First India-Mumbai Edition-28th March 2023

KARNATAKA BJP MLA MADAL ARRESTED IN BRIBERY CASE

Bengaluru: BJP MLA Madal Virupakshappa, who had stepped down as the KSDL chairman after his son was caught taking a bribe, has been arrested by the Lokayukta in a bribery case on Monday. The arrest comes after HC dismissed Madal’s anticipatory bail.

CHEETAH SASHA DIES DUE TO KIDNEY AILMENT IN KUNO

Bhopal: Namibian cheetah Sasha died due to a kidney ailment on Monday at MP’s Kuno National Park , a top forest department official said. The more than four-and-a-half years old female cheetah was among the eight cheetahs translocated from Namibia and housed in the KNP in Sheopur since Sept 17.

MAXIMUM

BILKIS BANO CASE: SC NOTICE TO CENTRE, GUJARAT GOVT

COPS SAFELY BRING ATIQ TO UP JAIL, COURT HEARING TODAY

‘Be ready with remission files...’

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday sought a response from the Centre, Gujarat government and others on a plea filed by Bilkis Bano, who was gang-raped and seven members of her family were killed during the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

Bano has challenged the remission of sentence of 11 convicts in the case who were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on

August 15 last year. After issuing a notice to the Centre, the Gujarat government and the convicts, the top court posted the matter for hearing on April 18.

A bench of Justices K M Joseph and B V Nagarathna said there is a gamut of issues involved and it needs to hear the matter in detail and also directed the Gujarat government to be ready with the relevant files granting remission to the parties on the next date of the hearing.

CONGRESS’S BLACK DAY FROM PARLIAMENT TO STREETS

UNRULY SCENES ‘RULE’ SANSAD

RAHUL ASKED TO VACATE GOVT BUNGALOW BY APRIL 22

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who was disqualified from LS following his conviction in a criminal defamation case, has now been asked to vacate the govt-allotted bungalow by April 22. Lok Sabha Housing Committee has served a notice to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asking him to vacate the 12, Tughlaq Lane bungalow.

LS adjourned as MPs hurl papers at Chair, protest against Rahul’s disqualification

In a first, Trinamool Congress (TMC) joins opposition meeting in the Parliament

Moni Sharma

New Delhi: Opposition members in Lok Sabha stormed the Well wearing black clothes and 2 Congress MPs hurled papers towards the Chair, leading to adjournment of proceedings till 4 pm on Monday as ruckus persisted over Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification and the Adani issue. Rajya Sabha returned the Finance Bill 2023 with an amendment, as well as the J&K Budget 2023-24 and appropriation bills, to the Lok Sabha without discussion. Oppn parties held a joint meeting at the chamber of LoP RS, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge. P6

RS returns Finance Bill 2023 to the Lok Sabha without discussion amid Opposition uproar

Rahul Gandhi

@RahulGandhi LIC’s capital, to Adani! SBI’s capital, to Adani! EPFO’s capital too, to Adani! Why is public’s retirement money being invested in Adani’s companies even after ‘Modani’ exposed?. Mr Prime Minister, no investigation, no answer! Why so much of fear.

PRIYANKA’S ARROGANCE TO COMPARE GANDHI FAMILY WITH LORD RAM: ANURAG THAKUR

NOW CONGRESS HAS TO TAKE THE SUPPORT OF BLACK MAGIC, SAYS MINISTER PIYUSH GOYAL

New Delhi: India has requested Nepal govt not to allow Amritpal Singh, who is believed to be hiding in Nepal, to flee to other country and arrest him if he attempts to escape, sources said on Monday.

New Delhi: Gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf reached Naini Jail in Prayagraj on Monday evening. Police has filed an application in a Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court seeking permission to interrogate, hearing in the court today.

SC REJECTS BRS LEADER KAVITHA’S PLEA FOR STAY ON ED SUMMONS

I n a setback for BRS MLC K Kavitha, the Supreme Court on Monday rejected her plea, seeking protection from arrest and challenging the summons issued by ED in a money laundering case linked to the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam. A bench of Justices Ajay Rastogi and Bela M Trivedi did not give any interim relief to her on protection from arrest and refused to stay the ED summons. SC has also tagged her plea, which said that a woman can’t be summoned for questioning before ED.

OTHER COURT ORDERS OF THE DAY

l The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by the Uttar Pradesh government challenging the Allahabad High Court’s order to consider giving a job to a family member of the Hathras victim and to relocate the family from Hathras.

l A Mumbai court on Monday sent the accused in the case of threat mail to actor Salman Khan to police

AMRUTA FADNAVIS BRIBE CASE

‘Well connected”, Anishka told Amruta, claims police

Bookie’s daughter claims father was in contact with Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray

First India Bureau Mumbai: Designer Anishka Jaisinghani in one of her messages to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s wife Amruta had claimed that her father was in regular contact with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, police told a court here on Monday.

The police also told court there is possibility of involvement of various political personalities in the conspiracy, which needed to be probed.

Prosecution made this claim while opposing Anishka’s bail plea, however, her bail plea was allowed on Monday by Additional Sessions Judge DD Almale.

Can I be kept behind bars only because the Deputy CM’s wife has lodged a case against me. Can a daughter be kept behind bars only because there are a number of cases against my father.

father is regularly in contact with Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray, he will give the video to them”.

custody till April 3. The accused, Dhakad Ram who is a resident of Luni in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan was arrested Sunday and handed over to Mumbai Police.

l Islamabad High Court has granted bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan in seven cases registered against him in the wake of March 18 clashes at Federal Judicial Complex (FJC).

Transgressions may trigger escalations with China: Gen Pande

First India Bureau

Pune: Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande on Monday said transgressions remain the potential trigger for escalations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and asserted India has adequate reserves and was prepared to deal with any contingency.

He said China has accrued significant capacities for force mobilization, application, and sustenance of military operations and maintained the long-pending boundary issue can not be divorced from bilateral relations between the two Asian giants.

—Advocates in court

gh and Manan Sanghai contended the sole allegation against Anishka is demand for money.

U

nion Minister Anurag Thakur hit out Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, saying it was out of “arrogance” that she compared the Gandhi family with the dynasty of Lord Ram. On Sunday, Priyanka criticised BJP for labelling Congress as a “dynastic” party.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that Congress’ leaders came in black clothes in the Parliament, questioning, “Do they want to disrespect the law?” “Congress is so demoralised that now it has to take...support of black magic,” Goyal said.

While opposing bail bail on Monday, special public prosecutor Ajay Misar, cited some of the messages sent by the accused to the deputy CM’s wife.

As per the prosecution, in one the messages, Anishka said ‘You do not know my father’ ..My father is well connected with so and so, so and so,... My

Further, prosecution submitted it was a planned deep-rooted conspiracy and that Anishka had dared to take a video in a high security place.

All these aspects need to be probed, prosecution said opposing her bail and also stressing there is also the risk of the accused absconding if given bail.

However, defence lawyers Mrigendra Sin-

Anishka doesn’t hold any office of profit for a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act, the defence lawyers argued.

“Can I be kept behind bars only because the Deputy CM’s wife has lodged a case against me. Can a daughter be kept behind bars only because there are a number of cases against my father,” the advocates said in court.

Speaking at the 2nd Strategic Dialogue on ‘Rise of China and its Implications for the World’, organized by the Savitribai Phule Pune University and the New Delhi-based Centre for China Analysis and Strategy, General Pande said Chinese attempts to carry out transgressions across LAC in violations of past agreements remain a matter of concern, but Army’s preparedness remains of a high order.

Bench observed that it would not be overwhelmed by emotions in the case and would only go by the law

Proceedings of Lok Sabha gets adjourned amid sloganeering by the Opposition MPs wearing black attires demanding a JPC inquiry into the Adani Group issue during Parl budget session on Monday.

Opposition MPs, wearing black over the disqualification of Rahul Gandhi from Lok Sabha during Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Monday. Also seen here are Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, KC Venugopal, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and others.

Amruta Fadnavis

9 of family charged for harassment over dowry

First India Bureau

Thane: Nine members of a family, including the husband and his mother, have been charged with a criminal offense by the Navi Mumbai police for allegedly subjecting a 37-year-old homemaker to dowry-related torture, according to authorities.

‘Show courage,’ CM Shinde tells Uddhav amid RaGa-Savarkar row

Sena

Savarkar’s photo is CM’s new social media DP

Mumbai (ANI): As a gesture of support for Hindutva ideologue

CRUCIAL READ 3 HELD WITH `1.5 CRORE IN FOREIGN CURRENCY

A case was registered at Kamothe police station under sections 315 and 498 of the IPC.

The complainant alleged that the victim was forced to abort on two occasions by family members of her husband by taking her to Karnataka as she couldn’t fulfil their persistent demands for money. The victim is married for seven years and was living with her inlaws in Kalyan city.

As per the FIR, the victim was beaten up frequently by the accused persons of her family, a police official said.

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Targeting

Uddhav Thackeray over Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on VD Savarkar, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday told the Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) leader to “show courage” and oppose such comments.

Shinde, who was addressing reporters alongside Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, also said the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party will hold a ‘Savarkar Gaurav Yatra’ across the state.

“We will hold Savarkar Gaurav Yatra in every district of the state to talk about the contributions of Veer

Nawazuddin Siddiqui sues ex-wife, brother for `100 cr

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Nawazuddin

Siddiqui has sought Rs100 crore in damages from his ex-wife Aaliya alias Zainab Siddiqui and his brother Shamasuddin Siddiqui for allegedly making defamatory and false statements against him.

The defamation suit will likely be heard in the Bombay High Court on March 30 by a single bench of Justice Riyaz Chagla.

The actor, embroiled in a matrimonial dispute with his former wife, requested the HC to permanently restrain Aaliya and his brother from making any statements or remarks that would defame him.

He also sought a written apology from the duo.

As per the suit, Nawazuddin had appointed Shamasuddin as his

Bombay High Court likely to hear the actor’s defamation suit on March 30

manager in 2008 and “blindly” assigned all financial work to him. However, Shamasuddin started cheating and defrauding Nawazuddin and purchased properties using his money, the suit alleged.

It added that when the actor learnt about the fraud and raised queries, Shamasuddin instigated Aaliya to file a false case against Nawazuddin.

Savarkar. Simultaneously, we will protest against those who insult Savarkar,” Fadnavis shared. Shinde said the Thackeray-led outfit had crossed all limits when they joined the Congress in opposing Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification as Lok Sabha MP on March 24 after a court in Surat in Gujarat sentenced him to two years in jail in a defamation case.

“What are you (Thackeray) going to do when you say you are not going to tolerate Savarkar’s insult. You need to show that courage,” Shinde said.

“If you have the guts, then show it by doing what Balasaheb Thackeray did,” he said, adding that the Shiv Sena founder late Bal Thackeray had launched a “joda mara abhiyaan” (hitting with slippers) in 2004 against the then

Union minister and Congressman Mani Shankar Aiyar for his remarks against Savarkar.

At a rally on Sunday, Thackeray had asked Gandhi to refrain from “insulting” Savarkar, who he considered as his “idol”.

Shinde termed Thackeray’s move as “belated wisdom”.

“Whatever Uddhav Thackeray is saying now on Savarkar’s in-

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday updated his social media accounts and placed Savarkar’s pictures on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as profile pictures.

The gesture came in accordance with the ongoing controversy following Rahul Gandhi’s “My name is not Savarkar, won’t apologize” remarks.

“I condemn Rahul Gandhi’s statement on Veer Savarkar. He played a great role in the country’s freedom

sult is belated wisdom, when the assembly started, Rahul Gandhi was speaking so much evil against Savarkar, but those people did not

struggle. Due to the contribution of such heroes, India got freedom. We will hold ‘Savarkar Gaurav Yatra’ in the state,” said Eknath Shinde.

