January 27, 2026

India

. New Delhi: A Belgian court on Friday upheld the arrest of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi by Belgian police on India’s request and approved his extradition to face trial in Rs 13,000 crore bank fraud case. This significant development comes after Choksi’s arrest in Antwerp in April this year.Choksi, uncle of another high-profile fugitive Nirav Modi who is in jail in UK, can appeal the order in a higher court in the next 15 days. However, officials in India expressed satisfaction over the development saying that Belgian court’s order marked an important step towards his return to India. Declared a flight risk, Choksi was denied bail and has been lodged in an Antwerp prison. With his arrest upheld, he is likely to stay in prison until the Belgian judiciary decides India’s case for him being sent back.Belgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To India Earlier in Aug, at least two Belgian courts rejected Choksi’s bail plea after the Indian law enforcement argued that Choksi was a habitual absconder and was likely to flee to another country if granted bail. The CBI gave Belgian prosecutors with details of of his involvement in economic offences in India and his escape from US and Antigua in the past besides the two open warrants against him. The last extradition hearing took place in Sept.According to a filing by the Indian govt, Choksi will be lodged at Arthur Road jail in Mumbai upon extradition which adheres to the European standards of prisoner management. He will be provided all facilities, including clean drinking water and adequate food besides access to newspapers and TV and medical treatment of his choice.The Global Operations Centre of CBI is monitoring the developments in the case in direct coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies besides Interpol channels. It has also hired the services of a local law firm to bolster their case. Wanted in bank fraud cases to the tune of over Rs 13,900 crore, Choksi fled India in Jan 2018. He went to the US and to Antigua whose citizenship he had obtained a year before.About the AuthorRaj Shekhar JhaRaj Shekhar Jha is a journalist for the Times of India with over a decade of experience in reporting on national security, terrorism, crime and prisons.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: A Belgian court on Friday upheld the arrest of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi by Belgian police on India’s request and approved his extradition to face trial in Rs 13,000 crore bank fraud case. This significant development comes after Choksi’s arrest in Antwerp in April this year.Choksi, uncle of another high-profile fugitive Nirav Modi who is in jail in UK, can appeal the order in a higher court in the next 15 days. However, officials in India expressed satisfaction over the development saying that Belgian court’s order marked an important step towards his return to India. Declared a flight risk, Choksi was denied bail and has been lodged in an Antwerp prison. With his arrest upheld, he is likely to stay in prison until the Belgian judiciary decides India’s case for him being sent back.Belgian Court Clears Fugitive Jeweller Mehul Choksi’s Extradition To India Earlier in Aug, at least two Belgian courts rejected Choksi’s bail plea after the Indian law enforcement argued that Choksi was a habitual absconder and was likely to flee to another country if granted bail. The CBI gave Belgian prosecutors with details of of his involvement in economic offences in India and his escape from US and Antigua in the past besides the two open warrants against him. The last extradition hearing took place in Sept.According to a filing by the Indian govt, Choksi will be lodged at Arthur Road jail in Mumbai upon extradition which adheres to the European standards of prisoner management. He will be provided all facilities, including clean drinking water and adequate food besides access to newspapers and TV and medical treatment of his choice.The Global Operations Centre of CBI is monitoring the developments in the case in direct coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies besides Interpol channels. It has also hired the services of a local law firm to bolster their case. Wanted in bank fraud cases to the tune of over Rs 13,900 crore, Choksi fled India in Jan 2018. He went to the US and to Antigua whose citizenship he had obtained a year before.About the AuthorRaj Shekhar JhaRaj Shekhar Jha is a journalist for the Times of India with over a decade of experience in reporting on national security, terrorism, crime and prisons.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

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

New Delhi: A Belgian court on Friday upheld the arrest of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi by Belgian police on India’s request and approved his extradition to face trial in Rs 13,000 crore bank fraud case. This significant development comes after Choksi’s arrest in Antwerp in April this year.Choksi, uncle of another high-profile fugitive Nirav Modi…

