VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html In 1974, the National Park Service bought the Stewart family’s 890-acre California ranch; they negotiated the right to remain and continued ranching there until 2021 Air Marshal Kapoor (Retd) did not totally rule out the role of Tejas Mk2 in future NEW DELHI: Less than two months after retirement as the IAF’s vice chief, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor (Retd) has slammed the delay in the delivery of Tejas (LCA) fighter jet by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to the air force, saying, “why must it be that a machine that was promised to us so many years back with a certain set of capabilities continues to be denied to us on one pretext or the other”.In an interview to NDTV, the IAF veteran said, “Why must we be hamstrung because someone somewhere has not been able to keep their promises?”The delivery of the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk1A jets by HAL to the IAF has faced multi-year delays, primarily caused by late supplies of F404-IN20 engines by American GE company, complex mission software validation, and stringent operational requirements set by the IAF.When asked if advanced Tejas Mk-2 may be operationally relevant when it starts entering service in big numbers in mid 2030s at a time when China is already raising its fleet of its 5th-generation fighter jet, the former vice-chief said, “No, operationally, definitely no.”With China on its way to deploying 500 5th-generation J-20 fighters by 2030, India is still struggling to get the delivery of the first squadron by 4.5-generation Tejas Mk1A. Though the IAF had placed orders for a total of 180 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets long ago, HAL hopes to deliver the first 18-25 Tejas Mk1A only by March 2027.Air Marshal Kapoor (Retd) did not totally rule out the role of Tejas Mk2 in future when he said, “You can have a certain number of those 5th generation and 6th generation fighters, but given the size of the country, you won’t be able to deploy them everywhere. So those gaps which continue to remain to be filled will have to be filled by this class of aircraft.” “I want Tejas Mk-2 to come, I want India’s 5th-gen AMCA to come. But they must come at a much faster speed,” he said.When asked about Russia’s 5th-gen fighter jet Su-57, the former vice-chief said when the Russian fighter is compared to western jets like American F-35, western jets have an edge over the Su-57 as they have better avionics and stealth.Air Marshal Kapoor (Retd) suggested that India should partner with an European consortium working on state-of-the-art sixth generation platforms. “There are other things that are happening — why not join FCAS (Future Combat Air System is the European programme for 6th generation jet under development by French Dassault Aviation, Airbus and Indra Sistemas) Why not GCAP (Global Combat Air Programme is a multinational initiative led by Italy, Japan, and UK to jointly develop a sixth-generation jet).Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”“’You are probably going with a consortium which has got a good record of delivery, of development. Why go through this Gen 4, Gen 4.5 steps when you know the next best thing is already being thought of and why not just join up there?,” the IAF veteran said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosYoutuber Ajeet Bharti Lists 4 Big Demands At Jantar Mantar, Calls For Reservation Reform And MeritPM Modi Meets BJP’s New Team At Delhi HQ As Party Pushes Vande Mataram Legacy Nationwide‘48 Hours Or Sit-In’: Abhijeet Dipke Warns After CJP Team Allegedly Attacked Near Jaipur SchoolIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation123PhotostoriesNayanthara’s ivory saree, gold choker and gajra are a masterclass in minimal but classic Onam style10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash 5 signs you have a TOXIC wife ‘Opened Pandora’s box’: Putin’s big warning after Ukraine hits Russian economic infrastructure Gujarati man sentenced to 9 years in jail in US for scam; attorney says he grew up in India in extreme poverty without water, studied only till 10th Police arrested a 28-year-old man for allegedly being in contact with a Pakistani criminal gang through Instagram in Doddaballapur, Karnataka. NEW DELHI: A 25-year-old AC mechanic was arrested in Karnataka on charges of a terrorist act after police allegedly found he was in contact with Pakistan-based gangsters through social media, officials said on Friday.The accused, identified as Syed Abubakar, a resident of Islampur, was arrested by Doddaballapur Town police after a tip-off led them to examine his mobile phone and alleged online activities.Police said Abubakar was using an Instagram account named “sayedabudakar 313” and had allegedly liked reels featuring Pakistan-based gangsters posted by an account identified as “Hammadmemon 333”.According to the FIR, Abubakar had also uploaded videos of gangsters as Instagram status updates and shared his identity card with the “Hammadmemon 333” account. Several photographs of pistols were also allegedly found on his phone.The case came to light after a police constable attached to Doddaballapur Town police station received information on August 20 that Abubakar was allegedly involved in suspicious dealings with people from Pakistan.