To become like Savarkar, one needs to sacrifice and have love for the country, Shinde said.

Shinde also took a swipe at Uddhav Thackeray’s condemnation of Rahul’s remark.

“They talk about Hindutva but they remain quiet for (the sake of) politics and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (alliance). This is their double standard,” Shinde alleged.

oppose it at all. Rather, on the contrary, everyone agitated to save Rahul Gandhi’s membership of parliament,” alleged Shinde.

‘Public sympathy will fall with attacks on Savarkar’

First India Bureau Mumbai: The Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray on Monday reminded said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi not to squander the public sympathy his disqualification as Lok Sabha MP has garnered by continuing to attack freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue VD Savarkar.

The truth--for which Gandhi is fighting for today--will not win by making defamatory statements against Savarkar, an editorial in Shiv Sena - UBT mouthpiece Saamana said.

“By making defamatory statements against Savarkar, the sympathy gained by Rahul Gandhi will start ebbing. This will, for sure, put the Maharashtra Congress in a uncomfortable position,” the editorial said.

This comes a day af-

TROUBLE BREWING FOR MVA?

In the latest development in the ongoing controversy, the Shiv Sena - UBT decided not to attend the meeting called of opposition parties at Congress chief’s Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence. “The Uddhav Thackeray faction has decided not to attend the meeting at Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence today because Rahul Gandhi said that I am not Savarkar, I am Gandhi,” party MP Sanjay Raut told the media.

ter Uddhav Thackeray asked Gandhi to refrain from “insulting” his “idol” Savarkar.

Thackeray said the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of three parties - Sena (UBT), Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) - was formed to protect democracy and it was necessary to work unitedly for it.

Gandhi’s remarks that he is not Savarkar to apologize will not af-

SKILL INDIA

fect the faith of the people in the Hindutva ideologue, the Saamana editorial added.

Without naming Prime Minister Modi,

the editorial said a dictator is always scared and that he first starts controlling the judiciary and parliament and destroys the opposition.

This is called slavery, the editorial said, adding that Gandhi should take an oath to fight such slavery, just as Savarkar did at the age of 12.

Maha governor underlines need for skill development of youth

develop skills among youths. He was speaking at the ground breaking ceremony for a Maharashtra State Skill University building and an industrial training institute at Panvel in Navi Mumbai.

“The Skill India Mission launched by the government aims to create a skilled workforce for employment.

First India Bureau

Thane: Maharashtra

Governor Ramesh Bais on Monday appealed to corporates, educational institutions, industries and other agencies to support the state government in its effort to

Mumbai: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has arrested three passengers and allegedly seized three trolley bags containing Rs1.5 crore in foreign currency from them at Mumbai international airport, an official said on Monday. The accused, held on Sunday, were scheduled to fly to Dubai and the foreign currency seized comprises 57,900 Euros and 4,42,300 UAE Dirhams, he said. The accused hail from Haryana and were intercepted at Customs on a tip-off.

WOMAN LOSES `8.3 L TO CYBER FRAUD IN THANE

Thane: A 70-year-old resident of Mira Road in Thane district lost a whopping Rs8.30 lakh, in a case of cyber fraud according to police. The senior citizen had purchased six towels online, but instead of Rs1,169, an amount of Rs19,005 was debited from her account. “Soon, a man called her up claiming to be from the bank, and asked her to download an app for the refund. After that, a sum of Rs1 lakh was debited from her account. By the time she reached the police station, she had lost Rs8.30 lakh in further withdrawals,” he said.

2 BOOKED FOR FRAUD ON PRETEXT OF JOB ABROAD

Thane: A case has been filed against two persons for allegedly cheating people looking for jobs abroad, a Navi Mumbai police official said on Monday. The accused, including a female, took Rs2.94 lakh from three persons after promising them jobs in a petroleum firm in Singapore, the Kamothe police station official said. “The job documents given to the victims were fake. Later, the accused started avoiding their calls. No arrest has been made in the case. Further investigation is underway,” he said.

MAN HELD FOR KILLING CO-WORKER IN THANE DISTRICT

Thane: A 24-year-old man has been arrested in Thane district of for allegedly killing his 31-year-old colleague at an industrial unit over a petty issue, police said on Monday. According to a Thane police official, the accused used an iron rod to attack his colleague on the factory premises, causing immediate death. The motive behind the attack remains unknown as of now. Further investigation into the matter is underway. A case was registered under section 302 (Punishment for murder) of the Indian Penal Code.

HUGE PROSPECT

The mission aims to skill over 40 crore people and enhance their employability by training them in skills of their choice. A skilled human resource is essential for inclusive growth but government agencies and systems alone cannot accom-

plish this task,” the governor said. He said the private sector, industry, corpo-

rates, NGOs, and educational institutions having experience in skill training will also have

to partner in the process of skilling. The governor said the demand for products

made up of bamboo, bamboo furniture, and honey, is increasing in the world.

“There is a need to provide training to trib-

al people in marketing, branding and packaging of their products.

Kaushal Vishwavidyalaya should also take initiative in this field. This will give them good income from forest produce,” he said.

The governor appealed to skill universities to design innovative courses for women.

“India was the skill capital of the world three centuries ago.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Skill India campaign on July 15, 2015, in which he pledged to make 400 million people from all over India skilled under this campaign,” he added.

4 OWNERS BOOKED FOR CATTLE FOUND ROAMING ON ROAD

Mumbai: Four individuals who own stables have been charged by the Bhadrakali police for releasing their cattle onto the streets of Ghas Bazaar in Mumbai. The animals were discovered wandering around the area during the early hours of Saturday night. The police have registered a case against the accused. Police personnel, on recent instructions from senior officials, have started taking legal action against people releasing their cattle onto roads. They say this not only hampers the flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic but can also lead to accidents.

and BJP to hold ‘Savarkar Gaurav Yatra’ across state to raise awareness on contributions of Veer Savarkar

CM Eknath Shinde and Dy CM Devendra Fadnavis address a press conference, in Mumbai on Monday. —PHOTO BY BHUSHAN KOYANDE

Skilled human resource is essential for inclusive growth, but govt agencies & systems alone cannot accomplish this task

Governor Ramesh Bais during the lamp lighting ceremony. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavisn is also seen. —MAHA GOVERNOR TWITTER

Youth Cong supporters pour milk on a poster of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in Solapur on Monday.

Racecourse clears `6.75 cr pending dues to civic body

First India Bureau

Mumbai: The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) has cleared its pending rent dues of Mahalaxmi Racecourse of Rs6.75 crore and has submitted an undertaking demanded by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). With this, the long dispute between the civic body and RWITC has come to an end.

Ever since the lease of the land expired in 2013, the civic body has not been accepting rent from the RWITC which had accumulated to Rs6.75 crore for the fear that it may amount to the renewal of the lease. Later in January, the

UNDERTAKING

BMC put a condition that it will accept the pending dues only if the RWITC submitted an undertaking along with the cheque of pending dues. BMC wanted an undertaking that in the future, the RWITC will pay whatever the increase in rent and pay the interest on that arrear. BMC also wanted the club to give an undertaking that the payment it will make,

Major fire at hardware store leaves 2 dead in Mumbai’s Andheri

First India Bureau

Mumbai: Two men were killed in a fire that broke out in a hardware shop at Sakinaka in Mumbai in the wee hours on Monday, officials said. The blaze broke out at around 2 AM in the shop located near the Sakinaka metro station.

Initially, it was feared that some persons got trapped inside the shop, the official said, adding that teams of Fire Brigade and police rushed to the spot and launched a search and rescue operation.

“During the search, fire officials found a 22-year-old man with serious burn injuries.

He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared brought dead,” he said. Another man, aged 23, who has been missing, was also found inside the shop by Fire Brigade personnel.

He was taken to a civic-run hospital in suburban Ghatkopar where he was declared brought dead, the offi-

Drunk peon dismissed for trying to inject child

First India Bureau Palghar: A peon at a healthcare centre in Palghar district was fired from his job on Monday after he tried to give a child brought there for treatment an injection, while allegedly in an inebriated condition, an official said.

The child’s parents had objected to the peon trying to admin ister the injection in place of a doctor or nurse, the official said.

The dismissal or der issued here in the evening said the ac tion was taken on the directions of Zilla Parishad president Prakash Nikam.

Officer Dr Dayanand Suryavanshi had earlier said. Nikam condemned the episode, a video of which was widely shared on social media, and warned staff against a repeat of such incidents.

ZP health and public works committee

Child’s parents had objected to the peon trying to administer the injection in place of a doctor

Fire officials found a 22-year-old man with serious burn injuries.

He was rushed to a hospital where he was declared brought dead

cial said. The fire was doused after more than 8 hours at around 10:45 AM, he added. The blaze was confined to the shop, which has two lofts, and gutted electric wiring, electric installations and other materials, the official said. He said the loft inside the shop has collapsed posing difficulty to enter the structure following which the front portion of the structure was removed.

will not be linked to the renewal of the lease.

“We have always offered to pay the dues, but BMC wasn’t accepting it,” Surendra Sanas, Chairman of RWITC, said “Later it wanted an undertaking which we have submitted along with the remaining dues of Rs6.75cr,” Sanas added.

The civic body wasn’t accepting the dues say-

ing it was difficult to decide the amount of increase in rent, and to put the other terms and conditions related to

the lease since the state government is yet to formulate the policy for renewal of the RWITC lease.

“A peon at the Tala sari primary health centre has been sus pended for the inci dent that took place on Saturday. A doctor handled the situation and gave the child the injection,” District Health

Man booked for negligence after his pet dog bites teen in Mum

First India Bureau Mumbai: The Oshiwara police has booked a man for negligence with respect to animals after he allegedly unleashed his adopted stray on children who were playing in the building premise at the plush Brighton Tower at Second Cross Road in Andheri (West) on March 23, officials said.

The police are yet to arrest the accused

identified as Rajkumar Shahabadi, booked under the bailable offense.

The society members have alleged that this was the third such incident that has taken place there. They told that last year in May, Shahabadi’s adopted dog bit two people.

In the incident, Siddhant Gupta(14), Son of film producer Ketan Gupta was bitten by an adopted stray while he was playing in the soci-

ety compound with his friends. Following the incident, Ketan Gupta filed a complaint against Shahabadi.

“My son is the third victim. He was attacked by Shahabadi’s pet dog, though his condition is stable now, he is totally shaken due to the incident,” Gupta said. He said that a CCTV camera from the building has captured Shahabadi opening the gate and the dog charging at the teen.

My son is the third victim. He was attacked by Shahabadi’s pet dog, though his condition is stable now, he is totally shaken due to the incident.

—Ketan Gupta, Film producer

Four of kin killed as car falls off bridge in Latur

of four individuals, including a 27-year-old man and three children. Two of the children were 10 years old, while the other was 15 years

“Prima facie, the driver lost his control of the wheel following which the car overturned and fell off a bridge,” assistant police inspector Nana The injured persons,

The tragic accident occurred on the Latur-Gulbarga national highway at around 7 am, as the family was returning to Nilanga town

including a 10-year-old girl and a 40-year-old woman, were admitted to a private hospital in Latur city.

Plug and Play: Pune firm launches compact LPG system

The system would be India's first LOT LPG system with plug and play functionality for easy installation

First India Bureau

Pune: Pune Gas, a Pune-based company, has introduced a skidmounted or a panel enclosure model with plug

and play functionality to make the installation process of the Liquid Off Take (LOT) type LPG cylinders easier.

Pune Gas, which provides modern solutions to heat and gas needs, showcased “India’s first high off-take compact LPG System” in the 37th edition of AAHAR – Asia’s largest International Food and Hospitality Fair held in New Delhi recently, said a release.