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. NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday sought to know from the ministry of home affairs and CBI what pan-India action was required to unearth cybercrime syndicates extorting money from people, especially senior citizens, by threatening them with digital arrest.“We are of the prima facie view that stern action on panIndia basis with coordinated efforts between central (agencies) and state police is required to unearth the full extent of this criminal enterprise involving forgery of judicial documents, cyber extortion and cyber arrest of innocent people, especially senior citizens,” a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said. Microsoft SharePoint HACKED: Global Cyber Threat Explained! The order came in a writ petition registered suo motu by SC after a septuagenarian couple from Ambala alleged that fraudsters forced them to part with over Rs 1 crore by displaying forged SC orders through WhatsApp and video conferencing. “We are aghast that the fraudsters fabricated judicial orders in the name of SC and various other documents,” the court said. The bench said ordinarily it would have ordered the Ambala cyber cell to expedite the probe but when judicial orders and judge’s signatures were forged with impunity, and the crime appeared to be spreading to many parts of the country, coordinated investigation was required. It requested attorney general R Venkataramani to assist the court in the matter. “Forgery of documents and brazen criminal misuse of the name, seal, and judicial authority of SC or (Bombay) HC is a matter of grave concern. The fabrication of judicial orders bearing forged signatures of judges strikes at the very foundation of public trust in the judicial system, besides the rule of law,” SC said. “Such acts constitute a direct assault on the dignity and majesty of this institution; therefore, such grave criminal acts cannot be treated as ordinary or routine offences of cheating or cybercrime.”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: Supreme Court on Friday sought to know from the ministry of home affairs and CBI what pan-India action was required to unearth cybercrime syndicates extorting money from people, especially senior citizens, by threatening them with digital arrest.“We are of the prima facie view that stern action on panIndia basis with coordinated efforts between central (agencies) and state police is required to unearth the full extent of this criminal enterprise involving forgery of judicial documents, cyber extortion and cyber arrest of innocent people, especially senior citizens,” a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said. Microsoft SharePoint HACKED: Global Cyber Threat Explained! The order came in a writ petition registered suo motu by SC after a septuagenarian couple from Ambala alleged that fraudsters forced them to part with over Rs 1 crore by displaying forged SC orders through WhatsApp and video conferencing. “We are aghast that the fraudsters fabricated judicial orders in the name of SC and various other documents,” the court said. The bench said ordinarily it would have ordered the Ambala cyber cell to expedite the probe but when judicial orders and judge’s signatures were forged with impunity, and the crime appeared to be spreading to many parts of the country, coordinated investigation was required. It requested attorney general R Venkataramani to assist the court in the matter. “Forgery of documents and brazen criminal misuse of the name, seal, and judicial authority of SC or (Bombay) HC is a matter of grave concern. The fabrication of judicial orders bearing forged signatures of judges strikes at the very foundation of public trust in the judicial system, besides the rule of law,” SC said. “Such acts constitute a direct assault on the dignity and majesty of this institution; therefore, such grave criminal acts cannot be treated as ordinary or routine offences of cheating or cybercrime.”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

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday sought to know from the ministry of home affairs and CBI what pan-India action was required to unearth cybercrime syndicates extorting money from people, especially senior citizens, by threatening them with digital arrest.“We are of the prima facie view that stern action on panIndia basis with coordinated efforts between…

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New Delhi: Delhi HC has said “seeing” is not limited to physical sight, but extends to the ability to understand, reports Abhinav Garg. “The function of sight… is in fact largely performed by the brain… power of cognition and understanding vests in the brain, not solely the eye, which acts only as a recorder and transmitter,” it said.“If a blind candidate, with the aid of assistive devices, is able to perceive what is necessary to discharge the functions of the JE (Law) post, they must be regarded as possessing the functional attribute of sight,” HC said Thursday, partly allowing a plea by three candidates against their rejection by AAI for govt posts.About the AuthorAbhinav GargAs legal editor for Delhi, Abhinav Garg handles coverage of courts and connected legal challenges shaping the capital. From breaking down complex law related jargon to simplifying how a particular verdict or development in courts may impact the readers, Abhinav brings with him over two decades of experience in the field.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 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

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

New Delhi: Delhi HC has said “seeing” is not limited to physical sight, but extends to the ability to understand, reports Abhinav Garg. “The function of sight… is in fact largely performed by the brain… power of cognition and understanding vests in the brain, not solely the eye, which acts only as a recorder and…

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. NEW DELHI: It was 11 years ago that Supreme Court recognised transgender people as the ‘third gender’ and upheld their fundamental right to equality and dignity.Observing that discrimination still continued, however, the court on Friday appointed a committee headed by a retired Delhi HC judge to frame a comprehensive equal opportunity policy for the community in the arenas of employment and education. It also directed setting up of a transgender protection cell and a dedicated nationwide toll-free helpline number.A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan expressed its anguish over the “lethargic” attitude of the Centre and states to protect the community’s rights. It said the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 — which sought to prevent social exclusion, discrimination, unemployment and lack of educational and medical facilities faced by transgender persons — remained in law books and was never implemented in true spirit. The law was “brutishly reduced to dead letters”, SC said, for which both Centre and states were to blame. “We are pained to observe that there has either been a superficial and sporadic, or a complete lack of implementation of measures to ensure the prevention of discrimination against transgender persons in various spheres of life, both public and private… The right against discrimination of transgender and gender diverse persons has long been recognised by this court ever since the judgment in NALSA (supra) wherein it was held that the ground of ‘sex’ under Article 15 of the Constitution also includes the analogous ground of gender identity,” SC said. The court said all stakeholders concerned had not only exhibited “a serious and perennial lack of action”, but also reinforced discrimination towards the community despite the existence of a statutory framework. It said govt authorities must provide due respect and consideration to the constitutional value underlying public participation. “There is no gainsaying that the Union of India and the states need to do a lot more to create mechanisms for the transgender persons to translate their rights into reality. The lethargy exhibited on part of the govt concerned has also led the non-state establishments to put the compliance of the 2019 Act and of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020 in a cold freeze. This abeyance of rights is a matter of serious concern,” it said.About the AuthorAbhinav GargAs legal editor for Delhi, Abhinav Garg handles coverage of courts and connected legal challenges shaping the capital. From breaking down complex law related jargon to simplifying how a particular verdict or development in courts may impact the readers, Abhinav brings with him over two decades of experience in the field.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 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: It was 11 years ago that Supreme Court recognised transgender people as the ‘third gender’ and upheld their fundamental right to equality and dignity.Observing that discrimination still continued, however, the court on Friday appointed a committee headed by a retired Delhi HC judge to frame a comprehensive equal opportunity policy for the community in the arenas of employment and education. It also directed setting up of a transgender protection cell and a dedicated nationwide toll-free helpline number.A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan expressed its anguish over the “lethargic” attitude of the Centre and states to protect the community’s rights. It said the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 — which sought to prevent social exclusion, discrimination, unemployment and lack of educational and medical facilities faced by transgender persons — remained in law books and was never implemented in true spirit. The law was “brutishly reduced to dead letters”, SC said, for which both Centre and states were to blame. “We are pained to observe that there has either been a superficial and sporadic, or a complete lack of implementation of measures to ensure the prevention of discrimination against transgender persons in various spheres of life, both public and private… The right against discrimination of transgender and gender diverse persons has long been recognised by this court ever since the judgment in NALSA (supra) wherein it was held that the ground of ‘sex’ under Article 15 of the Constitution also includes the analogous ground of gender identity,” SC said. The court said all stakeholders concerned had not only exhibited “a serious and perennial lack of action”, but also reinforced discrimination towards the community despite the existence of a statutory framework. It said govt authorities must provide due respect and consideration to the constitutional value underlying public participation. “There is no gainsaying that the Union of India and the states need to do a lot more to create mechanisms for the transgender persons to translate their rights into reality. The lethargy exhibited on part of the govt concerned has also led the non-state establishments to put the compliance of the 2019 Act and of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020 in a cold freeze. This abeyance of rights is a matter of serious concern,” it said.About the AuthorAbhinav GargAs legal editor for Delhi, Abhinav Garg handles coverage of courts and connected legal challenges shaping the capital. From breaking down complex law related jargon to simplifying how a particular verdict or development in courts may impact the readers, Abhinav brings with him over two decades of experience in the field.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 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

