June 13, 2026

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated that a growing culture of loyalty to political leaders over principles is weakening India’s democracy. He observed that increasingly polarized public discourse leaves little room for serious engagement with political values. Tharoor’s remarks highlight his recurring call for politics rooted in principles rather than personality. Shashi Tharoor NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday said that the growing culture of loyalty to political leaders over commitment to ideas and principles is weakening India’s democracy. Without naming any individual or party, his remarks appeared to question the trend of leader-centric politics – including within his own party.“Each party’s insistence on loyalty to its leaders rather than to a set of convictions and the very principles undermines democracy,” Tharoor said, as part of a broader reflection on India’s political future.He observed that as public discourse becomes “increasingly shrilled and polarised”, there is “little space left for serious engagement with political values.”Tharoor said India’s political imagination had long been shaped by larger ideological movements such as cultural nationalism, socialism, religious revivalism and even communism. Referring to the 1991 elections, he noted that India had then begun a “remarkable tryst with liberalism,” recalling political scientist Francis Fukuyama’s essay ‘The End of History’, which described liberal democracy as “the high point… of humankind’s political evolution” and “final form of governance.” Tharoor has previously emphasised that his “first loyalty is to the nation” and not to any political organisation. “Parties are a means of making the nation better… Sometimes the parties feel that is disloyalty to them. That becomes a big problem,” he had said at a recent event in Kochi.His latest comments, made in the context of India’s evolving ideological landscape, once again underline his recurring call for politics rooted in principles rather than personality.The Thiruvananthapuram MP is known for making unsettling comments for Congress. His latest remarks come days after he courted controversy for defending veteran BJP leader LK Advani, saying his long career in public life should not be reduced to one episode. “Reducing his long years of service to one episode, however significant, is also unfair. The totality of Nehruji’s career cannot be judged by the China setback, nor Indira Gandhi’s by the Emergency alone. I believe we should extend the same courtesy to Advaniji,” he posted on X.The Congress leadership swiftly distanced itself from those remarks, with party spokesperson Pawan Khera saying, “Like always, Dr Shashi Tharoor speaks for himself and the Indian National Congress outrightly dissociates itself from his most recent statement.”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 MediaVideosAfghanistan FM Muttaqi Slams Pakistan’s ‘Illogical’ Demands After Talks Collapse In TurkeyMultiple IEDs, 32 Vehicles: Agencies Uncover Plan For Serial Car Explosions In Delhi Blast Probe30,000 Troops, 25 Warships, Fighter Jets: India Concludes Tri-Service Drill Trishul | Op Sindoor 2.0Muhammad Yunus Sets February 2026 Election Date For Bangladesh Along With Referendum On July CharterProject Cheetah Boost: President Murmu, Duma Boko Attend Handover in GaboroneDramatic Drone Chase Catches Attacker Who Fled Amravati Wedding After Stabbing Groom With KnifeIndian Air Force Opens Nyoma Airbase In Ladakh, A Strategic Game-Changer Along The China FrontierS Jaishankar Meets Anita Anand Amid Khalistan Protests at G7 As India and Canada Aim To Rebuild Ties’Foolish, Self-Defeating’: Sheikh Hasina Slams ‘Weak Monarch’ Yunus, Sets Condition For Her ReturnDhaka Burns Ahead Of Sheikh Hasina Verdict; Yunus Govt Struggles To Contain Unrest Across Bangladesh123PhotostoriesUnplug, create and connect: 7 parenting ideas to celebrate Children’s Day 2025 indoors5 countries where wearing camouflage is illegal10 Indian baby names that mean hope and joyExpert-approved top 5 veg protein-rich foods that are also gut-friendlyRaashii Khanna to Nick Jonas: 5 celebrity looks that ruled today’s style sceneHow to keep pigeons away from your apartment balcony naturallySurya Mantra According To Your Birth DateMadhuri Dixit’s iconic fashion moments that transformed Bollywood style foreverMumbai’s Rs 2,682-Crore Eastern Freeway Extension Promises Signal-Free Ride from South Mumbai to Thane8 adorable and most popular dog breeds in India you’ll fall in love with, instantly!123Hot PicksBihar Election CandidatesBihar Election ConstituenciesBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingEpstein FilesAndy ReidJosh Allen WifeCountries Education SystemPaul Reed Net WorthBGMI 4.1 UpdateLaMelo BallKlay Thompson GirlfriendGiannis AntetokounmpoMichael Duarte Cause of Death

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated that a growing culture of loyalty to political leaders over principles is weakening India’s democracy. He observed that increasingly polarized public discourse leaves little room for serious engagement with political values. Tharoor’s remarks highlight his recurring call for politics rooted in principles rather than personality. Shashi Tharoor NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday said that the growing culture of loyalty to political leaders over commitment to ideas and principles is weakening India’s democracy. Without naming any individual or party, his remarks appeared to question the trend of leader-centric politics – including within his own party.