaths were reported from Chhapra, the opposition had on Wednesday attacked the Bihar Chief Minister in the state assembly leading Kumar to lose his cool and scream back at the BJP leaders.

The Chhapra Hooch tragedy was one of the issues raised in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, leading to the adjournment of the House thrice within a short span of 40 minutes as both the Treasury benches and the opposition raised their issues together with the commencement of the Zero Hour.

MP RUDY HOLDS BIHAR GOVT RESPONSIBLE FOR HOOCH TRAGEDY

Chhapra: Bharatiya Janata Party MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy visited the village in his parliamentary constituency of Chhapra in Bihar and met with family members of those who died in the hooch tragedy that has so far taken at least 50 lives, as he accused the Nitish Kumar government’s policy for the lives lost.

BIHAR IS UNDER ‘POLICE RAJ’, FAMILIES ARE HIDING BODIES: SKM

New Delhi: Former Deputy CM and BJP MP Sushil Kumar Modi lashed out at Nitish Kumar-led Bihar govt over the hooch tragedy in Chapra, and said the state was under ‘police raj’ and the number of deaths in the recent hooch tragedy was much higher. While speaking to a section of media, Modi said, “More than 100 people died after drinking spurious, illicit liquor. But, the numbers are being hidden. Even in Bihar, the media has put the death toll at around 50. The people are hiding the bodies of their kins fearing police inquiry. There is police raj in Bihar. This is not the first tragedy in Bihar.”

NO COMPENSATION TO THOSE WHO DIE AFTER CONSUMING LIQUOR: BIHAR CM NITISH IN ASSEMBLY

Patna: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar on Friday said no compensation will be given if a person dies after consuming spurious liquor. The CM’s remark comes amid severe criticism from the Opposition, led by the BJP, in the wake of the rising hooch deaths in the Chhapra district. “No compensation will be provided to people who die after consuming spurious liquor. We have been appealing to you not to drink. If you drink, you will die. Those who speak against prohibition will not bring any good to the people,” the CM said in the Assembly on Friday.

PLEA SEEKS SIT PROBE INTO HOOCH TRAGEDY, COMPENSATION FOR KIN

New Delhi: A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court, seeking an independent probe by a special investigation team (SIT) into a recent hooch tragedy in Bihar, in which several people have lost their lives. The Saran hooch tragedy toll climbed to 60 on Friday, the highest since Bihar went dry more than six years ago.

However, about the death toll, Saran District Magistrate Rajesh Meena told PTI over the phone that the number of people who have died in the tragedy since Tuesday night has gone up to 30.

Women at top positions will boost India’s resolve for development: Prez

First India Bureau

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said more women at senior positions and in leadership roles will strengthen India’s resolve for inclusive development.

She was addressing the probationers of the Indian Statistical Service who had called on the president at Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

She asked them to do their duty with sincerity and commitment.

“Your contribution in steering India towards greater progress and development is going to be huge. The information and data analysis that you provide will be instrumental in making and implementing policies which ensure that no one is left behind in the journey of develop-

ment,” the president said.

Murmu said she was also delighted to know that lady officers comprise over 40 per cent of the officers present at the ceremony.

“More women at senior positions and in leadership roles will definitely strengthen India’s resolve for in-

clusive development,” the president added.

Murmu said India is at the cusp of a new phase of socio-economic transformation.

“Increased penetration of digital technologies has brought transparency and efficiency in the government functioning and has transformed the e-govern-

ment landscape. The flow of data through these initiatives provides support to the government in taking effective decisions,” she said.

Addressing the officers, the president said policy formulation and execution cannot be effective without the right statistical analysis.

—With PTI inputs

NHRC NOTICE TO BIHAR GOVT, STATE POLICE

New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission has issued notices to Bihar govt and state’s police chief over the Saran hooch tragedy in which at least 30 people have died, officials said on Friday. The sale and consumption of alcohol was completely banned in Bihar in April 2016.

Now, Mizoram Dy Speaker Lairinawma resigns too

Aizawl (Agencies): Four days after Mizoram Social Welfare and Tribal Affairs Minister K Beichhua resigned, Assembly Deputy Speaker Lairinawma also quit his post on Friday. Though officially no reason was cited about the resignations, sources in the CM’s office said that Mizoram cabinet is likely to be reshuffled soon.

Beichhua, who was also holding Excise and Narcotics, Sericulture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Departments, had said that he was told by Chief Minister Zoramthanga, who is also the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) President, to resign as he wanted to reshuffle the cabinet.

Siwan (ANI): Days after the hooch tragedy in Bihar’s Chhapra claimed over 50 lives, at least 5 people died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in the adjoining Siwan district in the state.

All five deceased are residents of Brahsthan and Sondhani villages of Bhagwanpur Police Station area. According to sources, the death toll is expected to rise. Angry family members of the deceased obstructed the SiwanChapra Malmalia main road and undertook a protest. The distance between Siwan and Chhapra is around 10 kilometers. The deceased have been identified as Mahesh Rai (40), Sambhu Yadav (36), Amir Manjhi (45), and Awadh Manjhi (36) of Brahmasthan Village while Ramendra Pandit hailed from Sondhani village. According to locals, the death toll is expected to go up and the condition of some people are stated to be serious.

The bodies of the deceased are being transported to Sadar Hospital in Siwan. Police Circle Inspector reached the Sadar Hospital with a large police posse. He, however, refused to comment on the matter.

Meanwhile, in the Begusarai district, administration swung into action after one person reportedly died allegedly after consuming liquor. Two persons identified as Deepak Kumar and Shivam Kumar- who consumed alcohol with the deceased, are being interrogated by police.

Shah to chair EZC meet in Kolkata today

New Delhi (PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah will chair a meeting of the Eastern Zonal Council (EZC) in Kolkata on Saturday where issues like security along the inter-state borders, smuggling along the India-Bangladesh border, and connectivity will be discussed, officials said.

The EZC comprises West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha. It will be attended by CMs, ministers, chief secretaries, principal secretaries, and senior officers of the member states and senior officers of central government, a home ministry official said.

The meeting of the council is also expected to discuss power and other issues of common interests, the official said.

REVIEWS GUJ’S PREPAREDNESS FOR

2036 OLYMPICS

Ahmedabad: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday held a meeting with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and top government officials to review the state’s preparedness to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games. Notably, the BJP government in Gujarat had earlier announced it was aiming to bag hosting rights for the 2036 Olympic Games.