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: It was 11 years ago that Supreme Court recognised transgender people as the ‘third gender’ and upheld their fundamental right to equality and dignity.Observing that discrimination still continued, however, the court on Friday appointed a committee headed by a retired Delhi HC judge to frame a comprehensive equal opportunity policy for the community…

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. New Delhi: Finding that a temple as well as commercial and residential properties were demolished for widening a road in Ahmedabad, the Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea against partial demolition of 400-year-old Mancha Masjid, saying the municipality is serving a public purpose.A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi refused to accede to persistence of the counsel representing Mansa Masjid Trust for protecting the prayer hall of the mosque as Ahmedabad municipal corporation through Astha Mehta said the civic body had categorically stated before the HC that only a vacant piece of land and portion of a platform of the mosque will be affected by the road-widening project to ease traffic congestion.Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project Reaches Key Milestone with Ghansoli Tunnel CompletionMehta said the main structure of the mosque would not be affected at all and drew the court’s attention to the demolition of a temple and residents voluntarily giving up their properties to enable the civic body to widen the road in the larger public interest.The bench said it is not a case of infringement of right to religion under Article 25. “The wakf board may be entitled to compensation for utilising the mosque land only if the board could prove that the land belonged to wakf. You may be entitled for bigger land to build a mosque for namaz. But the HC is right in finding that the civic body had scrupulously followed the provisions of Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporation Act while proceeding to take a portion of mosque land for road widening.”When the counsel for the mosque insisted for a court order to protect the prayer hall, the bench said, “No such action is contemplated. A temple has been dismantled, and they did not claim any compensation. We are saying you will be entitled for compensation under GPMC Act if the wakf board could prove it is a wakf property.” State govt had told the HC widening of the road in Saraspur was crucial for easing congestion and boosting urban development along the stretch connecting Kalupur railway station and Ahmedabad Metro.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 9 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 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 memories123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

. New Delhi: Finding that a temple as well as commercial and residential properties were demolished for widening a road in Ahmedabad, the Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea against partial demolition of 400-year-old Mancha Masjid, saying the municipality is serving a public purpose.A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi refused to accede to persistence of the counsel representing Mansa Masjid Trust for protecting the prayer hall of the mosque as Ahmedabad municipal corporation through Astha Mehta said the civic body had categorically stated before the HC that only a vacant piece of land and portion of a platform of the mosque will be affected by the road-widening project to ease traffic congestion.Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project Reaches Key Milestone with Ghansoli Tunnel CompletionMehta said the main structure of the mosque would not be affected at all and drew the court’s attention to the demolition of a temple and residents voluntarily giving up their properties to enable the civic body to widen the road in the larger public interest.The bench said it is not a case of infringement of right to religion under Article 25. “The wakf board may be entitled to compensation for utilising the mosque land only if the board could prove that the land belonged to wakf. You may be entitled for bigger land to build a mosque for namaz. But the HC is right in finding that the civic body had scrupulously followed the provisions of Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporation Act while proceeding to take a portion of mosque land for road widening.”When the counsel for the mosque insisted for a court order to protect the prayer hall, the bench said, “No such action is contemplated. A temple has been dismantled, and they did not claim any compensation. We are saying you will be entitled for compensation under GPMC Act if the wakf board could prove it is a wakf property.” State govt had told the HC widening of the road in Saraspur was crucial for easing congestion and boosting urban development along the stretch connecting Kalupur railway station and Ahmedabad Metro.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 9 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 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 memories123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

New Delhi: Finding that a temple as well as commercial and residential properties were demolished for widening a road in Ahmedabad, the Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a plea against partial demolition of 400-year-old Mancha Masjid, saying the municipality is serving a public purpose.A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi refused…

