Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel alleges his son Chaitanya’s imprisonment is politically motivated, claiming the Centre denied him permission to meet his son during Diwali. Baghel stated this is an act of political vendetta for opposing industrial projects, contrasting it with past governments’ leniency on festive visits. Bhupesh Baghel (PTI image)  NEW DELHI: Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said he was denied permission by the Centre to meet his son, Chaitanya Baghel, who is currently in jail.He alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and expressed frustration over being barred from a family visit during the Diwali festival.In a post on X, Baghel shared his frustration recalling that during previous governments, family visits on festive occasions were allowed. ED Arrests Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel’s Son in ₹1,000 Crore Case, Congress Cries Political VendettaHe wrote: “Two decades ago, Chief Minister Ajit Jogi had sent Babuji to jail, but permission to meet him on Diwali had been granted. By the grace of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, my son is in jail. Today is Diwali, but I do not have permission to meet him. I still wish everyone Diwali greetings.”.Speaking to ANI reporters in Durg, Congress leader alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and claimed he was being denied basic visitation rights usually allowed to prisoners during festivals.“My son is in jail due to the actions of Amit Shah and Narendra Modi. Prisoners are allowed to meet their families during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Eid, and Diwali. But I am not being allowed to meet my son this Diwali,” Baghel said.He also recalled that during previous governments, such restrictions were not imposed. “Twenty years ago, when my father was in jail, the whole family met him during Diwali. But now, under PM Modi’s government, such meetings are being denied,” he added.Baghel further alleged that his family was being targeted for opposing industrial projects. “Adani was cutting down trees in Tamnar. When I protested, my son was jailed. That is the reason for his arrest,” he said.He claimed other relatives have also been prevented from visiting Chaitanya, calling it a “complete ban” on family meetings during the festival.Chaitanya Baghel was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on July 18 in connection with an ongoing investigation into an alleged multi-crore liquor scam in Chhattisgarh. The former CM described his son’s detention as an act of political vendetta and an example of silencing dissent.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories  Are you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer risk123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel alleges his son Chaitanya’s imprisonment is politically motivated, claiming the Centre denied him permission to meet his son during Diwali. Baghel stated this is an act of political vendetta for opposing industrial projects, contrasting it with past governments’ leniency on festive visits. Bhupesh Baghel (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said he was denied permission by the Centre to meet his son, Chaitanya Baghel, who is currently in jail.He alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and expressed frustration over being barred from a family visit during the Diwali festival.In a post on X, Baghel shared his frustration recalling that during previous governments, family visits on festive occasions were allowed. ED Arrests Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel’s Son in ₹1,000 Crore Case, Congress Cries Political VendettaHe wrote: “Two decades ago, Chief Minister Ajit Jogi had sent Babuji to jail, but permission to meet him on Diwali had been granted. By the grace of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, my son is in jail. Today is Diwali, but I do not have permission to meet him. I still wish everyone Diwali greetings.”.Speaking to ANI reporters in Durg, Congress leader alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and claimed he was being denied basic visitation rights usually allowed to prisoners during festivals.“My son is in jail due to the actions of Amit Shah and Narendra Modi. Prisoners are allowed to meet their families during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Eid, and Diwali. But I am not being allowed to meet my son this Diwali,” Baghel said.He also recalled that during previous governments, such restrictions were not imposed. “Twenty years ago, when my father was in jail, the whole family met him during Diwali. But now, under PM Modi’s government, such meetings are being denied,” he added.Baghel further alleged that his family was being targeted for opposing industrial projects. “Adani was cutting down trees in Tamnar. When I protested, my son was jailed. That is the reason for his arrest,” he said.He claimed other relatives have also been prevented from visiting Chaitanya, calling it a “complete ban” on family meetings during the festival.Chaitanya Baghel was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on July 18 in connection with an ongoing investigation into an alleged multi-crore liquor scam in Chhattisgarh. The former CM described his son’s detention as an act of political vendetta and an example of silencing dissent.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories Are you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer risk123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Bhupesh Baghel (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said he was denied permission by the Centre to meet his son, Chaitanya Baghel, who is currently in jail.He alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and expressed frustration over being barred from a family visit…

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Bihar’s 2025 assembly elections are witnessing a cinematic twist with folk singer Maithili Thakur and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh entering the political arena. The BJP and RJD are leveraging their star power and regional appeal to consolidate caste loyalties and energize voters, blending celebrity charisma with intricate political calculations. (From left) Pawan Singh, Maithili Thakur and Khesari Lal Yadav  NEW DELHI: Bihar’s election stage has always had drama, but this time, the script has a cinematic twist. Folk singer Maithili Thakur, and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, have all entered the political frame, turning the 2025 assembly battle into a fusion of star power and caste calculation.The BJP has fielded Maithili Thakur from Alinagar in Darbhanga, while the RJD has handed its Chapra ticket to Khesari Lal Yadav. Adding to the intrigue, Pawan Singh, who was once at odds with the BJP, has rejoined the party after months of speculation.Shah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAsTogether, the three represent how Bihar’s two biggest parties are turning to popular faces from music and cinema to stir old loyalties and reshape caste equations.Maithili Thakur: The Mithila pride cardAlinagar sits in the heart of the Mithila region, where identity and language carry deep cultural pride. The BJP’s choice of Maithili Thakur is not just a nod to local sentiment but also a tactical move to expand appeal in a seat that has been closely fought.The constituency has shifted hands several times in recent years, and margins have been narrow. Maithili, a household name in the region, brings a blend of youth connect and cultural symbolism that the BJP hopes can widen its support base beyond traditional voters.Her campaign songs and folk roots are expected to draw attention across caste lines, especially among women and young voters who form a decisive chunk of the electorate.Khesari Lal Yadav: RJD’s bid for the massesIf the BJP is playing the Mithila card, the RJD has chosen to bank on Bhojpuri stardom. Khesari Lal Yadav’s candidature from Chapra in Saran district is designed to add glamour to a contest that has long been decided by caste arithmetic.Chapra has traditionally been a battleground between Yadavs and Rajputs, and the RJD’s decision to field Khesari is an attempt to consolidate the Yadav vote while energising youth and migrant workers who idolise him. The BJP won Chapra in 2020, but with thin margins. Khesari’s popularity among lower and backward castes gives the RJD a chance to turn that equation on its head.The party hopes that his folk appeal, built through music that often celebrates aspiration and struggle, will connect emotionally with voters who see politics through the lens of identity and pride rather than policy.The BJP-Pawan Singh reunionThe BJP’s patch-up with Pawan Singh was as political as it was pragmatic. A Rajput by caste and a massive name in the Bhojpuri entertainment industry, Singh had previously rebelled and flirted with contesting independently. His differences with the BJP had threatened to split the Rajput vote, especially in the Shahabad and Bhojpur regions where caste balance is delicate.His return to the party fold is a calculated move to heal that rift. BJP leaders believe Singh’s presence will help consolidate upper-caste support and attract younger, entertainment-driven voters who identify with his larger-than-life persona. The party has suffered from factionalism in parts of Shahabad, and Singh’s popularity in districts like Arrah, Buxar, and Karakat could help the BJP offset anti-incumbency and regain lost ground.The caste arithmeticAccording to Census data and voter surveys, the caste profile of these regions explains why the BJP and RJD chose their celebrity candidates so carefully. In Darbhanga’s Alinagar, upper castes, especially Maithil Brahmins and Rajputs, together account for about 25 to 30 per cent of the electorate, while Yadavs, Muslims, and EBC groups form the rest.Maithili Thakur’s candidature appeals directly to the Maithil Brahmin identity and to cultural pride cutting across caste lines. In Saran’s Chapra, Yadavs make up roughly 20 to 22 per cent, Rajputs and Bhumihars about 15 to 18 per cent, and EBCs and Muslims the remainder.That arithmetic explains why the RJD placed its faith in Khesari Lal Yadav to deepen Yadav consolidation while reaching EBC and lower-caste Bhojpuri voters who relate to him.Further west, in the Shahabad and Bhojpur belt, where Pawan Singh holds sway, Rajputs and Bhumihars together exceed 25 per cent, making them a crucial bloc for the BJP to retain. His re-entry aims to keep that segment united and offset the erosion seen in parts of Arrah and Karakat during 2024.While celebrity names attract attention, they do not always convert into victories. Bihar’s elections are fought at the booth level, where caste networks, local loyalty, and the ground machinery of parties still decide outcomes.Maithili’s appeal may help the BJP in Mithila, but it will need organisational muscle to translate her popularity into votes. Khesari’s fame gives the RJD visibility, but turning fans into voters requires the kind of micro-level mobilisation that only a well-oiled party machine can provide.Pawan Singh’s Rajput credentials may strengthen the BJP’s caste equation, but overreliance on charisma can backfire if local candidates fail to deliver on expectations.The entry of Maithili Thakur, Khesari Lal Yadav, and Pawan Singh has turned Bihar’s election into a curious blend of celebrity, caste, and calculation. The BJP and RJD are both using star power to energise their bases, yet beneath the glamour, it remains a story about numbers, of seats, votes, and social groups.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories  10 traditional snacks from Italy one needs to tryFrom ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why ‘Thama’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of contentAlia Bhatt wore a 30-year-old saree to Kareena Kapoor’s Diwali party and made it 2025’s top festive trendAre you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In pictures123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Bihar’s 2025 assembly elections are witnessing a cinematic twist with folk singer Maithili Thakur and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh entering the political arena. The BJP and RJD are leveraging their star power and regional appeal to consolidate caste loyalties and energize voters, blending celebrity charisma with intricate political calculations. (From left) Pawan Singh, Maithili Thakur and Khesari Lal Yadav NEW DELHI: Bihar’s election stage has always had drama, but this time, the script has a cinematic twist. Folk singer Maithili Thakur, and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, have all entered the political frame, turning the 2025 assembly battle into a fusion of star power and caste calculation.The BJP has fielded Maithili Thakur from Alinagar in Darbhanga, while the RJD has handed its Chapra ticket to Khesari Lal Yadav. Adding to the intrigue, Pawan Singh, who was once at odds with the BJP, has rejoined the party after months of speculation.Shah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAsTogether, the three represent how Bihar’s two biggest parties are turning to popular faces from music and cinema to stir old loyalties and reshape caste equations.Maithili Thakur: The Mithila pride cardAlinagar sits in the heart of the Mithila region, where identity and language carry deep cultural pride. The BJP’s choice of Maithili Thakur is not just a nod to local sentiment but also a tactical move to expand appeal in a seat that has been closely fought.The constituency has shifted hands several times in recent years, and margins have been narrow. Maithili, a household name in the region, brings a blend of youth connect and cultural symbolism that the BJP hopes can widen its support base beyond traditional voters.Her campaign songs and folk roots are expected to draw attention across caste lines, especially among women and young voters who form a decisive chunk of the electorate.Khesari Lal Yadav: RJD’s bid for the massesIf the BJP is playing the Mithila card, the RJD has chosen to bank on Bhojpuri stardom. Khesari Lal Yadav’s candidature from Chapra in Saran district is designed to add glamour to a contest that has long been decided by caste arithmetic.Chapra has traditionally been a battleground between Yadavs and Rajputs, and the RJD’s decision to field Khesari is an attempt to consolidate the Yadav vote while energising youth and migrant workers who idolise him. The BJP won Chapra in 2020, but with thin margins. Khesari’s popularity among lower and backward castes gives the RJD a chance to turn that equation on its head.The party hopes that his folk appeal, built through music that often celebrates aspiration and struggle, will connect emotionally with voters who see politics through the lens of identity and pride rather than policy.The BJP-Pawan Singh reunionThe BJP’s patch-up with Pawan Singh was as political as it was pragmatic. A Rajput by caste and a massive name in the Bhojpuri entertainment industry, Singh had previously rebelled and flirted with contesting independently. His differences with the BJP had threatened to split the Rajput vote, especially in the Shahabad and Bhojpur regions where caste balance is delicate.His return to the party fold is a calculated move to heal that rift. BJP leaders believe Singh’s presence will help consolidate upper-caste support and attract younger, entertainment-driven voters who identify with his larger-than-life persona. The party has suffered from factionalism in parts of Shahabad, and Singh’s popularity in districts like Arrah, Buxar, and Karakat could help the BJP offset anti-incumbency and regain lost ground.The caste arithmeticAccording to Census data and voter surveys, the caste profile of these regions explains why the BJP and RJD chose their celebrity candidates so carefully. In Darbhanga’s Alinagar, upper castes, especially Maithil Brahmins and Rajputs, together account for about 25 to 30 per cent of the electorate, while Yadavs, Muslims, and EBC groups form the rest.Maithili Thakur’s candidature appeals directly to the Maithil Brahmin identity and to cultural pride cutting across caste lines. In Saran’s Chapra, Yadavs make up roughly 20 to 22 per cent, Rajputs and Bhumihars about 15 to 18 per cent, and EBCs and Muslims the remainder.That arithmetic explains why the RJD placed its faith in Khesari Lal Yadav to deepen Yadav consolidation while reaching EBC and lower-caste Bhojpuri voters who relate to him.Further west, in the Shahabad and Bhojpur belt, where Pawan Singh holds sway, Rajputs and Bhumihars together exceed 25 per cent, making them a crucial bloc for the BJP to retain. His re-entry aims to keep that segment united and offset the erosion seen in parts of Arrah and Karakat during 2024.While celebrity names attract attention, they do not always convert into victories. Bihar’s elections are fought at the booth level, where caste networks, local loyalty, and the ground machinery of parties still decide outcomes.Maithili’s appeal may help the BJP in Mithila, but it will need organisational muscle to translate her popularity into votes. Khesari’s fame gives the RJD visibility, but turning fans into voters requires the kind of micro-level mobilisation that only a well-oiled party machine can provide.Pawan Singh’s Rajput credentials may strengthen the BJP’s caste equation, but overreliance on charisma can backfire if local candidates fail to deliver on expectations.The entry of Maithili Thakur, Khesari Lal Yadav, and Pawan Singh has turned Bihar’s election into a curious blend of celebrity, caste, and calculation. The BJP and RJD are both using star power to energise their bases, yet beneath the glamour, it remains a story about numbers, of seats, votes, and social groups.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories 10 traditional snacks from Italy one needs to tryFrom ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why ‘Thama’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of contentAlia Bhatt wore a 30-year-old saree to Kareena Kapoor’s Diwali party and made it 2025’s top festive trendAre you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In pictures123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

(From left) Pawan Singh, Maithili Thakur and Khesari Lal Yadav NEW DELHI: Bihar’s election stage has always had drama, but this time, the script has a cinematic twist. Folk singer Maithili Thakur, and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, have all entered the political frame, turning the 2025 assembly battle into a fusion…

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Satellite phone services have been restored for over 30 fishermen from Tamil Nadu. The Department of Telecommunications and BSNL intervened to bring back Inmarsat connectivity. A private operator also provided temporary service. This enabled stranded fishermen to receive weather alerts and return safely. Efforts are ongoing to ensure full service restoration for all. Representational image  (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: More than 30 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, who were stranded at sea amid rough weather, have regained satellite phone connectivity after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) restored Inmarsat services, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday. Sitharaman said a private operator had also temporarily resumed connectivity for several users, helping many stranded fishermen receive weather alerts and take precautions to return safely. In a post on X, she wrote, “Heartening to note that Inmarsat satellite phone services have been restored for over 30 fishermen currently out in the deep sea, following the intervention of BSNL and DoT. The private operator has temporarily resumed connectivity successfully for many users, enabling communication with those at high sea.”Sitharaman also mentioned that BSNL and the DoT are working with the private operator to ensure full service restoration for the remaining fishermen. On Sunday, she had said the Centre was working to restore connectivity after being informed about the loss of contact with several fishermen at sea.  Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of a low-pressure area forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal, likely to intensify into a deep depression and cause rough sea conditions. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep, Comorin area, and coastal regions of Karnataka, Kerala, and south Tamil Nadu till October 21. The warning extends to parts of the Arabian Sea on October 22 and 23.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories  Are you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer risk123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Satellite phone services have been restored for over 30 fishermen from Tamil Nadu. The Department of Telecommunications and BSNL intervened to bring back Inmarsat connectivity. A private operator also provided temporary service. This enabled stranded fishermen to receive weather alerts and return safely. Efforts are ongoing to ensure full service restoration for all. Representational image (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: More than 30 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, who were stranded at sea amid rough weather, have regained satellite phone connectivity after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) restored Inmarsat services, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday. Sitharaman said a private operator had also temporarily resumed connectivity for several users, helping many stranded fishermen receive weather alerts and take precautions to return safely. In a post on X, she wrote, “Heartening to note that Inmarsat satellite phone services have been restored for over 30 fishermen currently out in the deep sea, following the intervention of BSNL and DoT. The private operator has temporarily resumed connectivity successfully for many users, enabling communication with those at high sea.”Sitharaman also mentioned that BSNL and the DoT are working with the private operator to ensure full service restoration for the remaining fishermen. On Sunday, she had said the Centre was working to restore connectivity after being informed about the loss of contact with several fishermen at sea. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of a low-pressure area forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal, likely to intensify into a deep depression and cause rough sea conditions. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep, Comorin area, and coastal regions of Karnataka, Kerala, and south Tamil Nadu till October 21. The warning extends to parts of the Arabian Sea on October 22 and 23.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories Are you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer risk123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Representational image (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: More than 30 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, who were stranded at sea amid rough weather, have regained satellite phone connectivity after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) restored Inmarsat services, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday. Sitharaman said a private operator had…