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesActing on the tip-off, the constable went to Islampur Circle at around 11 am, where he found Abubakar and questioned him. Police said the accused failed to give satisfactory answers and attempted to leave the spot.The subsequent examination of his mobile phone allegedly revealed his Instagram activity and his interactions with the Pakistan-linked account.The FIR alleged that Abubakar could potentially attempt to instigate youths against India and engage in activities detrimental to the sovereignty of the country.Police have registered a case under Section 113(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, relating to a terrorist act, and Section 197(2), concerning imputations or assertions prejudicial to national integration.Further investigation is underway to identify and trace the alleged radicalised individual with whom Abubakar was communicating through Instagram, police said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosYoutuber Ajeet Bharti Lists 4 Big Demands At Jantar Mantar, Calls For Reservation Reform And MeritPM Modi Meets BJP’s New Team At Delhi HQ As Party Pushes Vande Mataram Legacy Nationwide‘48 Hours Or Sit-In’: Abhijeet Dipke Warns After CJP Team Allegedly Attacked Near Jaipur SchoolIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation123PhotostoriesNayanthara’s ivory saree, gold choker and gajra are a masterclass in minimal but classic Onam style10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash Aug 22, 2026, 23:14 IST From tape-ball cricket to ‘dream of Harmanpreet’s wicket’, Maryam Bibi follows her father’s unfulfilled dream Can Carney keep up? Canada cancels trade talks with US – what’s at stake Aug 22, 2026, 22:27 IST Horoscope Today, August 22, 2026: These Chinese Zodiac Signs May Receive an Unexpected Opportunity The Eiffel Tower is not always 330 metres tall: Why Paris’ iconic landmark gets slightly taller during hot summer days Revanth Reddy not first CM to be denied MEA nod for foreign visit In 2025, Miami Beach sank 22 concrete cars 20 feet underwater; the surreal traffic jam was built to support 2,200 corals and marine life World in churn, and India’s foreign policy needs to adapt to it Aug 22, 2026, 22:50 IST Kangana Ranaut slams Taapsee Pannu after she reacts to her feud with the ‘Queen’ actress: ‘One Sasti copy is out, today she crossed all limits shamelessly ridiculing my upbringing’ Nayanthara’s ivory saree, gold choker and gajra are a masterclass in minimal but classic Onam style Stephen Curry and Ayesha Curry’s foundation lands major $200,000 support as they continue giving back to Oakland Among the six includes Lashkar-e-Taiba founders Hafiz Saeed. NEW DELHI: The Mumbai Police have asked the Union home ministry to use Interpol to serve court proclamation orders on six Pakistani nationals wanted in connection with the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.The move is part of the process to bring the six accused to trial in absentia, meaning they could be tried by an Indian court even if they remain outside the country and cannot be arrested.The six include Lashkar-e-Taiba founders Hafiz Saeed and Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, along with Sajid Mir, Abu Alqama, Asim alias Abu Qahafa and Major Abdur Rehman Pasha.Special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam told the special court hearing terror cases that the Mumbai Police had submitted an interim report on Friday regarding the proclamation orders issued against the accused in July.”We have written to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for taking necessary steps in serving the proclamation order, through Interpol, against the accused residing in Pakistan,” Nikam told the special court hearing terror cases.The home ministry has acknowledged the request and is examining the next steps.”On August 3, the MHA had acknowledged our request, and sought time for filing a status of the same,” he said.What trial in absentia meansThe proceedings are based on Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. The provision allows a court to conduct a full criminal trial in the absence of an accused who has been declared a proclaimed offender, has deliberately remained away to avoid facing trial and is unlikely to be arrested in the immediate future.The court dealing with the 26/11 case issued proclamation orders in July against the six accused, all of whom are Pakistani nationals and remain absconding.The orders are an important step towards potentially beginning their trials without their physical presence in India.Evidence links accused to 26/11The alleged involvement of the six men in the Mumbai attacks has been referred to by Ajmal Kasab, the only attacker captured alive during the assault, as well as David Headley, who later became an approver in the case.