“Each party’s insistence on loyalty to its leaders rather than to a set of convictions and the very principles undermines democracy,” Tharoor said, as part of a broader reflection on India’s political future.He observed that as public discourse becomes “increasingly shrilled and polarised”, there is “little space left for serious engagement with political values.”Tharoor said India’s political imagination had long been shaped by larger ideological movements such as cultural nationalism, socialism, religious revivalism and even communism. Referring to the 1991 elections, he noted that India had then begun a “remarkable tryst with liberalism,” recalling political scientist Francis Fukuyama’s essay ‘The End of History’, which described liberal democracy as “the high point… of humankind’s political evolution” and “final form of governance.” Tharoor has previously emphasised that his “first loyalty is to the nation” and not to any political organisation. “Parties are a means of making the nation better… Sometimes the parties feel that is disloyalty to them. That becomes a big problem,” he had said at a recent event in Kochi.His latest comments, made in the context of India’s evolving ideological landscape, once again underline his recurring call for politics rooted in principles rather than personality.The Thiruvananthapuram MP is known for making unsettling comments for Congress. His latest remarks come days after he courted controversy for defending veteran BJP leader LK Advani, saying his long career in public life should not be reduced to one episode. “Reducing his long years of service to one episode, however significant, is also unfair. The totality of Nehruji’s career cannot be judged by the China setback, nor Indira Gandhi’s by the Emergency alone. I believe we should extend the same courtesy to Advaniji,” he posted on X.The Congress leadership swiftly distanced itself from those remarks, with party spokesperson Pawan Khera saying, “Like always, Dr Shashi Tharoor speaks for himself and the Indian National Congress outrightly dissociates itself from his most recent statement.”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 MediaVideosAfghanistan FM Muttaqi Slams Pakistan’s ‘Illogical’ Demands After Talks Collapse In TurkeyMultiple IEDs, 32 Vehicles: Agencies Uncover Plan For Serial Car Explosions In Delhi Blast Probe30,000 Troops, 25 Warships, Fighter Jets: India Concludes Tri-Service Drill Trishul | Op Sindoor 2.0Muhammad Yunus Sets February 2026 Election Date For Bangladesh Along With Referendum On July CharterProject Cheetah Boost: President Murmu, Duma Boko Attend Handover in GaboroneDramatic Drone Chase Catches Attacker Who Fled Amravati Wedding After Stabbing Groom With KnifeIndian Air Force Opens Nyoma Airbase In Ladakh, A Strategic Game-Changer Along The China FrontierS Jaishankar Meets Anita Anand Amid Khalistan Protests at G7 As India and Canada Aim To Rebuild Ties’Foolish, Self-Defeating’: Sheikh Hasina Slams ‘Weak Monarch’ Yunus, Sets Condition For Her ReturnDhaka Burns Ahead Of Sheikh Hasina Verdict; Yunus Govt Struggles To Contain Unrest Across Bangladesh123PhotostoriesUnplug, create and connect: 7 parenting ideas to celebrate Children’s Day 2025 indoors5 countries where wearing camouflage is illegal10 Indian baby names that mean hope and joyExpert-approved top 5 veg protein-rich foods that are also gut-friendlyRaashii Khanna to Nick Jonas: 5 celebrity looks that ruled today’s style sceneHow to keep pigeons away from your apartment balcony naturallySurya Mantra According To Your Birth DateMadhuri Dixit’s iconic fashion moments that transformed Bollywood style foreverMumbai’s Rs 2,682-Crore Eastern Freeway Extension Promises Signal-Free Ride from South Mumbai to Thane8 adorable and most popular dog breeds in India you’ll fall in love with, instantly!123Hot PicksBihar Election CandidatesBihar Election ConstituenciesBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingEpstein FilesAndy ReidJosh Allen WifeCountries Education SystemPaul Reed Net WorthBGMI 4.1 UpdateLaMelo BallKlay Thompson GirlfriendGiannis AntetokounmpoMichael Duarte Cause of Death


'Loyalty undermines democracy': Shashi Tharoor calls out leader worshipping - veiled jibe at Congress?

NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday said that the growing culture of loyalty to political leaders over commitment to ideas and principles is weakening India’s democracy. Without naming any individual or party, his remarks appeared to question the trend of leader-centric politics – including within his own party.“Each party’s insistence on loyalty to its leaders rather than to a set of convictions and the very principles undermines democracy,” Tharoor said, as part of a broader reflection on India’s political future.He observed that as public discourse becomes “increasingly shrilled and polarised”, there is “little space left for serious engagement with political values.”Tharoor said India’s political imagination had long been shaped by larger ideological movements such as cultural nationalism, socialism, religious revivalism and even communism. Referring to the 1991 elections, he noted that India had then begun a “remarkable tryst with liberalism,” recalling political scientist Francis Fukuyama’s essay ‘The End of History’, which described liberal democracy as “the high point… of humankind’s political evolution” and “final form of governance.” Tharoor has previously emphasised that his “first loyalty is to the nation” and not to any political organisation. “Parties are a means of making the nation better… Sometimes the parties feel that is disloyalty to them. That becomes a big problem,” he had said at a recent event in Kochi.His latest comments, made in the context of India’s evolving ideological landscape, once again underline his recurring call for politics rooted in principles rather than personality.The Thiruvananthapuram MP is known for making unsettling comments for Congress. His latest remarks come days after he courted controversy for defending veteran BJP leader LK Advani, saying his long career in public life should not be reduced to one episode. “Reducing his long years of service to one episode, however significant, is also unfair. The totality of Nehruji’s career cannot be judged by the China setback, nor Indira Gandhi’s by the Emergency alone. I believe we should extend the same courtesy to Advaniji,” he posted on X.The Congress leadership swiftly distanced itself from those remarks, with party spokesperson Pawan Khera saying, “Like always, Dr Shashi Tharoor speaks for himself and the Indian National Congress outrightly dissociates itself from his most recent statement.”