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Stage set for Bihar assembly elections 2025 NEW DELHI: The seat-sharing deal for the upcoming 2025 Bihar assembly election revealed a subtle but significant shift in internal power dynamics within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). For the first time since the early 1990s, the two principal partners — the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), led by chief minister Nitish Kumar, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) — will contest 101 seats each in Bihar’s 243-seat assembly, while the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJP(RV)), led by Chirag Paswan, got 29 seats. For the first time, the BJP has secured equal seat-sharing in Bihar, ending the long-standing tradition of Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) playing the “big brother.” This parity between BJP and JD(U) underscores how BJP has shifted from the “junior” to an equal (or perhaps dominant) status in Bihar’s ruling coalition — while continuing to present Nitish as the face of stability.Meanwhile, LJP(RV)’s allocation of 29 seats — though modest in absolute terms — is significantly larger than typical junior-ally shares and includes visibility-rich constituencies: for example, in districts such as Jamui, Hajipur and Khagaria, where Dalit and youth demographics are strong.The logic seems clear: BJP is hedging its bet—maintaining Nitish for his experience and stability, while elevating Chirag as a long-term ally and potentially a future power centre.2020 fallout: When Chirag went soloThe backdrop to this shifting balance lies in the 2020 assembly election. In that election, JD(U) won just 43 seats, down from 71 in 2015 elections. Meanwhile, LJP fielded candidates on its own and acted as a vote-splitter. The result of this vote-cutting was a massive drop in the JD(U)’s seat tally, which fell from 71 seats in 2015 to just 43 seats in 2020. This was the JD(U)’s lowest tally in years and resulted in the party becoming the junior partner to the BJP for the first time in the NDA coalition in Bihar.As Chirag famously declared in October 2020, “I am Prime Minister Modi’s Hanuman… the PM lives in my heart.” His solo campaign was widely seen as an effort to weaken JD(U) while maintaining warmth toward the BJP.Nitish, for his part, responded with restraint. He welcomed the NDA’s overall victory but could not overlook how his party’s reduced tally had shifted the internal arithmetic — paving the way for BJP’s greater influence in coalition decisions.Nitish’s declining arcNitish Kumar’s political journey has been defined by his reputation as “Sushasan Babu” — the administrator who once dominated Bihar’s politics. But by 2020, JD(U)’s footprint had shrunk and its strike rate fell sharply.Now, in 2025, BJP appears to be pursuing a dual strategy: keep Nitish visible as the stabiliser and face of continuity, while also nurturing Chirag as a parallel power centre. For BJP, that solves two problems at once: one, it retains the organisational strength and governance credentials associated with Nitish; two, it prepares for a future in which the LJP’s Dalit-youth base and rising profile may become more central. What’s at stake?For Nitish, the 2025 election is not just about retaining power—it’s about preserving relevance. If JD(U) fails to hold ground, Nitish may become a symbolic leader within his own alliance rather than its fulcrum.For Chirag, the 29-seat allocation marks his political breakthrough. He revealed that his party chose from a “pool of 38 seats” offered by BJP, stressing “quality over quantity.” His negotiation skills were on full display during the seat-sharing talks: engaging in multiple rounds with senior BJP and JD(U) leaders, he held firm until securing favourable terms. As a result, LJP(RV) emerged as the largest junior ally in the NDA. While BJP and JD(U) settled for 101 seats each, smaller allies — Jitan Ram Manjhi’s HAM and Upendra Kushwaha’s RLM — received only six seats apiece.This distribution positions Chirag as a key player in post-poll arithmetic, regardless of how the NDA performs overall.As for the BJP is concerned, the party seems to trying to thread the needle between coalition harmony and long-term dominance. If Nitish remains on board, BJP retains stability; if Chirag’s LJP strengthens, BJP gains leverage and a younger, more dynamic ally with reach into new caste and regional segments.Whether this triangular arrangement can sustain itself through the campaign — and beyond — will test the NDA’s cohesion like never before. Whether Nitish and Chirag truly coexist within the same alliance without their ambitions colliding remains to be seen.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories  10 traditional snacks from Italy one needs to tryFrom ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why ‘Thama’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of contentAlia Bhatt wore a 30-year-old saree to Kareena Kapoor’s Diwali party and made it 2025’s top festive trendAre you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In pictures123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Stage set for Bihar assembly elections 2025 NEW DELHI: The seat-sharing deal for the upcoming 2025 Bihar assembly election revealed a subtle but significant shift in internal power dynamics within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). For the first time since the early 1990s, the two principal partners — the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), led by chief minister Nitish Kumar, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) — will contest 101 seats each in Bihar’s 243-seat assembly, while the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJP(RV)), led by Chirag Paswan, got 29 seats. For the first time, the BJP has secured equal seat-sharing in Bihar, ending the long-standing tradition of Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) playing the “big brother.” This parity between BJP and JD(U) underscores how BJP has shifted from the “junior” to an equal (or perhaps dominant) status in Bihar’s ruling coalition — while continuing to present Nitish as the face of stability.Meanwhile, LJP(RV)’s allocation of 29 seats — though modest in absolute terms — is significantly larger than typical junior-ally shares and includes visibility-rich constituencies: for example, in districts such as Jamui, Hajipur and Khagaria, where Dalit and youth demographics are strong.The logic seems clear: BJP is hedging its bet—maintaining Nitish for his experience and stability, while elevating Chirag as a long-term ally and potentially a future power centre.2020 fallout: When Chirag went soloThe backdrop to this shifting balance lies in the 2020 assembly election. In that election, JD(U) won just 43 seats, down from 71 in 2015 elections. Meanwhile, LJP fielded candidates on its own and acted as a vote-splitter. The result of this vote-cutting was a massive drop in the JD(U)’s seat tally, which fell from 71 seats in 2015 to just 43 seats in 2020. This was the JD(U)’s lowest tally in years and resulted in the party becoming the junior partner to the BJP for the first time in the NDA coalition in Bihar.As Chirag famously declared in October 2020, “I am Prime Minister Modi’s Hanuman… the PM lives in my heart.” His solo campaign was widely seen as an effort to weaken JD(U) while maintaining warmth toward the BJP.Nitish, for his part, responded with restraint. He welcomed the NDA’s overall victory but could not overlook how his party’s reduced tally had shifted the internal arithmetic — paving the way for BJP’s greater influence in coalition decisions.Nitish’s declining arcNitish Kumar’s political journey has been defined by his reputation as “Sushasan Babu” — the administrator who once dominated Bihar’s politics. But by 2020, JD(U)’s footprint had shrunk and its strike rate fell sharply.Now, in 2025, BJP appears to be pursuing a dual strategy: keep Nitish visible as the stabiliser and face of continuity, while also nurturing Chirag as a parallel power centre. For BJP, that solves two problems at once: one, it retains the organisational strength and governance credentials associated with Nitish; two, it prepares for a future in which the LJP’s Dalit-youth base and rising profile may become more central. What’s at stake?For Nitish, the 2025 election is not just about retaining power—it’s about preserving relevance. If JD(U) fails to hold ground, Nitish may become a symbolic leader within his own alliance rather than its fulcrum.For Chirag, the 29-seat allocation marks his political breakthrough. He revealed that his party chose from a “pool of 38 seats” offered by BJP, stressing “quality over quantity.” His negotiation skills were on full display during the seat-sharing talks: engaging in multiple rounds with senior BJP and JD(U) leaders, he held firm until securing favourable terms. As a result, LJP(RV) emerged as the largest junior ally in the NDA. While BJP and JD(U) settled for 101 seats each, smaller allies — Jitan Ram Manjhi’s HAM and Upendra Kushwaha’s RLM — received only six seats apiece.This distribution positions Chirag as a key player in post-poll arithmetic, regardless of how the NDA performs overall.As for the BJP is concerned, the party seems to trying to thread the needle between coalition harmony and long-term dominance. If Nitish remains on board, BJP retains stability; if Chirag’s LJP strengthens, BJP gains leverage and a younger, more dynamic ally with reach into new caste and regional segments.Whether this triangular arrangement can sustain itself through the campaign — and beyond — will test the NDA’s cohesion like never before. Whether Nitish and Chirag truly coexist within the same alliance without their ambitions colliding remains to be seen.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories 10 traditional snacks from Italy one needs to tryFrom ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why ‘Thama’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of contentAlia Bhatt wore a 30-year-old saree to Kareena Kapoor’s Diwali party and made it 2025’s top festive trendAre you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In pictures123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Stage set for Bihar assembly elections 2025 NEW DELHI: The seat-sharing deal for the upcoming 2025 Bihar assembly election revealed a subtle but significant shift in internal power dynamics within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). For the first time since the early 1990s, the two principal partners — the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), led by…

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Bihar’s RJD announced its 143 candidates for the upcoming assembly elections, asserting its dominance in the Mahagathbandhan despite internal tensions. The party aims to unseat chief minister Nitish Kumar, with Tejashwi Yadav’s political future at stake. The alliance faces challenges with overlapping candidacies and ambiguity over a chief ministerial face.  NEW DELHI: Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Bihar assembly’s single-largest party and the main opposition force, marked Diwali on Monday by announcing its list of 143 candidates. The move asserts RJD’s dominant position within the Mahagathbandhan even as tensions simmer among allies.Led by Tejashwi, the party aims to unseat chief minister Nitish Kumar, who has anti-incumbency as a negative factor after years in power. For RJD, long led by Lalu Prasad Yadav, this election is crucial, a battle that could define Tejashwi’s political future.Decoding RJD’s list and Mahagathbandhan equations -The announcement came on the last day of nominations for the second phase, confirming that RJD will contest 143 seats, Congress 61, CPI(ML) 20, and the remaining few likely going to Mukesh Sahani’s VIP.RJD scion Tejashwi will contest again from Raghopur, while several key names feature in the list, including Renu Kushwaha from Bihariganj, Anita Devi Mahto from Warsaliganj, and Mala Pushpam from Hasanpur. Other candidates include Sandhya Rani Kushwaha from Madhuban, Ritu Priya Chaudhary from Imamganj (SC), Tanushree Manjhi from Barachatti (SC), and Chandni Devi Singh from Baniapur.Overlaps and tensions within Mahagathbandhan campIn a sign of strain within the alliance, RJD and Congress have fielded rival candidates in several constituencies.In Narkatiaganj, Deepak Yadav (RJD) faces Shaswat Kedar Pandey (Congress); in Kahalgaon, Rajnish Bharti (RJD) goes up against Praveen Singh Kushwaha (Congress); and in Sikandra (SC), Uday Narayan Chaudhary (RJD) faces Vinod Chaudhary (Congress).Another constituent of the alliance, CPI too faces Congress in Bachhwara, Rajapakar, Rosera, and Biharsharif, while RJD is directly up against Congress in Vaishali, Warisaliganj, Lalganj, and Kahalgaon.Caste arithmetic and women representationRJD’s list clearly reflects its focus on the traditional Muslim-Yadav (MY) equation, with over 50 tickets allotted to these communities. Of the total 143 candidates, 23 are women, marking an effort to broaden the party’s appeal.The party also handed a ticket to the late gangster-politician and former RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin’s son from Siwan’s Raghunathpur, reinforcing ties to its old base.Family rivalry: RJD vs Tej Pratap in MahuaA key highlight is the battle for Mahua, where RJD’s Mukesh Raushan will face Tej Pratap Yadav, Lalu’s elder son, who was expelled from the party earlier this year. Tej Pratap has since launched his own party, Janshakti Janata Dal, and announced himself as candidate from Mahua, an RJD stronghold. The family feud adds personal drama to the already tense political equation.Strongholds and familiar facesSeveral incumbents and loyalists have retained their seats. A Yadav continues from Sonepur in Saran district, Lalu’s home turf, while Bhai Virendra from Maner and Ritlal Rai from Danapur also feature on the list. Both seats fall within the Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency, represented by Misa Bharti, Lalu’s daughter, in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.Alliance unity under questionDespite releasing its list, the Mahagathbandhan has yet to formally announce a chief ministerial candidate. While Tejashwi’s leadership is widely recognised, Rahul Gandhi’s avoidance of naming him as the CM face at a joint rally has fuelled speculation of unease within the alliance.The overlapping seats and leadership ambiguity could end up benefiting the ruling NDA.Bihar, India’s fourth-largest assembly, will go to polls in two phases — November 6 and November 11 — with counting on November 14.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy TiesAyodhya Shines Bright as Millions of Diyas Light Up Deepotsav 2025‘SP Against Indian Traditions?’ BJP Criticizes SP Chief for Diwali Lighting Remarks123 Photostories  11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer riskFrom ‘Om Shanti Om’ to ‘Student of the Year’: When Bollywood stars looked back at where it all beganHow to deal with annoying and toxic people: 5 powerful psychology-backed tips to protect your peaceLatest OTT releases this Diwali week: ‘They Call Him OG’ to ‘Nobody Wants This Season 2’6 ways to prepare for your first job after graduating123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Bihar’s RJD announced its 143 candidates for the upcoming assembly elections, asserting its dominance in the Mahagathbandhan despite internal tensions. The party aims to unseat chief minister Nitish Kumar, with Tejashwi Yadav’s political future at stake. The alliance faces challenges with overlapping candidacies and ambiguity over a chief ministerial face. NEW DELHI: Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Bihar assembly’s single-largest party and the main opposition force, marked Diwali on Monday by announcing its list of 143 candidates. The move asserts RJD’s dominant position within the Mahagathbandhan even as tensions simmer among allies.Led by Tejashwi, the party aims to unseat chief minister Nitish Kumar, who has anti-incumbency as a negative factor after years in power. For RJD, long led by Lalu Prasad Yadav, this election is crucial, a battle that could define Tejashwi’s political future.Decoding RJD’s list and Mahagathbandhan equations -The announcement came on the last day of nominations for the second phase, confirming that RJD will contest 143 seats, Congress 61, CPI(ML) 20, and the remaining few likely going to Mukesh Sahani’s VIP.RJD scion Tejashwi will contest again from Raghopur, while several key names feature in the list, including Renu Kushwaha from Bihariganj, Anita Devi Mahto from Warsaliganj, and Mala Pushpam from Hasanpur. Other candidates include Sandhya Rani Kushwaha from Madhuban, Ritu Priya Chaudhary from Imamganj (SC), Tanushree Manjhi from Barachatti (SC), and Chandni Devi Singh from Baniapur.Overlaps and tensions within Mahagathbandhan campIn a sign of strain within the alliance, RJD and Congress have fielded rival candidates in several constituencies.In Narkatiaganj, Deepak Yadav (RJD) faces Shaswat Kedar Pandey (Congress); in Kahalgaon, Rajnish Bharti (RJD) goes up against Praveen Singh Kushwaha (Congress); and in Sikandra (SC), Uday Narayan Chaudhary (RJD) faces Vinod Chaudhary (Congress).Another constituent of the alliance, CPI too faces Congress in Bachhwara, Rajapakar, Rosera, and Biharsharif, while RJD is directly up against Congress in Vaishali, Warisaliganj, Lalganj, and Kahalgaon.Caste arithmetic and women representationRJD’s list clearly reflects its focus on the traditional Muslim-Yadav (MY) equation, with over 50 tickets allotted to these communities. Of the total 143 candidates, 23 are women, marking an effort to broaden the party’s appeal.The party also handed a ticket to the late gangster-politician and former RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin’s son from Siwan’s Raghunathpur, reinforcing ties to its old base.Family rivalry: RJD vs Tej Pratap in MahuaA key highlight is the battle for Mahua, where RJD’s Mukesh Raushan will face Tej Pratap Yadav, Lalu’s elder son, who was expelled from the party earlier this year. Tej Pratap has since launched his own party, Janshakti Janata Dal, and announced himself as candidate from Mahua, an RJD stronghold. The family feud adds personal drama to the already tense political equation.Strongholds and familiar facesSeveral incumbents and loyalists have retained their seats. A Yadav continues from Sonepur in Saran district, Lalu’s home turf, while Bhai Virendra from Maner and Ritlal Rai from Danapur also feature on the list. Both seats fall within the Pataliputra Lok Sabha constituency, represented by Misa Bharti, Lalu’s daughter, in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.Alliance unity under questionDespite releasing its list, the Mahagathbandhan has yet to formally announce a chief ministerial candidate. While Tejashwi’s leadership is widely recognised, Rahul Gandhi’s avoidance of naming him as the CM face at a joint rally has fuelled speculation of unease within the alliance.The overlapping seats and leadership ambiguity could end up benefiting the ruling NDA.Bihar, India’s fourth-largest assembly, will go to polls in two phases — November 6 and November 11 — with counting on November 14.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy TiesAyodhya Shines Bright as Millions of Diyas Light Up Deepotsav 2025‘SP Against Indian Traditions?’ BJP Criticizes SP Chief for Diwali Lighting Remarks123 Photostories 11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer riskFrom ‘Om Shanti Om’ to ‘Student of the Year’: When Bollywood stars looked back at where it all beganHow to deal with annoying and toxic people: 5 powerful psychology-backed tips to protect your peaceLatest OTT releases this Diwali week: ‘They Call Him OG’ to ‘Nobody Wants This Season 2’6 ways to prepare for your first job after graduating123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