As per the established procedure and practice, the zonal council meeting is preceded by a standing committee of the council, in which the agenda items to be placed before the council are scrutinised and listed in order of priority.

IN THE COURTYARD

HC REFUSES TO STAY ADHIKARI’S PROTECTION AGAINST FIRs

Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Friday refused to stay the immunity of the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari against future FIRs granted earlier by a single-judge bench of the same court. On Thursday, the West Bengal government first approached the Supreme Court with the plea to vacate the immunity granted to Adhikari on December 8, by Calcutta High Court’s single-judge bench of Justice Rajasekhar Mantha.

PETITION

IN SC OVER MARRIAGE UNDER SPL MARRIAGE ACT

New Delhi: A lawyer on Friday mentioned a plea seeking equality of marriage under the Special Marriage Act before the Supreme Court. Advocate Shadan Farasat mentioned in his plea before a bench led by Apex Court Chief Justice DY Chandrachud.

PILs USED TO TARGET INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS: SC

New Delhi: Public interest litigation (PIL) matters are being increasingly used to target infrastructure projects, the Supreme Court observed on Friday while refusing to entertain a plea challenging the redevelopment of a plot of land in Mumbai.

Newly elected HP MLAs to take oath on December 22

Shimla (PTI): The newly elected Himachal Pradesh MLAs will take oath on December 22 when the three-day winter session of the state assembly begins, a notification issued here on Friday said.

This would be the first session of the 14th Vidhan Sabha.

According to the notice, the Speaker will be elected on December 23, which will be followed by the Governor’s address, a debate on which would be held on December 24 and it would be passed on the same day.

Senior most member of the newly-elected assembly Chander Kumar, who is a six-time MLA and former Lok Sabha member, was appointed as pro-tem Speaker on Wednesday.

He would administer the oath to the newly elected MLAs and func-

tion as the chairman of Vidhan Sabha till the new speaker is elected.

Himachal Pradesh Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar had allocated portfolios to the newly-elected Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and his deputy Mukesh Agnihotri. Meanwhile, the cabinet expansion

is awaited.

In the November 12 elections, the Congress wrested the hill state from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by winning 40 seats in the 68-member assembly, whereas the Bharatiya Janata Party won 25 seats with three independent candidates also emerging victorious.

Leader of Opposition in Bihar Legislative Assembly Vijay Kumar Sinha and BJP leaders march to Raj Bhawan to protest over the Bihar hooch tragedy during the Winter Session of the State Assembly, in Patna on Friday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Most deaths occurred on Wednesday & Thursday creating an uproar at the state and national level

In similar incident, 6 people died due to hooch in Siwan and Begusarai districts of Bihar

Now, spurious liquor kills 5 in Siwan, 1 in Begusarai

President Droupadi Murmu meets with probationers of Indian Railways, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu being welcomed during his visit to Himachal Sadan, in New Delhi on Wednseday. —FILE PHOTO

SHAH

Amit Shah

PM holds telephonic conversation with Russian Prez

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward to resolve the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The conversation between the two leaders was a follow-up to their meeting in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, in Sept this year. Both the leaders reviewed several areas

of bilateral cooperation like energy cooperation, trade and investments, defence and security cooperation.

Modi also briefed Putin about the key focus

India announces candidature for UNSC membership for 2028-29

New York: India looks forward to being back in the UN Security Council, External Affairs S Jaishankar said here on Thursday as he declared the country’s candidature as nonpermanent member for the 2028-29 term.

areas of India’s ongoing G20 presidency, sources said. The PM also looked forward to both countries working together during India’s chairship of the SCO.

Jaishankar arrived here on Tuesday to preside over two signature events on counter-terrorism and reformed multilateralism held under India’s current Presidency of the UN Security Council, be-

fore the curtains come down this month on the country’s two-year tenure as elected member of the 15-nation top organ of the world body.

BOTH HOUSES ADJOURNED TILL

MONDAY AMID OPPN’S UPROAR

New Delhi: The clash along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang between Indian and Chinese troops has yet again trigger more disruptions in Parliament on Friday after both houses saw several adjournments this week.

The opposition has been accusing the government of refusing a discussion on the matter.

On Thursday, Opposition parties in Lok Sabha had staged a walkout following Union minister Hardeep Puri’s response to the questions on petrol price rise. Discussions on women’s safety, petrol price hike are among the other issues that are likely to take place on the eighth day of the session.

The winter session that began on December 7 will continue till December 29, with a total of 17 working days.

Sixteen new bills have on the Centre’s agenda in this session.

Earlier on Friday, Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon on Friday amid uproar as the Opposition’s request to hold a discussion on the India-China border situation was disallowed by the chair.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh repeatedly urged House members to allow the proceedings, citing rules.

Congress MP Randeep Surjewala earlier

IRANI, CHOWDHURY SPAR IN LS OVER ‘GENTLEMAN’ REMARK

New Delhi: Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani and Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury indulged in a spat in Lok Sabha on Friday over the use of the word ‘gentleman’.

Irani said Chowdhury was interrupting her reply to impress his ‘’political

today gave a Suspension of Business Notice under Rule 267 in Rajya Sabha to discuss the border situation with China. He also asked the Chairman to ask the Prime Minister and the Government to make a statement on the issue.

Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha

NPCL’s weapon to check power theft in Noida

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Noida Power Company Ltd has found a unique weapon to check power theft in Greater Noida. Now NPCL will know immediately when and how much power is being stolen from which transformer in which area. NPCL has installed smart devices on all power distribution equipment and transformers in Greater Noida, make it possible to determine how much power is being stolen.

Under this special campaign, NPCL has identified about 300 such transformers in different villages, from which more than 50 percent of the power is being stolen. Besides, in those areas where power theft is more prevalent at night, it is also being ascertained which consumer is stealing power.

masters’’. Chowdhury was supported by another Congress member, K Suresh. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi was also pre-

Mallikarjun Kharge also sought to raise the issue in the House.

Earlier on Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed both Houses that China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops tried to transgress the Line of Actual Control in Yangtse area of Arunachal Pradesh Ta-

sent in the House.

‘’I would...request the member who stands here trying to ensure that I do not speak to score political brownie points....

For him to presume that the gentleman is not a gentleman is an issue to deal (with) between the gentleman and the so-called member,’’ Irani said.

wang Sector and unilaterally change the status quo but they went back to their locations due to timely intervention of Indian military commanders.He assured that “our forces are committed to protecting our territorial integrity and will continue to thwart any attempt made on it”.