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Police personnel stand guard near the site of a fire at a hotel in the Malviya Nagar area (PTI Photo) A family had booked a room at the Flourish Stay bed-and-breakfast to be close to a critically ill relative undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital. On the morning of June 3, they were having breakfast in the basement when a fire broke out. Trapped without an escape route, the family, along with several others, desperately tried to get out. Despite frantic phone calls and rescue attempts, they could not escape. Hours later, eight members of the family were found dead, their bodies burnt beyond recognition.Among the 22 people killed in the tragic fire at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar were eight members of the extended Agarwal family. Vivek Agarwal, a Gurugram-based chartered accountant, had been staying at the hotel with his family to remain close to his father, who was admitted to the ICU of the nearby Max Hospital. A week after losing most of his family in the fire, 75-year-old Radhe Shyam Agarwal succumbed to a lung infection at the hospital on Tuesday.Mahender Garg recalls that his cousin Vivek sounded frantic during a phone call made about 10 minutes before the fire escalated.“I am trapped in the basement. Please send the fire brigade quickly and get me out of here,” he pleaded.How the tragedy unfoldedAccording to reports, the fire may have originated from a commercial LPG cylinder explosion in the basement kitchen or from an air-conditioning unit on the ground floor. Before the blaze engulfed the building, witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion.As the flames intensified, thick black smoke spread rapidly through the hotel, fuelled by combustible materials. The smoke travelled through a single central staircase, gradually engulfing the entire building.Guests staying on the upper floors had little choice but to jump from windows to escape the flames. Local residents and neighbours placed mattresses on the ground to cushion their fall. One woman jumped from the third floor carrying a child in her arms. Though injured, both survived. Those trapped in the basement had no such option.While some victims suffered fatal burn injuries, most reportedly died due to severe smoke inhalation and respiratory damage. The smoke was unable to escape because of poor ventilation, sealed windows and glass panels.Among the many alleged safety lapses at the hotel was the basement’s sole entrance, which was reportedly locked. Rescue teams took around 10 minutes to gain access, after which six or seven people were rescued.What Delhi’s basement laws sayBasements in Delhi are regulated by the Unified Building Bye-Laws (UBBL) and the Master Plan for Delhi (MPD). Rule 7.4.11 of the UBBL-2016 permits basements to be used for the storage of household goods, non-flammable materials, dark rooms, strong rooms, bank cellars, library stack rooms, air-conditioning equipment and other utilities.Rule 4.4.3 of the Delhi Building Bye-Laws states that basements are not counted under the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of a building and therefore cannot be used as independent residential units. The regulations also mandate a minimum height of 2.4 metres, adequate ventilation, fire safety measures, waterproofing and proper drainage. UNCHECKED AND DANGEROUS“Vents with cross-sectional area (aggregate) not less than 2.5 per cent of the floor area spread evenly round the perimeter of the basement shall be provided in the form of grills or breakable stall board lights or pavement lights or by way of shafts,” the law states.“Alternatively, a system of air inlets shall be provided at basement floor level and smoke outlets at basement ceiling level.”Cooking activities and kitchens in basements and on rooftops were banned after the 2019 fire at Hotel Arpit Palace in Karol Bagh that claimed 17 lives. Yet reports following similar incidents repeatedly point to violations of these regulations, often with fatal consequences.Dwelling on what-ifs after a tragedy can seem futile. Yet one question lingers: if the Agarwal family had been anywhere else in the hotel and not in the basement, could their lives have been saved?Not an isolated catastropheBasement misuse in Delhi has been under scrutiny following several tragedies, most notably the 2024 Rajendra Nagar incident, in which three students drowned in the basement library of Rau’s IAS Study Circle after rainwater flooded the premises. The basement was authorised only for storage, parking and utility purposes, not as a library.The negligence that led to the avoidable deaths of three young students was not an isolated violation of safety norms.Rajendra Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar and Ber Sarai are major hubs for students preparing for civil services and other competitive examinations. These areas are densely populated, with buildings packed closely together.“Look at how closely the houses are built to one another. In case a fire breaks out, it will not remain confined to one building. It will spread,” said a local resident.Students point out that many libraries continue to operate from basements despite repeated incidents involving flooding, fires and structural hazards.“Accidents are unpredictable. In case of flooding or a sudden fire, there is no possibility of escape,” said Nikhil, an 18-year-old student from Uttar Pradesh. TRAGEDY STRIKESStudents’ apprehensionsMany students living in these coaching hubs come from outside Delhi. They leave home in pursuit of better opportunities, while their families place immense trust in landlords, hostel operators and coaching institutions to keep them safe in an unfamiliar city.But with each new tragedy, that trust gives way to anxiety.Ajit had come to Ber Sarai to visit his younger brother, who is preparing for competitive examinations. He spoke of the constant worry that comes with having a sibling living far from home.