First India-Jaipur Edition- 9 May 2023

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DELHI: FARMERS JOIN

WRESTLERS PROTEST AT JANTAR MANTAR

EVEN AS KARNATAKA VOTES, PM TO HOLD RALLY IN RAJASTHAN

Sirohi: BJP State chief CP Joshi said on Monday that PM Narendra Modi will give many gifts to the people of the state in the field of highways, railways and medicine during his visit to Abu Road on May 10.

P6

ANOTHER EXPLOSION NEAR

GOLDEN

TEMPLE, ONE INJURED

Amritsar: A low-intensity explosion was reported on a heritage street near Amritsar’s Golden Temple on Monday morning close to the spot where a blast was reported on May 6, police said.

JET CRASH AGAIN...

THAKUR CRITICISES WB CM FOR BANNING ‘THE KERALA STORY’

New Delhi: Union I&B Minister Anurag Thakur on Monday said West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had done injustice to the sisters and daughters of State by banning The Kerala Story.

I facebook.com/thefirstindia I instagram.com/thefirstindia

No End To ‘Flying Coffins’!

IAF’s MiG-21 crashes in Hanumangarh; 3 villagers killed, pilot ejects safely

Moni Sharma/Kapil Sharma

Hanumangarh/New

Delhi: Three people were killed and three others injured after an Indian Air Force MiG21 Fighter aircraft crashed into a house near Bahlol Nagar village in Hanumangarh on Monday, officials said.

A probe has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the crash, says IAF official

H’garh admin announces `5 lakh and IAF `1 lakh each for kin of deceased

Evacuated people being provided food and shelter within the safe confines of Army and Assam Rifles Base camps on Monday.

Manipur violence: SC asks Centre, State to file updated reports

New Delhi: Jantar Mantar

witnessed dramatic scenes this morning as a group of farmers broke through barricades to join wrestlers’ protest over sexual harassment allegations against national wrestling federation chief. P6

TELANGANA JUDGE’S DAUGHTER AMONG 8

DEAD IN US SHOOTING

New Delhi: A 27-yearold woman, Aishwarya

Thatikonda, daughter of a district judge from Hyderabad was among the nine people killed when a gunman opened fire at a crowded mall in Dallas in the US state of Texas. P6

JOURNO ARREST: JUDGE RECUSES HIMSELF, HC CJ

TO APPOINT NEW JUDGE

New Delhi: Punjab, Haryana

HC judge Justice Deepak

Sibal on Monday recused himself from hearing journo’s plea for regular bail, case has been sent back to CJ who will now decide on next judge to preside over hearing.

ED SEIZES `41.64 CRORE ASSETS OF PUNE BUSINESSMAN

New Delhi: The ED seized three immovable properties, worth Rs 41.64 crore, in a FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) case lodged against Pune-based businessman Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members.

CM: MANIPUR VIOLENCE

CLAIMED 60 LIVES, KIN

TO GET `5L EX-GRATIA

Imphal: Manipur CM N Biren

Singh on Monday said that 60 people were killed, 231 injured and 1,700 houses including religious places burnt in the ethnic violence that rocked the northeastern state for past few days. P6

The aircraft had taken off from the Suratgarh airbase for a routine exercise when it crashed near Bahlol Nagar in Hanumangarh due to a technical snag. The pilot ejected from the aircraft in time and he is reported to be safe.

The IAF said a probe has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the crash, adding, “A MiG21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of accident.” More on P3

A VILLAGER RECOUNTS THE INCIDENT...

Recounting the incident, a local said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, a plane crashed into the house of Ratti Ram, killing his wife and two other women — Leela Devi and Banto Kaur.

ACB nabs man claiming to make money for senior UDH officials!

Accused caught red-handed with ` 12 lakh in Udaipur

Navin Sharma

Jaipur: The Anti Corruption Bureau, on Monday, conducted a trap in Udaipur and arrested one Lokesh Jain, a civilian, while taking a bribe of ` 12 lakh in the name of higher officials of Urban Development and Housing Department (UDH).

ACB DG (Additional Charge) Hemant Priyadarshy said that a complaint was recently received by the Special Unit-II of Jaipur unit wherein the complainant said that for granting

NOC under 90A for his land, a bribe of `12 lakh was demanded by Jain on the name of high officials of UDH, namely the Principal Secretary and the Joint Secretary. The complaint was verified by a team led by ASP Pushpendra Singh Rathore and the accused was held with `5 lakh real and `7 lakh dummy currency. Priyadarshy said the role of the higher officials of the UDH is being investigated. P3

Officials, locals gather around the Indian Air Force's MiG-21 fighter aircraft that crashed near Hanumangarh on Monday.

The pilot experienced an onboard emergency, following which he attempted to recover the aircraft as per existing procedures. Having failed to do so, he initiated an ejection.

—PRO Defence

Indian Air Force @IAF_MCC

The accident has unfortunately led to the loss of three lives on ground. The IAF regrets this loss and offers its deepest condolences to the bereaved families.

First India Bureau New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday posted pleas related to Manipur violence for hearing on May 17. The apex court has asked Centre and state to file updated status reports.

Terming aftermath of the violence “humanitarian issues”, a bench headed by CJI DY Chandrachud emphasised that due arrangements must be made in relief camps, people sheltered there be provided with basic amenities like food, ration and med facilities. P6

MISSION KARNATAKA: HIGH-OCTANE PUBLIC CAMPAIGNING ENDS, VOTING TOMORROW

‘Sovereignty’ row: BJP tells EC to deregister Cong, act against Sonia

First India Bureau New Delhi: The high voltage campaigning for the May 10 assembly elections in Karnataka came to an end on Monday with 3 major political parties — BJP, Congress and JD(S) — making a last-ditch effort to woo the voters.

BJP on Monday approached EC seeking cancellation of the Congress’s registration as a party and urging it to file an FIR and initiate “exemplary punitive action” against Sonia Gandhi, over her alleged remarks supporting “sovereignty of Karnataka”. A transcript of her full speech indicates

‘K’TAKA GOVT SCRAPPED 4% MUSLIM QUOTA AS IT WAS UNCONSTITUTIONAL’

Sonia Gandhi

Sonia did not use the word “sovereignty”.

The EC issues notice to BJP over a newspaper ad published on Monday, which makes specific but unverifiable allegations against Congress, also seeks clarification from Kharge over social media post.

DGCA to decide on Go First’s Licence, directs Airline to stop sale of all tickets immediately

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday has directed Go First to immediately stop booking and sale of tickets “directly or indirectly” until further orders.

“The airline operator has been asked to submit their reply within 15 days of the receipt of this notice, and further decision on the continu-

SHOW CAUSE NOTICE ISSUED TO AIRLINE

The regulator DGCA has issued a show cause notice to Go First. It will take a call on the a grounded-since-May-3 airline’s air operator’s certificate (AOC or licence) after examining its response to the notice that has to be submitted in within a fortnight.

ation of their Air Operators Certificate (AOC )will be taken on

the basis of the reply submitted by them. Further, Go First has

been directed to stop booking and sale of tickets directly or indi-

rectly, with immediate effect and until further orders,” the official aded.

Go First has cancelled all flights since May 3 and moved a plea with the NCLT to begin voluntary insolvency proceedings. Lessors to Go First have made a beeline to repossess their planes and airline’s employees like pilots are desperately seeking jobs with Air India, IndiGo and Akasa.

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday gave justification for scrapping the 4% Muslim reservation in Karnataka saying it was “unconstitutional” and blamed the previous Congress party who introduced it for appeasement and consolidation of the Muslim vote bank. In an interview with news agency ANI, he said that there was no provision in the constitution for reservation on the basis of religion. More on P5

SOME POLL SURVEYS SUGGEST CLOSE RACE BETWEEN BJP AND CONGRESS

New Delhi: Some poll surveys suggest it will be a close contest between the governing BJP and main Opposition Congress, but JD(S) is hoping to play a kingmaker role, if not win a majority on its own. Meanwhile, according to the opinion poll of Zee News regarding K’taka, the BJP is expected to get majority. Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai is being considered as the best choice of the people.

22 die in boat tragedy, judicial probe ordered

Vijayan announces ` 10 lakh ex-gratia, cops nab owner

First India Bureau Malappuram: The death toll in the Malappuram boat capsize incident rose to 22 and at least seven people are in critical condition, district administration said. The tragedy happened when a tourist boat with more than 30 passengers onboard capsized and sank in Kerala’s Malappuram on Sunday. The Kerala

MOHAN’S RELEASE: SC NOTICE TO BIHAR GOVT

The Supreme Court issued notices to the Bihar government and convicted former MP Anand Mohan over the latter’s premature release from jail. Anand Mohan, who was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of IAS officer G Krishnaiah, walked out of jail last month.

TOP COURT INFORMED OVER ED DIR’S TENURE

The Centre on Monday informed the SC that ED chief Sanjay Kumar Mishra’s tenure will not continue in office beyond November 2023. SG said Mishra was given 3rd extension in view of the FATF.

Suspended IAS from Assam, 2 others held in multi-cr scam

Shubham Jain

Ajmer: Three people, including Assam’s suspended IAS officer Sewali Devi Sharma and her son-in-law, have been arrested from Ajmer in connection with an alleged scam of Rs 105 crore in the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) of Assam. Sewali’s maid was also taken into custody.

The vigilance team of Assam carried out this action on Monday morning with the help of Ajmer’s Kotwali police station. All the three accused had been hiding in Ajmer. They were produced in the CGM court here and taken on remand to Assam.

Rescue operation underway in Malappuram on Monday.

government has ordered a thorough judicial probe into the matter and has also announced Rs 10 compensation each to the families of the deceased.

The owner of the boat, identified as Nazar, was nabbed from Kozhikode.

A special team of Assam Vigilance reached Ajmer under the leadership of Inspector Pritam Sekia late on Sunday night and arrested Sewali Devi Sharma, her son-in-law Ajit Pal Singh and Rahul Amin from Hotel Cross Lane, Jaipur Road, Ajmer on the basis of location.

Sewali Devi Sharma is alleged to have been in SCERT between 20172020. It is alleged that she had opened 5 bank accounts without the consent of the government and was allegedly involved in scams of more than Rs 100 crore.

DG Hemant Priyadarshy Pushpendra Singh, ASP

File FIR if you have evidence of BJP buying MLAs: Shekhawat

'Gehlot must clarify how he was helped by Raje, others during 2020 rebellion'

Aishwary Pradhan

Jaipur: Union minister

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Monday termed the statement of CM Ashok Gehlot as “irresponsible”. Ashok

Gehlot had said that Vasundhara Raje and two other BJP leaders helped save his government during the 2020 rebellion by some Congress MLAs.