New Delhi: Union MoS for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar in a written reply to a question in the RS said rules on the regulation of online gaming were in place. “These rules cast specific obligation on intermediaries, including intermediaries offering online games,” the reply said.

NO PLAN FOR SEPARATE LAW TO REGULATE DIGITAL MEDIA

New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha on Friday said there was no proposal to enact a separate law to regulate the digital media.“No proposal to enact a separate law to regulate the digital media is currently under consideration of the government,” said the minister

“I’m glad to inform you that we have declared our candidature for our next tenure at the Council for 2028-29 and we look forward to

being back, he said as India prepares to wrap up its 2021-22 tenure as elected Council member on December 31.

Jaishankar said that

December is the last month of India’s current membership of the Security Council, the eighth time that India sat at the powerful horse-shoe table.

“During this eighth innings of ours, we have attempted to bring many themes of contemporary relevance like maritime security, technology in UN peacekeeping, reforms of the UN and counterterrorism to the center of the agenda and of the debate in the UN, he said.

VIJAY DIWAS CELEBRATIONS

Vice Prez Dhankhar remembers bravery

New Delhi (ANI): Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday paid tributes to those who lost their lives in the service of the nation on the occasion of Vijay Diwas.

“On Vijay Diwas, I join the nation in remembering the bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces, who led to our triumph in the 1971 war.

I pay my tributes to the martyrs, who lost their lives in the service of our nation.

#VijayDiwas2022,” Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar tweeted on Friday.

SELECTION OF HIMACHAL CM

Sukhu had full backing of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra!

Mahesh Sharma

Contrary to the popular belief that Priyanka Gandhi did not have say in selection of HP Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the informed sources now reveal that Sukhu was actually Priyanka’s candidate.

“Sukhu has been

very close to the Gandhi family and Priyanka. IN fact, Sukhu has the power of attorney of Priyanka’s five-acre house in Shimla. Not

only this, Sukhu has been involved in the purchase of this land from the beginning,” said sources. This five acre land

was in the name of 42 people belonging to one or two families. Some of them were in Shimla, some in Mumbai and some abroad. It was almost impossible to gather all these people at one place and get the registry done but Sukhu completed this work with great hard work and honesty.

This story is 10-12 years old and thus Sukhu has been close to the Gandhi family ever since. The 5-acre land was close to the Presi-

dent’s residence, where the President stays during summer. As such, this land could not be sold to Priyanka due to the security reasons. The then President Pratibha Patil gave NOC for this endorsement and Sukhu was always involved in this whole work. This loyalty and hard work delivered and the son of a bus driver and grassroot worker Sukhu became the new Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.

doctor).

FRESH FIRs AGAINST MEHUL CHOKSI, OTHERS

New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday registered two fresh FIRs against fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, Gitanjali Gems and Nakshatra Brands for allegedly defrauding a consortium of banks to the tune of Rs 6,300 crore. The FIRs have been lodged by Mumbai branch.

RAKUL PREET SUMMONED BY ED IN DRUG CASE

New Delhi: The ED on Friday summoned actress Rakul Preet Singh in connection with a four-year-old drug trafficking and consumption case.Her statement was recorded by the ED in this connection last year too. “The actress has been asked to appear before the investigating agency on December 19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Vladimir Putin. —FILE PHOTO

United Nations Security Council.

First India Bureau

VIJAY DIWAS

J&K DGP LAYS WREATH AT BALIDAN STAMBHA

Jammu: Director General of J&K Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh on Friday laid wreath at the Balidan Stambha in Jammu on the occasion of Vijay Diwas, commemorating India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. The Union Territory’s top cop was accompanied by the ADGP Mukesh Singh during the wreath-laying ceremony.

Insiders say that Sukhu is very close to Gandhis and Priyanka

Rajnath Singh, Anil Chauhan, Manoj Pande, VR Chaudhari and SN Ghormade pay tribute to the Armed Forces personnel in New Delhi on Friday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

Kochi: The Customs Department on Friday seized over 1000 gram of gold worth Rs 46.50 lakh from a passenger at the Kochi airport. As per officers of the Kochi Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) batch, the passenger was intercepted at the green channel with gold capsules concealed in his body.

New Delhi: A school teacher in Delhi’s Karol Bagh flung a class 5 girl from the first floor of the school building on Friday, according to Delhi police. The injured girl identified as Vandana was immediately rushed to hospital. The injured girl is now out of danger (stated by a

‘RULES IN PLACE’, SAYS CENTRE ON ONLINE GAMING

Proceedings of the Rajya Sabha adjourned due to a ruckus created by the Opposition MPs in the Wall of House during the Winter Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Friday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Priyanka Gandhi with Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. —FILE PHOTO

Students perform a dance during the Vijay Diwas celebrations, in Prayagraj, on Friday.

—PHOTO BY PTI

BRIEFS

Budget to follow spirit of earlier ones: FM

New Delhi (PTI): Finance Minister Nirmala Sithataman on Friday indicated that her forthcoming Budget will continue to push growth on the back of public spending as she said it will “follow the spirit” of earlier Budgets.

capex last year stood at Rs 5.5 lakh crore.

Mumbai: Investments by private equity and venture capital funds have declined by 42% year-onyear to $4 billion in November, a report said on Friday. By the number of deals, November’s 88 transactions were 15% lower than the year-ago period and 13% higher than the preceding October. From a sectoral perspective, infrastructure was at the top in November 2022, driven by investments in clean energy, with $1.6 billion in PE/ VC investments across six deals, it said. —PTI

Sitharaman, scheduled to present her fifth straight Budget on February 1 for the fiscal starting April, had unveiled a massive public spending programme to support the economy, emerging out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the Budget, the finance minister had raised capital expenditure by 35.4% for the financial year 2022-23 to Rs 7.5 lakh crore to boost demand, while the

“It is very inspiring and motivating for me, especially at a time when we are readying the next budget for the country, a budget which will follow the spirit of the earlier Budgets. We are going to set the template, which was set to earlier but follow it and take it further for India’s next 25 years...,” she said.

The GDP growth has slowed in recent months due to global headwinds and rising interest rates globally to control spiralling inflation. This has prompted some to seek a further government push to revive the growth rate.

The Budget 2023-24 will

be presented in the backdrop of many institutions, including the Reserve Bank, slashing India’s growth forecast to 6.8% or so for the current fiscal.