“The MCD should inspect the kind of structures being built, the ventilation arrangements and the number of exits available. The government must be responsible. If a library or coaching centre is operating out of a basement, there should be at least two exits,” he said.Ajit recalled his own time living in Mukherjee Nagar when the Rajendra Nagar tragedy occurred. Following the incident, coaching classes were disrupted and several libraries were shut down. He said his years there were marked by recurring safety concerns, including fire incidents he had personally witnessed.Yet such tragedies continue to recur, claiming the lives of students, workers, migrants and tourists. Stampedes, drownings and fires become headlines every year. Systemic change rarely follows, and accountability seldom extends beyond individual punishment.Incidents such as the Malviya Nagar hotel fire and the Rajendra Nagar coaching centre tragedy have repeatedly drawn attention to the misuse of basements and violations of safety norms in the capital. Yet questions remain over how effectively existing regulations are being enforced, and whether lessons from past disasters are translating into meaningful changes on the ground.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAnanya PodderAnanya Podder, a news intern at the Times of India, is a political science major who completed a PG Diploma from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication. Currently working across diverse beats.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia, France Expected To Deepen Defence Cooperation With Focus On Submarines And Fighter JetsEl Nino Officially Sets In Over Pacific Ocean, IMD Warns Of Further Strengthening During MonsoonDRDO Conducts Three Successful Missile Tests, Strengthens India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Shield’Like My Son’: Kalyan Banerjee’s Surprise Remark On Abhishek Sparks Fresh BuzzOpposition Alleges BJP Using Agencies As Political Toolkit After FIR Against MamataPolice Conduct 4-Hour Search At Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence In Fraud ProbeFive IAF Personnel Killed After AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Routine Sortie In AssamIndian-Origin Man Jailed For 34 Years In UK For Kidnapping, Torturing And R*ping Young WomanNEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For StudentsSanjay Raut Alleges EVMs Were Deliberately Set Ablaze, Targets BJP Over West Bengal Fire Incident123PhotostoriesCrossover of Imtiaz Ali’s characters: Director says at a dinner table, ‘Geet will make bad order; Tara will help’ – Exclusive7 social skills that can help children become confident and make friends easily5 ancient temples in Karnataka that are architectural marvelsLong before becoming the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk survived on hot dogs and oranges for a day in CanadaWhat people who stay healthy into their 80s do differently every day5 signs life’s hardest phase is finally behind you5 animals that are often called the world’s dumbestHave you done the “sun test” before investing in a houseEl Niño is more than a weather event: How it could affect your healthInside Karishma Tanna’s luxurious 2-storey Mumbai home: Massive living room, stunning balcony views and more123Hot PicksRe-NEET admit cardAIDMK MeetWomen t20 World Cup Match todayTulsi GabbardMandi-Kullu trafficDelta Air Lines flightSpaceX IPOKCET 2026 verification slipKCET counselling 2026Top TrendingAsha Sharma Net WorthUPSC Prelims ResultSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Women T20 World CupPune Techie SuicideAbhishek BanerjeeComedian PranitTMC Leader Kunal GhoshCBSE Class 10 Second Board Result

Police personnel stand guard near the site of a fire at a hotel in the Malviya Nagar area (PTI Photo) A family had booked a room at the Flourish Stay bed-and-breakfast to be close to a critically ill relative undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital. On the morning of June 3, they were having breakfast in the basement when a fire broke out. Trapped without an escape route, the family, along with several others, desperately tried to get out. Despite frantic phone calls and rescue attempts, they could not escape. Hours later, eight members of the family were found dead, their bodies burnt beyond recognition.Among the 22 people killed in the tragic fire at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar were eight members of the extended Agarwal family. Vivek Agarwal, a Gurugram-based chartered accountant, had been staying at the hotel with his family to remain close to his father, who was admitted to the ICU of the nearby Max Hospital. A week after losing most of his family in the fire, 75-year-old Radhe Shyam Agarwal succumbed to a lung infection at the hospital on Tuesday.Mahender Garg recalls that his cousin Vivek sounded frantic during a phone call made about 10 minutes before the fire escalated.“I am trapped in the basement. Please send the fire brigade quickly and get me out of here,” he pleaded.How the tragedy unfoldedAccording to reports, the fire may have originated from a commercial LPG cylinder explosion in the basement kitchen or from an air-conditioning unit on the ground floor. Before the blaze engulfed the building, witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion.As the flames intensified, thick black smoke spread rapidly through the hotel, fuelled by combustible materials. The smoke travelled through a single central staircase, gradually engulfing the entire building.Guests staying on the upper floors had little choice but to jump from windows to escape the flames. Local residents and neighbours placed mattresses on the ground to cushion their fall. One woman jumped from the third floor carrying a child in her arms. Though injured, both survived. Those trapped in the basement had no such option.While some victims suffered fatal burn injuries, most reportedly died due to severe smoke inhalation and respiratory damage. The smoke was unable to escape because of poor ventilation, sealed windows and glass panels.Among the many alleged safety lapses at the hotel was the basement’s sole entrance, which was reportedly locked. Rescue teams took around 10 minutes to gain access, after which six or seven people were rescued.What Delhi’s basement