"Vasundhara Raje is our senior leader. She has been the Chief Minister two times and has also been the state president twice. He gave such an irresponsible statement only for his political benefit and to give a message to his opponents. I ask Gehlot to make full disclosure of when, where, and in

what way he was supported," Shekhawat said at a press conference in Jaipur. Shekhawat said that if Gehlot had evidence to support his claim that BJP gave money to Congress MLAs then he

should register an FIR against the parties involved. He also said the leaders of his party were exploring legal ways to challenge Gehlot's assertion.

The minister said that in the matter an

PM’s visit: CS directs for proper arrangements

Chief Secretary Usha Sharma & T Ravikanth during review meeting of PM Modi’s visit in Jaipur on Monday

PM MODI TO GIVE MANY GIFTS TO PEOPLE OF RAJ, SAYS CP JOSHI AHEAD OF PM MODI VISIT

—Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister

unknown person from Beawar was arrested under sedition and then the case was withdrawn.

BJP to protest, recite Hanuman Chalisa on 15th anniversary of Jpr serial bomb blast

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The BJP will protest and recite Hanuman Chalisa in all 250 wards of the city to mark 15th anniversary of the 2008 Jaipur serial blasts. Former BJP state president Arun Chaturvedi, Jaipur MP Ramcharan Bohra and City district president Raghav Sharma informed this in a press conference on Monday at the state headquarters. They also released a poster named ‘Jaipur Blast Ka Insaaf Mange

BJP LEADERS ACCUSE GEHLOT GOVT OF SAVING MUJAHIDEEN’S MEN

Rajasthan’ and issued a toll free number for missed calls to join the campaign They also appealed to run hashtag on Twitter across the state on Saturday.

“It has been more

than a month since all the culprits were acquitted, but the SLP was not filed in the Supreme Court, while the BJP cooperated with two victim families to file the SLP,” said Chaturvedi.

SOLIDARITY WITH WRESTLERS

A ccusing the Gehlot govt of the State, the BJP leaders said that during the Jaipur bomb blasts there were five major bomb blasts in the country, out of which Samjhauta Express, Malegaon bomb blast, Hyderabad Mecca Masjid blast, Ajmer Dargah bomb blast case were handed over to NIA. In the Jaipur blast, to save the terrorists of Indian Mujahideen, the Gehlot govt formed the SIT and handed over the investigation to it, due to which the facts were not collected properly and all the accused were acquitted by the High Court.

Jain is arrested but they share coffee with Bhanwarlal. Vishvendra Singh and others are named in the third suit. Then in that case no voice sample is taken. You are misusing agencies,” he said.

The Chief Secretary reviewed the preparations through video-conferencing with the District Collectors and Superintendents of Police of Udaipur, Sirohi and Rajsamand and other officers. Sharma said that all the officers should fulfil their respective responsibilities with utmost seriousness.

Meanwhile, inauguration and foundation laying program of medical colleges during PM

Modi’s visit to Rajasthan has been postponed. Dholpur, Sirohi, Sir Ganganagar, and Chit-

Four killed, 9 injured as SUV rams into stationary truck at Abu Raod

First India Bureau

Sirohi: Four persons were killed and more than six were injured when a vehicle in which they were travelling in rammed into a stationary truck in Abu Road area of Sirohi district on Monday. SHO of Abu Road RIICO police station Suresh Chaudhary said 13 people were in the SUV at the time of the accident. The deceased were identified as Talsaram (60), Shanu (35), Pinki (40) and Budaram (48).

The top of the SUV got completely crashed in accident.

The injured have been referred to Gujarat, he said. On April 5, Shanu's brother had died and the family members

were going to Gujarat to join his grief. Those travelling included a driver and member of two families.

Woman dies by suicide with 2

Mukesh Mathrani

kids

torgarh medical colleges were proposed to be inaugurated, Medical Edu Dept confirmed.

NEWS DIGEST

HISTORY SHEETER’S HOTEL BULLDOZED IN UDAIPUR

Udaipur:The Udaipur police on Monday removed encroachment on the Housing Board land illegally possessed by history-sheeter Kiran Menaria alias Kancha. Menaria was running a restaurant named Manwar illegally on the Housing Board land on Jhamar Kotra Road in Hiran Magri. The local police reached the spot and removed the encroachment. Illegal construction on the land was demolished using bulldozers. Deputy SP Kshipra Rajawat said that the land of Housing Board was forcibly occupied on which a restaurant was being run by history sheeter Menaria.

FARMER CONSUMES POISON, FOUND DEAD IN JHALAWAR

In support of women wrestlers protesting at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, thousands of AAP workers took out a foot march from Shaheed Smarak to Albert Hall in Jaipur on Monday. AAP state prez Naveen Paliwal raised demand to arrest Brijbhushan Singh. —PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

Barmer: A woman in Barmer district had committed suicide along with her two kids. Before taking the extreme step, woman had updated a suicide note in her whatsapp status in which while describing her family problems she wrote, ‘Now I am too much upset, Can’t bear this much pain.’ Incident had been reported from Gangasara village under Sadar po-

lice station area in Barmer on late Sunday night.

CM GEHLOT’S MOVE FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

On getting informed police reached at the spot and recovered the

Women Village Service Coop Society in each block

lll

CM Ashok Gehlot approves draft action plan for the formation of these cooperative committees, which will be constituted at block level

First India Bureau

Jaipur: For women empowerment and women’s upliftment, a women’s village service cooperative society will be formed in each block.

The CM Gehlot has approved the draft action plan for the formation of these committees.

The contribution of Rs. 3 lakh of each committee will also be borne by the state govt. In this way, the state govt will bear a total financial

burden of Rs 10.53 crore for the village cooperative service societies to be formed in 351 blocks.

According to the draft, there will be at least one gram panchayat in the jurisdiction of the com-

T otal 326 posts will be created for nursing and paramedical staff in Dungarpur, Bharatpur, Churu, Sikar, Bhilwara, Barmer and Pali Medical Colleges. CM Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal in this regard. According to the proposal, the said posts will be taken as per Rajasthan Contractual Hiring to Civil Post Rules-2022. In these, a total of 326 posts of 18 types will be filled. Also, 58 posts of 4 types of services will be taken on job basis. With this decision, there will be ease in administrative & academic work in medical colleges and students will get relief.

mittee and the minimum number of members will be 300. The minimum share amount

will be Rs 3 lakh. The minimum amount from members in general areas will be Rs 1 lakh.

bodies. Police said that woman had committed suicide along with her two kids by jumping into a water tank.

Before ending the life, the deceased had burnt all the cash and jewellery she had. Meanwhile till filling of this report deceased bodies were kept in the mortuary at govt hospital in Barmer.

Police identified the deceased as Jhimo Devi (30), her son Santosh (8) and her daughter Bhawana (3).

Jhalawar: A 58-year-old farmer died allegedly after consuming a poisonous substance in Irli village in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district, police said on Monday. He died late Sunday night and his body was found around 500 metres from his house on Monday morning, they said. The substance Nathulal Meena had consumed was found near his body, police said, adding the reason behind him taking the step is yet to be ascertained. Officials said there is no evidence suggesting that the farmer was reeling under heavy debt. Police said a case of unnatural death has been registered.

First India Bureau Churu: A young man set his father ablaze over a dispute in Sardarshahar area of Churu district late on Sunday.

As his father burnt, the accused youth kept sitting there and later called up his cousin and told that he set his father ablaze.

DSP Narendra Sharma said that in Bijrasar village, Sonu Meghwal (25) beat up his father Liluram (50) over a dispute. After this, put ker-

osene on him and set fire. Liluram died on the spot. The police is porbing the matters and accused have been held.

Arun Chaturvedi, Ramcharan Bohra, Raghav Sharma, and Ashok S Shekhawat in Jaipur on Monday. —PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Screengrab of the video in which Jhimo Devi set jewellery, cash on fire before ending her life in Barmer on late Sunday night.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat addressing the press conference in Jaipur on Monday. Arun Chaturvedi, Mukesh Dadheech, and Ashok Singh Shekhawat are also seen. —PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Vasundhara Raje is our senior leader. She has been the CM twice and has also been the State president. I ask Gehlot to make full disclosure of when, where, and in what way he was supported.

First India Bureau Jaipur: Chief Secretary Usha Sharma reviewed the preparations for the proposed visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Rajasthan on May 10 in the meeting held in the committee room of Government Secretariat on Monday. She directed that all the officers concerned should ensure necessary arrangements regarding the proposed visit of PM.

326 POSTS OF NURSING AND PARAMEDICAL STAFF IN 7 MEDICAL COLLEGES OKAYED

Sirohi: BJP state president CP Joshi said on Monday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will give many gifts to the people of the state in the field of highways, railways and medicine during his visit to Abu Road on May 10. After this, he will attend a huge public meeting at Manpur airstrip in Abu Road, where he will address lakhs of people. On the statement given by CM Ashok Gehlot about Vasundhara Raje, Joshi said that CM Gehlot is telling lies as he is furious. “After the meeting held in Barmer, they are furious because of which they are telling such lies in front of everyone. The Congress government of Rajasthan is at the forefront of all such crimes of corruption and women harassment due to which the people of the state are suffering,” he said.

Police officials recording the statements of locals during the probe in Churu on Monday.

IN

NaMo REFLECTION OF PEOPLE’S TRUST

BRINGING GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL AT THE DOORSTEP!

AK SHARMA UP Minister and Former Bureaucrat (Gujarat)

can never be limited by the restrictions of my chair. I remain among the people and will be there for them,” said PM Modi when he was the CM of Gujarat and launched SWAGAT. Internationally acclaimed, technologically robust, SWAGAT has been a boon in the domain of public service as it stands by the idea of “Ease of Living and Reach of Governance”. SWAGAT stands for Statewide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology and recently PM Modi addressed a program marking 20 successful years of completion of this portal dedicated to public service.

We started the SWAGAT scheme in Gujarat in April 2003 in which we would convene a meeting every month with the citizens and address all their complaints. We created the SWAGAT portal in order to address public grievances through the use of technology. It was a first-of-its-kind initiative where the power of technology was harnessed to help the public. Modiji has always believed that “Governance happens through innovations, new ideas.” Top brass of the state had access to this portal. The Commissioners, the SPs, all the Secretaries and other senior officials could go into the system and the expectation from them was that they would resolve all the grievances and complaints that reached their respective offices. Not just this, this portal worked at four levels: State, District, Taluka and Gram. All departments at all the levels had the liberty to keep track of their accounts and to fast-track the redressal of grievances.