NEW DELHI: Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Bihar assembly’s single-largest party and the main opposition force, marked Diwali on Monday by announcing its list of 143 candidates. The move asserts RJD’s dominant position within the Mahagathbandhan even as tensions simmer among allies.Led by Tejashwi, the party aims to unseat chief minister Nitish Kumar, who…

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CEO-led Alliance of climate leaders urge govts to step up transition to green economy | India News

CEO-led Alliance of climate leaders urge govts to step up transition to green economy | India News

Representative image (AI) NEW DELHI: Ahead of the upcoming annual UN climate summit (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, the Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, representing 134 companies from 27 countries, including India, has urged world leaders to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon resilient economy. The CEO-led alliance, one of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) flagship…

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Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath launched a strong attack on the Congress and Samajwadi Party at Deepotsav-2025, accusing them of insulting India’s faith and obstructing the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He highlighted their alleged past actions, including calling Lord Ram a myth and firing at devotees, contrasting them with the current celebration of truth and faith in Ayodhya. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath applies tilak on the forehead of artists dressed up as Lord Ram, and Laxman during the Diwali festival celebration, in Ayodhya on Sunday. NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday launched a fierce attack on the Congress and Samajwadi Party, accusing them of “insulting India’s eternal faith” and obstructing the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Speaking at the ninth edition of Deepotsav-2025 in Shri Ayodhya Dham, the chief minister framed the festival as both a spiritual celebration and a symbolic triumph of truth over falsehood.’They called Lord Ram a myth’Addressing thousands gathered amid the glow of millions of diyas, CM Yogi alleged that both Congress and SP had worked to “erase Ayodhya’s identity” and hinder the construction of the Ram Temple.‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits Out“While we are illuminating Ayodhya with millions of lamps, we must not forget that during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, the Congress party declared in court that Lord Shri Ram was a myth. The Congress party gave an affidavit in the Supreme Court stating that Shri Ram was a myth, and the Samajwadi Party had fired bullets at Ram devotees in this very Ayodhya,” he said.He accused the opposition of double standards, saying, “These are the same people who pray at Babar’s tomb but rejected the invitation to the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in the temple at Ayodhya.”’They erased Ayodhya’s identity’Continuing his criticism, CM Yogi said the opposition parties had for decades attempted to undermine the spiritual heritage of Ayodhya.“We must remember their double standards. These are the same people who, during the Ram Mandir movement, deployed separate advocates to prevent the construction of the temple in Ayodhya, so they could protest and create obstacles in the path of the Ram Mandir. But today we can say they fired bullets; we are lighting lamps in Ayodhya,” he said.He further claimed that the previous governments had “erased Ayodhya’s identity” by renaming it Faizabad. “We have restored the name and legacy of Ayodhya, making it Ayodhya Dham again,” he added.’A festival of truth and faith’Reflecting on the origins of Deepotsav, CM Yogi recalled the humble beginnings of the celebration when his government revived the tradition in 2017.“When we decided in 2017 to organise the first Deepotsav in Ayodhya Dham, the sentiment behind it was singular: to show the world how lamp-lighting should be done and on what occasion it should be celebrated,” he said.He added that the festival symbolised a return to India’s ancient roots: “Thousands of years ago, when the world was living in darkness, Ayodhya had lit lamps to welcome its Lord, its deity, and the arrival of its faith–those very lamps became the great festival of Sanatana Dharma in the form of Deepotsav and Deepawali.”From 1.71 lakh diyas to millionsThe chief minister also recalled the logistical challenges faced during the inaugural Deepotsav.“When we decided to carry forward that campaign again to keep the spirit of Deepotsav alive, in 2017 we did not have sufficient lamps. We collected lamps from across the state and managed to light 1.71 lakh diyas. Today, millions of lamps are lit in Ayodhya Dham,” he said, calling it a symbol of “the awakening of faith and pride in Indian culture.”About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Pinpoint Accuracy’ Rajnath Singh Praises BrahMos Precision During Operation SindoorViral Video: IRCTC Staff Fight At Delhi’s Nizamuddin Station, 4 Suspended, Rs 5 Lakh Fine Imposed‘Captain Of Bharat Badnami Brigade’: BJP Slams Sam Pitroda Over ‘Elections Manipulated’ Remark‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits OutJNU Clash: Student Union President Among 28 Detained, 6 Cops Injured During Protest Against ABVP‘Deport Every Indian’: U.S. Politician Gets Censured Over Mass Deportation CallPakistan And Afghanistan Agree To ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ After Peace Talks In DohaSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s Polls123 Photostories  Heart surgeon reveals 4 things people should AVOID after reaching their 30s to reduce the chance of heart disease5 beetroot cocktails for Diwali night that are tasty yet healthyFrom ‘Srikanth’ to ‘Black’: Films that celebrate the triumph of the disabledFrom kalamkari to bandhani: 5 dupatta trends to amp up your traditional Diwali lookIndian Railways to roll out 7,000 km of high-speed passenger corridors Vande Bharat 4.0, hydrogen-powered trains to redefine future travel India set to lead global rail innovation with homegrown technology (Photos)8 insects that are as beautiful as birdsBollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other7 foods that instantly lower uric acid levelsAhead of ‘Thamma’ release, watch these 6 Indian horror-comedy moviesFrom Karan Kundrra–Tejasswi Prakash to Aly Goni–Jasmin Bhasin: TV celebs who are living together but haven’t tied the knot yet123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath launched a strong attack on the Congress and Samajwadi Party at Deepotsav-2025, accusing them of insulting India’s faith and obstructing the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He highlighted their alleged past actions, including calling Lord Ram a myth and firing at devotees, contrasting them with the current celebration of truth and faith in Ayodhya. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath applies tilak on the forehead of artists dressed up as Lord Ram, and Laxman during the Diwali festival celebration, in Ayodhya on Sunday. NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday launched a fierce attack on the Congress and Samajwadi Party, accusing them of “insulting India’s eternal faith” and obstructing the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Speaking at the ninth edition of Deepotsav-2025 in Shri Ayodhya Dham, the chief minister framed the festival as both a spiritual celebration and a symbolic triumph of truth over falsehood.’They called Lord Ram a myth’Addressing thousands gathered amid the glow of millions of diyas, CM Yogi alleged that both Congress and SP had worked to “erase Ayodhya’s identity” and hinder the construction of the Ram Temple.‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits Out“While we are illuminating Ayodhya with millions of lamps, we must not forget that during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, the Congress party declared in court that Lord Shri Ram was a myth. The Congress party gave an affidavit in the Supreme Court stating that Shri Ram was a myth, and the Samajwadi Party had fired bullets at Ram devotees in this very Ayodhya,” he said.He accused the opposition of double standards, saying, “These are the same people who pray at Babar’s tomb but rejected the invitation to the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in the temple at Ayodhya.”’They erased Ayodhya’s identity’Continuing his criticism, CM Yogi said the opposition parties had for decades attempted to undermine the spiritual heritage of Ayodhya.“We must remember their double standards. These are the same people who, during the Ram Mandir movement, deployed separate advocates to prevent the construction of the temple in Ayodhya, so they could protest and create obstacles in the path of the Ram Mandir. But today we can say they fired bullets; we are lighting lamps in Ayodhya,” he said.He further claimed that the previous governments had “erased Ayodhya’s identity” by renaming it Faizabad. “We have restored the name and legacy of Ayodhya, making it Ayodhya Dham again,” he added.’A festival of truth and faith’Reflecting on the origins of Deepotsav, CM Yogi recalled the humble beginnings of the celebration when his government revived the tradition in 2017.“When we decided in 2017 to organise the first Deepotsav in Ayodhya Dham, the sentiment behind it was singular: to show the world how lamp-lighting should be done and on what occasion it should be celebrated,” he said.He added that the festival symbolised a return to India’s ancient roots: “Thousands of years ago, when the world was living in darkness, Ayodhya had lit lamps to welcome its Lord, its deity, and the arrival of its faith–those very lamps became the great festival of Sanatana Dharma in the form of Deepotsav and Deepawali.”From 1.71 lakh diyas to millionsThe chief minister also recalled the logistical challenges faced during the inaugural Deepotsav.“When we decided to carry forward that campaign again to keep the spirit of Deepotsav alive, in 2017 we did not have sufficient lamps. We collected lamps from across the state and managed to light 1.71 lakh diyas. Today, millions of lamps are lit in Ayodhya Dham,” he said, calling it a symbol of “the awakening of faith and pride in Indian culture.”About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Pinpoint Accuracy’ Rajnath Singh Praises BrahMos Precision During Operation SindoorViral Video: IRCTC Staff Fight At Delhi’s Nizamuddin Station, 4 Suspended, Rs 5 Lakh Fine Imposed‘Captain Of Bharat Badnami Brigade’: BJP Slams Sam Pitroda Over ‘Elections Manipulated’ Remark‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits OutJNU Clash: Student Union President Among 28 Detained, 6 Cops Injured During Protest Against ABVP‘Deport Every Indian’: U.S. Politician Gets Censured Over Mass Deportation CallPakistan And Afghanistan Agree To ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ After Peace Talks In DohaSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s Polls123 Photostories Heart surgeon reveals 4 things people should AVOID after reaching their 30s to reduce the chance of heart disease5 beetroot cocktails for Diwali night that are tasty yet healthyFrom ‘Srikanth’ to ‘Black’: Films that celebrate the triumph of the disabledFrom kalamkari to bandhani: 5 dupatta trends to amp up your traditional Diwali lookIndian Railways to roll out 7,000 km of high-speed passenger corridors Vande Bharat 4.0, hydrogen-powered trains to redefine future travel India set to lead global rail innovation with homegrown technology (Photos)8 insects that are as beautiful as birdsBollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other7 foods that instantly lower uric acid levelsAhead of ‘Thamma’ release, watch these 6 Indian horror-comedy moviesFrom Karan Kundrra–Tejasswi Prakash to Aly Goni–Jasmin Bhasin: TV celebs who are living together but haven’t tied the knot yet123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath applies tilak on the forehead of artists dressed up as Lord Ram, and Laxman during the Diwali festival celebration, in Ayodhya on Sunday. NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday launched a fierce attack on the Congress and Samajwadi Party, accusing them of “insulting India’s eternal…

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RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that ancient Indians spread culture and knowledge globally with goodwill, not conquest or conversion, reaching from Mexico to Siberia. He lamented that recent invaders targeted Indian minds, causing a loss of self-awareness. Bhagwat asserted that spiritual and scientific knowledge remains strong in India, a legacy of Aryavrat. Mohan Bhagwat (PTI image)  NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that in ancient times, Indians travelled across the world with sadhbhavna (goodwill). He added that Indians shared their culture and knowledge rather than seeking conquest or conversion.“Our ancestors travelled from Mexico to Siberia and taught science and culture to the world. They did not convert anyone or conquer. We went with sadhbhavna (goodwill) and a message of unity,” he said.RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Highlights Swadeshi, Unity & India’s Global Leadership Role Amid Tariff WarSpeaking at the launch of the Arya Yug Vishay Kosh encyclopedia, Bhagwat highlighted that while India was repeatedly invaded and looted, the last invaders targeted the minds of Indians.“Many invaders came and looted us and made us slaves. The last ones to invade looted our minds. We forgot our strengths and what we can share with the world,” he added.The RSS supremo also emphasised the continuing importance of spiritual and scientific knowledge in India. “Spiritual knowledge is still flourishing. As descendants of Aryavrat, we possess science, weapons, strength, power, faith and knowledge,” he said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Pinpoint Accuracy’ Rajnath Singh Praises BrahMos Precision During Operation SindoorViral Video: IRCTC Staff Fight At Delhi’s Nizamuddin Station, 4 Suspended, Rs 5 Lakh Fine Imposed‘Captain Of Bharat Badnami Brigade’: BJP Slams Sam Pitroda Over ‘Elections Manipulated’ Remark‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits OutJNU Clash: Student Union President Among 28 Detained, 6 Cops Injured During Protest Against ABVP‘Deport Every Indian’: U.S. Politician Gets Censured Over Mass Deportation CallPakistan And Afghanistan Agree To ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ After Peace Talks In DohaSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s Polls123 Photostories  5 beetroot cocktails for Diwali night that are tasty yet healthyFrom ‘Srikanth’ to ‘Black’: Films that celebrate the triumph of the disabledFrom kalamkari to bandhani: 5 dupatta trends to amp up your traditional Diwali lookIndian Railways to roll out 7,000 km of high-speed passenger corridors Vande Bharat 4.0, hydrogen-powered trains to redefine future travel India set to lead global rail innovation with homegrown technology (Photos)8 insects that are as beautiful as birdsBollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other7 foods that instantly lower uric acid levelsAhead of ‘Thamma’ release, watch these 6 Indian horror-comedy moviesFrom Karan Kundrra–Tejasswi Prakash to Aly Goni–Jasmin Bhasin: TV celebs who are living together but haven’t tied the knot yetUpcoming English OTT releases of the week: ‘Nobody Wants This Season 2’ to ‘Tracker’123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that ancient Indians spread culture and knowledge globally with goodwill, not conquest or conversion, reaching from Mexico to Siberia. He lamented that recent invaders targeted Indian minds, causing a loss of self-awareness. Bhagwat asserted that spiritual and scientific knowledge remains strong in India, a legacy of Aryavrat. Mohan Bhagwat (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that in ancient times, Indians travelled across the world with sadhbhavna (goodwill). He added that Indians shared their culture and knowledge rather than seeking conquest or conversion.“Our ancestors travelled from Mexico to Siberia and taught science and culture to the world. They did not convert anyone or conquer. We went with sadhbhavna (goodwill) and a message of unity,” he said.RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Highlights Swadeshi, Unity & India’s Global Leadership Role Amid Tariff WarSpeaking at the launch of the Arya Yug Vishay Kosh encyclopedia, Bhagwat highlighted that while India was repeatedly invaded and looted, the last invaders targeted the minds of Indians.“Many invaders came and looted us and made us slaves. The last ones to invade looted our minds. We forgot our strengths and what we can share with the world,” he added.The RSS supremo also emphasised the continuing importance of spiritual and scientific knowledge in India. “Spiritual knowledge is still flourishing. As descendants of Aryavrat, we possess science, weapons, strength, power, faith and knowledge,” he said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Pinpoint Accuracy’ Rajnath Singh Praises BrahMos Precision During Operation SindoorViral Video: IRCTC Staff Fight At Delhi’s Nizamuddin Station, 4 Suspended, Rs 5 Lakh Fine Imposed‘Captain Of Bharat Badnami Brigade’: BJP Slams Sam Pitroda Over ‘Elections Manipulated’ Remark‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits OutJNU Clash: Student Union President Among 28 Detained, 6 Cops Injured During Protest Against ABVP‘Deport Every Indian’: U.S. Politician Gets Censured Over Mass Deportation CallPakistan And Afghanistan Agree To ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ After Peace Talks In DohaSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s Polls123 Photostories 5 beetroot cocktails for Diwali night that are tasty yet healthyFrom ‘Srikanth’ to ‘Black’: Films that celebrate the triumph of the disabledFrom kalamkari to bandhani: 5 dupatta trends to amp up your traditional Diwali lookIndian Railways to roll out 7,000 km of high-speed passenger corridors Vande Bharat 4.0, hydrogen-powered trains to redefine future travel India set to lead global rail innovation with homegrown technology (Photos)8 insects that are as beautiful as birdsBollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other7 foods that instantly lower uric acid levelsAhead of ‘Thamma’ release, watch these 6 Indian horror-comedy moviesFrom Karan Kundrra–Tejasswi Prakash to Aly Goni–Jasmin Bhasin: TV celebs who are living together but haven’t tied the knot yetUpcoming English OTT releases of the week: ‘Nobody Wants This Season 2’ to ‘Tracker’123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Mohan Bhagwat (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that in ancient times, Indians travelled across the world with sadhbhavna (goodwill). He added that Indians shared their culture and knowledge rather than seeking conquest or conversion.“Our ancestors travelled from Mexico to Siberia and taught science and culture to…