The LOT system (Liquid Off Take) is a

revolutionary solution for multiple industries in India, providing a highly efficient and safe alternative to hazardous practices. It is the country’s first dry type vapouriser, making it a game-changing technology.

Jesal Sampat, the Executive Director of Pune Gas told that the LPG vapouriser is a made in India solution inspired by Germen engineering, for the ever changing gas needs of the country.

He added that extensive research has gone into the project to make it perfectly viable for

Indian households.

“This technology is India’s first compact LPG system that comes

Cough syrup containing narcotic drug seized, 4 held

Latur (PTI): Four members of a family, including three children, were killed and three others injured on Monday when their car fell off a bridge in Latur district of the state, police said.

with a high-efficiency dry-type vapourizer. It is enclosed in a flameproof panel, making it

safe for use, and best suited for users who off-take or use LPG up to 50 kg/hr. In order to make the installation process more easier and friendly for LOT cylinders, the skidmounted unit or the panel enclosure with plug and play functionality has been introduced. The LPG system is mounted on a heavyduty fabricated MS structural skid and comes with cylinder manifolds with fittings,” the release added.

The tragic accident occurred on the LaturGulbarga national highway at around 7 am, as the family was returning to Nilanga town in Latur district from Pune after attending a wedding. According to a police official, the accident claimed the lives of four individuals, including a 27-year-old man and three children. Two of the children were 10 years old, while the other was 15 years old.

“Prima facie, the driver lost his control of the wheel following which the car overturned and fell off a bridge,” assistant police inspector Nana Linge said.

With this, the long ‘dispute’ between the civic body and RWITC has come to an end

‘This technology is India’s first compact LPG system that comes with a high-efficiency dry-type vapourizer’

MUMBAI TRIUMPH IN FITTING FINALE

WPL EMERGES A BIG STEP FORWARD FOR WOMEN’S CRICKET

that in the long-run young and uncapped Indian players would emerge wiser from the experience of playing with the best and sharing dressing rooms with the most knowledgeable players in the world and gradually this will help them realize what they need to do to improve their skills.

ISRAELI UNION JOINS PROTEST AGAINST PM NETANYAHU’S PLAN

Interestingly, it was just 3 years after the IPL in 2008 that the Indian Men’s team lifted the ODI World Cup in 2011. Cricket pundits believe that IPL exposure had a huge role in getting the team ready for tense situations.

Indian Women’s team would also hope that WPL gives them the much needed edge, both in terms of unearthing fresh talent from within the country and making them mentally stronger for knockout games in ICC championships, one which has been their Achilles heel in the last few years!

The inaugural season of the WPL ended with a thrilling finale as Mumbai Indians emerged victorious, claiming the title despite facing a tough challenge from the Delhi Capitals. The five-team competition culminated on Sunday with India and Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur finally leading a side to triumphant glory as Mumbai crossed the line with 7 wickets and 3 balls to spare.

In a nervy summit clash between the two best teams of the WPL, Mumbai spinners and the experienced duo of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Harmanpreet Kaur guided Mumbai Indians to the title. With Issy Wong picking up the first three wickets and Mumbai spinners Hayley Matthews, Saika Ishaque and Melie Kerr keeping things tight, the Delhi Capitals kept losing wickets regularly that saw them slide to 79/9. But in a rousing fightback, Radha Yadav and Shikha Pandey added 52 runs off just 24 balls in a thrilling 10th wicket stand. With both of them finishing unbeaten on 27 each, the Delhi side reached a respectable total of 131.

Despite the modest target,

PRAMOD TIWARI’S BIZARRE DEMAND

the Mumbai Indians suffered a few early jolts and at 27/2 they had their second worst power-play of the WPL season. But a crucial partnership of 72 between Sciver-Brunt who hit a half-century and Harmanpreet, who got a vital 37, set MI on the road to victory.

Besides the grand finale, the WPL made a captivating debut and promised a bright future for young, aspiring female cricketers in India.

Mumbai Indians’ Saika Ishaque who took 15 wickets was the outstanding find among Indian talents. Though she lost the Purple Cap by just one wicket to her MI teammate Hayley Matthews, leftarm spinner Ishaque took the scalps of some of the world’s finest batters through the season though she had a modest spell in the final.

ongress leader Pramod Tiwari made a preposterous demand after Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification from the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha MP who has not been a favourite of the Gandhis, said that the Gandhi family should be treated differently by the law because of the sacrifices the family has made for the country. The law must give minimum punishment. The BJP appropriately hit back with the charge that the Congress wants a separate set of laws for the Gandhi family and freedom for Rahul to abuse anyone he deems fit. By no yardstick can Tiwari’s demand be justified. On the contrary, BJP’s assertion that the Gandhi

The inaugural season of the WPL ended with a thrilling finale as Mumbai Indians emerged victorious, claiming the title despite facing a tough challenge from the Delhi Capitals. The fiveteam competition culminated on Sunday with India and Mumbai Indians captain Harmanpreet Kaur finally leading a side to triumphant glory as Mumbai crossed the line with 7 wickets and 3 balls to spare

While WPL did not throw up a huge number of young talents, Shreyanka Patil and Kanika Ahuja of Royal Challengers Bangalore made their mark on the big stage. While 20-year-old Ahuja showed raw talent at a young age with her explosive batting, Patil’s energy and enthusiasm in the field was quite impressive. Also, Yastika Bhatia from Mumbai became the emerging player and won Rs 5 lakhs in prize money.

However, there was a clear gap between those from the Indian domestic circuit and the world’s best players who dominated the WPL. As Harmanpreet rightly acknowledged, little-known Indian players did not get many roles and opportunities to play in the first season of WPL. But experts believe

Congress leader Pramod Tiwari made a preposterous demand after Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification from the LS. The RS MP who has not been a favourite of the Gandhis, said that the Gandhi family should be treated differently by the law because of the sacrifices the family has made for the country

family considers itself “class apart, elite and above the Constitution” makes sense in the light of Tiwari’s statement.

The Congress has been observing satyagrah in several parts of the country to protest Rahul’s disqualification

Beyond young talents, some senior domestic players have also grabbed at the opportunity afforded by the WPL to showcase their skills and give their careers a boost. Among these, 33-year-old pacer Shikha Pandey was the most notable. The veteran pacer has often been ignored quite inexplicably but her 10 wickets for Delhi Capitals were seven more than the next-best Indian pace bowler. In addition, her power-hitting in the last wicket partnership in the WPL final, reflected Pandey’s huge utility. RCB’s 32-year-old spinner Asha Joy and 30-yearold wicket-keeper-batter Sushama Verma, who last played for India in 2020, are some of the other nearly-forgotten players for whom the WPL offered a great chance to show the selectors what they are missing and keep their national hopes alive!

The women’s version of the Indian Premier League has been a massive commercial success and the WPL has become the second-most lucrative domestic women’s sports competition after US professional basketball. The way the tournament was conducted, the response to the matches and the superb TV ratings made the WPL seem like a festival for women’s cricket. Now, the effort should be that this momentum is maintained going further so that the league can be a ‘game changer’ for women’s cricket in the years to come.

Interestingly, it was just 3 years after the IPL in 2008 that the Indian Men’s team lifted the ODI World Cup in 2011. Cricket pundits believe that IPL exposure had a huge role in getting the team ready for tense situations. Indian Women’s team would also hope that WPL gives them the much needed edge, both in terms of unearthing fresh talent from within the country and making them mentally stronger for knockout games in ICC championships, one which has been their Achilles heel in the last few years!

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

from the Lok Sabha. In Parliament, ruckus over the issue has led to proceedings being disrupted and adjournments of the two Houses on a daily basis. The BJP asserts that neither the party nor the government has anything to do with his disqualification. Even the Lok Sabha has no discretionary power “as the law is clear on the matter”.

Taking the issue to the street and disrupting Parliament may not benefit the Congress or Rahul. The institution which can grant reprieve to Rahul is the court but so far there’s no move to seek judicial redress. The Congress appears to be depending on sympathy, if any, for Rahul. Barring words of support from other parties, the Congress is alone in its fight.

How strong democracy is in Israel is to be seen in the response to a strike call given by its largest trade union Histradut asking all government employees to stay away from work. Instantly, all Israeli missions came to a halt and all consular services were shut until further notice. Histradut decided to give the strike call to mount pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to drop his judicial reforms plan which, it is feared by millions of Israelis, will sound the death knell of democracy. Histradut has more than 700,000 members across various sectors. Over the last few months the Jewish state has witnessed unprecedented backlash over the proposed reforms. On Sunday Netanyahu fired defence minister Yoav Gallant for calling to halt the plan to overhaul the judiciary for giving the government greater control in judges’ appointment. Jews account for 81 percent of the population while Muslims constitute 14 percent and Christians 2 percent. Almost all are united against judicial reforms.

SPIRITUAL SPEAK

Know

TOP TWEETS

healthy life.

Jagat Prakash Nadda @JPNadda

Congratulations to Lovlina Borgohain on her spectacular win at the Women’s World Boxing Championships in the 75 kg category! Your passion, hard work, and focus have made all of us proud! Keep inspiring and shining!

SIDDHAARTH MAHAN

The writer is a specialist on Sports and Cinema who works as an actor in the Hindi film industry

Both Houses of Parliament adjourned again amid ruckus

New Delhi (ANI): Within minutes of the commencement of proceedings of both Houses were adjourned on Monday, amid Opposition MPs’ protest in the second phase of the Budget Session.

The Opposition members were sloganeering over the Adani Group issue and Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification.

Earlier, the Opposition MPs held a meeting at the chamber of LoP Rajya Sabha and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament building on Monday to formulate the strategy for the day.

We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us.

Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress president

The Opposition parties which participated in the meeting include DMK, Samajwadi Party, JD(U), Bharat Rashtra Samithi, CPI(M), RJD, Nationalist Congress Party, CPI, IUML, MDMK, Kerala Con-

At core meet, Shah discusses strategy for K’taka elections

gress, TMC, RSP, AAP, J-K NC and Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction).

Trinamool Congress MPs also participated in the meeting which came as a huge development following Rahul Gandhi’s suspension as

BJD appoints top leader in the den of Union Minister Pradhan

Bhubaneswar (Agencies): Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik-led Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has appointed topbrass leader Pranab Prakash Das as party observer for four districts -Dhenkanal, Angul, Sambalpur and Keonjhar in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

UNITY AGAINST CENTRE

Oppn takes out march towards Vijay Chowk

Bengaluru (ANI): Senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday chaired a meeting with the state BJP core committee in Bengaluru on Monday. Karnataka is scheduled to go to polls later this year.

BJP National Organizing General Secretary BL Santhosh, co-incharges Man Sukh Mandaviya, Annamalai, CM Basavaraj Bommai, ex-CM BS Yediyurappa, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi, State President Naleen Kumar Kateel, Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje and other core committee and election management committee members were present

in the meeting.

Earlier on Sunday, Amit Shah lauded Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and his immediate predecessor and BJP veteran BS Yediyurappa stating that both have provided “good governance” during their respective tenures.

MP from Lok Sabha.

TMC chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has been a critic of the BJP, supported Rahul Gandhi.

Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge welcomed TMC’s move to participate in the meeting stating that anyone who comes forward to “protect democracy” is welcome.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is likely to contest elections either from Dhenkanal (Angul district also comes under this seat) or Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat.

Besides, Sambalpur MLA segment is represented by Leader of Opposition Jayanarayan Mishra while BJP chief whip Mohan Majhi belongs to Keonjhar district. Both are strong critics of Naveen Patnaik government in the Assembly.

TMC not a political party but a pvt limited company: Suvendu Adhikari

Kolkata (ANI): Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Monday slammed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after her announcement of a two-day sit-in protest against the Centre.