This portal served as a means

SWAGAT HAS BEEN A BOON IN THE DOMAIN OF PUBLIC SERVICE

Internationally acclaimed, technologically robust, SWAGAT has been a boon in the domain of public service as it stands by the idea of “Ease of Living and Reach of Governance”. SWAGAT stands for Statewide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology and recently PM Modi addressed a program marking 20 successful years of completion of this portal dedicated to public service.

to bring together the various smaller components of the larger system and this resulted in at least 75% of the complaints being addressed and resolved instantly by concerned officials within respective departments itself. About 25% of these complaints were marked and presented in the program where the CM was invited. These grievances we demarcated for the CM who always attended to them on the fourth Thursday of every month. We also arranged for an interaction of the complainant with the CM. As SWAGAT witnessed record success, several states tried to emulate this grievance redressal system and implemented it. UN awarded the CMO with the United Nations Public Service Award in 2010 for adopting this state wide attention on grievances. The system was recognized for improving quality, transparency, accountability and responsiveness in public service. When it comes to people-centric governance, there can be no better example than SWAGAT!

SWAGAT is a unique program where Modiji used technology to address public grievances online and we received hundred percent success in this. Once an applicant had come and he said to the CM, “Sir, my job is not getting done despite repeated requests. And this senior official who is sitting there, he has been demanding money from me.” Modiji very coolly said, “Don’t worry! Zoom out the photo and show me the face of the official who is harassing you.”

The complainant did that and told him that this is the Class 1 officer who has asked me for 1 lakh bribe. Immediately Modi saheb connected with the officer and asked him “Why are you doing this to people? You have a job and you are getting a salary. Then why are you demanding bribe? You must get his job done as fast as you can.”

Modiji’s handling of situations was so astute and effective that neither did the officer feel humiliated nor did the complainant return empty-handed. The officer never felt that he was insulted in front of so many people because Modiji’s goal was not to teach him a lesson, it was to help him move onto the path of righteousness and improve the way public service is conducted in the state. So only when the officer was transferred, he got to know about the reactions of Modiji.

Another incident is of the time when a handicapped person had lodged a grievance for not getting help and he was part of the meeting with the CM. He was not able to walk and he was sitting on the floor when Modi saheb arrived. As soon as he saw him sitting on the floor, Modiji ordered all of us to help him be seated in a chair. He said, “It is impossible that I should be sitting in a chair and the applicant on the floor.” After the program got over, he issued a standing order to always make prior arrangement for wheelchairs

whenever we had physically challenged complainants on our list. Not just this, he also instructed us to never, ever let a handicapped complainant enter the premises without someone receiving him at the entrance. He said “The person has already arrived for the meeting after going through so much. Once he is here, it is your duty to go and greet him outside and bring him inside with honour and dignity. He should be heard with respect, his problem should be resolved utmost alacrity.”

At another time, a farmer had come and was demanding a compensation for the crop that had got wasted. Now all of us knew that Modi saheb will resolve his problem. But no one could have ever imagined the way Modi saheb was going to deal with this complaint.

Modiji asked the farmer “What is the method of irrigation that you have adopted?” He said “Sir, we either take water from the canal that is flowing next to our fields or we depend on rains.” Modiji then asked him “Why don’t you use drip irrigation (tapak sinchai) for your fields?” And he then explained the benefits of drip irrigation to the farmer. So Modiji did not only address the grievances, but also empowered people with knowledge of best practices and guided them like a mentor. This is the hallmark of truly great leaders.

CHANDRESH KOTAK

Deputy Director Sardar Patel Institute of Public Administration, Gujarat

“Is it possible that a handicapped applicant sits on the floor while I remain seated in my chair?”

Modiji’s handling of situations was so astute and effective that neither did the officer feel humiliated nor did the complainant return empty-handed

PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI

KARNATAKA ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS “

SIDDARAMAIAH MUST CLARIFY...”

Amit Shah questions Cong promise to increase Muslim reservation in K’taka

New Delhi (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday slammed Congress over its promise to restore quota for Muslims in Karnataka and talking of an increase in quota to six per cent and said that the party should make it clear if it will slash the benefits of SCs, STs, Lingayats or Vokkaligas.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Shah said Siddaramaiah should clarify that if Congress increases the reservation for Muslims from 4 to 6 per cent, then whose reservation it will cut down. He said the Congress leader should make the

“TERRORISM WITHOUT AMMUNITION”: NADDA ON ‘THE KERALA STORY’ MOVIE

Bengaluru (ANI): After watching the movie ‘The Kerala Story’, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda said that there is a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, adding that the film exposes “poisonous terrorism”. Nadda on Sunday, attended a special screening of the movie in the Garuda Mall, Bengaluru where he is also campaigning for the party for the upcoming Assembly polls. While talking to reporters, Nadda said, “There’s a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, ‘Kerala Story’ exposes that poisonous terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn’t related to any state or religion...”

“Reservation within reservation done with a lot of thought...Before the end of campaigning for Karnataka elections, Siddaramaiah must clarify that if Congress

Yediyurappa expresses confidence of BJP winning 135 seats in K’taka

Bengaluru (ANI): Former CM BS Yediyurappa on Monday expressed confidence that BJP will win 135 seats in Karnataka polls and termed Congress as “a drowning ship”.

ed four per cent reservation for Muslims as it is “unconstitutional”.

“There is no provision for reservation on the basis of religion in our Constitution. Congress had given Muslim reservations to consolidate the vote bank under the appeasement policy which we have revoked,” he said.

Congress leader and former Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha K Rahman Khan had told the media that if the party comes to power in Karnataka, Muslim reservation can be increased from 4 to 6 per cent.

Former CM Siddaramaiah said the Congress is committed “to increasing the reservation limit from 50 to 75 per cent and extend reservation to all castes based on their population”.

Addressing media on the last day of campaign, Yediyurappa said a “double-engine govt” is essential for the development of the southern state. “PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah did roadshows and rallies. I am confident that we (BJP) will win 135 seats. Congress is a sinking ship, its leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi won only 2-3 seats in Uttar Pradesh even after campaigning for 4-5 months,” he said.

Won’t keep mum if Constitution is violated: WB Guv

Kolkata (Agencies):

NO CHANCE OF A HUNG ASSEMBLY IN KARNATAKA, SAYS BS YEDIYURAPPA

Bengaluru (Agencies): Former Chief Minister and Lingayat strongman BS Yediyurappa said on Monday that there is no chance of a hung Assembly in Karnataka, which goes to the polls on May 10. Speaking to reporters at the party headquarters here, Yediyurappa said the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community in the state is with the BJP. “This time there won’t be a fractured verdict in the state,” Yediyurappa said. Karnataka Assembly has 224 seats and 113 seats are needed for simple majority. “We are fortunate to have a Prime Minister like Narendra Modi who is willing to execute all the projects. He is administering the country like ‘Basaveshwara’ (12th century social reformer),” he said.

Bengaluru (ANI): Congress General Secretary Pri yanka Gandhi Vadra who is in Bengaluru for election campaign, on Monday said that the grand old party would be elected to power as the people of the state want an “end to corruption”. “We are very confident and hopeful. I am not a predictor of numbers; I can only see the response that we have gotten from the public. The people of Karnataka want an end to corruption,” Pri yanka said while talking to the media after her mega roadshow in the city. Priyanka on Monday held a roadshow in Bengaluru’s Vijayana gar on the last day of campaigning for the Karnataka Assembly elections which are scheduled to be held on May 10. She was accompanied by Vijayanagar MLA M Krishnappa, who is seeking re-election from the segment, and his son Priya Krishna, the Congress candidate in the neighbouring Govindarajanagar.

Union HM Amit Shah

IN THE COURTYARD

LAND-FOR-JOB CASE: DELHI COURT GRANTS CBI TIME TO FILE SUPPLEMENTARY CHARGESHEET

New Delhi: Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Monday granted time to the CBI to file a supplementary charge sheet in land for a job scam. Lalu Prasad Yadav’s daughter Misa Bharti attended the hearing. Special judge Geetanjali Goel granted time to the CBI. The court asked the agency to expedite the filing of the supplementary chargesheet. The matter has been listed on June 1 for a hearing. Advocate Manu Mishra appeared for the agency and sought four weeks’ time to file supplementary charge sheet.

HC JUNKS PLEA FOR LEGAL STUDIES AS SUBJECT IN SCHOOLS

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday junked a petition seeking introduction of “legal studies” as a subject in all schools.

A bench said taking a decision on teaching “legal studies” to school children fell in the domain of the government authorities as it was a “matter of policy” and the plea was a “sheer misuse” of the forum. The lawyer appearing for the petitioner contended that legal education was a “basic subject” and the soul of the Constitution.

Umesh’s remark against Shaista enraged Atiq

Prayagraj (Agencies): It was an unsavoury remark that Umesh Pal allegedly made in reference to his wife Shaista Parveen that enraged

Atiq Ahmad to such an extent that he ensured the murder of Pal.

URINATION CASE: SC NOTICES TO GoI, DGCA FOR FRAMING SOP

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine the plea of a 72-year-old woman, on whom a male co-passenger urinated on board an Air India flight in November last year, seeking a direction to the Centre, aviation regulator DGCA and airlines to frame an SOP to deal with such incidents. A bench took note of the plea of the woman and issued notices to the Centre, DGCA Directorate General and all airlines, including Air India.

SASARAM COURT REFUSES BAIL TO FORMER BJP MLA OVER RAM NAVAMI VIOLENCE

Patna: The Sasaram district court on Monday refused bail to former BJP MLA Jawahar Prasad in connection with the communal violence in the district on Ram Navami. Prasad was arrested by the police on April 29 following which he was remanded to judicial custody. His lawyer had filed a plea for bail in the court of chief judicial magistrate. The prosecution lawyer urged the court to add IPC Section 302 in the case against Jawahar Prasad and other accused persons, who were allegedly involved in the communal violence during a Ram Navami procession on March 31. Subsequently, the court oredered to include IPC Section 302 in the FIR.

Ahmad’s lawyer, Khan Saulat Haneef, has reportedly told the police that Atiq had entered into an argument with the lawyer of Umesh Pal over the phone and their altercation led to Pal’s killing on February 24 this year.