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Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set for a significant electoral battle.  He aims to retain his position with NDA support.  This election is critical for his legacy and his party’s standing.  Voters will consider his governance record and potential political fatigue.  The BJP’s growing influence presents a new dynamic.  The outcome will shape Bihar’s political future. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar (file photo) NEW DELHI: Chief minister Nitish Kumar, the state’s longest-serving leader, stands firm once again, determined to retain his grip on the Bihar throne with the backing of BJP-led NDA partners. Known as an all-weather politician, the 74-year-old continues to command influence, even as the political winds shift and alliances change.Here’s what’s at stake for Nitish Kumar in the upcoming elections —CM face but no longer ‘big brother’ for BJPRenowned for his ability to switch sides while retaining trust, Nitish enters this election amid historic changes. For the first time, the BJP has negotiated equal seat-sharing, ending the long-standing tradition of projecting the JD(U)-led by Nitish Kumar as the “big brother” in Bihar politics.The seasoned leader faces a formidable challenge from former ally RJD scion Tejashwi Yadav, the son of Lalu Prasad Yadav, who aims to reclaim the political throne Nitish wrested from his family two decades ago.‘JD(U) Not Run By Nitish’: Tejashwi Yadav Says Key Leaders ‘Bought By BJP’ Now Controlling PartyApart from Tejashwi Yadav’s RJD, poll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor is emerging as a formidable challenger with his new political venture, Jan Suraaj.Kishor has openly taken on his former superior, Nitish Kumar, and the incumbent regime, while sharply criticizing the long-standing bipartisan rule of RJD and JD(U). His campaign presents Jan Suraaj as a fresh alternative, offering Bihar voters a new choice to place their trust in.Make-or-break momentThe 2025 Bihar elections are a make-or-break moment for Nitish, putting both his personal legacy and his party’s relevance on the line. This will be his tenth bid for the chief ministerial post, after two decades defined by governance reforms, social welfare initiatives, and dramatic alliance shifts that earned him the nickname “Paltu Ram.”Will image of ‘Sushashan Babu’ play?Voters will now decide whether Nitish’s image as the ‘Sushashan Babu’ — the man synonymous with development, stability, and law-and-order — still resonates, or whether political fatigue, policy stagnation, and repeated flip-flops have eroded his mandate. Anti-incumbency a challenge?Anti-incumbency is the most formidable challenge, and after nearly 20 years in power, Nitish must convince the electorate of his enduring energy, vision, and ability to govern effectively.In 2020, JD(U) bore the brunt of anti-incumbency, with its tally falling from 71 seats in 2015 to just 43. The BJP secured 74, while Lalu’s RJD emerged as the largest party with 75 seats, highlighting the volatility and unpredictability of Bihar’s political battleground.Can Nitish maintain his party’s influence amid BJP rise?This election is also a crucial test for Nitish Kumar’s party, JD(U), determining its continued relevance and influence in Bihar politics. For the first time, the BJP, already negotiating equal seat-sharing of 101 seats each with JD(U), has positioned itself as an equal partner in the NDA.As a national party, the BJP has the resources and reach to expand in a state where national parties have struggled over the past three decades. With its strong performance in the last elections, the BJP is emerging as a dominant force in Bihar – a rise that could significantly overshadow JD(U) and diminish its long-held political stature.Will voters keep Nitish’s age and fitness in mind?Age and fitness for office have also become key talking points, with opposition leaders questioning whether Nitish can still navigate the complexities of governance in a fast-evolving state.The 2025 election will decide far more than another term for Nitish. It will determine whether JD(U) maintains its stature as a major force in Bihar or is relegated to a junior partner in the NDA. More broadly, it may answer the question looming over Bihar politics: is it finally time for Nitish Kumar to hang up his boots?Meanwhile, the political stage across Bihar is buzzing with activity. Polling is set in two phases — November 6 and 11 — across 243 seats, with counting scheduled for November 14. Every constituency will be a test of Nitish Kumar’s enduring appeal, his legacy, and the future of JD(U) in Bihar politics.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Pinpoint Accuracy’ Rajnath Singh Praises BrahMos Precision During Operation SindoorViral Video: IRCTC Staff Fight At Delhi’s Nizamuddin Station, 4 Suspended, Rs 5 Lakh Fine Imposed‘Captain Of Bharat Badnami Brigade’: BJP Slams Sam Pitroda Over ‘Elections Manipulated’ Remark‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits OutJNU Clash: Student Union President Among 28 Detained, 6 Cops Injured During Protest Against ABVP‘Deport Every Indian’: U.S. Politician Gets Censured Over Mass Deportation CallPakistan And Afghanistan Agree To ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ After Peace Talks In DohaSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s Polls123 Photostories  From kalamkari to bandhani: 5 dupatta trends to amp up your traditional Diwali lookIndian Railways to roll out 7,000 km of high-speed passenger corridors Vande Bharat 4.0, hydrogen-powered trains to redefine future travel India set to lead global rail innovation with homegrown technology (Photos)8 insects that are as beautiful as birdsBollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other7 foods that instantly lower uric acid levelsAhead of ‘Thamma’ release, watch these 6 Indian horror-comedy moviesFrom Karan Kundrra–Tejasswi Prakash to Aly Goni–Jasmin Bhasin: TV celebs who are living together but haven’t tied the knot yetUpcoming English OTT releases of the week: ‘Nobody Wants This Season 2’ to ‘Tracker’Films where Urmila Matondkar proved her unmatched versatility and fearless range across genres and generationsLimp Bizkit’s top 5 songs that have defined a generation123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set for a significant electoral battle. He aims to retain his position with NDA support. This election is critical for his legacy and his party’s standing. Voters will consider his governance record and potential political fatigue. The BJP’s growing influence presents a new dynamic. The outcome will shape Bihar’s political future. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar (file photo) NEW DELHI: Chief minister Nitish Kumar, the state’s longest-serving leader, stands firm once again, determined to retain his grip on the Bihar throne with the backing of BJP-led NDA partners. Known as an all-weather politician, the 74-year-old continues to command influence, even as the political winds shift and alliances change.Here’s what’s at stake for Nitish Kumar in the upcoming elections —CM face but no longer ‘big brother’ for BJPRenowned for his ability to switch sides while retaining trust, Nitish enters this election amid historic changes. For the first time, the BJP has negotiated equal seat-sharing, ending the long-standing tradition of projecting the JD(U)-led by Nitish Kumar as the “big brother” in Bihar politics.The seasoned leader faces a formidable challenge from former ally RJD scion Tejashwi Yadav, the son of Lalu Prasad Yadav, who aims to reclaim the political throne Nitish wrested from his family two decades ago.‘JD(U) Not Run By Nitish’: Tejashwi Yadav Says Key Leaders ‘Bought By BJP’ Now Controlling PartyApart from Tejashwi Yadav’s RJD, poll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor is emerging as a formidable challenger with his new political venture, Jan Suraaj.Kishor has openly taken on his former superior, Nitish Kumar, and the incumbent regime, while sharply criticizing the long-standing bipartisan rule of RJD and JD(U). His campaign presents Jan Suraaj as a fresh alternative, offering Bihar voters a new choice to place their trust in.Make-or-break momentThe 2025 Bihar elections are a make-or-break moment for Nitish, putting both his personal legacy and his party’s relevance on the line. This will be his tenth bid for the chief ministerial post, after two decades defined by governance reforms, social welfare initiatives, and dramatic alliance shifts that earned him the nickname “Paltu Ram.”Will image of ‘Sushashan Babu’ play?Voters will now decide whether Nitish’s image as the ‘Sushashan Babu’ — the man synonymous with development, stability, and law-and-order — still resonates, or whether political fatigue, policy stagnation, and repeated flip-flops have eroded his mandate. Anti-incumbency a challenge?Anti-incumbency is the most formidable challenge, and after nearly 20 years in power, Nitish must convince the electorate of his enduring energy, vision, and ability to govern effectively.In 2020, JD(U) bore the brunt of anti-incumbency, with its tally falling from 71 seats in 2015 to just 43. The BJP secured 74, while Lalu’s RJD emerged as the largest party with 75 seats, highlighting the volatility and unpredictability of Bihar’s political battleground.Can Nitish maintain his party’s influence amid BJP rise?This election is also a crucial test for Nitish Kumar’s party, JD(U), determining its continued relevance and influence in Bihar politics. For the first time, the BJP, already negotiating equal seat-sharing of 101 seats each with JD(U), has positioned itself as an equal partner in the NDA.As a national party, the BJP has the resources and reach to expand in a state where national parties have struggled over the past three decades. With its strong performance in the last elections, the BJP is emerging as a dominant force in Bihar – a rise that could significantly overshadow JD(U) and diminish its long-held political stature.Will voters keep Nitish’s age and fitness in mind?Age and fitness for office have also become key talking points, with opposition leaders questioning whether Nitish can still navigate the complexities of governance in a fast-evolving state.The 2025 election will decide far more than another term for Nitish. It will determine whether JD(U) maintains its stature as a major force in Bihar or is relegated to a junior partner in the NDA. More broadly, it may answer the question looming over Bihar politics: is it finally time for Nitish Kumar to hang up his boots?Meanwhile, the political stage across Bihar is buzzing with activity. Polling is set in two phases — November 6 and 11 — across 243 seats, with counting scheduled for November 14. Every constituency will be a test of Nitish Kumar’s enduring appeal, his legacy, and the future of JD(U) in Bihar politics.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Pinpoint Accuracy’ Rajnath Singh Praises BrahMos Precision During Operation SindoorViral Video: IRCTC Staff Fight At Delhi’s Nizamuddin Station, 4 Suspended, Rs 5 Lakh Fine Imposed‘Captain Of Bharat Badnami Brigade’: BJP Slams Sam Pitroda Over ‘Elections Manipulated’ Remark‘Why Spend Money On Diyas’: Akhilesh Yadav’s Remark On Ayodhya Deepotsav Sparks Row, BJP Hits OutJNU Clash: Student Union President Among 28 Detained, 6 Cops Injured During Protest Against ABVP‘Deport Every Indian’: U.S. Politician Gets Censured Over Mass Deportation CallPakistan And Afghanistan Agree To ‘Immediate Ceasefire’ After Peace Talks In DohaSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s Polls123 Photostories From kalamkari to bandhani: 5 dupatta trends to amp up your traditional Diwali lookIndian Railways to roll out 7,000 km of high-speed passenger corridors Vande Bharat 4.0, hydrogen-powered trains to redefine future travel India set to lead global rail innovation with homegrown technology (Photos)8 insects that are as beautiful as birdsBollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other7 foods that instantly lower uric acid levelsAhead of ‘Thamma’ release, watch these 6 Indian horror-comedy moviesFrom Karan Kundrra–Tejasswi Prakash to Aly Goni–Jasmin Bhasin: TV celebs who are living together but haven’t tied the knot yetUpcoming English OTT releases of the week: ‘Nobody Wants This Season 2’ to ‘Tracker’Films where Urmila Matondkar proved her unmatched versatility and fearless range across genres and generationsLimp Bizkit’s top 5 songs that have defined a generation123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar (file photo) NEW DELHI: Chief minister Nitish Kumar, the state’s longest-serving leader, stands firm once again, determined to retain his grip on the Bihar throne with the backing of BJP-led NDA partners. Known as an all-weather politician, the 74-year-old continues to command influence, even as the political winds shift and…

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. NEW DELHI: Framing a unique standard operating procedure, Supreme Court has directed that if a poor person, arrested for an offence and lodged in jail pending trial, is unable to furnish monetary surety for bail, government concerned through district legal services authority will provide it to ensure release, reports Dhananjay Mahapatra. The new SOP was framed by SC after incorporating suggestions from amicus curiae.The new SOP was framed by a bench of Justices M M Sundresh and S C Sharma after incorporating suggestions from amicus curiae and senior advocate Sidharth Luthra and additional solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati.The case was taken up suo motu by SC after learning that thousands of undertrials are languishing in jail despite being granted bail just because of their inability to fill bail bonds with or without sureties. The bench said district legal services authority (DLSA) can fill a surety amount up to Rs 1 lakh and if the trial court has fixed it higher than Rs 1 lakh, then it would file an application to get it reduced. In the new guidelines, the bench said if an undertrial prisoner is not released from jail within seven days of grant of bail, then the jail authorities would intimate to DLSA secretary, who will immediately depute a person to verify whether the undertrial has funds in his prisoner’s savings account.If the accused did not have money, then “district level empowered committee will direct release of funds for surety on DLSA’s recommendation within a period of five days from the date of receipt of the report”.“For cases where empowered committee recommends that undertrial prisoner be extended the benefit of financial support under ‘Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme’, then requisite amount of upto Rs 50,000 per case for one prisoner, can be directed to be drawn and made available to court concerned by way of fixed deposit or any other prescribed method, which district committee feels appropriate within five days of its decision pending integration in inter-operable criminal justice system,” SC said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s PollsBlaze Breaks Out at Delhi’s Brahmaputra Apartments for Rajya Sabha MembersOperations Halted as Blaze Engulfs Cargo Area of Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal Airport”No Agreement Unless Nation’s Interests Are Protected,” Piyush Goyal on India-US Trade TalksAs Taliban Hits Pakistan, Army Chief Asim Munir Tries to Rattle India with Fiery Nuclear RhetoricDoha Talk Begin Amid Bloodiest Afghanistan-Pakistan Border Clashes in Years, Many Dead in AirstrikesRajnath Singh, Yogi Adityanath Flag Off First Batch of BrahMos Missiles from Lucknow UnitShah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAs123 Photostories  From Hina Khan-Rocky Jaiswal to Sara Khan-Krish Pathak: TV couples who are celebrating their first Diwali togetherDiwali 2025: Shehnaaz Gill to Sonam Bajwa, Punjabi actresses serve stunning festive looksVande Bharat Sleeper Train Unveiled! Stunning First AC Coach Passengers Can Look Forward To – Top Features & Images You Shouldn’t Miss8 types of millet and the health issues they help controlFrom Labrador Retriever to Poodle: 5 intelligent and easy-to-train dog breeds for beginnersAmerica’s 5 iconic mountains and their hidden wondersFrom people questioning her success because of Ekta Kapoor to slipping into depression after ‘Koi Aap Sa’ flopped; Anita Hassanandani opens up about her strugglesWhen is Dhanteras 2025 in the UAE: Know date, time, muhurat and rituals5 everyday foods that could lower prostate cancer risk in menListen to your gut: 7 simple ways to care for your gut health during Diwali festivities123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