Briefing media, he said, “TMC is not a political party but a private limited company. Elections before PM Narendra Modi came to power used to be held on three grounds – dynasticism, ethnicity, and appeasement – which has been rooted out except

for two states, West Bengal and Telangana.”

He alleged the West Bengal govt has already taken “thousands of crores of money” under the centrally-sponsored MGNREGA scheme.

He said around Rs 3.60 crore MGNREGA job card holders were registered during the time when the scheme was launched in the state. When the Centre announced the linking of the job cards with Aadhaar, the West Bengal govt deleted around 1 crore job card data.

Suvendu Adhikari further alleged that West Bengal government took a significant amount of money on behalf of those 1 crore job cards in the last 10 years that were found to be fake.

New Delhi (ANI): In an attempt to show unity, the Opposition parties protested against Centre over Adani Group issue wearing black attire and marched from the Parliament complex towards Vijay Chowk in the national capital on Monday.

The Opposition MPs raised slogans against the government at the Gandhi statue in the complex and demanded the constitution of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) over the Adani issue. Congress president Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge and UPA chairperson

Sonia Gandhi also joined the protest. During the march, Kharge was seen holding the hands of other MPs and marching. A banner of Satyameva Jayate was also seen. Other opposition MPs were seen holding placards. The MPs chanted slogans against the Centre and PM Narendra Modi.

BJP man hacked to death in Puducherry

Puducherry: A functionary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Senthil Kumar, was killed at Villianur in Puducherry by unknown assailants following which the police have constituted four special teams to nab the killers, the police said on Monday.

Senthil Kumar was reportedly close to BJP leader and Puducherry Home Minister, A Namassivayam.

The police said that the incident took place at around 9 p.m. on Sun-

day when the BJP functionary was waiting near a tea stall.

Police said that a group of assailants who reached the spot on seven motorcycles hacked Senthil Kumar to death.

According to eyewit-

FAMILY PLANNING?

nesses, the assailants also hurled two country bombs at Senthil Kumar, following which smoke engulfed the area and they hacked him to death.

The gruesome murder occurred near a bakery adjacent to Kannaki Government High School.

Tension prevailed in Villianur area with a large number of BJP supporters reaching the spot of crime.

A heavy contingent of police is camping in the area.

SECURITY BREACH DURING HM’S VISIT:

2 HELD IN K’TAKA

Bengaluru: Karnataka

Police have arrested two students from Bengaluru and are grilling them for violating security during the visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, sources said on Monday. The arrested persons are identified as Imran and Zibran, both students from Bengaluru and residents of Neelasandra. The incident took place on Sunday late night when Shah was reaching HAL Airport.

Will BJP give ticket to Scindia’s son?

Jyotiraditya Scindia’s restlessness is increasing. As elections to the Madhya Pradesh Assembly are nearing, Scindia has started uniting his supporters and is pressurizing the party high command to declare

him as the CM candidate. His supporters had started peddling a story that Shivraj Singh Chouhan was being removed and Scindia was being made the CM. But now no such mood is visible in the BJP which is neither going to change the CM nor is it going to declare anyone as the chief ministerial candidate. Informed sources of the party say that the party will contest the elections keeping Chouhan as the CM

Sources said if Scindia wants a ticket for his son as well, he will have to join Congress, as it is difficult in BJP

and will seek votes by promoting his schemes. Scindia’s supporters are now preparing to launch his son in polls.

It has been told that Scindia’s son Mahanaryaman Scindia can be contested from any traditional seat of the family. Although it is not easy in BJP. There are few exceptions in which both father and son got ticket and both are members of one house or the other. Keep in mind that Scindia himself is in Rajya Sabha and his Lok Sabha seat is also vacant, on which it is being said that he will contest the elec-

tions next year. That’s why he wants the party to give the assembly ticket to their son. For this, the son is being sent to public programs, inaugurations, laying of foundation stones, etc. are being done by him. Meanwhile, a knowledgeable leader at the Congress headquarters in Delhi said that if Scindia wants a ticket for his son as well, he will have to join the Congress, as it is difficult in the BJP.

“GETTING AN ASS TO RUN A HORSE’S RACE...” PURI’S JIBE AT RAHUL GANDHI

New Delhi: Union Minister Hardeep Puri on Monday lashed out at Rahul Gandhi who was disqualified as Lok Sabha MP recently, and said that the Congress leader should fight the “court’s action in the court” instead of speaking against Veer Savarkar. “You are getting an ass to run a horse’s race... They really deserve to do some serious introspection...People of India would judge them for what they are...Fight Court’s action in the Court, you are invoking Mahabharat and Savarkar,” he said.

SUCH STATEMENTS

REVEAL THEIR OWN CHARACTER: CONG

New Delhi: The Congress on Monday slammed Union minister Hardeep Puri for his remarks against Rahul Gandhi, saying new entrants to the BJP often make outrageous remarks to strengthen their loyalties and it “reveal their own character”. “New entrants to the BJP especially those who become Cabinet Ministers often make outrageous statements to strengthen their loyalties,” Jairam Ramesh tweeted.

“CONG MAY DEMAND SEPARATE NATION FOR RaGa ONE DAY”

New Delhi: Launching an attack against expelled Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi and Congress party, BJP’s Rajya Sabha MP Deepak Prakash on Monday said that both of them have no faith in democracy and the Constitution. Jharkhand BJP chief Deepak Prakash told Congress to pursue the matter in the court.

WILL CONG KEEP WEARING BLACK AFTER THEIR BLACK DEEDS: THAKUR

New Delhi: Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Monday lashed out at the Congress’ “drama” over Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification from Lok Sabha and questioned whether leaders of the Opposition party will “continue to wearing black clothes after their black deeds”. Thakur also took a jibe at Rahul Gandhi claiming that that he was not ready to accept the verdict by Surat court which convicted him in a 2019 defamation case on his ‘Modi surname’ remark.

IN THE COURTYARD

STAY EXTENDED ON PROCEEDINGS AGAINST KEJRIWAL IN UP OVER POLL LAW VIOLATION

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday extended interim stay on the proceedings against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in a case registered against him for allegedly making objectionable remarks against the BJP and the Congress in Uttar Pradesh during the 2014 parliamentary election campaign. Kejriwal has moved the apex court against an order of Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court which had last month declined to discharge him in the criminal case pending before a trial court at Sultanpur.

FODDER SCAM: SC’S NO TO ISSUE NOTICE TO CBI PLEA ON LALU

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday tagged with pending matter a plea of the CBI challenging grant of bail to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav in the Doranda Treasury case of Jharkhand wherein he was sentenced to five years in prison. A bench of Justices Ajay Rastogi and Bela M Trivedi said it is not issuing notice but tagging the matter with the pending similar appeal also filed by the CBI. The bench said it will hear the matter together.

3 GET VARYING JAIL TERMS FOR ATTACK ON OOMMEN CHANDY

Kochi: A court in Kerala on Monday sentenced 3 men to varying jail terms after finding them guilty in a case of hurling stones at Oommen Chandy, when he was the state CM 10 years ago, during a protest organised by the CPI(M)-led LDF. Former CPI(M) local leader C O T Naseer, two other party workers, including Biju Prambathu and Deepak, were handed terms ranging from two to three years in prison by the Sub Court, Kannur.

KARNATAKA BRIBERY CASE: SC SEEKS BJP MLA’S RESPONSE ON LOKAYUKTA’S PLEA

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday sought the response of BJP MLA Madal Virupakshappa on a plea of the Karnataka Lokayukta challenging grant of anticipatory bail to him by the high court in the Karnataka Soaps and Detergents (KSDL) contract scam case. A bench of justices Aniruddha Bose and Sudhanshu Dhulia issued the notice to the BJP MLA. On March 14, the top court had agreed to hear the Lokayukta’s plea against the Karnataka high court order in the case.

Proceedings of Lok Sabha underway during the second phase of Budget Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Parliament House Complex, in New Delhi, on Monday. —PHOTO BY PTI

Deceased Senthil Kumar

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari

Opposition MPs hold protest at Parliament House complex in New Delhi, on Monday.

Jyotiraditya Scindia

STONES AT BSY

Khalistan supporters protest at Times Square in New York

Protesters took out a car rally from Richmond Hill that ended in the Manhattan city

New York (PTI): A number of pro-Khalistan supporters protested at the Times Square here in support of India’s fugitive Amritpal Singh.

The protesters took out a car rally from the Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Centre in the Richmond Hill neighbourhood and ended at Times Square in Manhattan city on Sunday afternoon (local time).

With blaring music and loud horns, a multitude of cars with Khalistan flags and LED mobile billboard trucks displaying photos of Singh criss-crossed the streets near the venue.

Men, women and children gathered in large numbers at the popular New York destination, carrying the Khalistani flags and raising slogans at the rally.

The protesters, carrying placards reading ‘Free Amritpal Singh’, held up photos of Singh as they raised anti-India slogans.

PROCESS BEGINS TO SELECT KERALA POLICE’S NEW CHIEF

Thiruvananthapuram: With just 3 months left for retirement of state Police chief, Kerala govt is in the process of finalising a list of senior police officers to be sent to the Centre for consideration and pruning. According to the rules, state govt has to submit a list of eight officials, which will be pruned to three and sent back to the state to select any one. This rule is making Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan — who is also the Home Minister — uneasy.

MONGOLIAN BOY IS 3rd HIGHEST BUDDHISM LEADER

New Delhi: A Mongolian boy, born in the United States, has been named as the third highest rank in Tibetan Buddhism, by the Dalai Lama. A report said, Dalai Lama was pictured with the eight-year-old boy taking part in a ceremony held on March 8 in Himachal Pradesh’s Dharamshala, where the Buddhist leader lives in exile. The eight-year-old US-born child reportedly has a twin brother and is the son of a university professor and the grandson of a former Mongolian MP.

Dhangri terror attack victims’ kin want to shift to safer place

9 held for giving shelter to BSP

AMRITPAL SINGH’S SELFIE WITH CLOSE AIDE SURFACES ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Chandigarh (Agencies):

While Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh has been successful to dodge the police for last 10 days, his new picture with close aide has surfaced on the social media.

CLOSE AIDE OF AMRITPAL SINGH HELD IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh: As the hunt of fugitive pro-Khalistani leader Amritpal is still on, his close aide and gunman, who is an ex-serviceman, was arrested by the police for his alleged involvement in the Ajnala violence case.

The accused, Varinder Singh, belonged to Patti subdivision of Tarn Taran district in Punjab. Following the invocation of the NSA, he has been sent to Assam’s Dibrugarh jail.

CRUCIAL READ

RELEASE ARRESTED INNOCENT SIKHS IN 24 HOURS: AKAL TAKHT JATHEDAR

Amritsar: Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh on Monday served a 24-hour ultimatum on Punjab Govt, led by Bhagwant Mann, to release “supporters” of Amritpal Singh, who have been arrested in the last 10 days.The decision was taken at a Panthic gathering at the Akal Takht, which was attended by more than 50 Sikh organisations. Following the Ajnala clash, the Punjab Police have launched a massive crackdown against supporters of Waris Punjab De head Amritpal Singh. During the Panthic gathering called to discuss “current atmosphere in Punjab’, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh allowed each representative of Sikh organisations to speak for two minutes. The Jathedar of the Akal Takht Sahib demanded that the National Security Act (NSA) imposed on all youths should be immediately removed. He said the impounded vehicles of Sikhs, who were peacefully protesting at Harike’s headworks, should be released immediately.

BORDER SECURITY FORCE RECOVERS 6 KG NARCOTICS DROPPED BY DRONE IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh: The Border Security Force (BSF) on Monday seized six kg narcotics dropped by a drone in Punjab’s Amritsar sector, an official said. “On March 26, at around 9.36 p.m., BSF troops deployed at the International Border heard the buzzing sound of a suspected flying object (drone) entering from Pakistan into the Indian territory near Toor village in Amritsar district,” the BSF said in a statement on Monday.