The RBI projected the

Countries eager to sign free trade pacts with India: Goyal

New Delhi: Japanese car maker Honda on Friday said it is planning to increase prices of its entire model range by up to `30,000 from January to partially offset the impact of rising input costs and prepare products in compliance with upcoming stricter emission norms.

The company joins the likes of market leader Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, MercedesBenz, Audi, Renault, Kia India and MG Motor, who have also announced to hike prices. —PTI

CATHAY PACIFIC TO SCALE UP INDIA FLIGHT SERVICES

New Delhi (PTI): Countries across the world are looking at India as a trusted partner and want to sign free trade agreements with it after its emergence as a strong force in the world, Textile Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday.

He said talks are underway with the European Union, Gulf countries, Canada and the United Kingdom for FTA and the FTAs with two developed economies of the UAE and Australia will be enforced in this year alone.

Goyal said after the prime minister’s efforts, India is emerging as a strong force across the world and once again the world is keen to increase trade with India and sign FTAs.

“I am happy to share with

you that in one year alone, FTA with two developed countries - UAE and Australia will be enforced. With the UAE, the FTA has come into force from May 1 this year, which is a record time, and the FTA with Australia will enter into force from December 29 this year,” the minister said.

“There are six Gulf Co-

operation Council nations with which FTAs are being discussed. Besides there are talks going on with the European Union, Canada and United Kingdom for FTA agreements. This shows that the entire world is looking towards India and they are seeing that India will be a trusted partner in the coming times.”

real GDP growth for 2022-23 at 6.8%, with the third quarter at 4.4% and the fourth at 4.2%.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth is projected at 7.1% for the April-June

India to become $5 tn economy by FY25: Gadkari

New Delhi (PTI): India is the fastest growing major economy in the world and is all set to achieve $5 trillion GDP by 2024-25, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Friday.

Gadkari said the central government is aiming to boost growth and employment to achieve sustainable development.

The road transport and highways minister said India will play a key role in achieving global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030. Gadkari noted that India needs to increase its exports and reduce imports. “We are also working on developing alternative, clean and green fuel like bio ethanol, bio-CNG, bioLNG and green hydrogen,” he said.

Mkts fall for 2nd day amid weak global trends

Mumbai: Hong Kongbased airline Cathay Pacific on Friday said it will scale up its flight services to and from India, including on Delhi and Mumbai routes, to 14 services per week, starting Jan 2023.

From Feb, the number of per week flights to and from India will go up to 15 from nine at present.

The full service carrier also announced it will operate an Airbus A350-900 aircraft on its B’lore-Hong Kong route, first time by the airline in the country, offering 280 seats, comprising 38 in business, 28 in premium economy and the remaining 214 in economy class. —PTI

Mumbai (PTI): Equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty declined nearly 1% on Friday, in tandem with a weak trend in overseas markets amid hawkish tone of global central banks.

The 30-share BSE Sensex fell 461.22 points or 0.75% to settle at 61,337.81. During the day, it tumbled 506.5 points or 0.81% to 61,292.53.

The broader NSE Nifty declined 145.90 points or 0.79% to end at 18,269.

From the Sensex pack, Mahindra & Mahindra, Asian Paints, Dr Reddy’s, Tata Consultancy Services,

SENSEX AND NIFTY ON FRIDAY

z The 30-share BSE Sensex fell 461.22 points or 0.75% to settle at 61,337.81.

During the day, it tumbled 506.5 points or 0.81% to 61,292.53

z The broader NSE Nifty declined 145.90 points or 0.79% to end at 18,269

Vehicle registrations: Govt tweaks BH series rules

New Delhi: Gold prices rose `107 to `54,222 per 10 grams in the national capital on Friday amid gains in prices of precious metal in overseas markets, according to HDFC Securities. In the previous trade, the yellow metal had settled at `54,115/10 grams. Silver, however, declined `120 to `68,001/kg. In the international market, gold was trading in green at $1,783.80 per ounce while silver was down at $23.07 per ounce. —PTI

New Delhi (PTI): The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has allowed the conversion of regular vehicle registrations into Bharat Series (BH) numbers as part of measures to widen the scope of the BH series ecosystem.

Earlier, only new vehicles could opt for the BH series mark.

In an official statement, the MoRTH said over the course of the implementation of BH series registration mark rules, several representations have been received towards strength-

ening the BH series ecosystem. “Vehicles currently having regular registration mark can also be converted to BH series registration mark, subject to payment of requisite tax, to facilitate persons who subsequently become eligible for BH series registration mark,” the statement said released on Friday.

State Bank of India, Wipro, PowerGrid and Titan were the major laggards.

Hindustan Unilever, HDFC Bank and Nestle were among the winners.

Elsewhere in Asia, equity markets in Seoul, Tokyo and Shanghai ended lower, while Hong Kong settled in the green.

Equity exchanges in Europe were trading in the red in mid-session deals. The US markets had ended sharply lower on Thursday.

International oil benchmark Brent crude dipped 2.25 per cent to $79.38 per barrel.

RUPEE FALLS 9 PAISE TO SETTLE AT 82.85 AGAINST US DOLLAR

Mumbai (PTI): The value of Indian rupee dropped 9 paise to close at 82.85 (provisional) against the United States dollar on Friday amid heavy selling pressure in domestic equities and a strong greenback overseas. However, receding crude oil prices capped the rupee’s loss, forex traders said. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened sharply lower at 82.84 against the greenback and witnessed a high of 82.73 and a low of 82.89. It finally settled at 82.85 against the greenback, down 9 paise over its previous close of 82.76.

WORK OUT STRATEGIES TO DRAW GLOBAL MANUFACTURERS TO INDIA: SITHARAMAN

New Delhi (PTI): Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday asked Indian industry to work out strategies as to how businesses operating in developed countries can look at India as a production or sourcing hub amid recession fears in the western countries. India has brought in a lot of facilitation and tweaking of rules to attract foreign investment into India and is also engaging with industries who want to co-locate in the country, the minister said.“As much you are preparing yourself for a longdrawn recession in the Western world, in the developed world, I think it is also the best time for you to work out strategies for drawing those manufacturers from there to India. “Even as they are headquartered there, it might be useful for them to think of sourcing many things from here and producing from here at least for markets in this part of the globe,” Sitharaman said.

period of 2023-24 and at 5.9% for the following quarter. The budget for the next year will have to address critical issues of elevated levels of inflation, boosting demand, job creation and

OTHER STORIES

NON-FOSSIL SOURCES TO MEET 62% OF IND TOTAL ENERGY DEMAND

New Delhi: India is expected to source about 62% of its energy requirements from non-fossil sources by 2030, about 12% more than the target, according to a senior power ministry official. “Going by the current pace and trajectory, India is likely to source about 62% of its energy requirements from non-fossil sources by 2030, exceeding the target it has set for itself for sourcing about 50% of energy requirements,” Tiwari said. —PTI

putting the economy on a sustained 8% plus growth path. It will be the fifth budget of the Modi 2.0 government and Sitharaman, and the last full budget before the general elections.