. NEW DELHI: Framing a unique standard operating procedure, Supreme Court has directed that if a poor person, arrested for an offence and lodged in jail pending trial, is unable to furnish monetary surety for bail, government concerned through district legal services authority will provide it to ensure release, reports Dhananjay Mahapatra. The new SOP was framed by SC after incorporating suggestions from amicus curiae.The new SOP was framed by a bench of Justices M M Sundresh and S C Sharma after incorporating suggestions from amicus curiae and senior advocate Sidharth Luthra and additional solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati.The case was taken up suo motu by SC after learning that thousands of undertrials are languishing in jail despite being granted bail just because of their inability to fill bail bonds with or without sureties. The bench said district legal services authority (DLSA) can fill a surety amount up to Rs 1 lakh and if the trial court has fixed it higher than Rs 1 lakh, then it would file an application to get it reduced. In the new guidelines, the bench said if an undertrial prisoner is not released from jail within seven days of grant of bail, then the jail authorities would intimate to DLSA secretary, who will immediately depute a person to verify whether the undertrial has funds in his prisoner’s savings account.If the accused did not have money, then “district level empowered committee will direct release of funds for surety on DLSA’s recommendation within a period of five days from the date of receipt of the report”.“For cases where empowered committee recommends that undertrial prisoner be extended the benefit of financial support under ‘Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme’, then requisite amount of upto Rs 50,000 per case for one prisoner, can be directed to be drawn and made available to court concerned by way of fixed deposit or any other prescribed method, which district committee feels appropriate within five days of its decision pending integration in inter-operable criminal justice system,” SC said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSilver Shines Brighter Than Gold This Dhanteras Amid High Prices”Our Governments Are Committed,” Sri Lankan PM Affirms Strong Ties After Meeting PM ModiPM Sushila Karki Vows Stability and Transparency While Briefing Diplomats on Nepal’s PollsBlaze Breaks Out at Delhi’s Brahmaputra Apartments for Rajya Sabha MembersOperations Halted as Blaze Engulfs Cargo Area of Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal Airport”No Agreement Unless Nation’s Interests Are Protected,” Piyush Goyal on India-US Trade TalksAs Taliban Hits Pakistan, Army Chief Asim Munir Tries to Rattle India with Fiery Nuclear RhetoricDoha Talk Begin Amid Bloodiest Afghanistan-Pakistan Border Clashes in Years, Many Dead in AirstrikesRajnath Singh, Yogi Adityanath Flag Off First Batch of BrahMos Missiles from Lucknow UnitShah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAs123 Photostories From Hina Khan-Rocky Jaiswal to Sara Khan-Krish Pathak: TV couples who are celebrating their first Diwali togetherDiwali 2025: Shehnaaz Gill to Sonam Bajwa, Punjabi actresses serve stunning festive looksVande Bharat Sleeper Train Unveiled! Stunning First AC Coach Passengers Can Look Forward To – Top Features & Images You Shouldn’t Miss8 types of millet and the health issues they help controlFrom Labrador Retriever to Poodle: 5 intelligent and easy-to-train dog breeds for beginnersAmerica’s 5 iconic mountains and their hidden wondersFrom people questioning her success because of Ekta Kapoor to slipping into depression after ‘Koi Aap Sa’ flopped; Anita Hassanandani opens up about her strugglesWhen is Dhanteras 2025 in the UAE: Know date, time, muhurat and rituals5 everyday foods that could lower prostate cancer risk in menListen to your gut: 7 simple ways to care for your gut health during Diwali festivities123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerEmiru attackCardi B PregnancyLauren KylexQc net worthVanderbilt Football TodayChris JonesStephanie Lachances

NEW DELHI: Framing a unique standard operating procedure, Supreme Court has directed that if a poor person, arrested for an offence and lodged in jail pending trial, is unable to furnish monetary surety for bail, government concerned through district legal services authority will provide it to ensure release, reports Dhananjay Mahapatra. The new SOP was…

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Chirag Paswan has emerged as a significant force within the NDA ahead of the Bihar elections. His party secured a substantial 29 seats in seat-sharing talks, more than any other junior ally. This success, coupled with a 100% win rate in the Lok Sabha polls, bolsters his bargaining power and positions him as a potential kingmaker in government formation.  NEW DELHI: When Ram Vilas Paswan, Bihar’s legendary political “weatherman,” passed away in 2020, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) seemed at a crossroads. His son, Chirag Paswan, stepped in to lead the party, inheriting both the mantle and the expectations of a Dalit political legacy.Since taking over, Chirag has sought to modernise the party’s image, balance traditional constituency support, and stake a claim in the larger NDA alliance. His induction into the Union cabinet added national credibility and signalled his clout within the NDA. Now, he faces another test, the 2025 Bihar assembly elections — a test of both his leadership and political strategy.Bihar Elections: NDA Announces Seat Sharing Deal; BJP, JDU Get 101 Seats Each; LJP(R) Bags 29 SeatsHowever, even before November 14, when votes are counted, Chirag has already emerged as a winner in terms of influence and positioning within the NDA alliance.The seat-sharing surpriseChirag’s negotiation skills were on full display during NDA seat-sharing talks. Engaging in multiple rounds of discussions with senior BJP and JD(U) leaders, Chirag held firm on his demands until favourable terms were agreed upon.As a result, LJP(RV) secured 29 seats, making it the largest junior ally in the NDA. As BJP and JD(U) settled for 101 seats each, other smaller allies, Jitan Ram Manjhi’s HAM and Upendra Kushwaha’s RLM, were allotted only six seats each.This elevated seat share signals Chirag’s rising clout in Bihar politics and marks him as a key player in post-election arithmetic, irrespective of the NDA’s overall performance.The bargaining powerChirag Paswan’s electoral performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls strengthened his bargaining position. LJP(RV) contested five seats in Bihar and won all five, registering a 100% success rate. The party also secured a nearly 6% statewide vote share, demonstrating that Chirag can mobilise voters beyond the party’s traditional Paswan-Dalit base.In previous assembly elections, LJP(RV) had a mixed record, but the Lok Sabha sweep has cemented Chirag’s reputation as a vote-getter. This electoral credit seems to have not only boosted his confidence during alliance talks but also forced larger NDA partners to accommodate his demands on both the number and strategic importance of constituencies.The kingmaker potentialThe BJP is probably looking at Chirag not merely as a junior partner but also as a strategic asset. With chief minister Nitish Kumar seeking a 10th term, the 29 LJP(RV) seats could prove pivotal in government formation.Chirag’s willingness to challenge, renegotiate, or even realign his party at short notice adds another layer of influence. Political insiders suggest that the LJP(RV) leader could emerge as a kingmaker, shaping both cabinet formation and NDA’s legislative strategy post-elections.Beyond caste politics – the youth factorChirag is working to transform the party’s image, positioning LJP(RV) as a pan-Bihar force rather than a purely caste-based outfit. His “Bihar First, Bihari First” campaign is emphasising on development, youth employment and governance reform.The strategy resonated with first-time voters and women, especially in urban and semi-urban pockets, who have traditionally been ambivalent about caste-based politics. If this outreach succeeds, Chirag could translate his traditional base into a broader mandate, enhancing his bargaining power in future coalition politics.With more seats than any other smaller ally, a proven track record in the Lok Sabha, negotiation leverage, kingmaker potential, and a growing voter base beyond his traditional Paswan constituency, Chirag Paswan enters the 2025 Bihar assembly elections as the biggest NDA gainer.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosRajnath Singh, Yogi Adityanath Flag Off First Batch of BrahMos Missiles from Lucknow UnitShah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAsPriyanka Chaturvedi Urges BCCI To Stand Against Pak-Sponsored Terror After Afghan Cricketers’ Death’Operation Sindoor Was Only A Trailer’: Rajnath Singh Issues New ‘BrahMos’ Warning To PakistanWhat About Trump?: Cong Fires Back at ‘Pravachan Baba’ Modi After PM Attacks Rahul on Maoist ProblemPM Modi Blasts Rahul Gandhi Without Naming, Accuses Congress Of Protecting Maoists Despite ViolenceViolent Protests in Dhaka Over Bangladesh’s Updated National Charter Ahead of Crucial ElectionsDonald Trump Boasts He Can Solve The Pakistan-Afghanistan War, Says ‘That’s An Easy One For Me’Trump Doubles Down on Russian Oil Bluff Despite MEA Fact-Check, Repeats India-Pak Ceasefire ClaimPak-Afghan Border Clash: Airstrike Kills 3 Afghan Cricketers, ACB and Rashid Khan Blast Islamabad123 Photostories  Did you know Harvard University started under a different name? 6 surprising facts about its history and legacyMrunal Thakur’s cobalt saree look is breaking the internet7 subway-style sandwiches to make at homeDiwali 2025: Keerthy Suresh-Antony Thattil to Naga Chaitanya-Sobitha Dhulipala; South stars, who celebrate Thala DiwaliFrom Luidia superba to Luidia magnifica : 8 starfish known for their massive sizeTHIS Bollywood star gave 33 consecutive flops and still rose to the top, bagged the Padma BhushanChennai’s Madhya Kailash Set for Signal-Free Upgrade by November L-Shaped Flyover to Ease Traffic for 11,000 Vehicles Every Hour OMR–Sardar Patel Road Link to Streamline City’s Busiest Junction (In photos)Punjabi family entertainers to watch this Diwali: ‘Angrej’ to ‘Uda Aida’Mumbai–Pune Electric Corridor: First Made-in-India Electric Heavy-Duty Truck with Battery Swapping and Unlimited Range By Blue Energy Motors; Marking a Milestone Toward Future-Ready TransportFromSobhitaDhulipala, Naga Chaitanya,AadarJain to PrajaktaKoli: Stars who will celebrate their first Diwali post marriage123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerCharlotte Hornets vs New York KnicksCardi B PregnancyBad BunnyDuke RoufusCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Chirag Paswan has emerged as a significant force within the NDA ahead of the Bihar elections. His party secured a substantial 29 seats in seat-sharing talks, more than any other junior ally. This success, coupled with a 100% win rate in the Lok Sabha polls, bolsters his bargaining power and positions him as a potential kingmaker in government formation. NEW DELHI: When Ram Vilas Paswan, Bihar’s legendary political “weatherman,” passed away in 2020, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) seemed at a crossroads. His son, Chirag Paswan, stepped in to lead the party, inheriting both the mantle and the expectations of a Dalit political legacy.Since taking over, Chirag has sought to modernise the party’s image, balance traditional constituency support, and stake a claim in the larger NDA alliance. His induction into the Union cabinet added national credibility and signalled his clout within the NDA. Now, he faces another test, the 2025 Bihar assembly elections — a test of both his leadership and political strategy.Bihar Elections: NDA Announces Seat Sharing Deal; BJP, JDU Get 101 Seats Each; LJP(R) Bags 29 SeatsHowever, even before November 14, when votes are counted, Chirag has already emerged as a winner in terms of influence and positioning within the NDA alliance.The seat-sharing surpriseChirag’s negotiation skills were on full display during NDA seat-sharing talks. Engaging in multiple rounds of discussions with senior BJP and JD(U) leaders, Chirag held firm on his demands until favourable terms were agreed upon.As a result, LJP(RV) secured 29 seats, making it the largest junior ally in the NDA. As BJP and JD(U) settled for 101 seats each, other smaller allies, Jitan Ram Manjhi’s HAM and Upendra Kushwaha’s RLM, were allotted only six seats each.This elevated seat share signals Chirag’s rising clout in Bihar politics and marks him as a key player in post-election arithmetic, irrespective of the NDA’s overall performance.The bargaining powerChirag Paswan’s electoral performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls strengthened his bargaining position. LJP(RV) contested five seats in Bihar and won all five, registering a 100% success rate. The party also secured a nearly 6% statewide vote share, demonstrating that Chirag can mobilise voters beyond the party’s traditional Paswan-Dalit base.In previous assembly elections, LJP(RV) had a mixed record, but the Lok Sabha sweep has cemented Chirag’s reputation as a vote-getter. This electoral credit seems to have not only boosted his confidence during alliance talks but also forced larger NDA partners to accommodate his demands on both the number and strategic importance of constituencies.The kingmaker potentialThe BJP is probably looking at Chirag not merely as a junior partner but also as a strategic asset. With chief minister Nitish Kumar seeking a 10th term, the 29 LJP(RV) seats could prove pivotal in government formation.Chirag’s willingness to challenge, renegotiate, or even realign his party at short notice adds another layer of influence. Political insiders suggest that the LJP(RV) leader could emerge as a kingmaker, shaping both cabinet formation and NDA’s legislative strategy post-elections.Beyond caste politics – the youth factorChirag is working to transform the party’s image, positioning LJP(RV) as a pan-Bihar force rather than a purely caste-based outfit. His “Bihar First, Bihari First” campaign is emphasising on development, youth employment and governance reform.The strategy resonated with first-time voters and women, especially in urban and semi-urban pockets, who have traditionally been ambivalent about caste-based politics. If this outreach succeeds, Chirag could translate his traditional base into a broader mandate, enhancing his bargaining power in future coalition politics.With more seats than any other smaller ally, a proven track record in the Lok Sabha, negotiation leverage, kingmaker potential, and a growing voter base beyond his traditional Paswan constituency, Chirag Paswan enters the 2025 Bihar assembly elections as the biggest NDA gainer.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosRajnath Singh, Yogi Adityanath Flag Off First Batch of BrahMos Missiles from Lucknow UnitShah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAsPriyanka Chaturvedi Urges BCCI To Stand Against Pak-Sponsored Terror After Afghan Cricketers’ Death’Operation Sindoor Was Only A Trailer’: Rajnath Singh Issues New ‘BrahMos’ Warning To PakistanWhat About Trump?: Cong Fires Back at ‘Pravachan Baba’ Modi After PM Attacks Rahul on Maoist ProblemPM Modi Blasts Rahul Gandhi Without Naming, Accuses Congress Of Protecting Maoists Despite ViolenceViolent Protests in Dhaka Over Bangladesh’s Updated National Charter Ahead of Crucial ElectionsDonald Trump Boasts He Can Solve The Pakistan-Afghanistan War, Says ‘That’s An Easy One For Me’Trump Doubles Down on Russian Oil Bluff Despite MEA Fact-Check, Repeats India-Pak Ceasefire ClaimPak-Afghan Border Clash: Airstrike Kills 3 Afghan Cricketers, ACB and Rashid Khan Blast Islamabad123 Photostories Did you know Harvard University started under a different name? 6 surprising facts about its history and legacyMrunal Thakur’s cobalt saree look is breaking the internet7 subway-style sandwiches to make at homeDiwali 2025: Keerthy Suresh-Antony Thattil to Naga Chaitanya-Sobitha Dhulipala; South stars, who celebrate Thala DiwaliFrom Luidia superba to Luidia magnifica : 8 starfish known for their massive sizeTHIS Bollywood star gave 33 consecutive flops and still rose to the top, bagged the Padma BhushanChennai’s Madhya Kailash Set for Signal-Free Upgrade by November L-Shaped Flyover to Ease Traffic for 11,000 Vehicles Every Hour OMR–Sardar Patel Road Link to Streamline City’s Busiest Junction (In photos)Punjabi family entertainers to watch this Diwali: ‘Angrej’ to ‘Uda Aida’Mumbai–Pune Electric Corridor: First Made-in-India Electric Heavy-Duty Truck with Battery Swapping and Unlimited Range By Blue Energy Motors; Marking a Milestone Toward Future-Ready TransportFromSobhitaDhulipala, Naga Chaitanya,AadarJain to PrajaktaKoli: Stars who will celebrate their first Diwali post marriage123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerCharlotte Hornets vs New York KnicksCardi B PregnancyBad BunnyDuke RoufusCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