CAF COMMANDER KILLED IN IED

BLAST IN C’GARH’S BIJAPUR

Raipur: An assistant platoon commander of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force was killed in a pressure IED blast planted by Naxals in the Bijapur district of the state. The martyred officer was identified as Assistant Platoon Commander Vijay Yadav of the 19th battalion. The incident comes a day after an encounter broke out between the Naxals and a joint party of ITBP and District Reserve Guard in forest area of Chote Burgum.

ED ATTACHES ASSETS

WORTH `1 CR OF REAL ESTATE FIRM

New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said that they recently carried out search operations at three places in Bhubaneswar and one at Berhampur against Keshari Estates Pvt Ltd and its directors. The searched premises include two residential premises belonging to the directors at Bhubaneswar and one office premises each in Bhubaneswar and Berhampur.

The selfie features the Waris Punjab De chief with his associate Papalpreet Singh while holding cans of energy drinks in their hands.

Papalpreet, who appears in the picture, is said to be Amritpal’s mentor. He was in contact with Pakistan’s spy agency ISI. In the photo, Amritpal is seen wearing a jacket, a maroon turban and sunglasses. His companion, sitting beside him, is in a sweatshirt. In the selfie, it can be clearly seen that Amritpal has a trimmed beard and moustache while he is drinking energy drink along with Papalpreet Singh.

Jammu (PTI): Family of the Dhangri terror attack victims on Monday threatened to migrate from their village to a “safer” place and return ex-gratia amount if govt fails to catch the attackers and bring them to justice.

Terrorists had struck Dhangri village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district on January 1 and targeted villagers and fled before planting an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

While five people were killed in the firing by terrorists, two others died in the IED explosion the next morning. And 14 were injured in the twin attacks. The attackers are still at large.

Saroj Bala, who lost two sons in the terrorist attack, said if the govt cannot provide her justice, it should “shoot me dead too”.

“We don’t need jobs. We don’t need money. We need justice by bringing terrorists and their supporters to book. If they don’t address our demand, we will all migrate from here,” she told reporters.

MLA’s murderer

Kaushambi (PTI):

Nine people were arrested in this Uttar Pradesh district on Sunday for allegedly giving shelter to an accused in the 2005 murder case of BSP MLA Raju Pal, police said.

The accused were arrested from Purkhas Yusufpur village, located within the Sarai Akil police station limits.

With these arrests, the number of people nabbed so far in connection with the case has gone up to 19, police said.A huge cache of arms and ammunition, including eight country-made pistols, was seized from those arrested, they added.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Brijesh Kumar Srivastava said the arrests were made during a search operation to nab Abdul Kavi, who is wanted in the Raju Pal murder case.

“Those arrested are Mohammad Anas, Hameedul Gufran, Daniyal Kareem, Ehsan-ul Kareem, Satish Vishwakarma, Nafees Ahmed,

Ex-Union minister Sharma calls on Sukhu

Shimla (Agencies): Former union minister and senior Congress leader Anand Sharma on Monday called on Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu at his official residence Oak Over and discussed various issues. The Chief Minister honoured Sharma with a Himachali cap and a shawl. Interacting with the media, the Chief Minister said Rahul Gandhi’s fearless campaigning to

BJP MLA raises stray dogs’ issue in Delhi Assembly

New Delhi: BJP MLA

save democracy was a hitch to the Union government and the decision of his disqualifica-

tion from Lok Sabha has been attempted to suppress his voice. He said Rahul Gan-

The arrests were made during a search operation to nab Abdul Kavi, who is wanted in the Raju Pal murder case.

Akhtar Hussain, Ajit Pratap Singh and Nawaz Ashraf,” he said. Ten others were arrested from Bhakanda village on Friday and Saturday. The police action is being seen as a move to tighten the noose around gangsterturned-politician Atiq Ahmed.

dhi had started Bharat Jodo Yatra to raise awareness of the misdeeds of the Centre. He said people would give befitting reply to the BJP in the coming elections in the country.

Sukhu urged all Opposition parties to unite to save the democracy.

On the occasion, Anand Sharma said Rahul Gandhi has every right to speak in Parliament, but the Centre had targetted him under a conspiracy.

Seven-year-old girl ‘raped, killed’; violent protest erupts in Kolkata

SAHITYA

AKADEMI AWARDEE POET

CHANDRA KANTA MURASINGH PASSES AWAY AT 66

Agartala: Noted poet Chandra Kanta Murasingh (66), who was Sahitya Akademis first Bhasha Samman awardee, passed away in Agartala on Monday following a cardiac arrest. Murasingh, who wrote poems, prose and drama in both Bengali and Tripura’s tribal Koknorok language, is survived by two sons, a daughter and wife. In recognition of his contribution to Kokborok’ literature, Sahitya Akademi had conferred the prestigious Bhasha Samman award on him, which is given to poets and authors.

Ajay Mahawar raised issue of stray dogs in the Delhi assembly. “Stray dogs killed two brothers in three days in Vasant Kunj. Over 100 people are attacked by dogs every day in Delhi”, he said.”A house committee was also formed under the chairmanship of the house member, Somnath Bharti, which gave its report in December 2019, this report should be implemented.

Kolkata (PTI): A 7-year-old girl was killed after being sexually molested by one of her neighbours in Kolkata’s Tiljala area, prompting local people to blockade roads and railway tracks and vandalise police vehicles on Monday.

The girl, a resident of Kustia’s Shri Dhar Roy Road, was missing since Sunday morning and after an extensive search, policemen found her body in one of the flats

in an apartment block in the locality, the police said. The flat owner was arrested and the body was sent for post-mortem examination.

PREZ’S HISTORICAL PILGRIMAGE IN WB

Alleging that the police “delayed” in searching for the missing girl, locals staged protests outside the Tiljala Police Station.

Amaravati (PTI): Besides welfare and development work in villages, temples are being built on a massive scale, an Andhra Pradesh Minister has said. Minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy made these remarks while laying the foundation for Sri Radhakrishna Mandir at Mohammadapuram village of Podalakuru mandalam in Nellore district, which is being built with the funds provided by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Vani Trust. He said construction of 28 temples have been sanctioned in Sarvepalli constituency with cooperation from TTD, official custodian of the Tirupati Lord Venkateswara temple, until now.

President Murmu arrives in Kolkata on 2-day West Bengal visit

Kolkata (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Kolkata on Monday for a two-day visit to West Bengal.

State’s Governor CV Ananda Bose and minister Firhad Hakim received her. According to an official release on Sunday, the President will visit Netaji Bhawan in Kolkata to pay homage to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on March 27 (Monday).

“Subsequently, she will visit Jorasanko

Thakurbari — Rabindranath Tagore’s House to pay tributes to

Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore,” the official press release said.

The President will attend a civic reception to be hosted in her honour at Netaji Indoor Stadium, Kolkata on the same evening.

On Tuesday, President Murmu will visit Belur Math.”She will also grace the celebration of the completion of 80 years of UCO Bank in Kolkata,” the release said.

Later, the President will visit Santiniketan where she will grace the annual convocation

of Visva-Bharati.On March 19, President Murmu visited the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district.

“Visiting the iconic Vivekananda Rock memorial is a memorable experience for me. I marvel at the greatness of the late Eknath Ranade Ji who was behind the building of the spiritually charged complex”, tweeted the President’s official Twitter handle.

DEEPLY TOUCHED AFTER VISITING RABINDRANATH TAGORE’s

ANCESTRAL HOUSE: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

Kolkata: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday said she was deeply touched after visiting Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s ancestral house, Jorasanko Thakurbari here. Murmu went around rooms where Tagore was born, where he breathed his last and where he spent most of his time in and expressed awe over the preservation of the centuries-old structure, Registrar Subir Moitra

ty, which is housed on the premises, said. Murmu,

visit

Khalistan supporters protest outside Indian Embassy in Washington, USA. —FILE PHOTO

Temples being constructed at massive scale: Andhra Minister

of Rabindra Bharati Universi-

who is on a two-day

to West Bengal, also went

to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s ancestral house in the city and paid homage to the freedom fighter.

President Droupadi Murmu pays tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose during a visit to Netaji Bhawan, in Kolkata on Monday.

President Droupadi Murmu at ancestral house of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, in Kolkata, on Monday. —PHOTO BY PTI

—Brijesh Kumar Srivastava, Superintendent of Police

Congress leader Anand Sharma meets Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, in Shimla on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI Kakani Govardhan Reddy

A mob sets a police vehicle on fire after the death of a girl, at Tiljala area in Kolkata, on Monday. —PHOTO BY PTI

AIR INDIA EXPRESS LAUNCHES DIRECT GOA-DUBAI FLIGHT

FCI stops wheat auction under OMSS

Panaji (PTI): Air India Express, India’s first international budget airline, on Monday said it has commenced operations from Goa International Airport, with four weekly direct flights on the Goa-Dubai route. The first flight IX 840 took off at 1:00 am on Monday with 148 passengers on board from Dabolim Airport. Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express and AirAsia India, said that the airline takes pride in being the only airline that offers direct connectivity to Dubai from Goa.

GOLD RATES FALL BY `640/10 GM; SILVER TUMBLES `700/KG

New Delhi (PTI): Stateowned Food Corporation of India (FCI) on Monday said wheat sale at discounted rates via e-auction to bulk consumers, institutions and state governments has been stopped for now as procurement of the fresh crop begins next month.

Under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS), the FCI has sold 33 lakh tonnes of wheat till March 15 through e-auction, out of which, buyers have lifted 31 lakh tonnes of the grain so far. They have to lift the balance quantity by March 31.

“The last e-auction of wheat to bulk consumers was undertaken on March

15. The auction has been stopped for now as the procurement of the fresh crop will pick up in the coming days,” FCI Managing Director Ashok K Meena

said.

Sale of wheat to institutions like Nafed and state governments under the OMSS has also been stopped. The wheat auction

Sensex breaks 2-day losing streak, Nifty tests 17K level

New Delhi (PTI): Gold price declined `640 to `59,220 per 10 grams in the national capital on Monday amid weak global trends, according to HDFC Securities. The precious metal had ended at `59,860 per 10 grams on Friday. Silver also tumbled `700 to `70,140 per kilogram. “Spot gold prices in the Delhi market traded at `59,220 per 10 grams, down `640 per 10 grams,” Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst - Commodities at HDFC Securities, said.

OYO EXPECTS MORE THAN `5,700 CRORE REVENUE IN FY23

Mumbai (PTI): Equity benchmark Sensex climbed 126 points on Monday, propped up by buying in index heavyweights Reliance Industries, Maruti and SBI amid a higher opening in European equities.

The 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 126.76 points or 0.22% to finish at 57,653.86.

During the day, it jumped 492.45 points or 0.85% to 58,019.55.

The broader NSE Nifty advanced 40.65 points or 0.24% to end at 16,985.70.

Among the Sensex firms, Reliance Industries, Maruti, Sun Pharma, State Bank of India, UltraTech Cement, Infosys, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Hindustan Unilever, ITC and HDFC Bank

Vi stares at bleak future: Report

New Delhi (PTI): Hospitality and travel-tech firm

OYO estimates its revenue in FY23 to be more than `5,700 crore, up 19% from `4,780 crore it had recorded in FY22, according to its Founder & Group CEO Ritesh Agarwal. At a town hall on Monday, Agarwal told employees of the firm that OYO is aspiring to reach adjusted EBITDA of nearly `800 crore in the next financial year. In the presentation, Agarwal said OYO’s revenue for FY2023 is expected to be over `5,700 crore, up around 19% from the `4,780 crore achieved in FY2022.