INDIGO SEEKS DGCA NOD FOR WET LEASING BOEING 777 AIRCRAFT

New Delhi: IndiGo on Friday said it has sought aviation regulator DGCA’s approval to wet lease Boeing 777 aircraft, which will be utilised for operating flights on the DelhiIstanbul route. This will be the first time that the carrier will be inducting wide-body planes into its fleet and the move also comes against the backdrop of global supply chain issues impacting aircraft deliveries. The airline will wet-lease two aircraft. —PTI

WINDFALL PROFIT TAX ON CRUDE SLASHED; TAX ON DIESEL, ATF EXPORT CUT

New Delhi: The government has slashed the windfall profit tax levied on domestically-produced crude oil as well as on export of diesel and ATF following a decline in global oil prices, according to an official order. The levy on crude oil produced by companies such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has been cut steeply to `1,700 per tonne from `4,900, the order dated December 15 said.Crude oil pumped out of the ground and from below seabed is refined and converted into fuel like petrol, diesel and ATF. The government has also cut the tax on export of diesel to `5 per litre from `8 and the same on overseas shipments of ATF to `1.5 a litre from `5. The new tax rates are effective from December 16. —PTI

WHEAT SOWING UP BY THREE PER CENT SO FAR THIS RABI SEASON

New Delhi: Wheat acreage has increased 3% so far in the ongoing rabi season at 286.5 lakh hectare mainly on higher sowing area in MP and UP, the government data showed. The area under coverage for wheat, which is the major crop in rabi (winter-sown) season, stood at 278.25 lakh hectare in the same period last year. Sowing of rabi crops starts from October. Higher area under wheat has been reported mainly from MP, UP, Rajasthan. —PTI

FOREX RESERVES SWELL BY $2.91 BN TO $564.06 BN AS OF DEC 9

Mumbai: India’s forex reserves rose by $2.908 billion to $564.06 billion for the week ended on December 9, according to the Reserve Bank data released on Friday. In the previous reporting week, the overall reserves had soared by $11 billion to $561.16 billion. This is the fifth consecutive week of an increase in the reserves. In October 2021, the country’s foreign exchange kitty had reached an all-time high of $645 billion. —PTI

India’s textile industry faces tough times

First India Bureau

New Delhi: India’s $200 billion textile and apparel industry is facing a crisis as consumers in the United States, Europe and other big markets have cut spending on clothing following a surge in inflation after the war in Ukraine, industry officials said.

While the overall economy is relatively strong and is outperforming major economies, the textile sector is a notable exception and orders suggest the downturn will continue well into 2023, raising the

risk of layoffs.

Exports, which constitute about 22% of the industry, have fallen for five months in a row - declining over 15% year-on-year in November to $3.1 billion.

Domestic sales are sluggish despite strong growth in the overall economy because of high costs and cheap imported garments, manufacturers say.

After bumper sales ear-

NOTABLE EXCEPTION

z While the overall economy of the country is relatively strong and is outperforming major economies, the textile sector is a notable exception and orders suggest the downturn will continue well into 2023

lier this year, local textile factories are now cutting production - contributing to a 4.3% contraction in manufacturing output in July-September quarter that has raised concerns.

HONDA TO HIKE

PRICES BY UP TO `30K FROM JAN

GOLD PRICES SEE A RISE OF `107; SILVER DECLINES BY `120

MUMBAI TO WAKE UP TO MVA’S ‘HALLA BOL’!

First India Bureau

Mumbai (PTI): The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition will hold its ‘Halla Bol’ protest march against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led government in Maharashtra on Saturday. The rally is also a counter-move by the opposition to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) ‘Maafi Maango’ protest.

The MVA allies Shiv Sena – Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress would be taking out the “morcha” (protest march) against the “injustice” meted out to Maharashtra, “insults to the state’s icons like Shivaji Maharaj and Mahatma Phule,” and “atrocities” against Marathi-speakers in border areas of Karnataka as well as industrial projects being tak-

Charge-sheet filed by NIA in pharmacist’s murder case

There is no reason for the police to have any problem in allowing the Maha Vikas Aghadi to hold a march. They should do it in accordance with the decided route and follow law and order.

en out of the state.

State Congress President Nana Patole said people’s anger against the government of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction and BJP

Destroyer

will be expressed through the morcha.

The march will start near JJ Hospital and end at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in south Mumbai.

The MVA protest is being seen as an attempt to rally the allies after the Uddhav Thackeray-led alliance government was toppled in June this year.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had said on Thursday that everyone has the right to hold a march in a democracy. He had given a clear indication about the permission (to MVA). There is anger among people regarding offensive statements made about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Phule, and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. These statements made by responsible leaders are disturbing to the common people. I believe their reaction will be seen in the march.

—Sharad Pawar, NCP chief

Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) state President Jayant Patil on Friday termed the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) protest march to be held in Mumbai on Saturday, a threat to incumbent government. Talking to reporters in Sangli, Patil said, “The governor and Bharatiya Janata Party leaders are commenting about great men. Ministers of the state are insulting the great work done by these men. On

the other hand, there is massive unemployment in Maharashtra.” The Shinde group (Balasahebanchi Shiv Sena) and the BJP government in the state are

working towards increasing unemployment. And the MVA grand march will be a lesson for the government, warned Patil. On insults hurled at 17th century warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Patil said, “There is 100% agenda behind the statements about great men. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is our identity. These remarks are an attack on our selfrespect. Such statements are not being made by mistake or in ignorance but deliberately.”

Shinde-led state govt has failed to defend Maharashtra: Sanjay Raut

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Criticizing the government over Maharashtra losing out on mega projects to Gujarat, Karnataka Chief Minister Bavasaraj Bommai’s aggressive stance on border row and ‘insults’ to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Friday said “BJP has failed and all these things are

Metro 2A and 7 to enter last phase of safety trials

First India Bureau

(PTI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a charge-sheet against 11 persons in the murder case of Amravati-based pharmacist Umesh Kolhe who had shared social media posts backing Nupur Sharma.