NEW DELHI: When Ram Vilas Paswan, Bihar’s legendary political “weatherman,” passed away in 2020, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) seemed at a crossroads. His son, Chirag Paswan, stepped in to lead the party, inheriting both the mantle and the expectations of a Dalit political legacy.Since taking over, Chirag has sought to modernise the party’s…

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A viral video shows the difficulties of walking on Indian footpaths. Content creator Caleb Friesen struggled with a baby stroller in Bengaluru, encountering numerous obstructions. His post humorously ranked these obstacles, placing pedestrians last. The video has sparked conversations about footpath accessibility across Indian cities. Friesen aims to raise awareness about these issues. Screengrab from viral video (Image/X)  NEW DELHI: A video showing the challenges of walking on Indian footpaths, especially for parents and pedestrians, has gone viral on social media. The 32-second clip, posted on Thursday by Canadian content creator and podcaster Caleb Friesen, shows him navigating a baby stroller along a footpath and highlighted the reality of being a pedestrian parent in India.In the video, Friesen struggles to manoeuvre the stroller around obstacles including electrical poles, power junction boxes and other common footpath obstructions. Shots Fired At Kapil Sharma’s Cafe In Canada For Third Time; Bishnoi Gang Claims ResponsibilitySharing the video on X, he sarcastically listed the “descending order of importance” for things found on Indian footpaths, placing pedestrians and parents with strollers at the bottom. The list goes as: Power junction boxesElectrical polesHoardingsFood stallsDarshini overflowParked vehiclesTreesPotted plantsPedestriansParents with strollers/differently-abled in wheelchairsFriesen confirmed that the location was a footpath on 100 Feet Road in Bangalore. Explaining the issue further, he told one user that the problem was not the bollards, which prevent two-wheelers from entering the footpath, but the massive power junction boxes occupying half the space.The post has drawn widespread attention, garnering over 230K views. Many users empathised with Friesen’s experience, sharing their own struggles navigating uneven or blocked footpaths in Indian cities.One user wrote, “It’s brave of you to do this experiment. Last week in Pune, my father tried to roll a suitcase on the footpath and slipped because it got stuck in a pothole. Tier-1 cities don’t even provide a seamless 100m path.” Another user cautioned him, “For your kid’s safety, please avoid walking on the footpath. Better safe than sorry.”This is not Friesen’s first post highlighting footpath hazards. Last month, he shared a video of his 2.4 km walk from Majestic bus stand to a nearby Starbucks, pointing out obstacles such as tunnel juice, barbed wire, desire paths, bushwhacking, pavement pudding and a stairwell into a drain.Despite his wry commentary, he emphasised that his intention is not to criticise India but to raise awareness. He said: “I don’t just want to criticise India, I care deeply about this country.”About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTrump Doubles Down on Russian Oil Bluff Despite MEA Fact-Check, Repeats India-Pak Ceasefire ClaimPak-Afghan Border Clash: Airstrike Kills 3 Afghan Cricketers, ACB and Rashid Khan Blast IslamabadBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase Event123 Photostories  5 signs you’re growing apart in your marriage– and how to reconnect with your partnerHow Shah Rukh Khan turned grey roles into iconic characters with charm and depthDiwali 2025: Bollywood characters inspired looks to try this festival4 essential rituals to follow during Kartik monthYour posture may reveal hidden stress: Here’s which posture is the most dangerousIs chandi ka warq or silver leaf on sweets made from animal parts?10 countries where the Indian rupee is stronger and luxury isn’t out of reach9 traditional South Indian dosas to enjoy for breakfast6 colourful animals that look straight out of a rainbowDhanteras 2025: 5 best AI prompts to generate gold jewellery looks for the festive season123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerCharlotte Hornets vs New York KnicksCardi B PregnancyBad BunnyDuke RoufusCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

A viral video shows the difficulties of walking on Indian footpaths. Content creator Caleb Friesen struggled with a baby stroller in Bengaluru, encountering numerous obstructions. His post humorously ranked these obstacles, placing pedestrians last. The video has sparked conversations about footpath accessibility across Indian cities. Friesen aims to raise awareness about these issues. Screengrab from viral video (Image/X) NEW DELHI: A video showing the challenges of walking on Indian footpaths, especially for parents and pedestrians, has gone viral on social media. The 32-second clip, posted on Thursday by Canadian content creator and podcaster Caleb Friesen, shows him navigating a baby stroller along a footpath and highlighted the reality of being a pedestrian parent in India.In the video, Friesen struggles to manoeuvre the stroller around obstacles including electrical poles, power junction boxes and other common footpath obstructions. Shots Fired At Kapil Sharma’s Cafe In Canada For Third Time; Bishnoi Gang Claims ResponsibilitySharing the video on X, he sarcastically listed the “descending order of importance” for things found on Indian footpaths, placing pedestrians and parents with strollers at the bottom. The list goes as: Power junction boxesElectrical polesHoardingsFood stallsDarshini overflowParked vehiclesTreesPotted plantsPedestriansParents with strollers/differently-abled in wheelchairsFriesen confirmed that the location was a footpath on 100 Feet Road in Bangalore. Explaining the issue further, he told one user that the problem was not the bollards, which prevent two-wheelers from entering the footpath, but the massive power junction boxes occupying half the space.The post has drawn widespread attention, garnering over 230K views. Many users empathised with Friesen’s experience, sharing their own struggles navigating uneven or blocked footpaths in Indian cities.One user wrote, “It’s brave of you to do this experiment. Last week in Pune, my father tried to roll a suitcase on the footpath and slipped because it got stuck in a pothole. Tier-1 cities don’t even provide a seamless 100m path.” Another user cautioned him, “For your kid’s safety, please avoid walking on the footpath. Better safe than sorry.”This is not Friesen’s first post highlighting footpath hazards. Last month, he shared a video of his 2.4 km walk from Majestic bus stand to a nearby Starbucks, pointing out obstacles such as tunnel juice, barbed wire, desire paths, bushwhacking, pavement pudding and a stairwell into a drain.Despite his wry commentary, he emphasised that his intention is not to criticise India but to raise awareness. He said: “I don’t just want to criticise India, I care deeply about this country.”About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTrump Doubles Down on Russian Oil Bluff Despite MEA Fact-Check, Repeats India-Pak Ceasefire ClaimPak-Afghan Border Clash: Airstrike Kills 3 Afghan Cricketers, ACB and Rashid Khan Blast IslamabadBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase Event123 Photostories 5 signs you’re growing apart in your marriage– and how to reconnect with your partnerHow Shah Rukh Khan turned grey roles into iconic characters with charm and depthDiwali 2025: Bollywood characters inspired looks to try this festival4 essential rituals to follow during Kartik monthYour posture may reveal hidden stress: Here’s which posture is the most dangerousIs chandi ka warq or silver leaf on sweets made from animal parts?10 countries where the Indian rupee is stronger and luxury isn’t out of reach9 traditional South Indian dosas to enjoy for breakfast6 colourful animals that look straight out of a rainbowDhanteras 2025: 5 best AI prompts to generate gold jewellery looks for the festive season123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BMega Lucario and Riolu Early in PokemonAdam SandlerCharlotte Hornets vs New York KnicksCardi B PregnancyBad BunnyDuke RoufusCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Screengrab from viral video (Image/X) NEW DELHI: A video showing the challenges of walking on Indian footpaths, especially for parents and pedestrians, has gone viral on social media. The 32-second clip, posted on Thursday by Canadian content creator and podcaster Caleb Friesen, shows him navigating a baby stroller along a footpath and highlighted the reality…

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The Home Ministry has ordered a judicial probe by retired SC judge B S Chauhan into the September 24 Ladakh violence that claimed four lives. This follows protests demanding statehood and autonomy, with activists like Sonam Wangchuk arrested. Talks were called off by protesters seeking a probe and the release of detainees, disputing claims of normalcy.  NEW DELHI: The ministry of home affairs on Friday ordered a judicial probe into the September 24 violence in Ladakh that led to the death of 4 people. The judicial inquiry would be conducted by retired SC judge B S Chauhan.The move comes a day ahead of protest march and blackout, which is set to take place in solidarity with those killed, injured, and arrested during the firing on protesters demanding statehood and autonomy for the Union territory (UT). Among those held are environment activist and Leh Apex Body (LAB) member Sonam Wangchuk.Ladakh Violence: Sonam Wangchuk Ends 15-Day Hunger StrikeLAB members alleged that the government had made no effort to restart talks or address their demands.On September 24, security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters in Ladakh demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood, resulting in four deaths and over 70 injuries. Following the violence, authorities imposed curfew-like restrictions, suspended mobile Internet, and arrested more than 70 people, including LAB leader Wangchuk, who was charged under the National Security Act (NSA).Since then, some restrictions have been eased and Internet access restored, though groups like LAB and KDA dispute claims of normalcy. Scheduled talks on autonomy demands on October 6 were called off by the protesters, who are insisting on a judicial inquiry into the alleged firing and the release of all detainees, including Wangchuk. Ladakh violence: MHA orders judicial probe; move comes day ahead of Leh body marchAbout the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos208 Naxals Surrender In Chhattisgarh’s Dandakaranya; North Bastar Declared Free Of Red TerrorChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for ActionTwo-Front War Loading: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Blames India in Afghan ‘Proxy War’Donald Trump’s Critic John Bolton Charged, Former India Backer in Trouble After Slamming Tariff War’Don’t Close the Door’: IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva’s BIG Message to India on Trade Barriers123 Photostories  Exclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions7 unique baby names that represent growth and abundanceDhanteras 2025: Consuming these 6 sacred foods on this day is believed to bring in good luck and prosperity6 quirky and unusual facts about Ivy League collegesThis common habit might be the first sign of a heart problemSleep like royalty: 8 priciest and ultra-luxury hotels in Dubai worth the priceFrom Lucknawi to Tant: 10 best sarees from North India that every woman should have5 morning habits that can spike your blood pressure without you knowingShilpa Shetty’s Diwali fashion: A look at her best festive outfits over the years123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

The Home Ministry has ordered a judicial probe by retired SC judge B S Chauhan into the September 24 Ladakh violence that claimed four lives. This follows protests demanding statehood and autonomy, with activists like Sonam Wangchuk arrested. Talks were called off by protesters seeking a probe and the release of detainees, disputing claims of normalcy. NEW DELHI: The ministry of home affairs on Friday ordered a judicial probe into the September 24 violence in Ladakh that led to the death of 4 people. The judicial inquiry would be conducted by retired SC judge B S Chauhan.The move comes a day ahead of protest march and blackout, which is set to take place in solidarity with those killed, injured, and arrested during the firing on protesters demanding statehood and autonomy for the Union territory (UT). Among those held are environment activist and Leh Apex Body (LAB) member Sonam Wangchuk.Ladakh Violence: Sonam Wangchuk Ends 15-Day Hunger StrikeLAB members alleged that the government had made no effort to restart talks or address their demands.On September 24, security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters in Ladakh demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood, resulting in four deaths and over 70 injuries. Following the violence, authorities imposed curfew-like restrictions, suspended mobile Internet, and arrested more than 70 people, including LAB leader Wangchuk, who was charged under the National Security Act (NSA).Since then, some restrictions have been eased and Internet access restored, though groups like LAB and KDA dispute claims of normalcy. Scheduled talks on autonomy demands on October 6 were called off by the protesters, who are insisting on a judicial inquiry into the alleged firing and the release of all detainees, including Wangchuk. Ladakh violence: MHA orders judicial probe; move comes day ahead of Leh body marchAbout the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos208 Naxals Surrender In Chhattisgarh’s Dandakaranya; North Bastar Declared Free Of Red TerrorChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for ActionTwo-Front War Loading: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Blames India in Afghan ‘Proxy War’Donald Trump’s Critic John Bolton Charged, Former India Backer in Trouble After Slamming Tariff War’Don’t Close the Door’: IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva’s BIG Message to India on Trade Barriers123 Photostories Exclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions7 unique baby names that represent growth and abundanceDhanteras 2025: Consuming these 6 sacred foods on this day is believed to bring in good luck and prosperity6 quirky and unusual facts about Ivy League collegesThis common habit might be the first sign of a heart problemSleep like royalty: 8 priciest and ultra-luxury hotels in Dubai worth the priceFrom Lucknawi to Tant: 10 best sarees from North India that every woman should have5 morning habits that can spike your blood pressure without you knowingShilpa Shetty’s Diwali fashion: A look at her best festive outfits over the years123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

NEW DELHI: The ministry of home affairs on Friday ordered a judicial probe into the September 24 violence in Ladakh that led to the death of 4 people. The judicial inquiry would be conducted by retired SC judge B S Chauhan.The move comes a day ahead of protest march and blackout, which is set to…

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India and Bangladesh are embroiled in a diplomatic dispute following the killing of three Bangladeshis in Tripura. Dhaka condemned the “brutal beating and killing” as a “grave violation of human rights,” while India stated the deceased were “smugglers” who attacked villagers. New Delhi urged Dhaka to uphold border sanctity and prevent cross-border crimes.  NEW DELHI: A diplomatic row erupted between India and Bangladesh on Friday as the two nations pointed fingers at each other over the killing of three Bangladeshis in Tripura on October 15.After Dhaka lodged a “strong” protest, condemning the “brutal beating and killing”, the ministry of external affairs responded saying that three “smugglers” attacked local villagers. MEA further said that the two “miscreants” were found dead when the authorities reached and the third one “succumbed to his injuries in hospital”.India Spreading False Narratives About Hindu Attacks in Bangladesh: Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’Uphold sanctity of boundary’The MEA called upon Bangladesh to “uphold the sanctity of the International Boundary and support the construction of fencing where needed to prevent cross-border crimes and smuggling.””A group of three miscreants from Bangladesh crossed the international border and attempted to steal cattle from Bidyabil village in Indian territory. They attacked and injured local villagers with iron dahs and knives, and killed one villager, even as other villagers arrived and resisted the attackers,” it said in a statement.”Authorities rushed to the spot, where two smugglers were found dead; a third succumbed to his injuries in hospital the following day. The mortal remains of all three have been handed over to the Bangladesh side. Police have also registered a case,” it added.’Heinous act, grave violation of human rights’Bangladesh called for an impartial investigation into the killing of its three citizens, terming the incident a “grave violation of human rights and the rule of law”.”The Government of Bangladesh strongly protests and condemns the brutal beating and killing of three Bangladeshi citizens by a mob in Tripura, India on 15 October 2025,” the Bangladesh foreign ministry said in a statement.”This heinous act is an unacceptable and grave violation of human rights and the rule of law. The Government of Bangladesh expresses its serious concern over this deplorable incident and calls upon the Government of India to conduct an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the incident and take sincere efforts to stop recurrence of such inhumane acts. The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice,” it added.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories  10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the seasonExclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

India and Bangladesh are embroiled in a diplomatic dispute following the killing of three Bangladeshis in Tripura. Dhaka condemned the “brutal beating and killing” as a “grave violation of human rights,” while India stated the deceased were “smugglers” who attacked villagers. New Delhi urged Dhaka to uphold border sanctity and prevent cross-border crimes. NEW DELHI: A diplomatic row erupted between India and Bangladesh on Friday as the two nations pointed fingers at each other over the killing of three Bangladeshis in Tripura on October 15.After Dhaka lodged a “strong” protest, condemning the “brutal beating and killing”, the ministry of external affairs responded saying that three “smugglers” attacked local villagers. MEA further said that the two “miscreants” were found dead when the authorities reached and the third one “succumbed to his injuries in hospital”.India Spreading False Narratives About Hindu Attacks in Bangladesh: Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’Uphold sanctity of boundary’The MEA called upon Bangladesh to “uphold the sanctity of the International Boundary and support the construction of fencing where needed to prevent cross-border crimes and smuggling.””A group of three miscreants from Bangladesh crossed the international border and attempted to steal cattle from Bidyabil village in Indian territory. They attacked and injured local villagers with iron dahs and knives, and killed one villager, even as other villagers arrived and resisted the attackers,” it said in a statement.”Authorities rushed to the spot, where two smugglers were found dead; a third succumbed to his injuries in hospital the following day. The mortal remains of all three have been handed over to the Bangladesh side. Police have also registered a case,” it added.’Heinous act, grave violation of human rights’Bangladesh called for an impartial investigation into the killing of its three citizens, terming the incident a “grave violation of human rights and the rule of law”.”The Government of Bangladesh strongly protests and condemns the brutal beating and killing of three Bangladeshi citizens by a mob in Tripura, India on 15 October 2025,” the Bangladesh foreign ministry said in a statement.”This heinous act is an unacceptable and grave violation of human rights and the rule of law. The Government of Bangladesh expresses its serious concern over this deplorable incident and calls upon the Government of India to conduct an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the incident and take sincere efforts to stop recurrence of such inhumane acts. The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice,” it added.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories 10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the seasonExclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