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe 26/11 attacks began in Mumbai in November 2008 when 10 Pakistani terrorists launched a coordinated assault on several locations across the city.The attacks lasted for more than 60 hours and targeted iconic and strategically important places in Mumbai. A total of 166 people were killed, including six US nationals.Kasab was convicted of murder and waging war against India. He was sentenced to death and hanged at Yerwada Central Jail in Pune on November 21, 2012.The latest move by the Mumbai Police seeks to advance the legal proceedings against the six accused who have remained beyond the reach of Indian investigators since the attacks.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosYoutuber Ajeet Bharti Lists 4 Big Demands At Jantar Mantar, Calls For Reservation Reform And MeritPM Modi Meets BJP’s New Team At Delhi HQ As Party Pushes Vande Mataram Legacy Nationwide‘48 Hours Or Sit-In’: Abhijeet Dipke Warns After CJP Team Allegedly Attacked Near Jaipur SchoolIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation123Photostories10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy10 bizarre luxury fashion trends that stunned the internet: From Margaret Qualley’s ‘barefoot’ Chanel shoes to Balenciaga’s trash bags123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash Love Predictions, 23rd August, 2026: Moon in Sagittarius and Mula Nakshatra forces a crucial reality check—discover what is truly missing in your relationship Karnataka Apartment Bill: Karnataka Assembly passes apartment Bill: From ownership to redevelopment, rules defined The searches were aimed at securing evidence relating to the conspiracy and at ascertaining the roles of persons allegedly associated with the local support network (Photo: PTI). NEW DELHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted searches at 10 locations across Srinagar, Kupwara, Anantnag, Pulwama and Budgam in J&K to unearth a cross-border conspiracy involving Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba handlers and a network of local over ground workers (OGWs) allegedly providing logistical and other forms of support to terrorists infiltrated from Pakistan.The relevant case was registered after a motorcycle-borne Kashmiri, Mohammad Naqeeb Bhat, was stopped at a naka in Zakoora, Srinagar, for checking on March 31, and one grenade and 15 rounds of ammunition were recovered from his possession. During the investigation, Pakistani terrorists allegedly connected with the conspiracy were arrested and the identities and alleged roles of members of the local support network, ascertained.Saturday’s searches across multiple locations were aimed at securing further documentary, digital and material evidence relating to the conspiracy and at ascertaining the roles of persons allegedly associated with the local support network.According to the NIA, the probe so far points to linkages between Pak-based handlers and local OGWs who were allegedly used for communication, logistical arrangements, movement and concealment of terrorists, provision of shelter, reconnaissance and other forms of facilitation. The investigation is also examining the financial trail, communication channels, movement of the accused, and the source of arms and explosives, with a view to establishing the complete network and the extent of its activities.The searches conducted today form part of the continuing investigation into the larger conspiracy and the alleged facilitation mechanism supporting cross-border terrorism. Further evidence relevant to the investigation has been secured and is being examined and corroborated with other material collected in the case.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNIA on Saturday said it shall continue to identify all persons involved in the conspiracy and ascertain their respective roles. Further legal action, including arrests or recoveries, may follow, subject to the outcome of the investigation.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.