It was Umesh’s intrusion in Atiq’s illegal real estate business that

had infuriated Atiq. Police questioned Khan Saulat on May 3 during the 12-hour custody remand sanctioned by the court and during this period the lawyer reportedly revealed that Atiq had sent his aide Guddu Muslim to meet Umesh Pal.

RAJ

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Monday gave a latent warning to the state government after he said that he will not remain silent in case there is a constitutional crisis in the state. He also referred to the legendary play of Hamlet by William Shakespeare. “If there is a constitutional or legal crisis, I will not remain silent like Hamlet,” the Governor said while attending a function at the ancestral residence of Gurudev

Rabindranath

Tagore at Jorasanko in North Kolkata on Monday, a day before when the entire country will be celebrating the birth anniversary of the Nobel Laureate Indian poet, writer and educationist.

The governor’s observation came after the National Commission for Sched-

BHAVAN & STATE

uled Castes (NCSC) vice-chairman Arun Halder met him at the Raj Bhavan on Saturday afternoon. Halder sought the latter’s permission to summon and question the chief secretary and the director general of police in connection with the recent killing of a youth in police firing at Kaliaganj in North Dinajpur district of West Bengal.

Nitish Kumar to arrive in Maharashtra on Thursday for Opposition unity efforts

Mumbai (Agencies): A day after polling for the Karnataka Assembly elections, JD (U) President and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar will come to Mumbai on May 11 as part of his efforts to forge a united national Opposition front.

In Mumbai, he will meet two former CMsNCP President Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, though details of his programme are not yet available.

Confirming the development, Pawar said on Monday that he had received a message to the

effect, setting the ball rolling in this state for talks with the main nonBJP Opposition parties. “I have received a message that Nitish Ku-

REEL & REAL CONTROVERSY

mar will come to Mumbai on May 11. We will meet though I do not have the full details with me. Our view is that an alternative is

needed in the country,” said Pawar in Solapur. Nitish’s trip comes barely a week after the Bihar Legislative Council Chairman Devesh Chandra Thakur met Thackeray at his residence, ‘Matoshri’, along with JD-U national Secretary Kapil Patil, a Maharashtra MLC. Sharad Pawar added that for all those who wish to contribute to the Opposition unity efforts, whether Nitish Kumar or West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, it was imperative to work together in that direction.

West Bengal govt bans ‘The Kerala Story’ movie

Kolkata (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial film ‘The Kerala Story’ to avoid “any incident of hatred and violence”, a senior official said here.

Action will be taken against any theatre found showing the film, the official said. Earlier in the day, Banerjee described ‘The Kerala Story’ as a distorted

New Delhi (PTI): The BJP on Monday slammed West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee for banning the movie “The Kerala Story”, which claims to depict the plight of women converted to Islam and recruited by Islamic State, and said her decision raises serious questions on civil liberties and freedom of expression. BJP’s I-T department head Amit Malviya said the decision is unfortunate as the movie gives a “real account of victims who have endured the horrors of demographic invasion and have been used as cannon fodder” for the terrorist organisation IS.

movie, aimed at defaming the southern state.

“To avoid any incident of hatred and violence and to maintain

THAKUR RAPS DIDI FOR BANNING ‘THE KERALA STORY’

New Delhi: Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Monday said WB CM Mamata Banerjee had done injustice to the sisters and daughters of the State by banning The Kerala Story.

“Today the whole country wants to ask her in one voice that why she has so much problem with a film focused on terrorism?...It is beyond understanding why their sympathies are with terrorist organisations,” he said.

PRIYANKA GANDHI VADRA PINS HOPE FOR ‘GOOD RESULT’ IN KARNATAKA ELECTION

West Bengal Guv CV Ananda Bose at 45th convocation of Rabindra Bharati University (RBU), in Kolkata on Monday.

BS Yediyurappa, Dharmendra Pradhan, Shobha Karandlaje and Rajeev Chandrashekhar address media in Bengaluru, on Monday.

BJP SLAMS MAMATA BANERJEE FOR BAN ON ‘THE KERALA STORY’

Priyanka Gandhi

Atiq Ahmad

Nitish Kumar

Srinagar-Leh highway closed after avalanche near Cafeteria Morh

Several vehicles are stranded in Sonamarg area

Ganderbal: The Srinagar-Leh highway was on Monday afternoon closed for traffic after a snow avalanche blocked the road near Cafeteria Morh in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

Beacon official informed that SSG road is blocked due to snow avalanche near Cafeteria

Indian engineer among nine killed in mass shooting

Houston: A 27-year-old Indian woman, who was working in the US as a project engineer, was among 9 people killed when a gunman opened fire at a crowded mall in Dallas in Texas, authorities said on Monday.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, of McKinney, was shopping with a friend when they were shot by gunman Mauricio Garcia at the Allen Premium Outlets in Dallas, the New York Post newspaper reported. The shooting erupted around 3:30 pm on Saturday as throngs of shoppers filled the outdoor mall.

Pak to release 199 Indian fishermen; 1 dead in Karachi Karachi (PTI): Pakistani authorities are expected to go ahead with its goodwill gesture to release on Friday 199 Indian fishermen arrested for allegedly fishing illegally in the country’s waters, despite the death of an Indian civilian who was to be repatriated with them. Kazi Nazir, a top police official in the jail and corrections department in Sindh, said that they had been told by relevant government ministries to prepare for the release and repatriation of 199 fishermen on Friday.

Kanpur bizman asked to pay `497 crore Kanpur: A chargesheet is set to be filed against Kanpur businessman Piyush Jain and his associates by the DGGI. Jain came under the scanner after over Rs 200 cr in cash was seized from his premises during raids by central agencies in 2021. The DGGI has now imposed a tax liability of Rs 497 crore on Piyush Jain and his three firms, including M/s Odocham Industries, M/s Flora Naturale, and M/s Odosanth Inc. Piyush Jain and his 14 associates have been asked to pay an additional Rs 290 crore by the DGGI.

SLIGHT INTENSITY TREMOR HITS KASHMIR

Srinagar (IANS): A slight intensity tremor, measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale, jolted Kashmir on Monday but authorities said no report of any casualty or damage to property was reported from anywhere. The Met department said that an earthquake measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale occurred in Kashmir at 2.28 p.m. with its epicentre in Baramulla region. The latitude of the earthquake was 34.16 degrees north and longitude 74.56 degrees east. It occurred at a depth of 10 km. Earthquakes have wrought havoc in Kashmir in past as the place is situated in seismologically highly sensitive region.

Morh. Meanwhile, several vehicles are stranded in Sonamarg area after the road got closed.

An official said men and machinery have been pressed into service to clear the road.

Unseasonal snowfall in parts of Kashmir brought back the winter-like conditions in the Valley on Monday.

—PHOTO BY PTI

MANIPUR VIOLENCE

Uneasy calm prevails in Manipur, curfew relaxed for 3 hrs in 3 dists

Imphal: An uneasy calm is prevailing in ethnic violence hit Manipur even as the authorities relaxed the curfew in three districts, including the most volatile Churachandpur district, for three hours on Monday morning while the Army and paramilitary forces continued their vigil in the strife-torn areas.

Newly-appointed security advisor to Manipur government, Kuldiep Singh, a former CRPF chief, said that at least 37 people have been killed and over a 100 people have been injured in the series of ethnic violence in different districts of Manipur since May 3. However, various me-

dia outlets quoting hospital sources said that at least 50 to 55 people, including women, have been killed in the at-

tacks and counter attacks by the rival ethnic groups in six districts since May 3, when widespread violent clashes

Farmers break through barricades to join wrestlers’ protest in Delhi

New Delhi: Jantar

Mantar witnessed dramatic scenes this morning as a group of farmers broke through barricades to join the wrestlers’ protest over sexual harassment allegations against the national wrestling federation chief.

Visuals from the spot showed farmers crossing over and removing barricades put up by the police near the wrestlers’ protest site.

Delhi Police trashed reports of a face-off between the farmers and cops and said they were

Farmers under the banner of SKM arrive at Jantar Mantar to support protesting wrestlers in New Delhi on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI

only facilitating the entry of farmers.

“A group of farmers were escorted to Jantar Mantar. At entry barricades they were in a hurry to reach the dharna site in which some of

CUTTING EMISSIONS

them climbed the barricades which fell down & were removed by them. Police team kept the barricades at the back aside to facilitate their entry,” the office of DCP, New Delhi, tweeted.

Peace meetings by public representatives and community leaders were held in nine places in different districts on Sunday. Such meetings are also being held on Monday in more places across the strife-torn state. 134 arms, looted by the miscreants and agitators, have so far been recovered as the district authorities appealed to the people to return the looted weapons immediately.

—Kuldiep Singh, Newlyappointed Security Advisor to Manipur Government

broke out across Manipur during a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ called by the All Tribal Students’ Union of Ma-

nipur (ATSUM) to oppose the demand for inclusion of the Meitei community in the ST category.

BRO RESCUES 10 PEOPLE STRANDED IN SNOW AT J-K’S QAZIGUND TUNNEL

Qazigund (ANI): Border roads organisation (BRO) on Monday rescued 10 people including 8 tourists who were stranded near the old tunnel in the Qazigund area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district following fresh snowfall in parts of the valley. The people who were stranded include 8 tourists from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the vehicle’s driver and helper, officials said.

“At least 10 people including 8 tourists who got

stuck near the old tunnel in the Qazigund area of Kulgam district due to snowfall were rescued by BRO and officials of the district administration kulgam,” they said. Heavy snowfall was witnessed in parts of Kashmir on Monday including Pahalgam’s Betaab Valley, Anantnag and Machil area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir. A fresh spell of snowfall was also witnessed in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu on Monday.

Defence Minister Singh inaugurates IAF Heritage Centre in Chandigarh

Chandigarh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the IAF Heritage Centre stating that it is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of all who served in the IAF and a reminder of their valuable contributions in protecting the nation, the first of its kind in the country, at the Government Press Building in Sector 18, Chandigarh on Monday.

In a tweet, Singh wrote about the inauguration of the first-of-itskind Indian Air Force Heritage Centre, saying that it has been dedicated to the nation.

Rajnath Singh @rajnathsingh

Dedicated to the nation India’s first IAF Heritage Centre in Chandigarh today. This Centre is a testament to the courage and dedication of all those who have served in the IAF and a reminder of their invaluable contributions in protecting the nation.

The centre, spread over 17,000 square feet and located in the Government Press Building in Sector 18, showcases the IAF’s role in various wars and houses five vintage aircraft.