NEW DELHI: A diplomatic row erupted between India and Bangladesh on Friday as the two nations pointed fingers at each other over the killing of three Bangladeshis in Tripura on October 15.After Dhaka lodged a “strong” protest, condemning the “brutal beating and killing”, the ministry of external affairs responded saying that three “smugglers” attacked local…

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MLA Rivaba Jadeja, wife of cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, takes oath during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Gujarat cabinet, in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Other political leaders were also present. (PTI Photo)) NEW DELHI: Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday carried out a major cabinet reshuffle, inducting 19 new ministers and retaining six from his earlier team. Harsh Sanghavi was elevated as deputy chief minister, while Rivaba Jadeja, wife of cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, was also included in the council of ministers.Following the expansion, the council now has 26 members, including the chief minister, up from 17 earlier. Gujarat, with a 182-member assembly, can have a maximum of 27 ministers, or 15% of the total strength of the House.Portfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshuffleThe cabinet reshuffle comes two years before the next state assembly elections in 2027 and months ahead of local body polls.Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers and those elevated to cabinet rank or assigned independent charge.Key pointsCM Bhupendra Patel keeps General Administration, Administrative Reforms and Training and other departments.Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi gets Home, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Gram Rakshak Dal, Civil Defence, Prohibition and Excise, Transport, Law and Justice, Sports and Youth Services and other departments.Minister Kanubhai Mohanlal Desai gets Finance, Urban Development and Urban Housing.Minister Rushikesh Ganeshbhai Patel gets Energy and Petrochemicals, Panchayat and Rural Housing, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.Minister Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja gets Primary, Secondary and Adult Education.Here’s the full listChief ministerBhupendrabhai Rajnikant Patel — General Administration, Administrative Reforms and Training, Planning, Non-Resident Gujaratis’ Division, Revenue and Disaster Management, Roads and Buildings and Capital Projects, Narmada, Kalpasar, Mines and Minerals, Ports, Information and Broadcasting, All Policies and All Subjects not allotted to other Ministers.Deputy chief ministerHarsh Rameshkumar Sanghvi — Home, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Gruh Rakshak Dal, Gram Rakshak Dal, Civil Defence, Prohibition and Excise, Transport, Law and Justice, Sports and Youth Services, Cultural Activities, Coordination of Voluntary Organisations, Industries, Salt Industries, Micro, Small and Medium Industries, Printing and Stationery, Tourism and Pilgrimage Development, Civil Aviation.MinistersKanubhai Mohanlal Desai — Finance, Urban Development and Urban Housing.Jitendrabhai Savjibhai Vaghani — Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Cooperation, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Cow Breeding.Rushikesh Ganeshbhai Patel — Energy and Petrochemicals, Panchayat and Rural Housing, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.Kunvarjibhai Mohanbhai Bavaliya — Labour, Skill Development and Employment, Rural Development.Nareshbhai Maganbhai Patel — Tribal Development, Khadi, Cottage Industries and Rural Industries.Arjunbhai Devabhai Modhwadia — Forests and Environment, Climate Change, Science and Technology.Pradyuman Gunabhai Vaaja — Social Justice and Empowerment, Primary, Secondary and Adult Education, Higher and Technical Education.Ramanbhai Bhikhhabhai Solanki — Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.MInisters Of StateIshwarsinh Thakorbhai Patel — Water Resources, Water Supply (Independent Charge).Praful Chhaganbhai Panseriya — Health, Family Welfare and Medical Education (Independent Charge).Manisha Rajivbhai Vakil — Women and Child Development (Independent Charge), Social Justice and Empowerment (State Minister).Parshottambhai Odhavjibhai Solanki — Fisheries.Kaantilal Shivlal Amrutiya — Labour, Skill Development and Employment.Rameshbhai Bhurabhai Katara — Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Cooperation, Animal Husbandry and Cow Breeding.Smti Darshanaben Mukeshbhai Vaghela — Urban Development and Urban Housing.Kaushikbhai Kaantibhai Vekariya — Law and Justice, Energy and Petrochemicals, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.PravinKumar Gordhanbhai Maali — Forests and Environment, Climate Change, Transport.Jayarambhai Chembabhai Gamit — Sports and Youth Services, Cultural Activities, Coordination of Voluntary Organisations, Industries, Salt Industries, Micro, Small and Medium Industries, Printing and Stationery, Tourism and Pilgrimage Development, Civil Aviation.Trikambhai Bijalbhai Changa — Higher and Technical Education.Kamleshbhai Rameshbhai Patel — Finance, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Gruh Rakshak Dal, Gram Rakshak Dal, Civil Defence, Prohibition and Excise.Sanjaysinh Vijaysinh Mahida — Revenue and Disaster Management, Panchayat and Rural Housing, Rural Development.Punambhai Dhanabhai Baranda — Tribal Development, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.Swarupji Dardasji Thakor — Khadi, Cottage Industries and Rural Industries.Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja — Primary, Secondary and Adult Education.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for ActionTwo-Front War Loading: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Blames India in Afghan ‘Proxy War’123 Photostories  10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the seasonExclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

MLA Rivaba Jadeja, wife of cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, takes oath during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Gujarat cabinet, in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Other political leaders were also present. (PTI Photo)) NEW DELHI: Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday carried out a major cabinet reshuffle, inducting 19 new ministers and retaining six from his earlier team. Harsh Sanghavi was elevated as deputy chief minister, while Rivaba Jadeja, wife of cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, was also included in the council of ministers.Following the expansion, the council now has 26 members, including the chief minister, up from 17 earlier. Gujarat, with a 182-member assembly, can have a maximum of 27 ministers, or 15% of the total strength of the House.Portfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshuffleThe cabinet reshuffle comes two years before the next state assembly elections in 2027 and months ahead of local body polls.Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers and those elevated to cabinet rank or assigned independent charge.Key pointsCM Bhupendra Patel keeps General Administration, Administrative Reforms and Training and other departments.Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi gets Home, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Gram Rakshak Dal, Civil Defence, Prohibition and Excise, Transport, Law and Justice, Sports and Youth Services and other departments.Minister Kanubhai Mohanlal Desai gets Finance, Urban Development and Urban Housing.Minister Rushikesh Ganeshbhai Patel gets Energy and Petrochemicals, Panchayat and Rural Housing, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.Minister Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja gets Primary, Secondary and Adult Education.Here’s the full listChief ministerBhupendrabhai Rajnikant Patel — General Administration, Administrative Reforms and Training, Planning, Non-Resident Gujaratis’ Division, Revenue and Disaster Management, Roads and Buildings and Capital Projects, Narmada, Kalpasar, Mines and Minerals, Ports, Information and Broadcasting, All Policies and All Subjects not allotted to other Ministers.Deputy chief ministerHarsh Rameshkumar Sanghvi — Home, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Gruh Rakshak Dal, Gram Rakshak Dal, Civil Defence, Prohibition and Excise, Transport, Law and Justice, Sports and Youth Services, Cultural Activities, Coordination of Voluntary Organisations, Industries, Salt Industries, Micro, Small and Medium Industries, Printing and Stationery, Tourism and Pilgrimage Development, Civil Aviation.MinistersKanubhai Mohanlal Desai — Finance, Urban Development and Urban Housing.Jitendrabhai Savjibhai Vaghani — Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Cooperation, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Cow Breeding.Rushikesh Ganeshbhai Patel — Energy and Petrochemicals, Panchayat and Rural Housing, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.Kunvarjibhai Mohanbhai Bavaliya — Labour, Skill Development and Employment, Rural Development.Nareshbhai Maganbhai Patel — Tribal Development, Khadi, Cottage Industries and Rural Industries.Arjunbhai Devabhai Modhwadia — Forests and Environment, Climate Change, Science and Technology.Pradyuman Gunabhai Vaaja — Social Justice and Empowerment, Primary, Secondary and Adult Education, Higher and Technical Education.Ramanbhai Bhikhhabhai Solanki — Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.MInisters Of StateIshwarsinh Thakorbhai Patel — Water Resources, Water Supply (Independent Charge).Praful Chhaganbhai Panseriya — Health, Family Welfare and Medical Education (Independent Charge).Manisha Rajivbhai Vakil — Women and Child Development (Independent Charge), Social Justice and Empowerment (State Minister).Parshottambhai Odhavjibhai Solanki — Fisheries.Kaantilal Shivlal Amrutiya — Labour, Skill Development and Employment.Rameshbhai Bhurabhai Katara — Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Cooperation, Animal Husbandry and Cow Breeding.Smti Darshanaben Mukeshbhai Vaghela — Urban Development and Urban Housing.Kaushikbhai Kaantibhai Vekariya — Law and Justice, Energy and Petrochemicals, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs.PravinKumar Gordhanbhai Maali — Forests and Environment, Climate Change, Transport.Jayarambhai Chembabhai Gamit — Sports and Youth Services, Cultural Activities, Coordination of Voluntary Organisations, Industries, Salt Industries, Micro, Small and Medium Industries, Printing and Stationery, Tourism and Pilgrimage Development, Civil Aviation.Trikambhai Bijalbhai Changa — Higher and Technical Education.Kamleshbhai Rameshbhai Patel — Finance, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Gruh Rakshak Dal, Gram Rakshak Dal, Civil Defence, Prohibition and Excise.Sanjaysinh Vijaysinh Mahida — Revenue and Disaster Management, Panchayat and Rural Housing, Rural Development.Punambhai Dhanabhai Baranda — Tribal Development, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.Swarupji Dardasji Thakor — Khadi, Cottage Industries and Rural Industries.Rivaba Ravindrasinh Jadeja — Primary, Secondary and Adult Education.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for ActionTwo-Front War Loading: Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Blames India in Afghan ‘Proxy War’123 Photostories 10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the seasonExclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

MLA Rivaba Jadeja, wife of cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, takes oath during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Gujarat cabinet, in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Other political leaders were also present. (PTI Photo)) NEW DELHI: Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday carried out a major cabinet reshuffle, inducting 19 new ministers and retaining six from his earlier…

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A Belgian court on Friday ordered the extradition of fugitive Mehul Choksi to India, news agency PTI reported citing officials. Choksi faces charges related to the massive Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case.”The order has come in our favour. The court has termed his arrest by the Belgian authorities on India’s request valid. The first legal step in getting him extradited is now clear,” a senior official told PTI.Belgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaOfficials stated that the order marks a significant validation of India’s efforts to secure Mehul Choksi’s extradition, although he still has the option to appeal the decision in a higher Belgian court. Prosecutors argued before the court that Choksi poses a flight risk and should not be released from custody, the officials told PTI. Choksi, who relocated to Belgium in 2023 after leaving Antigua and Barbuda, was arrested there in April following India’s extradition request. He and his nephew Nirav Modi are accused of defrauding the bank of over Rs 13,000 crore.India had earlier assured Belgian authorities that if extradited, Choksi will be housed in Barrack No. 12 at Arthur Road jail, Mumbai, with adequate space and no risk of overcrowding or solitary confinement. The Union home ministry, in a September 4 communique, confirmed that the cell meets the Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) of Europe’s minimum space standards.Also read: How India plans to keep Mehul Choksi in Mumbai jailChoksi fled to Antigua and Barbuda, where he acquired citizenship, before being apprehended in Belgium. India’s agencies swiftly coordinated to secure his extradition. The cell assigned to Choksi measures roughly 20 by 15 feet, with a separate toilet, ventilation, and security measures. Inmates receive daily cleaning, fresh water, outdoor exercise, board games, yoga sessions, and access to media and telemedicine. Weekly family visits and daily legal consultations are permitted.What is the case against Mehul Choksi?Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi are accused in a Rs 13,000 crore fraud involving fraudulent Letters of Undertaking issued by Punjab National Bank. Nirav Modi, a declared fugitive economic offender, is currently jailed in London and contesting extradition. The CBI’s extradition request cites the UN conventions against corruption and organised crime, supported by arrest warrants from Mumbai courts. The fraud involved PNB issuing 165 LoUs and 58 Foreign Letters of Credit in 2017 without limits or proper records, leading to massive losses covered by the bank.Authorities allege that loans were obtained from overseas banks across locations including Mauritius, Hong Kong, Antwerp, and Frankfurt based on these fraudulent guarantees. When the companies failed to repay, PNB was forced to pay over Rs 6,300 crore, including interest, to these foreign banks.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories  Morning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the season123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

A Belgian court on Friday ordered the extradition of fugitive Mehul Choksi to India, news agency PTI reported citing officials. Choksi faces charges related to the massive Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case.”The order has come in our favour. The court has termed his arrest by the Belgian authorities on India’s request valid. The first legal step in getting him extradited is now clear,” a senior official told PTI.Belgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaOfficials stated that the order marks a significant validation of India’s efforts to secure Mehul Choksi’s extradition, although he still has the option to appeal the decision in a higher Belgian court. Prosecutors argued before the court that Choksi poses a flight risk and should not be released from custody, the officials told PTI. Choksi, who relocated to Belgium in 2023 after leaving Antigua and Barbuda, was arrested there in April following India’s extradition request. He and his nephew Nirav Modi are accused of defrauding the bank of over Rs 13,000 crore.India had earlier assured Belgian authorities that if extradited, Choksi will be housed in Barrack No. 12 at Arthur Road jail, Mumbai, with adequate space and no risk of overcrowding or solitary confinement. The Union home ministry, in a September 4 communique, confirmed that the cell meets the Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) of Europe’s minimum space standards.Also read: How India plans to keep Mehul Choksi in Mumbai jailChoksi fled to Antigua and Barbuda, where he acquired citizenship, before being apprehended in Belgium. India’s agencies swiftly coordinated to secure his extradition. The cell assigned to Choksi measures roughly 20 by 15 feet, with a separate toilet, ventilation, and security measures. Inmates receive daily cleaning, fresh water, outdoor exercise, board games, yoga sessions, and access to media and telemedicine. Weekly family visits and daily legal consultations are permitted.What is the case against Mehul Choksi?Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi are accused in a Rs 13,000 crore fraud involving fraudulent Letters of Undertaking issued by Punjab National Bank. Nirav Modi, a declared fugitive economic offender, is currently jailed in London and contesting extradition. The CBI’s extradition request cites the UN conventions against corruption and organised crime, supported by arrest warrants from Mumbai courts. The fraud involved PNB issuing 165 LoUs and 58 Foreign Letters of Credit in 2017 without limits or proper records, leading to massive losses covered by the bank.Authorities allege that loans were obtained from overseas banks across locations including Mauritius, Hong Kong, Antwerp, and Frankfurt based on these fraudulent guarantees. When the companies failed to repay, PNB was forced to pay over Rs 6,300 crore, including interest, to these foreign banks.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories Morning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the season123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

A Belgian court on Friday ordered the extradition of fugitive Mehul Choksi to India, news agency PTI reported citing officials. Choksi faces charges related to the massive Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case.“The order has come in our favour. The court has termed his arrest by the Belgian authorities on India’s request valid. The first…

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NEW DELHI: Authorities in Ladakh’s Leh district have reimposed restrictions over concerns about potential threats to public peace and order, officials told PTI. This comes just a day after restrictions were lifted following a 22-day curfew triggered by violent protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. The earlier unrest left four people dead and over 80 injured.Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were first imposed on September 24, banning gatherings of five or more people. District Magistrate Romil Singh Donk had lifted the curbs on Wednesday, citing a report by the Senior Superintendent of Police indicating no imminent threat.Ladakh Statehood Violence: BJP Blames Congress While Sonam Wangchuk Says Gen-Z Led The ProtestsEarlier today, the Centre moved to address a key demand of protesting Ladakh groups by announcing a judicial inquiry into the violent clashes that took place on September 24 in Leh. The violence, which resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including a 1999 Kargil war veteran, had escalated tensions in the region.The inquiry will be led by retired Supreme Court judge Justice B.S. Chauhan, and is tasked with investigating the events surrounding the clashes, police actions, and the resulting fatalities. The probe aims to address the concerns raised by local groups, particularly regarding the need for an impartial investigation.The violence occurred amid a protest by residents demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, and it left 90 others injured. The announcement of the inquiry comes as part of efforts to resume dialogue with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), who had suspended talks following the crackdown.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories  10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the seasonExclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