ELECTRIC THREE WHEELERS LIKELY TO GAIN TRACTION

Mumbai (PTI): Vodafone

Idea or Vi stares at a bleak future, including the possibility of “shutting shop” due to factors triggered by heightened competition, a domestic brokerage said on Monday. It also expects telecom companies to start hiking tariffs only after the general elections in 2024.

In the absence of the price hikes, Vi will not be able to keep up with the investments required and launch 5G services, which will lead to an erosion of subscribers.

IN 2023-24

Mumbai (PTI): Electric three-wheelers are expected to gain traction due to favourable operating economics, and the government’s focus on cleaner means of transportation. According to a Icra report, the electric segment is likely to account for 14-16% of new three-wheeler sales (excluding rickshaws) by FY2025, up from 8% currently. Penetration is estimated to rise to 35-40% by FY2030 as the product gains more acceptance, as per the report.

TOP TALKING POINTS

z Under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS), the FCI has sold 33 lakh tonnes of wheat till March 15 through e-auction, out of which, buyers have lifted 31 lakh tonnes of the grain so far. They have to lift the balance quantity by March 31.

z Sale of wheat to institutions like Nafed and state governments under OMSS has also been stopped.

` GAINS 3 PAISE TO CLOSE AT 82.37 AGAINST US DOLLAR

will resume only if there is a need to intervene in the market, he added.

The government in January had announced plans to sell wheat in the open

sale under the OMSS. Out of the allocated quantity, FCI was mandated to sell a total of 45 lakh tonnes of wheat to bulk users till March 15 through weekly e-auctions.

were the biggest gainers.

Shares of Reliance Industries climbed 1.54%, the most among the 30-share BSE constituents.

Power Grid, Axis Bank, Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors were among the major laggards.

Mumbai (PTI): The rupee appreciated by 3 paise to close at 82.37 (provisional) against the US dollar on Monday. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the local unit opened at 82.36 against the American currency and finally settled at 82.37 (provisional) against the greenback, registering a gain of 3 paise over its previous close of 82.40. During the trading session, the rupee touched a high of 82.27 and a low of 82.42 against the dollar.

market from its buffer stock under the OMSS in order to check rising wheat and wheat flour prices.

A total of 50 lakh tonnes of wheat was allocated for

S&P keeps India growth aim at 6% for fiscal 2024

New Delhi (PTI): S&P

Global Ratings on Monday kept its forecast for India’s economic growth unchanged at 6% in the fiscal year starting April 1, before rising to 6.9% in the following year.

In the quarterly economic update for Asia-Pacific, S&P saw inflation rate easing to 5% in 2023-24 fiscal, from 6.8% in the current financial year.

It saw India’s gross domestic product (GDP) likely growing by 7% in the current financial year ending March 31 (2022-23), before slowing to 6% in the next 2023-24 fiscal.

“India leads, with average growth of 7% in 20242026,” the update said.

GDP is projected to rise to 6.9% in the following two financial years -- 2024-

COCA COLA TO CONTINUE INVESTING THROUGH PARTNERS IN INDIAN MKT

Lucknow (PTI): Global beverages major The CocaCola Company is bullish on the Indian market and is continuing to invest in the country through its partners, the company’s President and Chief Financial Officer John Murphy said on Monday.

India’s rapid progress in infrastructure, electrification and digitisation offer a long runway ahead for the economy to grow and it fosters confidence, he said.

A lot of development has taken place in urban and rural India, which has created an emerging middle class, ensuring growth for many years to come, he

said.

“When you have an economy growing, our industry typically benefits from economic growth,” he said.

“For us, there are tremendous ingredients to the growth equation that we are developing. And to manage growth, you have to invest. We are fortunate to have partners in India who believe in the opportunity they have and are investing in infrastructure and people,” he noted.

Real estate sector likely to garner $12-13bn

New Delhi (PTI): Real estate sector has received an equity capital of $32 billion during the last five years and is expected to attract $12-13 billion during 202324 with office assets likely to garner maximum fund, according to CBRE.

It has estimated that equity flows in real estate sector will remain steady with expected investment at around $12-13 billion over the next two years with an average $6-7 billion flow per year.

Equity investments include those by private equity funds, pension funds,

sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, real estate developers, investment banks, corporate

MAJOR FINDINGS

z Real estate sector has received an equity capital of $32 billion during the last five years and is expected to attract $12-13 billion during 2023-24

z Equity flows in real estate sector will remain steady with expected investment at around $12-13 billion over the next two years

About 3 lakh tonnes of wheat was earmarked for state governments and 2 lakh tonnes for institutions like Nafed for converting it into wheat flour and then selling at ` 27.50 per kilogramme. Under the OMSS, the reserve price of fair and average (FAQ) quality wheat was also fixed at a discounted rate of ` 2,150 per quintal, while for Under Relaxed Specifications (URS) wheat at ` 2,125 per quintal.

RBI likely to pause interest rate hike in Apr

25 and 2025-26 and rising to 7.1% in 2026-27.

“In India, domestic demand has traditionally led the economy. But it has become more sensitive to the global cycle lately, in part due to rising commodity exports; and its year-onyear GDP growth slowed to 4.4% in the fourth quarter (October-December 2022),” the rating agency said.

Pronounced core inflation in India suggests little slack in these economies, it said.

OTHER STORIES

New Delhi (ANI): The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to pause their interest rate hike and the current 6.5% repo rate could be the terminal rate for now, said SBI Research in its latest Ecowrap report.The repo rate is the interest rate at which the RBI lends money to all commercial banks.

The next monetary policy meeting is scheduled for the first week of April 2023.

“The (RBI’s) stance could continue to be withdrawal of accommodation, even as liquidity is now in deficit mode. RBI can always keep the options open in June (monetary) policy,” the SBI Research said.

EPFO TO DECIDE RATE OF INTEREST ON EPF DEPOSITS FOR FY23 BY TUESDAY

New Delhi (PTI): The retirement fund body EPFO is likely to announce the rate of interest on employees’ provident fund (EPF) deposits for 2022-23 at its two-day meeting beginning Monday. EPFO had lowered the interest on EPF for 2021-22 to an over four-decade low of 8.1% for its about five crore subscribers, from 8.5% in 2020-21 in March 2022. “The EPFO’s apex decision making body Central Board of Trustees (CBT) is likely to decide the rate of interest on EPF for 2022-23 at its two-day meeting beginning on Monday afternoon,” a source said.

BMW TO LAUNCH 19 CAR MODELS IN INDIA THIS YEAR

New Delhi (PTI): German luxury auto maker BMW plans to introduce 19 car models, including electric vehicles, in India this year as it looks to sustain double- digit sales growth in the country. The car maker, which expects 2023 to be the best for it in terms of sales in the country so far, also aims for electric vehicles to account for about 15% of its overall sales this year. The group also plans to introduce three bike models in India this year.

groups, and REITs, etc.

CBRE expects that office assets would continue to garner a majority share of

total institutional inflows, followed by Industrial & Logistics (I&L) and sites/ land parcels.

FOUR SAIL PROJECTS WORTH `2,338 CR FACE DELAYS: STEEL MIN

New Delhi (PTI): Four projects of Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) worth `2,338 crore are facing delay due to reasons like delayed placement of orders and supply of materials/equipment. “There is delay in projects... Mainly on account of poor performance of contractors/ sub-contractors, delay in placement of orders and supply of materials/equipment, etc. However, there is no cost overrun,” Union steel minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia said.

HDFC BOARD CLEARS RAISING `57,000 CRORE THROUGH NON-CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES

New Delhi (PTI): Mortgage lender HDFC Ltd on Monday said its board has approved raising funds through non-convertible debentures (NCDs) in tranches aggregating to `57,000 crore. The board has cleared issuance of unsecured, redeemable, non-convertible debentures under a Shelf Placement Memorandum, aggregating `57,000 crore, in various tranches, on a private placement basis, HDFC said in a regulatory filing.

At many a time, emotional attachment to a cause can liberate you to achieve more than possible.

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

Ex-Guv’s remarks on Shivaji not a criminal offence: HC

BS Koshyari had come under heavy fire for calling the Maratha king an ‘icon of olden times’

First India Bureau

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court has dismissed a petition seeking action against former Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi for their statements on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and other icons, saying their remarks prima facie do not constitute an offence under any criminal law.

The high court also said that the statements reflect the perception and opinion of the speaker about those figures with an aim to persuade the audience, and the intention appears to be to enlighten society for its betterment.

Justices Sunil Shukre and Abhay

BS

Waghwase, on March 20 dismissed a petition filed by Panvel resident Rama Katarnaware, who belongs to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community. The petitioner claimed that the statements made by Koshyari and Trivedi who are non-SC or Sched -

IPS officer swims from Gateway of India to Elephanta Caves

Mumbai (PTI): Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer

Krishna Prakash has claimed he swam against the waves during a high tide from the Gateway of India in south Mumbai to the famous Elephanta Caves in the Arabian Sea, covering a distance of around 16km in nearly 5.5 hours.

The officer—who has previously completed the gruelling Ironman and Ultraman triathlon competitions—called his mega sea swim an adventure expedition dedicated to an “Drowning Prevention Awareness” campaign.

“Today I completed the daunting task of swimming from Gateway of India to Elephanta caves and be-

BEST PF case: Ex-mayor’s firm named

First India Bureau

Sena - UBT seeks rally attendees at joggers’ tracks

and Savitribai Phule and “Marathi manoos”.

“These statements cannot be seen, by any stretch of the imagination, to be disrespectful to any great person, held in high esteem by the members of the society in general and by the members of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes in particular,” the judges said in the order, which was made available recently.

Mumbai: Three employees of Kish Corporate Services Pvt. Ltd, owned by former Mayor Kishori Pednekar, have been booked for reportedly not releasing the provident funds (PF) of 264 BEST-bus employees.

First India Bureau

came the first person in the world to do so.

Contrary to the popular swimming route of Elephanta caves to Gateway of India, (where) swimmers ride the waves of the high tides towards gateway, I decided to do it from the reverse side against the waves. I could swim a distance of 16.20km in 5 hours 26 minutes,” he tweeted on Sunday.

However, an official of the Maharashtra

State Amateur Aquatic Association said there was no record of Prakash’s feat with the Mumbai-based body.

“This was his (Prakash’s) solo effort. We can not comment further as we were not contacted before he embarked on the swimming expedition,” the person said.

Prakash is posted in Mumbai as Inspector General of Police in the VIP security department.

uled Tribes (ST) members, at public speeches are disrespectful to these late political figures who were held in high esteem by members of society in general and members of the SC/ST communities in particular. The petitioner referred to several objectionable statements made by Koshyari and Trivedi on Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Phule

Koshyari, whose tenure was dogged by controversies caused by his utterances about Shivaji Maharaj, social reformers Mahatma Phule and his wife Savitribai and Marathi people, stepped down from the post of the governor last month.

He had faced flak for calling Shivaji Maharaj an ‘icon of olden times’, while Trivedi had allegedly said that the founder of the Maratha empire had apologized to Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

The 45-year-old complainant Vidya Sandeep Babar, a resident of Bandra filed an FIR accusing three employees of Kish Corporate Services, identified as Prashant Mahesh Gawas, Shaila Prashant Gawas, and Girish Ramesh Revankar.

As per the complaint, PF was deducted from the salaries of 20-plus employees for October and November 2021 but there are no records that these amounts were added to the employee’s accounts. An inquiry has been launched.

Aurangabad: The members of Shiv Sena - Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) are meeting citizens at various places, including jogging tracks, in Aurangabad to invite them to the party’s rally on April 02, party leader Ambadas Danve said on Monday. Uddhav Thackeray’s rally will take place at the Marathwada Sanskrutik Mandal (MSM) ground, it will be attended by other leaders of the Maha Vikas Aghadi as well, said Danve who is the leader of opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council.