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Bihar SLA (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: As the state gears up for a high voltage poll, an analysis released on Friday on the performance of MLAs in the 17th Bihar legislative assembly shows that with 147 sittings spread over 15 sessions, the assembly sat for an average of 29 days per year where MLAs asked almost 22,500 questions. The highest number of questions were related to rural works, education and health, reports Ambika Pandit.As many as 99 bills were introduced and passed in the assembly over five years. In fact, all these bills were passed on the same day as their introduction. The data on sessions also shows that the longest sessions were the second and fifth sessions, each having 22 sittings.‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar Elections The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Bihar Election Watch had filed RTI applications to the Bihar assembly secretariat asking for the information pertaining to the performance of the MLAs and the legislative assembly.Arun Shankar Prasad, a BJP MLA from Khajauli assembly constituency, asked 275 questions, the highest by any MLA, followed by Congress MLA Manohar Prasad Singh from Manihar (231) and RJD’s Mukesh Kumar Yadav from Bajpatti who asked 230 questions. Among the top five, CPI(M) MP Ajay Kumar from Bibbhutipur followed with 229 questions and RJD’s Ajay Yadav from Atri asked 226 questions.On an average, a Bihar MLA including those elected through bye-elections, asked 179 questions, including starred questions and unstarred questions in the Bihar assembly.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

Bihar SLA (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: As the state gears up for a high voltage poll, an analysis released on Friday on the performance of MLAs in the 17th Bihar legislative assembly shows that with 147 sittings spread over 15 sessions, the assembly sat for an average of 29 days per year where MLAs asked almost 22,500 questions. The highest number of questions were related to rural works, education and health, reports Ambika Pandit.As many as 99 bills were introduced and passed in the assembly over five years. In fact, all these bills were passed on the same day as their introduction. The data on sessions also shows that the longest sessions were the second and fifth sessions, each having 22 sittings.‘Jungle Raj’: Amit Shah Slams RJD For Fielding Shahabuddin’s Son In Bihar Elections The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Bihar Election Watch had filed RTI applications to the Bihar assembly secretariat asking for the information pertaining to the performance of the MLAs and the legislative assembly.Arun Shankar Prasad, a BJP MLA from Khajauli assembly constituency, asked 275 questions, the highest by any MLA, followed by Congress MLA Manohar Prasad Singh from Manihar (231) and RJD’s Mukesh Kumar Yadav from Bajpatti who asked 230 questions. Among the top five, CPI(M) MP Ajay Kumar from Bibbhutipur followed with 229 questions and RJD’s Ajay Yadav from Atri asked 226 questions.On an average, a Bihar MLA including those elected through bye-elections, asked 179 questions, including starred questions and unstarred questions in the Bihar assembly.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

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Bihar SLA (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: As the state gears up for a high voltage poll, an analysis released on Friday on the performance of MLAs in the 17th Bihar legislative assembly shows that with 147 sittings spread over 15 sessions, the assembly sat for an average of 29 days per year where MLAs…

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Representational photo NEW DELHI: At least three Indian nationals have died, and five are missing after a launch boat capsized off Beira port in central Mozambique, the Indian High Commission said. The accident happened on Friday during a routine crew transfer to a tanker anchored offshore. Fourteen Indian nationals were on the boat when it overturned for reasons yet to be determined.The High Commission confirmed five people were rescued and are safe, with one receiving treatment in a Beira hospital. It is coordinating with local authorities and maritime agencies to continue the search for the five missing Indians. Families of the deceased are being supported, and the mission expressed condolences over the loss of life.”We convey our heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives, including of three Indian nationals, in a boat accident off Beira port. Mission is in contact with families of those who have lost their lives in this unfortunate accident and is extending all possible assistance to them,” the mission posted.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 6 colourful animals that look straight out of a rainbowDhanteras 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 them123Hot 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

Representational photo NEW DELHI: At least three Indian nationals have died, and five are missing after a launch boat capsized off Beira port in central Mozambique, the Indian High Commission said. The accident happened on Friday during a routine crew transfer to a tanker anchored offshore. Fourteen Indian nationals were on the boat when it overturned for reasons yet to be determined.The High Commission confirmed five people were rescued and are safe, with one receiving treatment in a Beira hospital. It is coordinating with local authorities and maritime agencies to continue the search for the five missing Indians. Families of the deceased are being supported, and the mission expressed condolences over the loss of life.”We convey our heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives, including of three Indian nationals, in a boat accident off Beira port. Mission is in contact with families of those who have lost their lives in this unfortunate accident and is extending all possible assistance to them,” the mission posted.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 6 colourful animals that look straight out of a rainbowDhanteras 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 them123Hot 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

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

NEW DELHI: At least three Indian nationals have died, and five are missing after a launch boat capsized off Beira port in central Mozambique, the Indian High Commission said. The accident happened on Friday during a routine crew transfer to a tanker anchored offshore. Fourteen Indian nationals were on the boat when it overturned for…