NEW DELHI: Authorities in Ladakh’s Leh district have reimposed restrictions over concerns about potential threats to public peace and order, officials told PTI. This comes just a day after restrictions were lifted following a 22-day curfew triggered by violent protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. The earlier unrest left four people dead and over 80 injured.Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were first imposed on September 24, banning gatherings of five or more people. District Magistrate Romil Singh Donk had lifted the curbs on Wednesday, citing a report by the Senior Superintendent of Police indicating no imminent threat.Ladakh Statehood Violence: BJP Blames Congress While Sonam Wangchuk Says Gen-Z Led The ProtestsEarlier today, the Centre moved to address a key demand of protesting Ladakh groups by announcing a judicial inquiry into the violent clashes that took place on September 24 in Leh. The violence, which resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including a 1999 Kargil war veteran, had escalated tensions in the region.The inquiry will be led by retired Supreme Court judge Justice B.S. Chauhan, and is tasked with investigating the events surrounding the clashes, police actions, and the resulting fatalities. The probe aims to address the concerns raised by local groups, particularly regarding the need for an impartial investigation.The violence occurred amid a protest by residents demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, and it left 90 others injured. The announcement of the inquiry comes as part of efforts to resume dialogue with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), who had suspended talks following the crackdown.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories 10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari WaghDiwali 2025: 15 types of traditional Pooris to try this festive seasonDhanteras 2025: 5 trendy gold mangalsutra designs to buy this festive season for a stylish lookDiwali 2025: Sonakshi Sinha’s stylish festive fashion guide for the seasonExclusive – Rise and Fall Winner Arjun Bijlani opens up about his victory, breakdown, meeting his son Ayaan and reacts to Akriti Negi showing him middle fingerPersonality Test: What your favourite sleeping position reveals about your true nature and hidden emotions123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingChris Evert vs Martina Net WorthJohn BoltonPokemon All Mega Evolutions RankedJoe Flacco WifeRonda RouseyAaron Rodgers PittsburghBlake LivelyRussell WilsonHarvard CrimsonZack Yadegari

NEW DELHI: Authorities in Ladakh’s Leh district have reimposed restrictions over concerns about potential threats to public peace and order, officials told PTI. This comes just a day after restrictions were lifted following a 22-day curfew triggered by violent protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. The earlier unrest left four people dead…

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People look from atop a banner during the funeral of singer Zubeen Garg, on the outskirts of Guwahati. Zubeen Garg died while scuba diving in Singapore. (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: A month after the death of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) has said that it does not suspect any “foul play” in the case, while confirming that the investigation is ongoing.Garg, 52, died on September 19 from drowning while swimming off St John’s Island in Singapore. He was visiting the city-state as a cultural brand ambassador for the North East India Festival, which was scheduled for September 20–21.Assam Police Slaps Murder Charge On Zubeen Garg’s Manager & Festival Organiser In a statement released on Friday, the SPF urged the public not to circulate unverified information regarding the singer’s death.“The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is aware of speculation and false Information circulating online regarding the circumstances of Mr Zubeen Garg’s death. The case is currently being investigated by the SPF, in accordance with Singapore’s Coroners Act 2010. Based on preliminary investigations, the SPF does not suspect foul play,” the SPF said.The SPF added that the investigation “may take up to another three months or so” to complete. The findings will then be submitted to the “State Coroner” for a “Coroner’s Inquiry.”On October 1, 2025, the SPF shared a copy of the autopsy report and preliminary findings with the High Commission of India.”Despite the fact that SPF is still in the midst of its investigations, on 1 October 2025, it extended a copy of the autopsy report of the late Mr Garg, and SPF’s preliminary findings, to the High Commission of India upon their request,” the statement said.Meanwhile, Assam Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested seven people in connection with Garg’s death since October 1. All of them have been remanded to judicial custody.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories  Dhanteras 2025: 5 best AI prompts to generate gold jewellery looks for the festive seasonHindi parallel cinema gems that reshaped storytelling with power, purpose and heart7 types of rotis, their digestion time, and the right weather to eat6 essential skills you need to outsmart AI and stay ahead in the future of workMorning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others away123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BCarson WentzTrevon DiggsJustin HerbertStephen CurryJoel EmbiidLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

People look from atop a banner during the funeral of singer Zubeen Garg, on the outskirts of Guwahati. Zubeen Garg died while scuba diving in Singapore. (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: A month after the death of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) has said that it does not suspect any “foul play” in the case, while confirming that the investigation is ongoing.Garg, 52, died on September 19 from drowning while swimming off St John’s Island in Singapore. He was visiting the city-state as a cultural brand ambassador for the North East India Festival, which was scheduled for September 20–21.Assam Police Slaps Murder Charge On Zubeen Garg’s Manager & Festival Organiser In a statement released on Friday, the SPF urged the public not to circulate unverified information regarding the singer’s death.“The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is aware of speculation and false Information circulating online regarding the circumstances of Mr Zubeen Garg’s death. The case is currently being investigated by the SPF, in accordance with Singapore’s Coroners Act 2010. Based on preliminary investigations, the SPF does not suspect foul play,” the SPF said.The SPF added that the investigation “may take up to another three months or so” to complete. The findings will then be submitted to the “State Coroner” for a “Coroner’s Inquiry.”On October 1, 2025, the SPF shared a copy of the autopsy report and preliminary findings with the High Commission of India.”Despite the fact that SPF is still in the midst of its investigations, on 1 October 2025, it extended a copy of the autopsy report of the late Mr Garg, and SPF’s preliminary findings, to the High Commission of India upon their request,” the statement said.Meanwhile, Assam Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested seven people in connection with Garg’s death since October 1. All of them have been remanded to judicial custody.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories Dhanteras 2025: 5 best AI prompts to generate gold jewellery looks for the festive seasonHindi parallel cinema gems that reshaped storytelling with power, purpose and heart7 types of rotis, their digestion time, and the right weather to eat6 essential skills you need to outsmart AI and stay ahead in the future of workMorning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others away123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BCarson WentzTrevon DiggsJustin HerbertStephen CurryJoel EmbiidLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

People look from atop a banner during the funeral of singer Zubeen Garg, on the outskirts of Guwahati. Zubeen Garg died while scuba diving in Singapore. (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: A month after the death of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) has said that it does not suspect any…

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. New Delhi: Raising questions on the state’s “involvement and interference” in conversion procedures under the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act and terming it conspicuous, Supreme Court Friday quashed criminal proceedings under the law against the vice-chancellor and other officials of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science after finding infirmities in the probe.Without going into the validity of the UP law, which is pending in the apex court, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra touched upon the interplay of privacy, the right to freedom of free profession and practice of religion, and the role of govt authorities. It said an individual’s autonomy is supreme in the choice of faith and belief that are intrinsic in matters such as marriage and in which the court has prohibited the state as well as the law from controlling the choice of choosing a partner or even limiting or regulating the ability to decide on such matters. “The constitutional validity of provisions of the Act does not fall for our consideration in the instant case. Nonetheless, we can’t help but observe that the provisions of the Act pertaining to the pre-and post-conversion declaration seem to introduce a very onerous procedure to be followed by an individual seeking to adopt a faith other than the one he professes, the bench said.It said, “The involvement and interference of state authorities in the conversion procedure is also conspicuous, with the district magistrate having been legally obliged to direct a police enquiry in each case of intended religious conversion. Further, the statutory requirement of making public the personal details of each person who has converted to a different religion may require a deeper examination to ascertain if such a requirement fits well with the privacy regime pervading the Constitution.”The bench quashed the multiple FIRs filed in the case on various grounds, including that the UP law mandates that only an aggrieved person or their relative by blood, marriage or adoption can lodge an FIR with respect to acts of unlawful conversion and the case cannot be filed by a third party.This story had continued from a page 1 story in the newspaper. For your reading convenience we have added it below.Relief to SHUATS VC, SC junks action in conversion caseRaising questions on the state’s “involvement and interference” in conversion procedures under the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act and terming it conspicuous, Supreme Court Friday quashed criminal proceedings under the law against the vice-chancellor and other officials of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science after finding infirmities in the probe.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories  Hindi parallel cinema gems that reshaped storytelling with power, purpose and heart7 types of rotis, their digestion time, and the right weather to eat6 essential skills you need to outsmart AI and stay ahead in the future of workMorning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari Wagh123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BCarson WentzTrevon DiggsJustin HerbertStephen CurryJoel EmbiidLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

. New Delhi: Raising questions on the state’s “involvement and interference” in conversion procedures under the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act and terming it conspicuous, Supreme Court Friday quashed criminal proceedings under the law against the vice-chancellor and other officials of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science after finding infirmities in the probe.Without going into the validity of the UP law, which is pending in the apex court, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra touched upon the interplay of privacy, the right to freedom of free profession and practice of religion, and the role of govt authorities. It said an individual’s autonomy is supreme in the choice of faith and belief that are intrinsic in matters such as marriage and in which the court has prohibited the state as well as the law from controlling the choice of choosing a partner or even limiting or regulating the ability to decide on such matters. “The constitutional validity of provisions of the Act does not fall for our consideration in the instant case. Nonetheless, we can’t help but observe that the provisions of the Act pertaining to the pre-and post-conversion declaration seem to introduce a very onerous procedure to be followed by an individual seeking to adopt a faith other than the one he professes, the bench said.It said, “The involvement and interference of state authorities in the conversion procedure is also conspicuous, with the district magistrate having been legally obliged to direct a police enquiry in each case of intended religious conversion. Further, the statutory requirement of making public the personal details of each person who has converted to a different religion may require a deeper examination to ascertain if such a requirement fits well with the privacy regime pervading the Constitution.”The bench quashed the multiple FIRs filed in the case on various grounds, including that the UP law mandates that only an aggrieved person or their relative by blood, marriage or adoption can lodge an FIR with respect to acts of unlawful conversion and the case cannot be filed by a third party.This story had continued from a page 1 story in the newspaper. For your reading convenience we have added it below.Relief to SHUATS VC, SC junks action in conversion caseRaising questions on the state’s “involvement and interference” in conversion procedures under the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act and terming it conspicuous, Supreme Court Friday quashed criminal proceedings under the law against the vice-chancellor and other officials of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science after finding infirmities in the probe.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories Hindi parallel cinema gems that reshaped storytelling with power, purpose and heart7 types of rotis, their digestion time, and the right weather to eat6 essential skills you need to outsmart AI and stay ahead in the future of workMorning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others awayFun facts about ‘Alpha’ star Sharvari Wagh123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BCarson WentzTrevon DiggsJustin HerbertStephen CurryJoel EmbiidLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

New Delhi: Raising questions on the state’s “involvement and interference” in conversion procedures under the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act and terming it conspicuous, Supreme Court Friday quashed criminal proceedings under the law against the vice-chancellor and other officials of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science after finding infirmities in…

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. New Delhi: “The success against Maoist terrorists, who committed unspeakable atrocities against Dalits, tribals and the youth, has been the cause of immense satisfaction in life,” PM Modi said on Friday, emphasising that this was the first time that he was speaking on the success of operations against left-wing extremists.“During the last 50-55 years, thousands of lives were lost due to Maoist terror. A large number of security personnel were killed. They would not allow construction of schools and hospitals, would not let doctors work. The situation was such that those who were supposed to provide security to others could not move without security. The writ of the govt did not run in the ‘red corridor’,” he said while speaking at NDTV World Summit.Dense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsCong covered up Maoists’ atrocities: PMPM Modi termed Maoist terror an injustice towards youth. “Many joined Maoists as they were misled, while others were forced to follow them. I know many mothers who lost their sons,” he said.The speech was marked by a sharp attack on those “who call themselves the defenders of the Constitution but were indulgent towards Maoists who would not accept the Constitution in their spheres of influence”, as well as “Congress and its ecosystem, who along with urban naxals, used their control of institutions to ensure brutalities by Maoists did not become known”. The PM added, “The day is not far when the country is totally free of Maoist terror. This is also Modi’s guarantee.” He said ‘red zone’ has shrunk to 11 districts from 125 over a decade back due to his govt’s measures.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories  Dhanteras 2025: 5 best AI prompts to generate gold jewellery looks for the festive seasonHindi parallel cinema gems that reshaped storytelling with power, purpose and heart7 types of rotis, their digestion time, and the right weather to eat6 essential skills you need to outsmart AI and stay ahead in the future of workMorning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others away123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BCarson WentzTrevon DiggsJustin HerbertStephen CurryJoel EmbiidLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

. New Delhi: “The success against Maoist terrorists, who committed unspeakable atrocities against Dalits, tribals and the youth, has been the cause of immense satisfaction in life,” PM Modi said on Friday, emphasising that this was the first time that he was speaking on the success of operations against left-wing extremists.“During the last 50-55 years, thousands of lives were lost due to Maoist terror. A large number of security personnel were killed. They would not allow construction of schools and hospitals, would not let doctors work. The situation was such that those who were supposed to provide security to others could not move without security. The writ of the govt did not run in the ‘red corridor’,” he said while speaking at NDTV World Summit.Dense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsCong covered up Maoists’ atrocities: PMPM Modi termed Maoist terror an injustice towards youth. “Many joined Maoists as they were misled, while others were forced to follow them. I know many mothers who lost their sons,” he said.The speech was marked by a sharp attack on those “who call themselves the defenders of the Constitution but were indulgent towards Maoists who would not accept the Constitution in their spheres of influence”, as well as “Congress and its ecosystem, who along with urban naxals, used their control of institutions to ensure brutalities by Maoists did not become known”. The PM added, “The day is not far when the country is totally free of Maoist terror. This is also Modi’s guarantee.” He said ‘red zone’ has shrunk to 11 districts from 125 over a decade back due to his govt’s measures.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBelgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To IndiaPortfolios Allocated To Gujarat’s New Ministers After Major Cabinet ReshufflePakistan Seeks Trump’s Intervention After Afghan-Taliban Forces Humiliate Pak Army In Border ClashDense Chhattisgarh Forests No Longer Safe For Naxals, Over 200 Maoists Lay Down ArmsChina Breaks Silence on Border Clash, Follows India To Tell Pakistan, Afghanistan to End CrisisPakistan-Afghanistan Border Tensions Explode Ahead Of Ceasefire Deadline: Blast Kills 7 Pak Soldiers‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar ElectionsAir Power, Tech Will Define Future Wars: Defence Secretary Rajesh Singh at Tejas Mk1A Showcase EventHAL Celebrates Maiden Flight of the First Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jet Manufactured at its Nashik FacilityRahul Gandhi Meets Family of Lynched Dalit in UP, Claims Govt Threatened Them and Calls for Action123 Photostories Dhanteras 2025: 5 best AI prompts to generate gold jewellery looks for the festive seasonHindi parallel cinema gems that reshaped storytelling with power, purpose and heart7 types of rotis, their digestion time, and the right weather to eat6 essential skills you need to outsmart AI and stay ahead in the future of workMorning-after rescue: Natural remedies to recover from Diwali drinksDhanteras 2025: 5 minimal gold ring designs perfect for daily wear10 mind-blowing superpowers of chameleonsFrom Archana Puran Singh’s nostalgic Dehradun Diwali to fun housie nights with staff – Archana and Parmeet Sethi’s cherished family Diwali memories3 superfoods to control cholesterol and the right way to consume them6 ways to set healthy boundaries without pushing others away123Hot PicksGold Silver PriceRiyadh AirBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingCardi BCarson WentzTrevon DiggsJustin HerbertStephen CurryJoel EmbiidLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

New Delhi: “The success against Maoist terrorists, who committed unspeakable atrocities against Dalits, tribals and the youth, has been the cause of immense satisfaction in life,” PM Modi said on Friday, emphasising that this was the first time that he was speaking on the success of operations against left-wing extremists.“During the last 50-55 years, thousands…

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