laws sayBasements in Delhi are regulated by the Unified Building Bye-Laws (UBBL) and the Master Plan for Delhi (MPD). Rule 7.4.11 of the UBBL-2016 permits basements to be used for the storage of household goods, non-flammable materials, dark rooms, strong rooms, bank cellars, library stack rooms, air-conditioning equipment and other utilities.Rule 4.4.3 of the Delhi Building Bye-Laws states that basements are not counted under the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of a building and therefore cannot be used as independent residential units. The regulations also mandate a minimum height of 2.4 metres, adequate ventilation, fire safety measures, waterproofing and proper drainage. UNCHECKED AND DANGEROUS“Vents with cross-sectional area (aggregate) not less than 2.5 per cent of the floor area spread evenly round the perimeter of the basement shall be provided in the form of grills or breakable stall board lights or pavement lights or by way of shafts,” the law states.“Alternatively, a system of air inlets shall be provided at basement floor level and smoke outlets at basement ceiling level.”Cooking activities and kitchens in basements and on rooftops were banned after the 2019 fire at Hotel Arpit Palace in Karol Bagh that claimed 17 lives. Yet reports following similar incidents repeatedly point to violations of these regulations, often with fatal consequences.Dwelling on what-ifs after a tragedy can seem futile. Yet one question lingers: if the Agarwal family had been anywhere else in the hotel and not in the basement, could their lives have been saved?Not an isolated catastropheBasement misuse in Delhi has been under scrutiny following several tragedies, most notably the 2024 Rajendra Nagar incident, in which three students drowned in the basement library of Rau’s IAS Study Circle after rainwater flooded the premises. The basement was authorised only for storage, parking and utility purposes, not as a library.The negligence that led to the avoidable deaths of three young students was not an isolated violation of safety norms.Rajendra Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar and Ber Sarai are major hubs for students preparing for civil services and other competitive examinations. These areas are densely populated, with buildings packed closely together.“Look at how closely the houses are built to one another. In case a fire breaks out, it will not remain confined to one building. It will spread,” said a local resident.Students point out that many libraries continue to operate from basements despite repeated incidents involving flooding, fires and structural hazards.“Accidents are unpredictable. In case of flooding or a sudden fire, there is no possibility of escape,” said Nikhil, an 18-year-old student from Uttar Pradesh. TRAGEDY STRIKESStudents’ apprehensionsMany students living in these coaching hubs come from outside Delhi. They leave home in pursuit of better opportunities, while their families place immense trust in landlords, hostel operators and coaching institutions to keep them safe in an unfamiliar city.But with each new tragedy, that trust gives way to anxiety.Ajit had come to Ber Sarai to visit his younger brother, who is preparing for competitive examinations. He spoke of the constant worry that comes with having a sibling living far from home.“The MCD should inspect the kind of structures being built, the ventilation arrangements and the number of exits available. The government must be responsible. If a library or coaching centre is operating out of a basement, there should be at least two exits,” he said.Ajit recalled his own time living in Mukherjee Nagar when the Rajendra Nagar tragedy occurred. Following the incident, coaching classes were disrupted and several libraries were shut down. He said his years there were marked by recurring safety concerns, including fire incidents he had personally witnessed.Yet such tragedies continue to recur, claiming the lives of students, workers, migrants and tourists. Stampedes, drownings and fires become headlines every year. Systemic change rarely follows, and accountability seldom extends beyond individual punishment.Incidents such as the Malviya Nagar hotel fire and the Rajendra Nagar coaching centre tragedy have repeatedly drawn attention to the misuse of basements and violations of safety norms in the capital. Yet questions remain over how effectively existing regulations are being enforced, and whether lessons from past disasters are translating into meaningful changes on the ground.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAnanya PodderAnanya Podder, a news intern at the Times of India, is a political science major who completed a PG Diploma from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication. Currently working across diverse beats.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia, France Expected To Deepen Defence Cooperation With Focus On Submarines And Fighter JetsEl Nino Officially Sets In Over Pacific Ocean, IMD Warns Of Further Strengthening During MonsoonDRDO Conducts Three Successful Missile Tests, Strengthens India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Shield’Like My Son’: Kalyan Banerjee’s Surprise Remark On Abhishek Sparks Fresh BuzzOpposition Alleges BJP Using Agencies As Political Toolkit After FIR Against MamataPolice Conduct 4-Hour Search At Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence In Fraud ProbeFive IAF Personnel Killed After AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Routine Sortie In AssamIndian-Origin Man Jailed For 34 Years In UK For Kidnapping, Torturing And R*ping Young WomanNEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For StudentsSanjay Raut Alleges EVMs Were Deliberately Set Ablaze, Targets BJP Over West Bengal Fire Incident123PhotostoriesCrossover of Imtiaz Ali’s characters: Director says at a dinner table, ‘Geet will make bad order; Tara will help’ – Exclusive7 social skills that can help children become confident and make friends easily5 ancient temples in Karnataka that are architectural marvelsLong before becoming the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk survived on hot dogs and oranges for $1 a day in CanadaWhat people who stay healthy into their 80s do differently every day5 signs life’s hardest phase is finally behind you5 animals that are often called the world’s dumbestHave you done the “sun test” before investing in a houseEl Niño is more than a weather event: How it could affect your healthInside Karishma Tanna’s luxurious 2-storey Mumbai home: Massive living room, stunning balcony views and more123Hot PicksRe-NEET admit cardAIDMK MeetWomen t20 World Cup Match todayTulsi GabbardMandi-Kullu trafficDelta Air Lines flightSpaceX IPOKCET 2026 verification slipKCET counselling 2026Top TrendingAsha Sharma Net WorthUPSC Prelims ResultSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Women T20 World CupPune Techie SuicideAbhishek BanerjeeComedian PranitTMC Leader Kunal GhoshCBSE Class 10 Second Board Result