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Sanjiv Chaturvedi Magsaysay winner Sanjiv Chaturvedi’s petitions are piling up at courts across the country. The whistleblower has fought cases alone, and even found Presidential support. So why are his battles being stalled?In a judicial system where recusals are rare and typically explained, 16 judges — across district courts, high courts and even Supreme Court — recused themselves from hearing one man’s cases, most without offering a reason. That man is Sanjiv Chaturvedi, a 2002-batch Indian Forest Service officer known not for fiery speeches or media attention but corruption reports so meticulously documented that they have prompted Presidential interventions. After nearly a decade of legal drift and avoidance, the chief justice of Uttarakhand high court has now, finally, agreed to hear all his pending cases himself.Chaturvedi walks into courtrooms alone. Sometimes, he argues his own cases, quietly quoting from case law. He avoids press interviews. He has no legal entourage. And yet, the names in his vigilance reports include senior bureaucrats, ministers, and institutional heads. What he lacks in theatre, he makes up for in records. But courtroom after courtroom has turned him away — not with judgment, but with absence.An electrical engineer from Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology in Prayagraj, Chaturvedi became a public name not by choice, but by consequence. In Haryana, where he was first posted, he flagged illegal tree-felling, sand mining, and wildlife poaching — operations that, according to his findings, were protected by elements within the state’s bureaucracy and political leadership. He was transferred 12 times in five years. In 2007, he was suspended — an action later reversed by Presidential order in 2008.The Haryana govt filed a departmental chargesheet against him, accusing him of procedural lapses — charges he maintained were retaliatory. His complaint to the Centre led to the formation of a two-member inquiry committee. The panel reviewed the case and named then chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and senior officials, holding them responsible for corruption, abuse of power, and targeted harassment of the officer. The committee concluded that the disciplinary charges were “baseless”, and recommended their annulment. It also advised that “action be considered against those who initiated them in bad faith”.In Jan 2011, the President accepted the committee’s recommendation and quashed the chargesheet. In Feb that year, the Haryana governor implemented the Presidential order, reversing Chaturvedi’s suspension and validating his actions. But in 2014, the same Congress-led Haryana govt filed a case seeking to quash both the inquiry report and the Presidential order — omitting the fact that its own governor had already implemented it. Chaturvedi filed his reply in 2016, which was taken on record by judge P B Bajanthri. In Feb 2018, the same judge fined him Rs 50,000, citing delay. A three-judge SC bench, led by the chief justice, waived the fine at first hearing. When Chaturvedi requested transfer of the matter to SC under Article 139A, citing similarity with other pending cases, SC left the issue to Punjab and Haryana high court.By then, Chaturvedi had been posted as chief vigilance officer at AIIMS, Delhi. Between 2012 and 2014, he initiated over 200 corruption inquiries — ranging from purchase scams to appointment irregularities. Among those named was Vineet Chawdhary, a 1982-batch Himachal Pradesh cadre IAS officer and former deputy director (admin) at AIIMS, who was later appointed chief secretary by the BJP govt in Himachal Pradesh.As CVO, Chaturvedi was authorised to report on the vigilance status of deputed officers. In Aug 2014, he sent a confidential letter to Himachal’s chief secretary about pending CBI and departmental cases against Chawdhary, based on investigations conducted under his watch. In 2016, Chawdhary filed a criminal defamation complaint. A trial court issued summons in 2018..Section 197 of the Criminal Procedure Code protects govt servants from prosecution for official acts without sanction. Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code exempts official communication from defamation. Both provisions have been repeatedly upheld by SC and HC. However, when Chaturvedi approached Himachal Pradesh high court, chief justice Sanjay Karol refused to quash the proceedings. SC later observed that HC had failed to consider Chaturvedi’s submissions — but instead of halting the trial, it remanded the matter back to the same bench. The same HC had granted protection under section 197 CrPC in other cases, including to a top IPS officer.Citing threats to his life, Chaturvedi had requested a cadre transfer, which was approved in Aug 2015. Of course, new challenges awaited. In 2016, the Union health ministry gave him a ‘zero’ appraisal for the financial year 2015-16. He filed a writ in Uttarakhand HC. Then chief justice K M Joseph refused to admit the petition, citing a 1997 SC ruling (L Chandrakumar), which required service matters to be routed through tribunals. However, records show that Joseph had previously entertained — and soon after resumed hearing — similar petitions, including by IFS officers under investigation.Chaturvedi then approached the Central Administrative Tribunal, which stayed the appraisal report in Sept 2017. The stay remains in place as the central govt has not responded.Meanwhile, a new pattern emerged: judges began recusing themselves. Sixteen in total, across SC, HC and district courts. Some stepped aside after reading case files, others during initial hearings. Most gave no reason. Chaturvedi had no legal remedy to challenge this trend.“Recusals are meant to protect judicial impartiality. But here, they’ve become a wall,” said SC advocate Pramod Choudhary. Chaturvedi’s counsel Sudershan Goel cited SC rulings in R C Chandel (2012) and a 2019 verdict, both underscoring that judges are bound to decide cases based solely on facts and applicable law. “There is no precedent for this many recusals,” Goel said. “It amounts to a constitutional breakdown of judicial accountability.”Though courts have often turned him away, national institutions have recognised Chaturvedi’s work. He has delivered lectures on preventive vigilance at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy and Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration. He donated his entire Magsaysay award money to the Prime Minister’s Fund, gave Rs 2.5 lakh from an arbitration case to Pulwama victims, and redirected court costs in his favour to the PM’s National Relief Fund.He was 40 when he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2015, making him one of the youngest Indian civil servants to win the honour — Kiran Bedi and T N Seshan were older. The citation praised his “exemplary integrity, courage and tenacity” in exposing corruption. His legal ability has also been recognised. A chief justice of Uttarakhand HC remarked that Chaturvedi argued “better than most counsel”.Now posted in Uttarakhand, he has shifted focus to conservation. He has led efforts to develop India’s first moss garden, forest healing centre, and pollinator park. In Corbett, he stopped unauthorised VIP safaris and fake tourism portals. In 2024, he submitted a 500-page report on an illegal tree-felling scam in Pithoragarh, recommending a CBI and ED probe.The cases he filed years ago continue to move slowly through the system. Judges still step aside. And he still walks in, alone, quoting law from memory, steadfast in his faith that truth will eventually triumph and he will be able to declare Satyameva Jayate.About the AuthorPankul SharmaA journalist based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand with over 18 years of experience. Currently working as Principal Correspondent in TOI. I cover archaeology, industry and judiciary (High Court, NGT, Consumer Commission and tribunals).