The charge-sheet was filed before the special NIA court here.

The court had in September granted the central agency 90 days' extension to file the charge-sheet. Kolhe was killed in eastern Maharashtra's Amravati city on June 21, 2022, after sharing on social media a post supporting suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma over her controversial remarks about Prophet Mohammad.

The NIA registered a case on July 2 on the directions of the Ministry of Home Affairs under Indian Penal Code sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 302 (murder), 153-A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc) and 153-B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), and provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

New Delhi: ‘Mormugao’, a P15B stealth guided missile destroyer, is scheduled to be commissioned into the Indian Navy in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday.

The ship would be inducted at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai on December 18.

The event marks the ceremonial induction into the Navy of the second of four ‘Visakhapatnam’ class destroyers, which were designed in-house by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai.

Named after the historic port city of Goa on the West

coast, Mormugao can rightfully be regarded as one of the most potent warships to have been constructed in India.

The ship is propelled by four powerful Gas Turbines, in a Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) configuration, capable of achieving speeds in excess of 30 knots.

The ship has enhanced stealth features resulting in a reduced Radar Cross Section (RCS).

Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) will move on to the last phase of safety trials to commission a part of Metro 2A and 7 lines in the city’s western suburbs.

According to an MMRDA official, a decision on the date from which people can use the transportation system would be made upon receipt of the final safety certificate.

“We are working towards starting the two routes in late December or in January,” the official said.

This comes in the wake of tests required prior to commissioning the Metro line.

BEML has supplied the rolling stock for these two Metro lines. Once the rolling stock and signalling certificate is received, the Commissioner of Metro

Those residing in Borivali-Dahisar area are likely to use the Metro lines

Rail Safety will be invited to inspect and provide remarks on technical corrections if any.

The commissioner will also give the final go ahead for passengers to use the public transport service, which will run from from DN Nagar in Andheri West to Andheri East via Dahisar.

Metro 2A between Dahanukarwadi and Dahisar East as well as a portion of Metro 7 between Da hisar East to Aarey has been operational since April 01 this year.

The distance between DN Nagar to Dahisar East is 18.6km whereas that from Dahisar East to Andheri East is 16.5km.

Once these lines are open to the public, it is expected to drastically reduce vehicular traffic on the Western Express Highway between Dahisar and Andheri.

BHARAT JODO YATRA COMPLETES 100 DAYS

happening because of it.” Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Raut said, “In the last two months,

industries worth Rs4 lakh crore have moved out of Maharashtra and 20-25 lakh Marathi ‘brothers’ are being oppressed in Karnataka. Bommai (Karnataka CM) has again claimed the villages of Maharashtra.” After insulting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, why did the BJP-sponsored workers not make a statement till now? Did BJP condemn its governor? asked Raut.

Elgar case: Hany Babu granted bail for cataract surgery and check-up

Mumbai: Former Delhi University professor Hany Babu, an accused in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case, has been granted a temporary bail of four days by the Bombay High Court, to undergo cataract surgery and a medical check-up at a city-based hospital.

Babu had moved the high court earlier this month seeking temporary bail on health grounds.

The activist, in his petition, had said that he needed bail for three months for cataract surgery and getting treatment for upper abdominal pain and osteoarthritis at the private Breach Candy Hospital.

A division bench of Justices AS Gadkari and PD

Naik, after hearing the arguments of both sides, allowed Babu to undergo treatment at the hospital in Mumbai for four days.

The court directed that Babu be taken to a hospital for the surgery and health check-up on December 20 and be brought back to the prison on December 24, his lawyer Yug Chaudhry said.

There is no dictatorship in the Congress party, asserts Rahul

the strength of the workers here is unmatched. If the lower level leaders are used well then the elections will be won, the cong leader says about face in RAJ

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Another reason why BJP came to power is that they spread hatred, they divide the country. BJP’s fund is clear on this. The day Congress understands what it is,

that day Congress will win every election. The regional party does not have the vision of the country. Regional parties represent caste, class, state.

Rahul said that he has personally benefited a lot from the visit. “I

got to learn a lot. I also had a little distance from the public, that has ended. When we walk on the streets, there is some fatigue and pain, we meet and talk to millions of people. I thought that the distance between the public and the leader has to end. The aim of the yatra was also to understand the pain among the public. Our yatra is another way of doing politics. This is

Gandhiji’s way, and we have had the best response in Rajasthan,” he said.

He said that people love Congress. On the question of face in Rajasthan, Rahul said the strength of the workers here is unmatched. If the lower level leaders are used well then the elections will be won, he said.

Interestingly, on question of factionalism in party, he said

that it is a good thing to have discussions, but the party should not suffer. He said that we do not silence anyone by intimidation.

“There is rhetoric and little discussion in Congress, which is a good thing. Not only in Rajasthan, it is practiced in other states as well. We think that there should not be much loss to party, if there is loss then we take action.

Mumbai

‘Mormugao’ to be commissioned into Indian Navy on Dec 18

First India Bureau

First India Bureau

The HC allowed Babu to undergo treatment in Mumbai for 4 days

Rahul Gandhi with Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Mukesh Agnihotri Pratibha Singh, Vikramaditya Singh and others walk during the ‘Bharat JodoYatra’ in Dausa on Friday.

P15B stealth guided missile destroyer measures 163m in length and 17m in breadth with a displacement of 7,400 tonnes. —PHOTO BY ANI

Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray chief Uddhav Thackeray (centre) flanked by party leader Sanjay Raut, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar and others at a press meet in Mumbai on Thursday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Oppn parties to hit the streets in protest over border row, insults to Maha icons and mega projects

—Devendra Fadnavis, Maha Deputy CM

MVA’s march threat to Shinde faction-BJP govt: Jayant Patil

—Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor-in-Chief,

BOWS, BLING & SPARKY THINGS

PERHAPS NO OTHER FASHION ELEMENT IS AS CONTENTIOUS AS THE BOW. THE BOW ITSELF IS A RELIC FROM THE DISTANT PAST. LET’S EXPLORE THE WORLD OF BOW FASHION WITH CITY FIRST!

www.firstindia.co.in

The bow is a shape that holds reams of significance and consistently elicits a strong

unique and expensive item, frequently made of the finest silk and in the most exquisite hues, in tales like Anne of Green Gables or Little House on the Prairie. We always adore the way a bow can complete an ensemble.

It seems to sense that designers are drawing influence from the Marie Antoinette style given that the cottage come subculture

MRIDULA SHARMA cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

JOY TO THE EARTH..!