Vamsikrishna 0
(Image source: PTI) A team from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) arrived in Kozhikode on Saturday after a Nipah virus infection was confirmed in the district.The team held discussions with Revenue minister AP Anil Kumar, doctors and district administration officials to review the situation and assess measures being taken to prevent further spread of the virus. Officials said the ICMR experts are expected to remain in the district for the next few days. Experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) have also visited the district.Three relatives test negative, surveillance intensifiedThe Nipah patient, a 43-year-old man from Ramanattukara, is currently undergoing treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital after laboratory tests confirmed the infection.Health authorities have placed 87 contacts under surveillance and are carrying out extensive monitoring in the affected area. Officials said tests conducted on three close relatives of the patient returned negative results.Minister Anil Kumar chaired a high-level review meeting and directed officials to ensure all necessary facilities, medicines and medical equipment are available for the patient and those under observation.Nipah cases in IndiaAccording to WHO and government data, India has reported only a limited number of confirmed Nipah cases over the years, though the virus has a high fatality rate and requires intensive containment efforts.Earlier this year, two confirmed Nipah cases were reported in West Bengal, both of whom were healthcare workers. Male nurse was cured of disease and discharged, however, the female nurse died of cardiac arrest as she later developed a lung infection.She had been taken off ventilator support at the end of January.What is the Nipah virus?Nipah is a zoonotic virus that can spread from animals to humans and, in some cases, through human-to-human transmission.Fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, are the natural reservoir of the virus. The infection can cause severe respiratory illness, encephalitis and neurological complications, with a case fatality rate estimated between 40 and 75 per cent.There is currently no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for the disease.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosDRDO Conducts Three Successful Missile Tests, Strengthens India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Shield’Like My Son’: Kalyan Banerjee’s Surprise Remark On Abhishek Sparks Fresh BuzzOpposition Alleges BJP Using Agencies As Political Toolkit After FIR Against MamataPolice Conduct 4-Hour Search At Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence In Fraud ProbeFive IAF Personnel Killed After AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Routine Sortie In AssamIndian-Origin Man Jailed For 34 Years In UK For Kidnapping, Torturing And R*ping Young WomanNEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For StudentsSanjay Raut Alleges EVMs Were Deliberately Set Ablaze, Targets BJP Over West Bengal Fire IncidentIAF’s ‘Workhorse’ AN-32 Aircraft Crashes And Catches Fire At Jorhat Air Force Station | Watch‘Won’t Let Indus Waters Reach Patrons Of Terror’: Rajnath Singh Reinforces India’s Pakistan Policy123PhotostoriesCrossover of Imtiaz Ali’s characters: Director says at a dinner table, ‘Geet will make bad order; Tara will help’ – Exclusive7 social skills that can help children become confident and make friends easily5 ancient temples in Karnataka that are architectural marvelsLong before becoming the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk survived on hot dogs and oranges for a day in CanadaWhat people who stay healthy into their 80s do differently every day5 signs life’s hardest phase is finally behind you5 animals that are often called the world’s dumbestHave you done the “sun test” before investing in a houseEl Niño is more than a weather event: How it could affect your healthInside Karishma Tanna’s luxurious 2-storey Mumbai home: Massive living room, stunning balcony views and more123Hot PicksRe-NEET admit cardAIDMK MeetWomen t20 World Cup Match todayTulsi GabbardMandi-Kullu trafficDelta Air Lines flightSpaceX IPOKCET 2026 verification slipKCET counselling 2026Top TrendingAsha Sharma Net WorthUPSC Prelims ResultSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Women T20 World CupPune Techie SuicideAbhishek BanerjeeComedian PranitTMC Leader Kunal GhoshCBSE Class 10 Second Board Result