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 9 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 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 memories123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Sanjiv Chaturvedi Magsaysay winner Sanjiv Chaturvedi’s petitions are piling up at courts across the country. The whistleblower has fought cases alone, and even found Presidential support. So why are his battles being stalled?In a judicial system where recusals are rare and typically explained, 16 judges — across district courts, high courts and even Supreme Court — recused themselves from hearing one man’s cases, most without offering a reason. That man is Sanjiv Chaturvedi, a 2002-batch Indian Forest Service officer known not for fiery speeches or media attention but corruption reports so meticulously documented that they have prompted Presidential interventions. After nearly a decade of legal drift and avoidance, the chief justice of Uttarakhand high court has now, finally, agreed to hear all his pending cases himself.Chaturvedi walks into courtrooms alone. Sometimes, he argues his own cases, quietly quoting from case law. He avoids press interviews. He has no legal entourage. And yet, the names in his vigilance reports include senior bureaucrats, ministers, and institutional heads. What he lacks in theatre, he makes up for in records. But courtroom after courtroom has turned him away — not with judgment, but with absence.An electrical engineer from Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology in Prayagraj, Chaturvedi became a public name not by choice, but by consequence. In Haryana, where he was first posted, he flagged illegal tree-felling, sand mining, and wildlife poaching — operations that, according to his findings, were protected by elements within the state’s bureaucracy and political leadership. He was transferred 12 times in five years. In 2007, he was suspended — an action later reversed by Presidential order in 2008.The Haryana govt filed a departmental chargesheet against him, accusing him of procedural lapses — charges he maintained were retaliatory. His complaint to the Centre led to the formation of a two-member inquiry committee. The panel reviewed the case and named then chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and senior officials, holding them responsible for corruption, abuse of power, and targeted harassment of the officer. The committee concluded that the disciplinary charges were “baseless”, and recommended their annulment. It also advised that “action be considered against those who initiated them in bad faith”.In Jan 2011, the President accepted the committee’s recommendation and quashed the chargesheet. In Feb that year, the Haryana governor implemented the Presidential order, reversing Chaturvedi’s suspension and validating his actions. But in 2014, the same Congress-led Haryana govt filed a case seeking to quash both the inquiry report and the Presidential order — omitting the fact that its own governor had already implemented it. Chaturvedi filed his reply in 2016, which was taken on record by judge P B Bajanthri. In Feb 2018, the same judge fined him Rs 50,000, citing delay. A three-judge SC bench, led by the chief justice, waived the fine at first hearing. When Chaturvedi requested transfer of the matter to SC under Article 139A, citing similarity with other pending cases, SC left the issue to Punjab and Haryana high court.By then, Chaturvedi had been posted as chief vigilance officer at AIIMS, Delhi. Between 2012 and 2014, he initiated over 200 corruption inquiries — ranging from purchase scams to appointment irregularities. Among those named was Vineet Chawdhary, a 1982-batch Himachal Pradesh cadre IAS officer and former deputy director (admin) at AIIMS, who was later appointed chief secretary by the BJP govt in Himachal Pradesh.As CVO, Chaturvedi was authorised to report on the vigilance status of deputed officers. In Aug 2014, he sent a confidential letter to Himachal’s chief secretary about pending CBI and departmental cases against Chawdhary, based on investigations conducted under his watch. In 2016, Chawdhary filed a criminal defamation complaint. A trial court issued summons in 2018..Section 197 of the Criminal Procedure Code protects govt servants from prosecution for official acts without sanction. Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code exempts official communication from defamation. Both provisions have been repeatedly upheld by SC and HC. However, when Chaturvedi approached Himachal Pradesh high court, chief justice Sanjay Karol refused to quash the proceedings. SC later observed that HC had failed to consider Chaturvedi’s submissions — but instead of halting the trial, it remanded the matter back to the same bench. The same HC had granted protection under section 197 CrPC in other cases, including to a top IPS officer.Citing threats to his life, Chaturvedi had requested a cadre transfer, which was approved in Aug 2015. Of course, new challenges awaited. In 2016, the Union health ministry gave him a ‘zero’ appraisal for the financial year 2015-16. He filed a writ in Uttarakhand HC. Then chief justice K M Joseph refused to admit the petition, citing a 1997 SC ruling (L Chandrakumar), which required service matters to be routed through tribunals. However, records show that Joseph had previously entertained — and soon after resumed hearing — similar petitions, including by IFS officers under investigation.Chaturvedi then approached the Central Administrative Tribunal, which stayed the appraisal report in Sept 2017. The stay remains in place as the central govt has not responded.Meanwhile, a new pattern emerged: judges began recusing themselves. Sixteen in total, across SC, HC and district courts. Some stepped aside after reading case files, others during initial hearings. Most gave no reason. Chaturvedi had no legal remedy to challenge this trend.“Recusals are meant to protect judicial impartiality. But here, they’ve become a wall,” said SC advocate Pramod Choudhary. Chaturvedi’s counsel Sudershan Goel cited SC rulings in R C Chandel (2012) and a 2019 verdict, both underscoring that judges are bound to decide cases based solely on facts and applicable law. “There is no precedent for this many recusals,” Goel said. “It amounts to a constitutional breakdown of judicial accountability.”Though courts have often turned him away, national institutions have recognised Chaturvedi’s work. He has delivered lectures on preventive vigilance at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy and Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration. He donated his entire Magsaysay award money to the Prime Minister’s Fund, gave Rs 2.5 lakh from an arbitration case to Pulwama victims, and redirected court costs in his favour to the PM’s National Relief Fund.He was 40 when he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2015, making him one of the youngest Indian civil servants to win the honour — Kiran Bedi and T N Seshan were older. The citation praised his “exemplary integrity, courage and tenacity” in exposing corruption. His legal ability has also been recognised. A chief justice of Uttarakhand HC remarked that Chaturvedi argued “better than most counsel”.Now posted in Uttarakhand, he has shifted focus to conservation. He has led efforts to develop India’s first moss garden, forest healing centre, and pollinator park. In Corbett, he stopped unauthorised VIP safaris and fake tourism portals. In 2024, he submitted a 500-page report on an illegal tree-felling scam in Pithoragarh, recommending a CBI and ED probe.The cases he filed years ago continue to move slowly through the system. Judges still step aside. And he still walks in, alone, quoting law from memory, steadfast in his faith that truth will eventually triumph and he will be able to declare Satyameva Jayate.About the AuthorPankul SharmaA journalist based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand with over 18 years of experience. Currently working as Principal Correspondent in TOI. I cover archaeology, industry and judiciary (High Court, NGT, Consumer Commission and tribunals).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 9 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 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 memories123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Vamsikrishna06 mins mins