Second low-intensity blast reported near Golden Temple in 30 hours, one injured

Amritsar (PTI): One person was injured in a low-intensity explosion that took place on a heritage street near the Golden Temple here on Monday morning, close to the spot where a blast was reported on May 6, police said. No detonator has been found and it appears that the explosive was kept in a container, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said, adding that it is too early to say whether the blast was someone’s “mischief” or there’s a terror angle

Govt panel proposes ban on diesel 4-wheeler

lll

India, one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases, wants to produce 40% of its electricity from renewables to achieve its 2070 net zero goal

First India Bureau

New Delhi: India should ban the use of diesel-powered fourwheeler vehicles by 2027 and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles in cities with more than a million people and polluted towns in order to cut emissions, a panel formed by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is recommending.

India, one of the biggest emitters of green-

house gases, wants to produce 40% of its electricity from renewables to achieve its 2070 net

DIESEL ACCOUNTS FOR TWO-FIFTHS OF FUEL

To boost electric vehicle use in the country, the report said the govt should consider “targeted extension” of incentives given under FAME to beyond March 31. Diesel accounts for about two-fifths of refined fuel consumption in India with 80% of that being used in the transport sector.

zero goal.

“By 2030, no city buses should be added which are not electric...

diesel buses for city transport should not be added from 2024 onwards,” the panel said.

to it. Police and forensic teams reached the spot soon after the explosion and security was stepped up in the area.

Speaking to reporters here, DGP Yadav, who

visited the spot, said one person was injured in the explosion which was reported around 6:15 am. The explosive was very crudely made and assembled. Though

no shrapnel was used, there was a loud sound, he said.

The officer said the two explosions in the area are being “scientifically investigated”.

“Our forensic team is present on the spot,” he said. “We have not found any triggering device or any detonator,” he said referring to the two incidents.

The absence of a triggering mechanism means it is a crude device. It appears that the explosive was kept in a container, Yadav said on Monday’s blast.

5 more cheetahs to be released into free-ranging conditions in MP’s Kuno

New Delhi (PTI): Five cheetahs — three females and two males — will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park before the onset of the monsoon in June, Union Environment Ministry said on May 8. It said the cheetahs will be allowed to move out of KNP and will not necessarily be “recaptured unless they venture into areas where

they are in significant danger”.

So far, four of the eight cheetahs that were brought from Namibia have been released from the fenced acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in KNP.

“Five more cheetahs (three females and two males) will be released from the acclimatisation camps into freeroaming conditions in KNP before the onset of the monsoon rains in June,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry said the decision was taken after a team of experts reviewed the current status of the “Project Cheetah” on the directions of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

RAF personnel conduct flag march in view of the violence occurred in Manipur, in Imphal on Sunday.

Rajnath Singh with Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari at IAF Heritage Centre, in Chandigarh on Monday.

NEWLY-APPOINTED SECURITY ADVISOR, KULDEEP SINGH, SAID THAT AT LEAST 37 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN KILLED & OVER A 100 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN INJURED

Police personnel and Forensic officials inspect the site at Heritage Street near the Golden Temple, in Amritsar on Monday.

—PHOTO BY ANI

RAINING MISSILES!

Russia attacks Ukraine with its biggest swarm of drones

Kyiv (Agencies): Russia carried out drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities through the night, escalating attacks in the run-up to its cherished Victory Day holiday that celebrates the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Ukraine said its air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched. Kyiv's mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure. A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile, where officials reported 3 people wounded.

It was one of the biggest volleys of missiles and drones yet in a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Kyiv said Moscow was also making a final push to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut, to deliver President Vladimir Putin what would be his only prize for a costly Russian winter offensive, in time for the holiday.

RUSSIA

ACROSS THE

GLOBE

U krainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Monday that Russian forces would be defeated in Ukraine just as Nazi Germany was beaten in 1945, during an address commemorating the end of World War II. His speech recorded at a war memorial in Kyiv comes one day ahead of Victory Day in Moscow, a Soviet war anniversary to be marked by an army parade through Red Square with security on high alert. Ukrainian forces meanwhile said they had downed nearly three dozen Russian attack drones, spurring explosions and air raid sirens in the capital overnight.

ALL 35 DRONES RUSSIA LAUNCHED DESTROYED, SAYS UKRAINE MILITARY

Ukraine’s top military command said on Monday that its forces destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones that Russia had launched overnight around the country. In addition, 61 airstrikes and 52 attacks from the heavy rocket salvo fire systems were launched over the past day on the positions of Ukrainian forces and populated areas. “Unfortunately, there are dead & wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes & other civilian infrastructure were damaged,” the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces said.

Rana, Russell lead KKR to win in last-ball thriller

PBKS scored 178 runs after losing 7 wickets

New Delhi (Agencies):

Kolkata Knight Riders on 8 May defeated the Punjab Kings by 5 wickets, with 2 balls remaining – all thanks to powerful knocks by skipper Nitish Rana and Andre Russell. Playing against the Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Monday, Punjab Kings scored 178 runs after losing 7 wickets in 20 overs.

After winning the toss, as expected PBKS skipper elected to bat.

Openers Prabhsimran Singh (12) and Shikhar Dhawan (57) tried to build a partnership. But, in the second over,

IRAN HANGS TWO IN RARE CASE OF BLASPHEMY

Kolkata Knight Riders players in a match against Punjab Kings during the IPL 2023, at Eden Gardens, in Kolkata on Monday.

Harshit Rana showed Prabhsimran Singh the way to pavilion.

Following this, Rana dismissed Bhanuka Rajapaksa (0) in the 4th over. When Liam Livingstone (15) came to bat, there was a hope

that a partnership will be seen, but he was departed by Varun Chakravarthy in the 6th over. After this, Jitesh Sharma arrived and scored 21 runs before being dismissed by Varun in the 13th over.

WOMEN’S TEAM FOR AUSTRALIA TOUR

Washington (Agencies): US President Joe Biden renewed his call Sunday for a national assault-weapons ban and other gun safety measures, a day after 8 people were murdered at a Texas shopping mall in the latest mass shooting to shake the nation. Responders, distressed witnesses and police described scenes of panic and horror in Allen, where video footage shared online showed the shooter exiting a sedan in an outlet mall parking lot Saturday and firing a semiautomatic rifle at people walking nearby.

Location Sources: Associated Press, USA today and northeastern University Monterey Park, Calif Allen, Tex Enouch, Utah Henryetta, Okla Nashville Arkabutla, Miss Goshen, Calif Cleveland, Tex Louisville Half Moon Bay, Calif Date Jan 21 May 6 Jan 4 April 30 March 27 Feb 17 Jan 16 April 28 April 10 Jan 23 Number killed 11 8 7 6 6 6 6 5 5 7

Sudan (Agencies): Air strikes again shook Sudan’s capital Monday while latest truce talks in Jeddah yielded no progress and a Saudi diplomat said both sides consider themselves “capable of winning the battle”. Sudan was thrown into deadly chaos when fighting broke out on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Daglo, who heads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

New york (Agencies):

Former United States President Donald Trump has rejected his last chance to testify in a civil trial, initiated after a rape accusation by writer and Ex- magazine columnist E Jean Carroll In her lawsuit, Carroll has stated that Trump raped her in a dressing room in the Bergdorf Goodman department store in New York City in spring of 1996 and later defamed her on social media by labelling her allega-

Former Prez Donald Trump Ex- columnist E Jean Carroll

tions “a hoax and a lie”.

Trump was given a deadline to file his request to testify in the New York civil trial but nothing was filed. Also, Trump has not shown up once during the twoweek trial in a Manhattan court.

Dubai: Iran hanged two men on Monday convicted of blasphemy, authorities said, carrying out rare death sentences for the crime as executions surge across the Islamic Republic following months of unrest. Iran remains one of the world’s top executioners, having put to death at least 203 prisoners since the start of this year alone, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights.

TAIWAN IN TALKS FOR $500 MN ARMS FROM US

New Delhi: The Taiwan is in talks with the U.S. and expects to receive a $500 million fast-tracked weapons package by the end of the year, the country’s Foreign Ministry said Monday. Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng detailed the talks in testimony before the Taiwanese parliament this week. He said the $500 million package is separate from the $4.5 billion the U.S. has promised to deliver to Taiwan over the next 4 years.

ASIA CUP SET TO BE MOVED FROM PAK TO S LANKA

New Delhi: The 2023 Asia Cup that is scheduled to take place later this year is set to move from Pakistan to Sri Lanka, according to the latest reports on Monday. The likelihood of the tournament being shifted from Pakistan had increased recently, with BCCI secretary Jay Shah even stating that they refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan over lack of government clearance.

If you get going, don’t change your tempo: Ravi Shastri to Virat Kohli

Punjab Kings captain Shikhar Dhawan and Kolkata Knight Riders captain Nitish Rana during their IPL match on Monday.

Hockey India names 20-member sqaud



Team will also play two games against Australia

“A.” The tour will be part of the team’s preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023

New Delhi (ANI): Hockey India on Monday named a 20-member Indian women’s hockey team for a three-match series against Australia to be held in Adelaide from May 18.

The Indian Team for Australia Tour will be led by ace goalkeeper Savita who was recently bestowed with the Balbir Singh Sr Hockey India Player of the Year (2022) Award. She will be assisted by Deep Grace Ekka as Vice Captain.

NAT’L

WIN

Rourkela (ANI): The action in the 13th Hockey India Sub Junior Women National Championship 2023 continued on Monday with Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu, Hockey Uttarakhand and Chhattisgarh Hockey registering wins in their respective games in Rourkela.

Ahead of FP3, the Tesla boss was spotted chatting with Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner on Saturday. Holding his son in

New Delhi (PTI): Former India coach Ravi Shastri on Monday advised Virat Kohli that he must not drop the tempo of his innings after getting a start as his consistent ‘bat-deep’ approach triggered a debate if such batting style is suited for T20 cricket.

Kohli’s approach was questioned after he made 55 off 46 balls in a losing cause against Delhi Capitals at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Saturday night. It was his sixth fifty-plus score of the season but the pace of his innings probably cost the team another 20 runs.

Asked if the underperforming RCB middle-order is forcing Kohli to play deep, Shastri sais that the In-

dian superstar doesn’t need to worry about the form of other batters.

“Once you gain tempo, don’t change, don’t worry about the others. That will be my message to Virat. Let them do their job. In a T20 game, you don’t need that many batsmen. If you are hot keep that going. Prime example of that was Phil Salt. You saw the way he batted. Once he got into the groove he didn’t let go,” he said.