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 MediaVideosYoutuber Ajeet Bharti Lists 4 Big Demands At Jantar Mantar, Calls For Reservation Reform And MeritPM Modi Meets BJP’s New Team At Delhi HQ As Party Pushes Vande Mataram Legacy Nationwide‘48 Hours Or Sit-In’: Abhijeet Dipke Warns After CJP Team Allegedly Attacked Near Jaipur SchoolIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation123Photostories10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy10 bizarre luxury fashion trends that stunned the internet: From Margaret Qualley’s ‘barefoot’ Chanel shoes to Balenciaga’s trash bags123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash Priyanka Chopra says she wouldn’t have loved Nick Jonas if he didn’t embrace her Indian culture: ‘Important to have a sense of respect for your partner’s roots’ Weekly Horoscope, 24th to 30th August, 2026: How to handle trust, family ties & past memories; Luck may rise for these chinese zodiac signs FSSAI issues 150 notices to food brands over misleading ads, false claims, labelling non-compliance The ship went down around 240 nautical miles off the Paradip coast (Representative image) A Panama-flagged cargo vessel carrying iron ore from Odisha to Singapore sank in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday, officials told news agency PTI.The ship went down around 240 nautical miles off the Paradip coast with 24 crew members on board. Most of the crew were reportedly Chinese.The Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy have launched a rescue operation, while other vessels in the area have been alerted to assist.“We are not sure how many of the crew members have been rescued,” a senior IPS officer told PTI.This is a developing story. Details to follow…Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorVivek DubeyA digital news desk journalist at The Times of India with over two years of experience. Closely tracks foreign affairs and international politics. Fondness for precise language and clever headlines. When not editing news, he is usually refining a turn of phrase.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosYoutuber Ajeet Bharti Lists 4 Big Demands At Jantar Mantar, Calls For Reservation Reform And MeritPM Modi Meets BJP’s New Team At Delhi HQ As Party Pushes Vande Mataram Legacy Nationwide‘48 Hours Or Sit-In’: Abhijeet Dipke Warns After CJP Team Allegedly Attacked Near Jaipur SchoolIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation123Photostories10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy10 bizarre luxury fashion trends that stunned the internet: From Margaret Qualley’s ‘barefoot’ Chanel shoes to Balenciaga’s trash bags123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash Kareena Kapoor Khan breaks silence on her viral pregnancy claims, denies in a hilarious way: ‘Pagal kar dete ho yaar!’ Hotel Check-In Tips: 10 things you should do in the first 10 minutes after checking into a hotel room Career & Money Predictions, 23rd August, 2026: One Hidden Weakness May Be Slowing Your Professional Growth Hockey World Cup: India’s semifinal hopes end after 1-3 loss to Netherlands ‘Pretend, please, that I’m on the ballot’: Trump’s appeal to voters ahead of midterms Pisces, Weekly Horoscope, August 23 to August 29, 2026: Your luck rises, but don’t let emotions lead Final minutes of Maharashtra hill tragedy: Sarpanch offers iPhone, teen says ‘death only solution now’ In 1983, Shekhar Kapur’s directorial debut ‘Masoom’ opened to an EMPTY theatre, but later was crowned as a CULT CLASSIC: ‘There were only two people, and one of them was me’ Being queer in Kashmir: Families, phones, friendships monitored, says report US Death Valley tragedy: French tourist dies after vehicle gets stuck in 47°C heat Updated: Aug 22, 2026, 21:30 IST Aquarius, Weekly Horoscope, August 23 to August 29, 2026: You are likely to encounters mixed vibes: Financial caution needed as emotional clouds drift ‘Crushed his lungs, calculated conspiracy’: How a ‘minor’ dispute ended in Adobe techie’s death Indian-origin UC Santa Cruz student dies as car plunges from cliff into ocean, male driver escaped with minor injuries ‘Cannot accept what US has offered’: Canada PM Carney defiant as trade talks collapse Large gathering at Jantar Mantar over caste based reservation NEW DELHI: Union MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Saturday said reservation is a “constitutional right” and termed demands for its abolition “unconstitutional”, arguing that several needy communities continue to benefit from the system.Addressing a press conference, Athawale said some people had demanded the abolition of reservation during protests at Jantar Mantar, while similar campaigns were also being run on social media. “Reservation cannot be removed because it is our constitutional right,” he said, news agency PTI reported.Athawale said reservation, initially provided for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, had been expanded to include other sections, including Economically Weaker Sections. He argued that there was no justification for ending the system as “all needy groups are benefiting from it”.