The political party is employing unique methods to connect with the public this time around. In addition to conventional party meetings, they have been visiting jogging tracks in various locations across the city during early morning hours.

They also intend to

Each party worker has been instructed to approach a minimum of 100 individuals and invite them to the rally on April 02

meet people at shopping malls and encourage them to attend the rally. As per Danve, each party worker has been instructed to approach a minimum of 100 individuals and invite them to the rally.

Maha sees 205 new nCoV cases, including 66 in Mum

First India Bureau

First India Bureau

Mumbai: The special investigation team (SIT) of Mumbai police investigating the death of Indian Institute of Technology Bombay student Darshan Solanki has recovered a note that mentions the name of his hostel mate, an official said on Monday.

The supposed suicide note, was recovered from Solanki’s hostel room some days ago, he added.

Darshan Solanki, a resident of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, reportedly died by suicide on February 12 after jumping off the seventh floor of his hostel building. Following his death, Solanki’s parents and several student organizations claimed that caste discrimination was the reason behind his tragic

demise. The official said the note mentions physical and mental harassment by the engineering student hostler who has been named. This student stays on the same floor of the hostel and had allegedly threatened Solanki after a dispute, the official said quoting the note.

The Maharashtra government had formed an SIT headed by Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Lakhmi Gautam to probe the case.

According to the official, the process of filing a case of abetment of suicide was in progress.

Mumbai: The state on Monday witnessed 205 fresh cases of COVID-19, which took its total tally to 81,42,059, a health official said, adding that the death toll stood unchanged at 1,48,435.

The state had reported 397 cases on Sunday. Mumbai circle led with 135 cases, followed by 43 in Pune circle, nine in Kolhapur circle, eight in Nashik circle, five in Nagpur circle, three in Aurangabad circle and two cases in Akola circle. The 135 cases in Mumbai circle include 66 in the metropolis, the official added.

The tally in Mumbai stood at 11,55,527, while the toll stood unchanged at 19,747, he said.

Maha has conducted, 8.66 crore tests so far. —FILE PHOTO Mumbai circle led with 135 cases, followed by Pune circle (43), Kolhapur circle (9), Nashik circle (8), Nagpur circle (5) and Akola circle

The recovery rate increased in the state by 110 to touch 79,91,412, leaving Maharashtra

with an active tally of 2,212.

The active tally includes 618 in Pune district, 589 in Mumbai and 399 in Thane, he said.

So far, 8,65,85,260 tests have been conducted in the state, including 2,249 in the last 24 hours, the official said.

As per state health department data, the recovery rate is 98.15% and the fatality rate stands at 1.82%.

Court sends ‘bookie’ Anil Jaisinghani to 14-day judicial custody

Mumbai (PTI): A court here on Monday remanded suspected bookie Anil Jaisinghani and his cousin Nirmal to 14day judicial custody in a case pertaining to alleged blackmail and attempted bribery of Amruta Fadnavis, the wife of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Anil Jaisinghani, who was arrested last week from Gujarat, and Nirmal were produced before additional sessions judge D D Almale at the end of their police remand on Monday.

The investigation agency, represented by special public prosecutor Ajay Misar, sought

extension of their custody for five days. However, Saying that fur-

ther investigation can be carried out without the custody of the ac-

cused, the court sent the accused to judicial custody. After being re-

manded in judicial custody, the accused moved a bail application, which will be heard on Tuesday. Misar submitted that while there has been some progress, invstigators are yet to recover the documents used for purchasing the SIM card used in the mobile handset (used while committing the crime). They are also looking into the identity of the person who shot the videos, Misar said, adding that this required ad -

ditional further custody of five days is required.

However, advocate Mrigendra Singh and Manan Sanghai, appearing for Anil and Nirmal, submitted the entire investigation had been completed and nothing further remains to be investigated.

Singh also told the court Anil Jaisinghani is suffering from blood pressure and asthma.

The court, after hearing both sides, said the grounds put forth by the investigation officer for

extension of police custody are almost similar to the ones mentioned in the earlier remand paper.

Hence, both the accused are sent to judicial custody till April 10, the court said. Anil’s daughter Anishka Jaisinghani is also an accused in the case. The court granted her bail on Monday. They have been booked under IPC sections for conspiracy and extortion and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Anil Jaisinghani was arrested last week from Gujarat.

—FILE PHOTO

Jaisinghani and his cousin Nirmal were produced before additional sessions judge DD Almale on Monday

An in-depth consideration of the referred statements would tell us that they are in the nature of the

Waves crash at the shore at Gateway of India during high tide. The IAS officer claims to have swum 16.20km against the tide.

IIT Bombay student’s death: Note naming hostel mate recovered

Uddhav Thackeray

THE MAGIC OF SMALL-TOWN MAN!

City First highlights some glimpses of designer Kingshuk Bhaduri’s

collection showcased at the Jaipur Couture Show, held at The Palace on March 13!

The three-day Jaipur Couture Show, presented by First India and Bharat24-Vision of New India organised at The Palace on Ajmer Highway on Jagdeesh Chandra graced the occasion as the chief guest and appreciated the designer, Kingshuk Bhaduri for his esoteric collection. Designer Kingshuk Bhaduri took everyone on a ride to the glittery world with evening cocktail colours white infused with metallic

JAIPUR COUTURE SHOW 2023

silver vibes. While describing his gorgeous collection, the talented designer said, “The only aim I have in my mind is to showcase the world my designs and show people the indo-wester culture through my every piece. My motive since the start has been to promote the beauty that the Indian fashion industry has to offer through my designs and I just give them a little modern touch with my imagination. I am so grateful to actually show the world my work and Indian Culture Week 2023 is again a great opportunity for me. My long-term vision includes making an even bigger impact and I will put my

all into that, I am grateful to Gaurav Gaur for the great opportunity.”

Kingshuk Bhaduri, who is from the small UP town of Najibabad, has gained attention for his unique fashion pieces. Since class fourth, he had the dream of becoming one of the most successful fashion designers but he had hardships along the way. Being from a small town it was not easy to make people understand what fashion designing is and it was even more challenging to present his work. However, Kingshuk Bhaduri never gave up, he used to travel to Dehradun for his work and all that effort was worth it when he successfully launched his own brand Kamakhya. Various who’s who of the city including Supermodels, Elite Miss Rajasthan Winners, Models and Influencers were present during the electrifying fashion show.

Harshita, Rutvi, Shivangi, Navya and Soni with others walking the ramp —PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Designer Kingshuk Bhaduri, along with showstopper of the sequence Gaurav Gaur and Riya Sain

Clockwise: Rutvi Tiwari, Riya Sain, Nelu Sharma and Soni Yadav

KARTIK BAJORIA

The author is a Jaipur-based

Educator & Writer and Co-Founder of Driveway Devi – Mental

Wellness Initiatives

Wise men and women have been advocating the virtues of a simple, frugal and spartan lifestyle for generations. Today, however, perhaps more than ever before, it is absolutely essential to embrace this simplicity. To live in a manner that is clean, elementary, and uncomplicated, so that both the individual and the planet, have a better chance at happiness and healing. But while it is easy to preach & dispense this wise-sounding advice, how does one really go about implementing this ‘sim-

The Simple

SAY BYE TO STRESS

The more material possessions we have, the more stress we give ourselves. We keep wondering if all our belongings are safe and secure. We have more things to maintain. We need to spend more of our parents or our own money. All this leads to an increase in our stress levels. The lesser possessions we gather, the less we will have to worry, and our stress levels will reduce significantly. So ditch the need for protective items such as bank lockers, safes and offshore accounts and you’ll quickly experience a lightness of mind & spirit that will be truly liberating, as well as empowering.

PRESERVE THE PLANET

If we live simply, we have a huge impact on the planet. The environment is in dire straits. The increasing pollution, and the carbon footprint, it is all eroding the earth of its resources at an alarming rate. If we make a conscious decision to live more simply and more cleanly, we will spare the planet a lot of abuse. Lesser cars will mean reduced emissions of poisonous gases. Alternative energy use like wind and solar will mean less burning of the already diminishing fossil fuels. Cutting out many of the luxuries of our lives such as airconditioning will help the bruised planet heal. Again, like in the previous point, the idea is not to forsake life as we know it and become hermits. But a balance can be achieved quite easily. For instance, make a car-pool for your children’s school pickups and drops. This way you will ensure that rather than three or four vehicles going separately yet simultaneously to drop four individual kids, only one goes! Makes a monumental difference.

YOUR

DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Health tips from an expert will enable you to get closer to your fitness goals. Using your initiative at work will be much appreciated. You may get a chance to pursue old hobby. Your generous behavior would enable to enjoy some lovely moments with family.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

Family will be most supportive, when it really matters for you. Some of you may add to your list of properties by booking a new one. It is good day to confess your love as stars appear favourable for positive reply. A long drive is likely to help you get over mental tiredness.

SAGITTARIUS

NOV 23 - DEC 22

It’s a very good day to take calculated risks in financial matters. Your efforts on the professional front will be recognised. Opting for some healthy choices will ensure you remain in perfect health. You will feel much happy and contented. Today you will enjoy the trust of senior management.

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

Despite hectic schedule you will manage to find time for family. Seek the opinion of your family before finalizing a property deal. Your bold initiatives on romantic front bring back passion and spark in romantic relationship.Overall health remains fine.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

Avoid raising controversial issues at home to maintain harmony. Successful implementation of new ideas and projects would add to your prestige on the professional front. It is a wonderful day to build new connections. Your relationship requires you to be tactful.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

You will succeed in resolving misunderstanding with family members, normalizing ties. Despite your misgivings, you retain good health. You will do much to bring peace at home. You will remain much in demand on social front. Some of you can get romantically involved.

GEMINI

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

Following a health diet will be a good idea. Luck favours you today on the professional front. Focussing on health now will help you in keeping physically fit. Clarity of mind and retentive power will help you forge ahead on the academic front.

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

Distant relatives may drop in for a surprise visit. On professional front, recognition for good work would motivate you to work harder. Those awaiting an affirmation on romantic front are likely to get lucky today, as partner responds positively. You will feel happy today.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

You will succeed in resolving misunderstanding with family members, normalizing ties. Despite your misgivings, you retain good health. You will do much to bring peace and harmony at home. You will remain much in demand on social front. Some of you can get romantically involved.

GIVE YOUR BODY A BREAK

If we gather a large selection of gadgets around us, we expose ourselves to a heightened amount of harmful radiation and invisible waves. This unknowingly stresses out our bodies. Studies have chronicled the irreversible damage that cellular phone waves cause. If we feel that our bodies are our temples, we ought to treat them with respect and reduce our exposure to these detrimental devices. While one understands the indispensability of many of these items, one can certainly get entirely rid of appliances such as Microwaves and significantly minimize the usage of essential conveniences such as cell phones, by simply using one of many applications on one’s phone itself, that curtail consumption of social media; in addition, keep your phone as physically distant from yourself as possible, and at night, definitely switch it off altogether. With these little changes, you will create a balance between usage & health.

THINGS TO BEGIN WITH

So how exactly can we begin to practise a less abrasive lifestyle? By adopting some simple practices. Clean out your desk. Get rid of all old and unwanted things, especially those made of materials that cannot be recycled. Put an end to plastic use. Similarly, clean out your wardrobe. Keep a few clothes that you need and like. Don’t hoard unnecessarily. Try to live green. Buy organic food and clothing. Use wooden toys rather than plastic ones. Limit the amount of media you are consuming. Reduce screen-time. Read instead. Spend time alone and among nature. Reflect. Introspect. Spend time alone and with yourself. Switch notifications from the countless apps and communication tools that we use. Essentially, adopt what is known as a ‘slow’ lifestyle, rather than a fast one. Slow fashion, slow food and slow pace.