Magsaysay winner Sanjiv Chaturvedi’s petitions are piling up at courts across the country. The whistleblower has fought cases alone, and even found Presidential support. So why are his battles being stalled?In a judicial system where recusals are rare and typically explained, 16 judges — across district courts, high courts and even Supreme Court — recused…

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The Home Ministry has ordered a judicial inquiry into the September 24th Leh violence, which resulted in four deaths. Former Supreme Court judge B.S. Chauhan will lead the probe, a key demand of the Ladakh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance. This move could pave the way for renewed talks, though protests continue. Image/ANI NEW DELHI: Conceding a key demand of the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the home ministry on Friday ordered a judicial inquiry into the “serious law and order” situation created in Leh town on Sept 24, 2025, which resulted in police action that claimed four lives.The judicial inquiry will be conducted by former Supreme Court judge B S Chauhan, the ministry of home affairs (MHA) said in a notification issued on Friday. He will be assisted by retired district and sessions judge Mohan Singh Parihar, who will serve as judicial secretary, and former IAS officer Tushar Anand who shall be the administrative secretary.Ladakh Statehood Violence: BJP Blames Congress While Sonam Wangchuk Says Gen-Z Led The ProtestsThe notification on the “impartial” judicial probe — which came on the eve of a planned silent march and blackout by the two outfits in Ladakh — could brighten the prospects of early resumption of talks with the two Ladakh outfits through the high-powered committee set up by the Central govt. However, despite the MHA having conceded LAB and KDA’s central demand to have a retired SC judge look into the Sept 24 events, their leaders had not called off their protests until the time of going to the press.Before the Sept 24 violence broke out, LAB and KDA had reached an agreement on reviving the HPC parleys after a gap of four months and were scheduled to meet home ministry representatives on Oct 6. In fact, some MHA officials were in Leh at the time of the violence, preparing the ground for the parleys in New Delhi.The violence, coinciding with the protest fast by activist Sonam Wangchuk to press for statehood and Sixth Schedule status, and the death of four individuals in police firing, however, upset these plans. LAB and KDA decided to put off a meeting with the Central govt until their demand for a probe led by a retired SC judge into the Sept 24 violence was conceded.The Govt had on Sept 29 stated that it has always been open for dialogue on Ladakh matters with LAB and KDA at any time and on any platform. In fact, the dialogue mechanism has already yielded some good results, in the form of 85% reservation to Scheduled Tribes of Ladakh, 33% quota for women in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) and protection to local languages, it added.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.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 9 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 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 memories123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

The Home Ministry has ordered a judicial inquiry into the September 24th Leh violence, which resulted in four deaths. Former Supreme Court judge B.S. Chauhan will lead the probe, a key demand of the Ladakh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance. This move could pave the way for renewed talks, though protests continue. Image/ANI NEW DELHI: Conceding a key demand of the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the home ministry on Friday ordered a judicial inquiry into the “serious law and order” situation created in Leh town on Sept 24, 2025, which resulted in police action that claimed four lives.The judicial inquiry will be conducted by former Supreme Court judge B S Chauhan, the ministry of home affairs (MHA) said in a notification issued on Friday. He will be assisted by retired district and sessions judge Mohan Singh Parihar, who will serve as judicial secretary, and former IAS officer Tushar Anand who shall be the administrative secretary.Ladakh Statehood Violence: BJP Blames Congress While Sonam Wangchuk Says Gen-Z Led The ProtestsThe notification on the “impartial” judicial probe — which came on the eve of a planned silent march and blackout by the two outfits in Ladakh — could brighten the prospects of early resumption of talks with the two Ladakh outfits through the high-powered committee set up by the Central govt. However, despite the MHA having conceded LAB and KDA’s central demand to have a retired SC judge look into the Sept 24 events, their leaders had not called off their protests until the time of going to the press.Before the Sept 24 violence broke out, LAB and KDA had reached an agreement on reviving the HPC parleys after a gap of four months and were scheduled to meet home ministry representatives on Oct 6. In fact, some MHA officials were in Leh at the time of the violence, preparing the ground for the parleys in New Delhi.The violence, coinciding with the protest fast by activist Sonam Wangchuk to press for statehood and Sixth Schedule status, and the death of four individuals in police firing, however, upset these plans. LAB and KDA decided to put off a meeting with the Central govt until their demand for a probe led by a retired SC judge into the Sept 24 violence was conceded.The Govt had on Sept 29 stated that it has always been open for dialogue on Ladakh matters with LAB and KDA at any time and on any platform. In fact, the dialogue mechanism has already yielded some good results, in the form of 85% reservation to Scheduled Tribes of Ladakh, 33% quota for women in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) and protection to local languages, it added.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.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 9 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 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 memories123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Conceding a key demand of the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the home ministry on Friday ordered a judicial inquiry into the “serious law and order” situation created in Leh town on Sept 24, 2025, which resulted in police action that claimed four lives.The judicial inquiry will be conducted…