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Praise of a family member by someone will make you proud. Getting unwell due to changing weather cannot be ruled out for some. You may need to monitor your finances closely. You are likely to win the day on the professional front by your original ideas. Keep options open on the investment

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

Some of you may feel the home environment serene and restful. There is a fair chance of some property getting allotted to you.Opportunities are likely to appear on the academic front. Good health is assured through own efforts. A healthy bank balance will allow you to buy a major item.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

A new plot, house or apartment can be acquired by some.Be more assertive in dealing with workplace issues, otherwise you can be taken for granted by others. Joining an online exercise routine is indicated and will prove beneficial. Those trying to boost income may figure out newer ways.

CANCER

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

Your initiative will help mend fences with someone you were not in talking terms. Taking up a regular fitness routine will help you get into shape. Increase in household expenditure is possible, so take all steps to cut it down. You will need to choose the investment schemes wisely.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

Things are likely to move favourably on the professional front. You will need to muster all persuasive powers to swing a deal in your favour. Your skills are likely to bring a lucrative deal within your grasp on professional front. You’ll get help in tying up loose ends on the domestic front.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

Do not misunderstand the motives of someone trying to help you. A friendly bet with a friend or a colleague may turn into a fight, so be careful.An exciting time lies ahead as travelling with friends is foreseen. You are set to grow professionally and attract new clientele.

CAPRICORN

Encourage the whole family to embrace this timeless holiday tradition as they cover the Christmas tree with homemade ornaments, weave in gorgeous garlands and pick out the perfect tree topper. To help make your holiday a little easier, City First has rounded up the best Christmas tree ideas to fit any aesthetic — whether you prefer traditional, modern, eclectic or rustic decor arrangements.

These festive decoration ideas work well if you’re decorating a real Christmas tree (we love a fresh pine scent) or you’ve purchased one of the best artificial trees (choose a realistic style, and no one will know the difference).

You can go with a faux tree, try an elegant black or white Christmas tree — or maybe, choose to go even more untraditional with a DIY Christmas tree made of yarn, chalk or disco balls. If you’re looking for exciting ways to get the children involved, we’ve also found several simple tree ideas that rely on kid-friendly Christmas crafts (like making ornaments from paper, sand dollars and felt).

Decorating a small space? Don’t worry, we’ve sprinkled in beautiful space-saving ideas like mini Christmas trees made from stacked mason jars and tabletop Christmas trees that tuck neatly into corners. The options are endless!

z RUSTIC TREE

All it takes to recreate this natureinspired look are dried oranges, faux cranberries and pom-pom garland. Don’t forget the straw basket, as opposed to a tree skirt.

z CANDY THEME

If you’re feeling cheerful, go for a colourful candy theme. Start with a faux white Christmas tree and fill it with DIY candy cane ornaments, bright baubles and clear ornaments filled with small toys and candies. Complete the look with the rainbow garland made of pom poms and a straw tree topper.

z RED AND GREEN PLAID RIBBON TREE

Have some festive plaid ribbon left over from gift-wrapping? There’s no reason why you shouldn’t use it to bring some personality to your tree.

z COZY LODGE TREE

Fill your spruce tree with red and

z CHALKBOARD CHRISTMAS TREE

This minimalist Christmas tree idea is a fun project for the whole family, and it shouldn’t take longer than a few hours. It’s constructed using a metal sheet covered with chalkboard vinyl, which makes it magnetic. Quickly whip up a few DIY ornaments by adding a magnet on the back of felt cutouts.

z

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS TREE

From nostalgic ornaments to tinsel and a gold star topper, you can’t go wrong with a traditional Christmas tree to fill your space with holiday cheer.

z ORNAMENT-COVERED TREE

Ran out of space on your big Christmas tree to show off your ever-growing ornament collec -

tion? Go for this vintage-inspired look featuring styrofoam cones covered in colourful ornaments of all shapes and sizes.

z DISCO BALL TREE

Elevate your holiday home with a bit of glitz and glam with this striking disco ball tree. Start with a 24” foam cone or wire tree and use hot glue to layer disco balls of all different sizes.

z STATEMENT WHITE TREE

Dream up a winter wonderland in your own home with a white tabletop tree adorned in glitzy pastel-coloured ball ornaments.

z SUGAR PLUM TREE

Believe it or not, just about anything can be a Christmas tree ornament. For this sugar plum Christmas tree theme, decorate your Christmas Tree in adorable knit ornaments, pompom garlands, and whimsical mushrooms.

AQUARIUS

FACEOFTHEDAY

VANYA BAHL, DANCER

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

Nothing brings holiday cheer to an interior quite like a well-decorated Christmas tree, whether you’re sticking with classic red and green baubles and twinkling lights or opting for a creative Christmas tree theme, like adorning your spruce with pom-poms, colorful ribbons or candy. As the festival celebration 10 days countdown begins, City First brings to you ways to steal the show quite as much as the tree in all its pine-scented, glowing glory!

MITALI DUSAD cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

burgundy baubles, classic beaded garland and thick snowflake ribbon to give your home a cozy, warm feel.

JACQUELINE TROLLED!

Janhvi’s reaction

Superstar Nayanthara will be seen next in the highly-discussed horror thriller Connect. As the sus pense drama is nearing its re lease on 22nd De cember this year, the makers re cently released the nail-biting trailer

of the movie. The preview has been getting a lot of positive reviews from the viewers and the latest to appreciate it is Bollywood beauty, Janhvi

VAANI KAPOOR OOZES SEXINESS

SHEHNAAZ FLAUNTS HER LOVE

Shehnaaz Gill rose to fame after her stint in Salman Khan hosted controversial reality show Bigg Boss 13. Her bond with late actor Sidharth Shukla became the highlight of the season, and both gained a huge fan following owing to their relationship. Sidharth's sudden demise shook many, but the actor lives forever in many hearts. Recently, a picture of Shehnaaz Gill's wallpaper is going viral on social media, and Sidnaaz fans noticed something. A still from a clip where Shehnaaz was spotted leaving in her car is going viral. Though Shehnaaz's face isn't visible, her phone's wall-

Recently we saw a clear picture of what we need for December from Ki ara Advani’s latest look. We thought dresses were hot but to load in an array of onesies could be the chicest in vestment. We were just so inculcated by the references to all sparkly and mini dresses. A little shift in style and a trustworthy lesson are all that it takes to pre-plan a very fabulous look. We see this jumpsuit as the bearer of compliments.