World’s Richest Men Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, spotted in Florida at the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix qualifying race.

his arms, Musk appeared to have been given a tour of the current Constructor Championship leaders' garage, ac-

cording to Sky Sports. The SpaceX chief was seen trying on a pair of headphones, while Horner watched on.

Bichu Devi Kharibam is the second goalkeeper named in the squad apart from defenders Deep

Grace Ekka, Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita and Gurjit Kaur. Midfielders include Ni-

sha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, and Baljeet Kaur.

A 20-member Indian women’s hockey team for a three-match series against Australia to be held in Adelaide from May 18.

WILL BE DEFEATED 'AS NAZISM WAS': UKRAINIAN PREZ

SUB-JUNIOR WOMEN

C’SHIP: TN, U’KHAND, C’GARH

Texas police & US federal authorities intensified their investigations as they seek motive in mall shooting that killed 8 on Monday.

VICTORY

Trump declines to testify in rape trial

Miami (ANI): Elon Musk took a break from his Twitter overhaul this weekend to jet down to South Florida for the Miami Grand Prix. The 51-year-old wasn't the only billionaire in the paddock. Not to be outdone, Amazon owner Jeff Bezos was also spotted at the Miami International Autodrome.

IPL 2023 KKR VS PBKS

Kolkata Knight Riders Nitish Rana plays a shot in a match against Punjab Kings during the IPL match, in Kolkata on Monday.

There is a beauty in truth and purity that is supreme and valued only by the enlightened. —Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, First India

EYEING 2023 POLLS

Independent ‘rebels’ aspire for Cong tickets in Assembly polls

 12 out of 13 Independent MLAs have demanded for Congress ticket in the next Assembly polls & suggested contesting polls under CM Gehlot’s leadership

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s latest statement calling MLAs who rebelled against his leadership in 2020 to return money which they had allegedly taken from BJP leaders to topple his government has created a political stir in the state.

Gehlot said to the MLAs who went to Manesar were given crores of rupees by BJP and now they should return the money to Union Minister Amit Shah and if any share of the money has been spent by them, then he will get it returned from the AICC.

It is palpable from Gehlot’s statement that if the leadership remains in his hands, then the tickets of the MLAs supporting Sachin Pilot and the leaders who were defeated by the rebels in the last elections can be cut.

Meanwhile, independent MLAs who contested the assembly elections as the rebel

 MLAs also expressed the desire for a ticket before state in charge Randhawa during one to one meeting. MLA Baljeet Yadav didn’t meet Sukhjinder Randhawa

WILL THE TICKETS OF REBEL MLAs BE CUT?

MLAs DEMANDING TICKETS FROM THE GRAND-OLD-PARTY

INDEPENDENT MLAs who are demanding Congress ticket are Mahadeo Singh Khandela (Khandela), Babulal Nagar (Dudu), Sanyam Lodha (Sirohi), Ramkesh Meena (Gangapur city), Khushveer Singh Jojawar (Marwar Junction), Alok Beniwal (Shahpura), Laxman Meena (Bassi), Rajkumar Gaur (Ganganagar), Ramila Khadiya (Kushalgarh), Omprakash Hudla (Mahua), Suresh Tank (Kishangarh) and Kanti Prasad Meena (Thanagazi).

candidates are also demanding tickets. 11 of the 13 independent MLAs are of Congress ideology as they contested elections after being denied ticket by the party while remaining two contested after BJP denied them ticket.

Gehlot enjoys the support of the independent MLAs. The MLAs have also expressed their desire for a ticket from Congress before the state in charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa during one to one meeting. MLA Baljeet

Cong will repeat govt due to CM’s welfare schemes: Shanti Dhariwal

First India Bureau

Kota: UDH Minister Shanti Dhariwal on Monday, said that Congress is going to repeat the government in the state due to welfare schemes of CM Ashok Gehlot. He also said that Congress will form the government in Karnataka. “No matter how hard the BJP tries, the public is determined and the public will vote heavily in favour of the Congress,” he said.

About Rajasthan government schemes, Dhariwal said that the people are getting benefit from the welfare schemes of the Congress and the public has made up its mind to repeat the government. Talking to the media in

Kota on Monday, Dhariwal said that the initiative taken by CM Gehlot has not been taken by any state in the country to fight inflation.

“CM Gehlot has gifted relief schemes to the people of the state, which are being discussed a lot in the Op-

position camp as well. Dhariwal did a padyatra in ward number 11 Borkheda area of Kota on Monday. Minister Shanti Dhariwal and PCC member Amit Dhariwal started the padyatra from Manna Chowk of the ward and met people.

SIX TURNCOAT BSP MLAs turned Congress MLAsRajendra Gudha, Joginder Singh Awana, Lakhan Singh Meena, Deepchand Kheria, Wajib Ali and Sandeep Yadav who are also demanding Congress ticket.

Yadav did not meet Randhawa.

12 out of 13 Independent MLAs have demanded for Congress ticket in the next assembly elections. Letters related to their demands were also handed over to Randhawa and PCC

Can the ticket of 18 MLAs going to Manesar be cut? According to the sources, some similar indications are being received from Gehlot’s statement made on Sunday. Gehlot had made a direct allegation on these MLAs and accused them of taking crores of rupees from BJP to topple the government. So the question remains: Is Gehlot collecting such evidence slowly? On the basis of which, pressure can be created on the High Command to cut tickets for all these MLAs who rebelled against the party?

president Govind Singh Dotasra. Not only this, they suggested contesting elections under the leadership of CM Ashok Gehlot.

The demand of independent MLAs has created discontent among the Congress leaders who got Congress ticket in the last election and were defeated by them. Most of these defeated leaders are considered as staunch supporters of Sachin Pilot.

RaGa in Mt Abu today for Sarvodaya Sankalp camp

Yogesh Sharma

Jaipur: Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi will attend Congress’s Sarvodaya Sankalp training camp in Mount Abu today, a day before PM Modi’s visit. Today is the last day of the 10-day camp. CM Ashok Gehlot and State President GS Dotasra will reach Dabok Airport in Udaipur and the three will leave for Mount Abu together.

Rahul Gandhi will go to Mount Abu in a helicopter from Udaipur. He will stay in Mount Abu for about six hours and will then return to Udaipur. He will leave for Delhi in evening.

Rahul Gandhi has attended these camps earlier also. In the camps,

Power employees meet CM, thank for Old Pension Scheme

First India Bureau

Jaipur: A delegation of electricity workers met Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot at the Chief Minister’s residence on Monday. The delegation members thanked the Chief Minister for bringing the power employees and officers under the purview of the Old Pension Scheme. Gehlot said, “This has given employees a sense of security about future. After retirement, their future cannot be kept

Employees of Power Dept with CM Ashok Gehlot at CMR on Monday. Also seen are BS Bhati & Parsadi Lal Meena.

under share market and mutual funds.

The criticism of OPS by many experts is wrong. Nation has made unprecedented progress in all fields with execution of OPS.” Energy Minis-

ter Bhanwar S Bhati said that every section is benefiting from govt’s public welfare schemes. A delegation of All Rajasthan Prabodhak Sangh led by Minister Ramlal Jat also met CM.

Ashok Gehlot@ashokgehlot51

Heartiest Congratulations to the 11 talented students of Government Schools in Tonk district who have cleared JEE Main 2023 exam. The fact that these 11 students studied in a govt school, speaks volumes about the quality of education being provided in Rajasthan. I wish them all the best and I am sure they will inspire others to work hard and achieve their dreams.

Dhakad community contributing towards building a green India: Birla

Manoj Sharma

Tonk: LS Speaker Om

the workers are given training about Cong’s ideology. Many activities are conducted along with spinning wheels. The focus is Gandhism and the ideology of the Congress. These camps are held thrice a year. The Congress training cell regularly organises Sarvodaya camps. About 45 delegates from different states and five delegates from Rajasthan are taking part in the camp.

TAKING STOCK OF RHB PROJECTS

Birla, MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan and other leaders attended the pran pratishtha samaroh of Lord Dharnidhar in Mandkala village, Birla said that a grand temple has been built with collective efforts of people which is a symbol of faith & rich Indian culture.

Birla said that Lord Dharnidhar gave a new dimension to upliftment of human beings. He said that following Lord Dharnidhar’s teachings, the ‘Dhartiputra’ Dhakad community is making a leading contribution in building a green India and protecting the borders. Social activist

Sadhna Singh, Dhakad community head and MP Rodumal Nagar, MP

Singh Jaunapuria and others were present.

All ongoing schemes will be completed timely with quality work: Arora

 RHB Commissioner also inquired about the current status of various schemes under progress in various districts of Rajasthan

Shivendra Parmar

Jaipur: RHB Commissioner Pawan Arora said that the officers should ensure that the work of various residential and commercial projects going on across the State is completed within the stipulated time period while maintaining quality.

Arora was reviewing various ongoing schemes across the state at the RHB Headquarters ‘Awas Bhawan’

on Monday. In the marathon meeting which lasted for 3 hours, the

progress of under-construction and progressing schemes were re-

viewed through power point presentation, 3D view and photos and

videos taken by drones and necessary guidelines were issued.

Arora inquired about the current status of ongoing schemes including Chaupatis in Jodhpur and Kota, Badli-Bikaner, Shivbari-Bikaner, Bhilwara, Udaipur, Manpura Abu, Niwai Tonk, Alwar, Bhiwadi and other Raj districts. He reviewed the progress of houses being constructed under the Mukhyamantri Jan Awas Yojana in Jaipur’s

Indira Gandhi Nagar & Pratap Nagar, took stock of City Park, Coaching Hub, SS Residency, Vatika Residency, Fountain Square.

Arora instructed to complete the works of houses being constructed under the Mukhya Mantri Jan Awas Yojana in Sectors 3 & 7 of Indira Gandhi Nagar and Sectors 28 & 26 of Pratap Nagar in Jaipur by May 25. He said that these houses would be inaugurated soon.

Special care is being taken to complete all the ongoing schemes in State ensuring quality work and completion within the stipulated period of time. RHB has succeeded in regaining the peoples’ trust and this is the reason why the masses have shown great enthusiasm in various new projects launched in March.

Sukhbir

A delegation of Power employees felicitate Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot by presenting him a huge garland at Chief Minister’s Residence on Monday.