(Image source: PTI) A team from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) arrived in Kozhikode on Saturday after a Nipah virus infection was confirmed in the district.The team held discussions with Revenue minister AP Anil Kumar, doctors and district administration officials to review the situation and assess measures being taken to prevent further spread of the virus. Officials said the ICMR experts are expected to remain in the district for the next few days. Experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) have also visited the district.Three relatives test negative, surveillance intensifiedThe Nipah patient, a 43-year-old man from Ramanattukara, is currently undergoing treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital after laboratory tests confirmed the infection.Health authorities have placed 87 contacts under surveillance and are carrying out extensive monitoring in the affected area. Officials said tests conducted on three close relatives of the patient returned negative results.Minister Anil Kumar chaired a high-level review meeting and directed officials to ensure all necessary facilities, medicines and medical equipment are available for the patient and those under observation.Nipah cases in IndiaAccording to WHO and government data, India has reported only a limited number of confirmed Nipah cases over the years, though the virus has a high fatality rate and requires intensive containment efforts.Earlier this year, two confirmed Nipah cases were reported in West Bengal, both of whom were healthcare workers. Male nurse was cured of disease and discharged, however, the female nurse died of cardiac arrest as she later developed a lung infection.She had been taken off ventilator support at the end of January.What is the Nipah virus?Nipah is a zoonotic virus that can spread from animals to humans and, in some cases, through human-to-human transmission.Fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, are the natural reservoir of the virus. The infection can cause severe respiratory illness, encephalitis and neurological complications, with a case fatality rate estimated between 40 and 75 per cent.There is currently no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for the disease.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosDRDO Conducts Three Successful Missile Tests, Strengthens India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Shield’Like My Son’: Kalyan Banerjee’s Surprise Remark On Abhishek Sparks Fresh BuzzOpposition Alleges BJP Using Agencies As Political Toolkit After FIR Against MamataPolice Conduct 4-Hour Search At Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence In Fraud ProbeFive IAF Personnel Killed After AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Routine Sortie In AssamIndian-Origin Man Jailed For 34 Years In UK For Kidnapping, Torturing And R*ping Young WomanNEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For StudentsSanjay Raut Alleges EVMs Were Deliberately Set Ablaze, Targets BJP Over West Bengal Fire IncidentIAF’s ‘Workhorse’ AN-32 Aircraft Crashes And Catches Fire At Jorhat Air Force Station | Watch‘Won’t Let Indus Waters Reach Patrons Of Terror’: Rajnath Singh Reinforces India’s Pakistan Policy123PhotostoriesCrossover of Imtiaz Ali’s characters: Director says at a dinner table, ‘Geet will make bad order; Tara will help’ – Exclusive7 social skills that can help children become confident and make friends easily5 ancient temples in Karnataka that are architectural marvelsLong before becoming the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk survived on hot dogs and oranges for $1 a day in CanadaWhat people who stay healthy into their 80s do differently every day5 signs life’s hardest phase is finally behind you5 animals that are often called the world’s dumbestHave you done the “sun test” before investing in a houseEl Niño is more than a weather event: How it could affect your healthInside Karishma Tanna’s luxurious 2-storey Mumbai home: Massive living room, stunning balcony views and more123Hot PicksRe-NEET admit cardAIDMK MeetWomen t20 World Cup Match todayTulsi GabbardMandi-Kullu trafficDelta Air Lines flightSpaceX IPOKCET 2026 verification slipKCET counselling 2026Top TrendingAsha Sharma Net WorthUPSC Prelims ResultSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Women T20 World CupPune Techie SuicideAbhishek BanerjeeComedian PranitTMC Leader Kunal GhoshCBSE Class 10 Second Board Result

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NEW DELHI: Top aide of Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay met Union minister Bhupendra Singh on Saturday. Rebel TMC MP Satabdi Roy was also present at the meeting.Bandyopadhyay’s name was not in the list of 19 of 20 rebel TMC MPs who have expressed their willingness to side with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Lok Sabha.TMC MLA Kunal Ghosh reacted to Bandyopadhyay’s meeting with Singh saying that he has a “history of changing parties”.”Mamata didi gave positions and honour to these people, and this is what these people give in return. Sudip Bandyopadhyay has a history of changing parties…We had said that he is not good and his politics worked only by misleading Mamata didi. I was once suspended by the party for it. Today, it is being proved that what I said that day was correct,” he said.The rebel MPs are scheduled to meet West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday, ahead of their meeting with the Lok Sabha Speaker.”West Bengal CM will meet the rebel TMC MPs in Delhi, ahead of the rebel TMC MPs’ meeting with the Lok Sabha Speaker,” ANI quoted rebel TMC MP Jagdish Basunia saying.However, he did not say that there would be 20 rebel MPs who would meet the Lok Sabha Speaker. “We have been given a date for Monday (15th June) (for meeting with Lok Sabha Speaker). All (rebel) MPs will go to him, all of they are coming to Delhi tomorrow. A meeting of all MPs with CM (Suvendu Adhikari) will be held on Sunday (14th June) and then we will go to the Speaker on Monday…19 MPs will be there,” he said.Earlier, rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar had revealed that 20 MPs have formally requested separate seating in the Lok Sabha, a move widely seen as reflecting a split within the party’s parliamentary wing. The development comes against the backdrop of mounting friction within the TMC after its disappointing showing in the 2026 West Bengal assembly elections, which is said to have deepened divisions between senior party leaders and the Mamata Banerjee-led central leadership.