Does your calendar look a lot like Christmas? You could now agree with this jumpsuit in hand. To the days of heavy forethought, you may put in to create a mood board of what to wear where, this can be your dawn to dusk outfit. No inbetween change of outfit is required, just a considerable amount of pee breaks of course. This doesn’t have to be chaotic, you will manage.

Rashmika’s FLAWLESS MAKEUP

fter GoodBye, Rash mika Mandanna is now all set for the release of her sec ond Bollywood project, Mis sion Majnu co-starring Sid harth Malhotra. Today, the Pushpa actress was seen wear ing a blue jumpsuit at the film’s promotion in Delhi. While she has always managed to turn heads with her comfy yet stylish looks, this time, Rashmika Mandanna went wrong with her outfit choice.

In the photos, Mandanna is sporting a blue jumpsuit with a polo neck and she is the only saving grace to the most

Vaani Kapoor raised the temperatures to a new high with

looking hot in a lilac bralette and skirt with a thigh-high

regrettable look!

Kiara Advani

Rashmika Mandanna

Rashmika during the promotion

Janhvi Kapoor

Her post...

Jacqueline Fernandez

Shehnaaz Gill

Vaani Kapoor

Kiara in Cult Gaia jumpsuit

Jacqueline during the promotion

MANOJ SHARMA GIVES AN INSIGHT INTO THE CASTING WORLD

as an industry person on the controversial issue of the casting couch, Manoj said that no matter what field you belong to, you will have negative and positive points, it all depends on whether one understands the signs.

Sachet & Parampara reunite underwater

The musical and magical couple Sachet and Parampara are set to enthral us to another full-of-life love song, Malang Sajna very soon. After teasing us with a cover version of Makhna and their upcoming single Malang Sajna’s mashup in the pool set-up, this time they go deeper by literally into the waters as the music video of Malang Sajna has been shot underwater!

It requires a person to be visionary to form an entire person in their head before you see it in reality. Such is the job of a casting director who has the difficult job of searching for the right person for the right role. Manoj Kumar Sharma has been in this business for the past ten years, building a path for actors towards the right roles. Talking to City First, Manoj Kumar Sharma shared his experience of ten years, his debut in OTT with the series Hasratein and what it means to be a casting director.

Manoj stated that his latest web series, Hasratein released on December 12 on the OTT platform Hungama Play and MX Player. It is an anthology that tells the story of five different women of different ages and their hidden desires.

“Age kaunsi bhi ho, par harr age mein hasratein toh aapki htoti hi hai. Either think about society or think

about yourself and break those boundaries and fulfil your desires,” he said, giving an idea into the theme of the show.

Sharing his experience of working for the OTT for the first time, Manoj said, “It was a bit difficult for me as it was my first-time casting for the web. The series shows intimacy, not in a cheap light but shows the aesthetic side of it. Many artists questioned our decision to make the series. But all the artists that decided to shoot for the series, including the main leads Shilpa Tulaskar, Adaa Khan, Monalisa, Sana Sayyad and Krishna Mukherjee thoroughly understood the feeling behind the show and genuinely wanted to bring out such stories into the world.”

As someone who left his MBA degree to fulfil his desire to work in the industry, Manoj has now completed ten

years as a casting director at Shakuntalam Telefilms. Talking about his experience so far, he said, “We

“You immediately understand the vibe of a person. Whenever you meet a person, you understand their vibe through the way they talk or send you a message. So I feel a person shows if his intentions are good or not. It is

Talking about the underwater sequence in the music video, Sachet Tandon said, “It was exciting to try something new that we have never done in our music videos. Even though it was quite a challenge as the weather was cold, it was still a completely new experience that I thoroughly enjoyed,” to that Parampara added “When I first heard that we are going to be shooting a scene completely submerged in the water, I was a little nervous because it’s not easy to hold your breath, but at the same time I was really excited. I’m glad that we did it and can’t wait for the audience to see it.”

“DEEPIKA IS A WHOLE VIBE IN BESHARAM RANG”

King Khan made an appearance at the Kolkata International Film Festival 2022 on Thursday evening. During his speech at the inauguration of the festival, the actor spoke about the negativity that exists on social media. Speaking on the same he said, “The collective narratives of our times are shaped by social media. Social media is often driven by a certain narrowness of view that lim

Among many other aspects of the entertainment business, pay disparity has often grabbed the attention of many.

Now, days after Priyanka Chopra Jonas revealed that she received equal pay as her male co-star just once, for Citadel, in her two-decade-long career, Vidya Balan has also opened up about the matter.

During a round table that Balan was part of When the topic of pay parity was raised during the conversation, Balan said, “I don’t know about pay parity because I am not doing films alongside the ‘big heroes.’ I think that’s where it comes into play. But if you had to see the overall percentage of what I get paid... within the budget of a film to what a hero gets paid, I think the percentage is the same.”

The actress added, “Now their films cost 10 times more than what my films

do, so obviously I am getting paid ten times less. But, within my con struct I am happy.”

atrina Kaif has been named in the `Most Searched Asian Worldwide 2022’ list by Google. In the list of most searched Asians on Google this year, Katrina has fetched

herself the 4th spot while Alia Bhatt is at the 5th. Katrina has the distinction of topping among Indian actors making it to the list this year. Indian cricketer, Virat Kohli got the third spot on the Most searched Asian 2022 list and became the only Indian in the top three. For the top spots, the South Korean band BTS members Taehyung and Jungkook have the top 2 spots.

Katrina tied the knot with actor Vicky Kaushal on December 10, 2021, and the couple never fail to shower love on each other on social media. She was recently seen in the horror comedy film Phone Bhoot.

roducer Aditya Chopra and director Siddharth Anand unveiled the first song of Pathaan, Besharam Rang, on Monday that has broken the internet! Shilpa Rao, who has playback the song for the ethereally gorgeous Deepika Padukone, says the song is addictive because of how Deepika is looking in it! Shilpa who has sung many blockbuster hits for Deepika said, “Deepika is a whole vibe in Besharam Rang and the track is addictive because of her! I have sung many songs for Deepika but some have been of romance, some have been of falling in love. This one is where she is confident in her skin, she’s like taking on the world as brilliant as she is and she (her character in the film) is in fact embracing her good and the flaws that she has!” Pathaan is India’s biggest-ever action spectacle for audiences.

ADITI CHAVAN

Vidya Balan

Katrina Kaif

Shilpa Rao

Sachet and Parampara

Manoj Sharma

Shah