Shanti Dhariwal and Amit Dhariwal during the padyatra of Cong’s ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ campaign in Ward No 11 in Manna Chowk of Borkheda area in Kota on Monday.

Pawan Arora chairs a review meeting of various projects under progress in Rajasthan at Awas Bhawan on Monday. Also seen are GS Baghela, Sanjay Sharma, Anil Mathur and others.

(Top) Om Birla, Shivraj Singh Chouhan & others during the ‘Pran Pratishtha Samaroh’ of Lord Dharnidhar at Mandkala in Tonk on Monday. (Bottom) Om Birla hits a shot during a Cricket competition being held under ‘Kota-Bundi Khel Mahotsav’ in Taleda.

SLAY LIKE A

Barbie has been a fashion icon since her introduction in 1959, and her influence can still be seen in fashion today. Barbie's style has evolved over the years, but she is known for her signature pink colour, feminine silhouettes, and glamorous accessories. Barbie is known for her love of pink, and this colour is often used in Barbie-inspired fashion. Whether it's a pink dress, a pink purse, or pink shoes, this colour adds a touch of femininity and playfulness to any outfit.

Feminine Silhouettes: Barbie's style is all about embracing femininity, and this is reflected in her clothing. Barbie-inspired fashion often features dresses and skirts with a fit-and-flare silhouette, which emphasizes the waist and creates a flouncy, feminine Glamorous Accessories: Barbie is always accessorized to the max, and this is another key feature of Barbie-inspired fashion. From statement earrings to sparkly bracelets, Barbie-in-

spired accessories add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit.

Retro Vibes: Barbie's style has changed over the years, but her iconic looks from the 1960s and 1980s are still popular today. Barbie-inspired fashion often incorporates retro elements, such as polka dots, bows, and high-waisted pants.

Playful Prints: Barbie is all about having fun, and her fashion reflects that. Barbie-inspired fashion often features playful prints, such as stripes,

Barbie-inspired fashion is all about embracing femininity, having fun, and adding a touch of glamour to everyday outfits. City First brings a pop of pink to your wardrobe.

UTTKARSHA SHEKHAR uttkarsha.shekhar@firstindia.co.in

As the sweet fragrance of May flowers fills the air, the arrival of Mother's Day is imminent.

The day when we all celebrate and honour the selfless, nurturing, and caring women in our lives who have sacrificed so much for us. As the big day approaches, many people are in a frenzy, scrambling to find the perfect gift to express their gratitude and affection. Fear not, City First curated a list of exquisite gifts that will leave your mother spellbound.

JEWELLERY

Jewellery is a timeless and elegant gift that never fails to charm. From exquisite necklaces to elaborate bracelets and earrings, jewellery is an eternal symbol of affection that will be treasured for years to come. A birthstone or a personalized engraving is a subtle touch that will add a unique touch of class to this classic gift.

SPA DAY

Mothers deserve a break, a chance to unwind and relax, and what better way to achieve this than with a spa day? The ultimate indulgence, spa packages typi-

A Walking Miracle MOTHER

cally include massages, facials, and other treatments that will melt away her stress and leave her feeling rejuvenated.

Personalized gifts are a delightful way to showcase your thoughtfulness and creativity. From bespoke photo albums and custom-made jewellery to monogrammed robes and personalized kitchenware, there are endless possibilities to create a meaningful and one-of-akind gift that will warm her heart.

COOKING AND BAKING SUPPLIES

If your mother loves to cook or bake, consider getting her some new and fancy kitchen supplies. A high-quality baking dish or a set of professional-grade knives can elevate her culinary prowess to new heights. Bonus points if you join her for a cooking or baking session, and enjoy some quality time together.

VACATION

A getaway or vacation is the ultimate way to express your love and appreciation. A change of scenery can be just what she needs to relax and recharge and create memories that will last a lifetime. Choose a destination that aligns with her interests and preferences, and watch as she revels in the joy of adventure.

ART

Art is a gift that brings joy and beauty into our lives, and if your mother is an art enthusiast, a painting, sculpture, or print is the perfect choice. Whether she prefers classic masterpieces or mod-

Nestled deep within the heart of every child, there is a sacred and cherished space reserved solely for the woman who brought them into this world - their beloved mother. As Mother’s Day approaches, City First is thrilled to present an exquisite collection of gift ideas that are sure to enrapture and enchant the most special woman in your life.

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

You will experience a change within yourself regarding what you want in a romantic partner. You will start thinking seriously and begin looking for your soul mate in earnest. Do not trust any complete stranger on money matters today as you are likely to bear considerable loss.

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

You are going to feel more dedicated today and you are going to finish off all the backlogs which may have accumulated today. Clearing this will give you a nice sense of accomplishment and this will be noticed by the people who matter to you. Finances will improve as your salary.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

Your mind is very active today. You are full of ideas and inspiration. You will be constantly coming up with new plans which you will be able to plan and execute very easily. Your only problem today will be that you may feel overwhelmed by the flood of new ideas that will constantly fill your mind.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

ern pieces of art, this gift will undoubtedly brighten up her living space and bring a smile to her face.

SUBSCRIPTION BOXES

Subscription boxes are a delightful way to keep the love and appreciation flowing. From beauty products and snacks to books and crafts, there is a subscription box for just about everything. Select a box that aligns with her interests and hobbies, and she will be reminded of your love and affection every time it arrives.

In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for Mother's Day can be a daunting task, but with these fancy gift ideas, you are sure to find something that fits her personality and preferences. Whether you choose a classic gift like jewellery or a more personalized option like a spa day or vacation, the most important thing is to show your mother how much you love and appreciate her. With a little

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

You have great capacity to charm everyone. You are going to impress those around you with your wit and grace. You will win the admiration of everyone around you. Take advantage of this shining period to make new friends and mix with new people and new opportunities will open up in front of you.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

A person who has been around you for a long time but whom you have never really noticed will now begin to play a pivotal role in your mind. It is not just a budding romance. Rather, it is a meeting of mind and spirit that is likely to leave you feeling overwhelmed. Take time to get used to the idea.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

New horizons are opening up in front of you. A talent which you have always treated as a hobby may become something more and you may find yourself making a living doing what you love. New developments are expected in every front which would broaden your ideas.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

Issues related to profession will get resolved. But no aggressive action, be it in words or in writing should not be taken till then. Those facing issues on personal front should make time for dear ones. Do take care of your health as you have been ignorant of it since long.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

You are likely to be involved in detailed planning of a project and you are going to be very thorough about it. You are feeling very industrious and this will be reflected in your job. You are also going to earn acclaim for this. A spurt of creativity will mark every aspect of your day.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

You may be cracking one of the biggest joint venture deals today. But you must mention explicitly once again your mission and goals to your partner. You may devote the end of the day towards your intellectual pursuits or in perusal of an artistic passion.

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

This day is all about change. You may come in contact with someone who will bring substantial changes in your life or put you in touch with other people who can cause the change. However, not all the changes are good for you. You will need to analyze whether the change will be good for you.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

You will be feeling very creative today. You appreciate all beautiful things and want to create something beautiful. The day is especially favourable for artists.You may suddenly start feeling deflated a common occurrence after a surge of creativity and it may leave you feeling depressed.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

You are going to be in an especially easygoing mood today. You may also play the role of an effective mediator in any dispute today. You are going to spread cheer and goodwill and you are also going to be the life and soul of any party that you attend in the evening.

SHUBHANSHI PATHAK cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

CORONATION Sonam's

Bollywood celebrity Sonam Kapoor recently attended King Charles’s coronation on Sunday, May 7 at Windsor Castle. Meanwhile, Sonam Kapoor also got to deliver a speech that found its way to the Internet.

barrassing’ by several netizens. In the oneminute clip that was shared on a popular Bollywood sub on Reddit, Sonam Kapoor started off her piece with ‘Namaste’. The Veere Di Wedding actress also went on to introduce several choir performances like The

from Risotto and Brunei, Steve Windwood and Virtual Commonwealth Choir. She said, “Our Commonwealth is a union. Together we are one-third of the world’s people, onethird of the world’s ocean, one-quarter of the world’s land. Each of our countries is unique. Each of our people is special. But we choose to stand this one. Learning from our ry, blessed by our diversity, driven by our values and determined to build a more peaceful, sustainable and prosperous future for everyone, where every voice is heard. Without further ado, here’s welcoming the incredible voices from across the Common-

FANCY

Parineeti Chopra has been hitting headlines for her alleged romance with AAP leader Raghav Chadha. It all started in March this year after they were seen enjoying lunch and dinner dates in the city. A while ago, Parineeti and Raghav were seen making stylish appearances as they exited a restaurant post enjoying a dinner date in the city. Interestingly, Parineeti was seen flaunting her silver ring amid their engagement rumours. In the videos, Parineeti is seen sporting a black outfit paired with white sneakers while Raghav opted for a grey shirt and black pants. The actress was seen blushing as the paparazzi kept asking them about the wedding. She was even seen wearing a fancy ring in her left hand and flaunting it like a queen. The duo was accompanied by Parineeti's brother. As they exited a restaurant, Parineeti and Raghav sat next to each other in the car while her brother took the front seat.

Selena talks about diagnosis

In a recent episode of the Apple TV+ series Dear, Selena Gomez opened up about her health battle with Lupus. The singer was diagnosed with lupus in 2014 which came with a stroke warning and side effects of fluctuating weight with the medication. She said, ‘So hearing from a doctor, ‘You could have had a stroke onstage, you could have died’, it was a lot. But I didn’t allow it to sink in; I didn’t want to process it’. Gomez also said that she was getting bullied for weight gain which was caused by lupus. Though she put on a strong front, the singer revealed that this negativity was taking a toll on her. According to Mayo Clinic, lupus is an autoimmune disease which causes chronic inflammation in different parts of the body including the lungs, kidneys, skin, and heart. It can cause certain complications like kidney damage, mental health disorders, heart problems, and more. Selena Gomez was diagnosed with this autoimmune condition in 2014.

RARE PICTURE

Well, the 26-year-old Rhode Skin founder took to her Instagram space and dropped a couple of rare photos of the Peaches singer. As such, Hailey’s recent goofy photos of the pop star came as a muchneeded change. A few hours ago, Hailey took to her Instagram space and shared a slew of pictures, thus giving her followers a glimpse into how her past weeks have been. In the first picture, we see the model clicking a cute selfie. Hailey kept her makeup minimal with mascara and glossy lips. The next picture featured a cute snapshot of her puppies in her car. In the last picture of the post, Hailey shared a collage that featured Justin Bieber wearing an oversized black hoodie that covered most of his face. In the other picture of the collage, Hailey inserted a picture of the popular meme of Kermit the Frog, which wore a similar hoodie to Justin’s.