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries on Saturday extended heartfelt Dhanteras greetings to citizens, praying for happiness, prosperity, and good health. Leaders emphasised the significance of the festival, linking it to wealth, health, and the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, while also urging for environmental protection and social harmony. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his greetings to the nation on the occasion of Dhanteras. Taking to X, PM Modi in a post wrote, “Heartfelt Dhanteras greetings to all my family members in the country. On this sacred occasion, I pray for everyone’s happiness, prosperity, and good health. May Lord Dhanvantari bestow his abundant blessings upon all.”Acharya Vikramaditya Reveals | Diwali Date Confusion Ends | इसी दिन बनेगा महालक्ष्मी योग Home minister Amit Shah also sent “heartfelt greetings to all” on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras.”I pray to Lord Dhanvantari for happiness, prosperity, and good fortune in everyone’s life,” he said in a post on X.Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath also greeted the nation, wishing them happiness, prosperity, and good health. “UPCM @myogiadityanath has extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of the state on Dhanteras and wished for their happiness and prosperity. The Chief Minister said that Dhanteras, in the Purushartha Chatushtaya of India’s eternal Hindu religion, symbolises not only Dharma but also Artha. Dhanteras is also the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of health,” UP CMO wrote in a post on X. “Happiness and prosperity can be achieved only through good health. May Lord Dhanvantari bring happiness and prosperity to the lives of all the people of the state, and I wish that Uttar Pradesh becomes established as the leading state economically,” the post added. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also wished the nation, urging citizens to uphold prosperity, harmony and environmental protection.He wrote in a post on X, “Heartfelt greetings to all fellow citizens on the auspicious arrival of Deepotsav festival Dhanteras. My wish is that with the blessings of Mother Lakshmi, every home is filled with prosperity, opulence, and radiance, and with the grace of Lord Dhanvantari, every individual remains healthy and long-lived. Along with personal advancement, let us make our nation eternally glorious, protect the environment, and promote social harmony; with this resolve, auspicious Dhanteras.”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 Is 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 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 wear123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries on Saturday extended heartfelt Dhanteras greetings to citizens, praying for happiness, prosperity, and good health. Leaders emphasised the significance of the festival, linking it to wealth, health, and the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, while also urging for environmental protection and social harmony. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his greetings to the nation on the occasion of Dhanteras. Taking to X, PM Modi in a post wrote, “Heartfelt Dhanteras greetings to all my family members in the country. On this sacred occasion, I pray for everyone’s happiness, prosperity, and good health. May Lord Dhanvantari bestow his abundant blessings upon all.”Acharya Vikramaditya Reveals | Diwali Date Confusion Ends | इसी दिन बनेगा महालक्ष्मी योग Home minister Amit Shah also sent “heartfelt greetings to all” on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras.”I pray to Lord Dhanvantari for happiness, prosperity, and good fortune in everyone’s life,” he said in a post on X.Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath also greeted the nation, wishing them happiness, prosperity, and good health. “UPCM @myogiadityanath has extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of the state on Dhanteras and wished for their happiness and prosperity. The Chief Minister said that Dhanteras, in the Purushartha Chatushtaya of India’s eternal Hindu religion, symbolises not only Dharma but also Artha. Dhanteras is also the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, the deity of health,” UP CMO wrote in a post on X. “Happiness and prosperity can be achieved only through good health. May Lord Dhanvantari bring happiness and prosperity to the lives of all the people of the state, and I wish that Uttar Pradesh becomes established as the leading state economically,” the post added. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also wished the nation, urging citizens to uphold prosperity, harmony and environmental protection.He wrote in a post on X, “Heartfelt greetings to all fellow citizens on the auspicious arrival of Deepotsav festival Dhanteras. My wish is that with the blessings of Mother Lakshmi, every home is filled with prosperity, opulence, and radiance, and with the grace of Lord Dhanvantari, every individual remains healthy and long-lived. Along with personal advancement, let us make our nation eternally glorious, protect the environment, and promote social harmony; with this resolve, auspicious Dhanteras.”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 Is 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 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 wear123Hot 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 BunnyLeBron JamesCarolina HurricanesLeon DraisaitlStephanie Lachances

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his greetings to the nation on the occasion of Dhanteras. Taking to X, PM Modi in a post wrote, “Heartfelt Dhanteras greetings to all my family members in the country. On this sacred occasion, I pray for everyone’s happiness, prosperity, and good health. May Lord Dhanvantari…

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