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosDRDO Conducts Three Successful Missile Tests, Strengthens India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Shield’Like My Son’: Kalyan Banerjee’s Surprise Remark On Abhishek Sparks Fresh BuzzOpposition Alleges BJP Using Agencies As Political Toolkit After FIR Against MamataPolice Conduct 4-Hour Search At Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence In Fraud ProbeFive IAF Personnel Killed After AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Routine Sortie In AssamIndian-Origin Man Jailed For 34 Years In UK For Kidnapping, Torturing And R*ping Young WomanNEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For StudentsSanjay Raut Alleges EVMs Were Deliberately Set Ablaze, Targets BJP Over West Bengal Fire IncidentIAF’s ‘Workhorse’ AN-32 Aircraft Crashes And Catches Fire At Jorhat Air Force Station | Watch‘Won’t Let Indus Waters Reach Patrons Of Terror’: Rajnath Singh Reinforces India’s Pakistan Policy123PhotostoriesCrossover of Imtiaz Ali’s characters: Director says at a dinner table, ‘Geet will make bad order; Tara will help’ – Exclusive7 social skills that can help children become confident and make friends easily5 ancient temples in Karnataka that are architectural marvelsLong before becoming the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk survived on hot dogs and oranges for a day in CanadaWhat people who stay healthy into their 80s do differently every day5 signs life’s hardest phase is finally behind you5 animals that are often called the world’s dumbestHave you done the “sun test” before investing in a houseEl Niño is more than a weather event: How it could affect your healthInside Karishma Tanna’s luxurious 2-storey Mumbai home: Massive living room, stunning balcony views and more123Hot PicksRe-NEET admit cardAIDMK MeetWomen t20 World Cup Match todayTulsi GabbardMandi-Kullu trafficDelta Air Lines flightSpaceX IPOKCET 2026 verification slipKCET counselling 2026Top TrendingAsha Sharma Net WorthUPSC Prelims ResultSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Women T20 World CupPune Techie SuicideAbhishek BanerjeeComedian PranitTMC Leader Kunal GhoshCBSE Class 10 Second Board Result

NEW DELHI: Top aide of Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay met Union minister Bhupendra Singh on Saturday. Rebel TMC MP Satabdi Roy was also present at the meeting.Bandyopadhyay’s name was not in the list of 19 of 20 rebel TMC MPs who have expressed their willingness to side with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Lok Sabha.TMC MLA Kunal Ghosh reacted to Bandyopadhyay’s meeting with Singh saying that he has a “history of changing parties”.”Mamata didi gave positions and honour to these people, and this is what these people give in return. Sudip Bandyopadhyay has a history of changing parties…We had said that he is not good and his politics worked only by misleading Mamata didi. I was once suspended by the party for it. Today, it is being proved that what I said that day was correct,” he said.The rebel MPs are scheduled to meet West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday, ahead of their meeting with the Lok Sabha Speaker.”West Bengal CM will meet the rebel TMC MPs in Delhi, ahead of the rebel TMC MPs’ meeting with the Lok Sabha Speaker,” ANI quoted rebel TMC MP Jagdish Basunia saying.However, he did not say that there would be 20 rebel MPs who would meet the Lok Sabha Speaker. “We have been given a date for Monday (15th June) (for meeting with Lok Sabha Speaker). All (rebel) MPs will go to him, all of they are coming to Delhi tomorrow. A meeting of all MPs with CM (Suvendu Adhikari) will be held on Sunday (14th June) and then we will go to the Speaker on Monday…19 MPs will be there,” he said.Earlier, rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar had revealed that 20 MPs have formally requested separate seating in the Lok Sabha, a move widely seen as reflecting a split within the party’s parliamentary wing. The development comes against the backdrop of mounting friction within the TMC after its disappointing showing in the 2026 West Bengal assembly elections, which is said to have deepened divisions between senior party leaders and the Mamata Banerjee-led central leadership.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosDRDO Conducts Three Successful Missile Tests, Strengthens India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Shield’Like My Son’: Kalyan Banerjee’s Surprise Remark On Abhishek Sparks Fresh BuzzOpposition Alleges BJP Using Agencies As Political Toolkit After FIR Against MamataPolice Conduct 4-Hour Search At Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence In Fraud ProbeFive IAF Personnel Killed After AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Routine Sortie In AssamIndian-Origin Man Jailed For 34 Years In UK For Kidnapping, Torturing And R*ping Young WomanNEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For StudentsSanjay Raut Alleges EVMs Were Deliberately Set Ablaze, Targets BJP Over West Bengal Fire IncidentIAF’s ‘Workhorse’ AN-32 Aircraft Crashes And Catches Fire At Jorhat Air Force Station | Watch‘Won’t Let Indus Waters Reach Patrons Of Terror’: Rajnath Singh Reinforces India’s Pakistan Policy123PhotostoriesCrossover of Imtiaz Ali’s characters: Director says at a dinner table, ‘Geet will make bad order; Tara will help’ – Exclusive7 social skills that can help children become confident and make friends easily5 ancient temples in Karnataka that are architectural marvelsLong before becoming the world’s first trillionaire, Elon Musk survived on hot dogs and oranges for $1 a day in CanadaWhat people who stay healthy into their 80s do differently every day5 signs life’s hardest phase is finally behind you5 animals that are often called the world’s dumbestHave you done the “sun test” before investing in a houseEl Niño is more than a weather event: How it could affect your healthInside Karishma Tanna’s luxurious 2-storey Mumbai home: Massive living room, stunning balcony views and more123Hot PicksRe-NEET admit cardAIDMK MeetWomen t20 World Cup Match todayTulsi GabbardMandi-Kullu trafficDelta Air Lines flightSpaceX IPOKCET 2026 verification slipKCET counselling 2026Top TrendingAsha Sharma Net WorthUPSC Prelims ResultSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Women T20 World CupPune Techie SuicideAbhishek BanerjeeComedian PranitTMC Leader Kunal GhoshCBSE Class 10 Second Board Result

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