Female lead!

hahid Kapoor is on a roll, keeping himself busy with back-to-back work commitments in the post-pandemic world. Shahid Kapoor is in talks with Rosshan Andrrews for a thriller. And now, Rosshan Andrrews and Siddharth Roy Kapur have locked Pooja Hegde to play the female lead in this film.

“Rosshan and Siddharth wanted to go ahead with a fresh casting and they have zeroed in on Pooja Hegde to play the female lead alongside Shahid Kapoor.

It’s an action thriller and the team is excited to take it on floors,” revealed a source close to the development. The Rosshan Andrrews film is titled Koi Shaq, blending well with the theme of the film, which is a who has done the zone of the action thriller. The film is produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur with Zee Studios.

COOING SOUNDS

Priyanka likes to keep it active on social media.

Lately, the Citadel actress has been sharing cute snapshots of her daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas, who turned a year old in January. Speaking of which, a few hours ago, Priyanka took to the ‘gram and dropped an adorable video of her little one, as they took a walk in the park. Scroll below to check it out. In the video shared by Priyanka, 40, one can see her holding a baby pram stroller as she takes a walk in Central Park. One can also see Malti’s adorable little legs peeking out of the stroller

as she kicked them in the air. Malti had the best time as she cooed and giggled all her way. The Love Again actress could not stop but let out a laugh herself. Priyanka captioned the video, “Love our walks in Central Park (a slew of emojis).”

Sonam Kapoor

Selena Gomez

Hailey Bieber

Parineeti Chopra

Hailey’s post...

Priyanka Chopra

Her post...

Pooja Hegde

ICONS OF THE ROYAL CITY

in the pink city of Jaipur in September.

CITY FIRST

he first round of Jaipur auditions of the "Mr and Miss Pinkcity Season 7" State Level Beauty Pageant of the Miss and Mister Category, being organised by Verma Events and Entertainment at Chairish Cafe Hotel, Sodala SwejFarm Road on Sunday.

The audition started with the introduction round, followed by the questionanswer round and finally the talent round. Alternately the participants presented their skills along with their

WHAT’S HAPPENING!

talents.

Organiser Gaurav Verma told that this is the first round of Jaipur auditions of this pageant. After this four audition rounds will also be organized in Jaipur.

Those who have not been able to participate in this audition can prove themselves by participating in any of these audition rounds going forward. More than 500 entries have been received for this audition from the city and nearby places. Out of which the best candidates selected by the jury members will be selected for further audition rounds.

The grand finale of this beauty pageant will be held

The jury panel for this audition includes Mr Pinkcity 2022 Ansh, Miss Pinkcity 2022 Roshni, Miss Pinkcity 2021 Runnerup Diya Chopra, Miss Pinkcity 2021 Richa Sharma, Miss Pinkcity 2020 Shrishti Khatri, Miss Pinkcity 2nd Runnerup 2021 Asha Kumari, Miss Pinkcity Best Walk 2021 Yashwini Saraswat, Mr Pinkcity 2020 Yogesh Navalani, Mr. Pinkcity 2019 Yuvraj Singh Chauhan, Mr Pinkcity 2018 Milan Kumar, Mr Pinkcity Best Walk 2021 Ravi Jangid were present. Abhishek, owner of Chairish Cafe, fashion designer Rajveer Rathod and Imran were present as guests. Anchoring in the event was done by Neeraj Rawal.

It was a scene of Jubilation filled with affection when the 87 years Hasya Samrat RD Baheti joined Nursery Park Yog Parivaar to celebrate World Laughter Day on Monday. He shared his journey of Laughter from Jaipur to other states of India. In the modern times of stress and tension Laughter has become all the more important for keeping good health and fight ailments Baheti explained.

Ravi Kamra told that he came accompanied by his family which showed how a person at this age can keep his family so happy and affectionate. Many people from Hasya Clubs of other areas came to enjoy his Laughter therapy. There was a mad selfie competition to be clicked with the veteran.

MLA Kalicharan Saraf inaugurated CC roads in three wards (133,140,145). Councilor of Ward 133, Ramesh Saini said that the CC road has been renovated by the Municipal Corporation in Dayanand Colony from the councilor's fund, which was inaugurated on Monday. Natwar Kumawat said that CC road has been renovated by GDA in Ward 140 Pink Enclave Colony, which was inaugurated by Saraf.

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra celebrated the remarkable jump in TRP ratings of Bharat24-Vision of New India, along with his team at the Bharat24 Newsroom in Noida on Monday. The team celebrated the jump from 0.6% to 2% in a relatively short span of time, Dr Chandra congratulated Senior Editor Syed Umar and the entire team for their hard work and perseverance in providing high-quality news content to the viewers. The team conveyed their gratitude to Dr Jagdeesh Chandra for his guidance and support.

A DESIGNERS MEET!

A desingers meet was organised by Karan Vig and Moon Bohra at Rambagh Palace for all gourmet fashion designers of Jaipur on Monday. The aim behind organising the meet is to catch up every month for a healthy conversation and to work together as a family in this competitive era.

LAUGHTER IS THE MEDICINE

King of Laughter

CITY FIRST

The fi fth birthday of Vagmi was celebrated with much fervour and enthusiasm on Sunday. Vagmi is the granddaughter of senior journalist Anil Lodha. Her great-grandmother Bimla Lodha, father Utkarsh Lodha and mother Bharti Jain were also present on the occasion.

In the series Net Theat programs, the renowned Indian Qawwali artist, Sikandar Warsi, paid tribute to the legendary Sufi saint Khwaja with his performance of the qawwali Main Toh Naam Japun Ali Ali. Rajendra Sharma Raju of Net Theat, Warsi and his group performed the famous qawwali “Chhap Tilak Sab Cheeni” by Amir Khusro with great depth and enthralled the audience.

Gurukul Yoga Sansthan celebrated World Laughter Day in Central Park on Sunday with Rajya Sabha MP Ghanshyam Tiwari as the chief guest of the program. During the event, Yoga Guru Mahendra Singh Rao highlighted the benefits of laughter, stating that those who laugh do not need medicines, but in everyday life, people often forget to laugh.

Laughter not only relieves physical stress but also mental and emotional stress.

The program featured various performances, including the

Akesh Parth who brought laughter to the audience, Sangeeta Gera who performed comedy on the theme "Kai Banaaun," and PK Mast who had the audience laughing out loud. Ritu Gattani recited Hindi film songs in reverse, adding to the entertainment.

The event was attended by Gurukul Yoga Institute President Ram Sharan Gupta, Prerna Sharma, Raju Mangodi Wala, Akhil Shukla, Akhilesh Srivastava, Meena Khandelwal, Vinod Gera, Kamal Mukut, Sunil Bhargava, Jai Club Secretary Rajeev Dasot, and Dr GL Sharma.

SAVING LIVES!

—PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Under the leadership of High Court Employees Union President Rituraj Sharma, High Court Employees wished Justice Sudesh Bansal on his birthday recently. Arun Sharma Deputy Registrar, Narendra Mathur, Santosh Sharma, Sanjay Kannaujia and Anil Sharma were present

VogueStar witnessed immense support coming from female-led brands from across the country. Sataara, a perfect balance of traditional and modern jewellery was one of them. The brand has been co-founded by three passionate women: Saniya Agrawal, Smita Goyal and Anjali Gadia. Meticulously crafted and creatively designed, every Sataraa is unique. Their brand added the right kind of balance to the gorgeous looks of representatives who joined the Grand Finale of Miss/ Mrs. VogueStar India, 2023. The final move culminated in their choice of our national winner of Mrs VogueStar India, 2023 (G-2 category), Sangeeta Pacchani as the face of Sataara.

The 18th anniversary of the Soul of Symphony Society was celebrated at Maharana Pratap Auditorium. The main attraction of the program was the famous Bollywood singer Gajendra Verma. He was accompanied by Yashaswini Chaturvedi, Chinmay, Anya, Shreya, Keshi, and Aryan, children learning piano at Piano Pe Sanstha. The chief guests of the program were Rajendra Chaturvedi (DirectorTheme Music), Vikram Singh (Director - Drum Music) and Professor Anjalika Bhargava (Dean, HOD Music Rajasthan University). Apart from these eminent personalities Pawan Goswami, Murari Gupta, Anurag Trivedi, Wilfred George, Deepak Chandiyok, Bhanu Pratap, and Ma Chandrakala Verma were given special honours for promoting music in the city.

In the memory of Late Raghu Sinha, the 15th Raghu Sinha Smriti Ceremony was organised at Maharana Pratap Auditorium, Jaipur on Saturday. During the occasion, Ustad Rashid Khan along with his son Armaan khan enthralled the audience with the mesmerizing voices.

A blood donation camp was organised by the Rajasthan Youth Foundation (RYF) at the blood bank of Santokba Durlabhji Hospital on Sunday. Foundation's State President Mukesh Aggarwal said that Food and Civil Supplies Minister Pratap Singh Khachariawas inaugurated the camp by lighting the lamp. Camp in-charge Sarlesh Rana and co-in-charge Gurjant Dhaliwal told that a total of 117 units of blood were donated. During this, Finance Secretary, Gov of Raj Naresh Thakral, former Mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, RPS officer Anil Maheshwari, Bollywood actor Vikas Saxena, social worker Deep Kanwar, CPC member Sangeeta Garg encouraged blood donors. Piyush Gautam, Vrinda Sharma, Mayank Solanki, Dr Pradeep Jain, Rajeev Jain etc honoured the blood donors by giving them letters of inquiry.

on this occasion.

—PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

(L-R) Mansha Parnami, Richa Sharma, Roshni Saini, Gaurav Verma, Shrishti khatri, Asha Kumari and Bhawana Nawaria

Shrishti Khatri Richa Sharma

(L-R) Farah Ansari, Ridhima Godha Shelly Karwa, Karan Vig, Moon Bohra, Deepti Sain and Prateek Verma and Pragya Karan Vig and Moon Bohra

Jagdeesh Chandra and Syed Umar cut the celebratory cake. Also seen are (L-R) Amrita Garg, Anu Shridhar, Surabhi Tiwari, Karishma Sachdev, Poornima Mishra, Amit Ojha, Sandeep Mishra and others

—PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

RD Baheti and Ravi Kamra with Nursery Yog Parivar family

Laughter on World Laughter Day