BUY WHAT YOU NEED, NOT WHAT YOU WANT

Perhaps most importantly, say NO. The power and ability to say NO when buying something are extremely important. We tend to surround ourselves with possessions we don’t really need. In order to lead a contented life, we really only need very few things. If we learn to say no and keep our desires and copious greed in check, we would have accomplished a much more frugal, economical, and cleaner lifestyle.

A simple life does not have to be a life denouncing the pleasures of living. The key thing to realize is that it isn’t ‘things’ but people and feelings that give us joy. And the moment we understand this, our tendency to lead stress-filled and complicated lives will come to an end. We will, as a community, as a society, and as a collective whole, become more one with the planet and with one another, reduce discrepancies, disharmony and discord, and be more in sync.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

Your intuition will save you from a tricky spot today. Yoga would help in raising energy levels and improve your metabolism. You will manage to achieve your aim through travel. This is a great time on the academic front, when you mange to render your best.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

Happiness in the domestic sphere will only come with a changed mind set. Some of you are likely to become a part of an overseas official trip. Better to consult an expert in financial matters before making an investment. Harsh words may create a rift in your romantic relationship.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

Gifting something to your beloved is likely to make the day memorable. Matrimonial match for siblings will bring happiness for entire family. You will get a good price for your property. Those awaiting results are assured of succeeding with flying colours.

FACEOFTHEDAY

Alia Ranbir's PDA

HAPPY MEMORIES

Katrina Kaif is not the most active celebrity on social media, but every now and then, she loves sharing pictures with her loved ones. On Monday, Director Karishma Kohli celebrated her 36th birthday, and Katrina penned a special note for her, and shared their pictures together!

Katrina Kaif shared a series of pictures with Karishma Kohli, and they consist-

Karishma a happy birthday. “My darling Karishmaaaaaaaaa it’s your very special 36th birthday, anyone who says otherwise is wrong

Where would we be without the madness and joy you bring into our lives, your kindness, warmth, and positivity… through these years I’ve seen u battle so much with strength and courage,” wrote Katrina.

The Gangubai Kathiawadi actress celebrated her 30th birthday in London with her hubby, mother, and sister. We saw some cute snaps from her celebration and on Monday she shared another dump from her London trip we bet the pic -

tures are going to fill your heart with love.

Taking to her Instagram handle, Alia Bhatt shared a couple of her pictures from her London trip. In the first picture, we can see both Ranbir and Alia walking with their arms locked on each other's backs as they face

RELATIONSHIP STATUS!

Sactress has been rigorously pro moted by attending interviews in Hyderabad and Mumbai. Now, a fan shared a beautiful edit of Saman tha and asked her to date someone, to which she responded. And her reply is currently winning hearts on Twitter. A fan took to Twitter and made a personal request to Samantha. The fan said, “I know it’s not my place to say but plz Date someone.” The actress’ replied to the tweet and wrote, “Who will love me like you do (sic),” with a heart emoji. She is part of the Telugu romantic film Kushi with Vijay De

Intimidating Virat

nushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are one of the cutest couples in Bollywood. In a recent chat on the red carpet of a Sports event, the actress shared what about Virat impressed her before they started dating. Anushka Sharma revealed that Virat Kohli has a very good memory. Even the Indian cricketer accepted this and

their back toward the camera and walk on the streets of London. The couple is twinning in Black in the picture. The Brahmastra actor can be seen in allblack attire, a black cap, and black sneakers. Whereas, Alia is wearing a black puffer jacket over black pants and a white tee.

In the next pic, we can see the actress looking cute in a white hoodie as she smiles for the picture. The third one is of her sipping a cup of coffee as she walks beside the lake. Then there is a blurry pic of Ranbir who appears to be cycling followed by a pic of Alia hugging Shaheen.

Bedtime Stories!

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are proud and doting parents to Malti Marie Chopra Jonas. On Monday, Priyanka shared a glimpse of ‘bedtime stories’ with her daughter Malti Marie, while Nick Jonas shared a picture of his and Malti’s matching ‘daddydaughter’ shoes! Priyanka Chopra took to her Instagram story to post a picture

that shows Malti Marie fast asleep on her bed. While Malti’s face isn’t visible, she is seen wearing a blue and white printed outfit and has a blanket draped over her. “Bedtime stories,” wrote Priyanka Chopra, with a red heart emoji. Meanwhile, Nick Jonas also took to his Instagram story a few hours ago and shared a glimpse of his and Malti’s matching sneakers.

Brunch Date!

The social media drama can be draining. Well, it seems like all the social media drama has taken a toll on Hailey Bieber. The 26year model approached Selena Gomez a couple of days back as she has been on the receiving end of death threats. Gomez made it clear that she does not support any kind of hate and is more thoughtful of other people’s mental health. Amid all this, Hailey Bieber stepped out for a Sunday brunch date with her husband Justin Bieber. On Sunday brunch date Hailey Baldwin Bieber and Justin Bieber were seen enjoying the weather in Los Angeles. The couple was also photographed sharing a kiss as they were leaving the Great White restaurant on March 26, 2023, in California. This was the first time that the couple was seen together for the first time since the 26-year-old model ap proached Selena Gomez about the esca

said that he remembers things better. Virat fur ther added that his mem ory is a little better so Anushka gives him im portant dates to remem ber so he has gotten better at remembering the dates. “She tells me beforehand, to be fair. I remember the important things, the small stuff I forget,” he concluded. Adding to this, Anushka said, “One of the things which I was very impressed before we started dating ki iski memory bohot achi hai (His memory is really good). This will really help me.”

Priyanka’s story...

Hailey Bieber

Anushka Sharma

Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Alia Bhatt

Reality is stronger than fiction: Dinesh Gautam

ASHISH TIWARI cityfirst.mumbai@firstindia.co.in

Dinesh Gautam an extremely known face in the field of Journalism always had his inclination towards script writing. The journalist turned writer who has already written for many famous stage plays is gearing up for his film

‘Ab Dilli Dur Nahi’.

Dinesh spoke exclusively to First India News about his journey and more.

Speaking on how he started writing he shared, “I am officially a journalist so because of my theatre background I was inclined to-

Amitabh greets fans!

Amitabh Bachchan visited and greeted his fans on Sunday outside his Jalsa residence in Mumbai for the first time since undergoing treatment for an injury while filming his next movie Project K, He uploaded several pic tures of himself wearing a 'home made sling' on his blog on Monday.

Amitabh wrote, "And the work continues .. the Sunday blessings of the well-wishers.. my love affection and

gratitude .. they still come .. me in the homemade sling and the

wards writing. In an incident, I met Mahesh Bhatt and he made me believe that I could write. He also made me write a piece for his plays. Then I started writing full-fledged plays for him. The two of my most prominent plays were ‘ Agar Baat Niklegi Toh ‘ & other one was his stage adaptation of his movie Daddy.”

He added, “I had written the story titled 'Marksheet' but the concept was stolen by the makers of ‘Cheat India’. We had complained about them as well. And then I had to write a new story from the scratch. It was a double struggle for me. That’s how the writing of the story Ab Dilli Dur Nahi begins.”

The story revolves around a boy from the village of Bihar and sudden incidents in his life force him to become an IAS officer, what happens thereafter and his journey from Patna To Delhi. His socio-economic and socio-political changes

grey. PS .. a patch of grey behind the hair; ‘no time to get the nature fair .. but now that resumption does invite, shall attend to it and make it bright!!"

He also added, "The breathing is done in the ‘yaam’ for now; off to work, in defiance somehow; the Ef renders, this is beyond allow; but work I must, to them I bow !!! There is a flood of well-wishers here, but space and limits do not allow it. so shall be posting another Blog, patience please, do it now!!"

around him have been portrayed. The story also has a hint of a love story.

Sharing how he came up with the concept he said, “The story is a bit influenced by my real life, there was a time when I was home sick that entire feeling has been depicted in the film. So I could relate and enact to the character of the story. After thinking of the story we met Mahesh Bhatt with an essence that people could relate with the story. He just said it’s important to bring life to the screen. If it’s on the page it has to be on the stage, he indeed guided us through."

Speaking on what made him do the switch from journalism he shared, “The reality is stronger than the fiction, we see how things happen daily. So a balance needs to be stricken between the cinema and reality. So being a journalist helps in balancing that graph.”

The film is all set to re lease on the 12th of May at the theatres near you.

Ravi Kishan on Casting Couch

Ravi Kishan is one of the most wellknown actors in Bhojpuri cinema. He has been part of so many Hindi, Telugu and Kannada movies. Recently Ravi was asked about the casting couch during his recent interview, during that he said, “Yeah, it happened and this is something that happens in the industry. But I somehow managed to escape. My father had taught me that I should approach my work with

ANSHULA makes it official

Arjun Kapoor's sister Anshula Kapoor, who often keeps hitting headlines for her inspirational posts, has made her relationship with screenwriter Rohan Thakkar Instagram official. Taking to the social media platform on Monday, Anshula shared a photo with Rohan from the Maldives. In the picture, clicked at sunset, the duo smiled and looked at each oth-

be noted that Anshula and Rohan have completed a year of their relationship, which started in a leap year. Her picture is now going viral on social media and many celebrities have started commenting on it. Rumours of Anshula dating Rohan first emerged when she posted a loved-up boomerang with him on social media. Replying to the post, Anshula Kapoor’s cousin Rhea Kapoor said, “Cuties,” while Anshula’s sisters Janhvi Kapoor and sponded with heart

honesty, I never wanted to take a shortcut. I knew I was talented.”

He further added, “I can’t name her because she has become a big shot now. But she had coffee)’. I thought that is some thing people prefer to have dur ing the day, so I got the hint and refused.”

Ram Charan’s birthday gift

It’s celebration time!

As actor Ram Charan turned a year older on Monday, he treated fans with a return gift on this special occasion by announcing the title of his upcoming film.

After the thunderous

success of RRR last year, Ram Charan is now set with his next offering. Also starring Kiara Advani, the film’s title was revealed on his birthday on Monday. Directed by Shankar, Ram Charan’s 15th film has been named ‘Game Changer’. Sharing the news on

social media, Ram Charan wrote, “Game Changer it is!!!” while sharing the title reveal video. The film which was earlier tentatively titled RC 15 is now officially titled Game Changer. The film billed as an action drama with currentday politics

SUMMER TIPS AND TRICKS BY SAMEER SALMANI

During the hot summer months, even once lustrous hair can become dry and brittle. Hear it out from the expert Sameer Salmani on how to take care of your hair during the scorching heat.

Is Summer good for your hair? And how to take care of your hair during the season?

Summer indeed does a lot of damage to the tips of your hair, resulting in split ends and dry tips.

To minimize further damage, make sure you trim your hair at regular

intervals to maintain a fresh cut and reduce split ends. Split ends not only make your hair look all frizzy but also cause hair breakage and dryness, do a hair spa to nourish your hair and get some protein treatment done in the salon.

Should we oil our hair in summer?

Yes, applying good argan oil can save your tresses from damage caused by the sun in summer. Note don’t take bath with oil means you should apply a very minimal amount of oil.

Why does hair quality deteriorate during the summer? Summer causes hair loss due to damage caused by heat, chlorine salt water, and sun exposure; hair can be brittle, dry, and prone to damage after summer.

Hair Follicles that survive all year are no longer needed as a shield against the

sun, so they just fall out.

Is short hair better dur ing the summertime?

Less hair keeps the head cool. People can lose up to 50 per cent of their body heat from the top of their heads. This is why it's important for everyone to wear hats and ear muffs during the winter months.

But when we don't want to get overheated, hav ing less hair can make it easier for that heat to escape the head.

Dinesh Gautam

Anshula Kapoor

Ravi Kishan

Ram Charan

Amitabh Bachchan

Anshula’s post...

Sameer Salmani