‘End caste system first’Athawale said that while untouchability was prohibited under Article 17 of the Constitution, caste-based discrimination and atrocities against SC communities continued, particularly in rural areas.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines“Our stand is very clear. Those seeking abolition of reservation should first ensure an end to the caste system. We will not insist on reservation once caste is eliminated,” he said.He also said the Narendra Modi-led government was working to protect reservation and ensure social justice. Athawale’s Republican Party of India (A) has been an NDA ally since 2014, he said, adding that his party wanted all needy communities to receive reservation.The call for the demonstration at Jantar Mantar was made by the “Reservation Hatao Andolan”, an Instagram page that has gained significant traction by adopting protest-mobilisation tactics of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation‘Proportionate Response’: MEA Explains Bulldozer Action Outside Pakistan High Commission In Delhi4-Year-Old Viral Sensation Karga Tinkle EXCLUSIVE | “Don’t Call Me Chinese, I Am Indian”‘Making Provocative Remarks Against India For Years’: MEA Slams US Body Over RSS Sanctions Call123Photostories10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy10 bizarre luxury fashion trends that stunned the internet: From Margaret Qualley’s ‘barefoot’ Chanel shoes to Balenciaga’s trash bags123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash Capricorn, Weekly Horoscope, August 23 to August 29, 2026: Passionate moments amidst Monday’s gloom; navigating relationship ups and downs Who is Sara Bejlek? Inside the 20-year-old tennis star’s rise from beating World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka to reaching the Cincinnati Open semifinals A one-horned rhinoceros grazes in the Burapahar Range of Kaziranga National Park (PTI Photo) At dawn, Kaziranga wakes to mist rising over its tall grasslands. Elephants move through the wilderness as jeep tracks wind past marshes, while one-horned rhinos emerge from the grass.By afternoon, the landscape transforms into a trail of wildlife sightings, wild water buffalo, deer, elephants and, for visitors, glimpses of one of India’s most celebrated natural habitats.But beyond the park’s boundary, another debate is unfolding. How much space should be left between Kaziranga’s protected landscape and the towns, homes and businesses that surround it?The Assam government has proposed replacing the existing default 10-km eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve with a site-specific ESZ extending between one and three kilometres from the park boundary.The proposal has triggered a debate over how far conservation restrictions should extend beyond a protected area and how the needs of communities living alongside Kaziranga can be balanced with wildlife protection.The state government says the proposal will ease restrictions on housing, healthcare, infrastructure and local businesses while continuing to protect Kaziranga. It has also maintained that the move will not alter the boundary of the national park or its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.The opposition and conservationists, however, have raised concerns that a narrower ESZ could weaken safeguards around an ecosystem whose ecological footprint extends beyond the park’s legal boundary.What is an eco-sensitive zone?An eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) is a regulatory buffer around protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It acts as an additional layer of protection for ecologically sensitive areas outside the protected area’s boundary.ESZs are declared by the ministry of environment, forest and climate change based on proposals submitted by state governments and in accordance with the 2011 guidelines for declaring ESZs.The idea is to create a “shock absorber” around protected areas, providing a transition between areas requiring a high level of protection and those where human activity is more intensive.Importantly, an ESZ is regulatory rather than automatically prohibitive. Activities within an ESZ are classified based on their environmental impact and may be prohibited, regulated or permitted under the applicable rules.The declaration of an ESZ does not, by itself, mean that local communities can no longer carry out activities such as farming or building houses. The specific restrictions depend on the ESZ notification and the nature of the activity.Why Assam wants a smaller ESZChief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has repeatedly argued that the 10-km ESZ around Kaziranga is a default arrangement, rather than a site-specific zone determined after assessing local conditions.On August 8, Sarma said the state government would submit a proposal to the Centre to reduce the ESZ from 10 km to 1 km, citing the need to facilitate development around Kaziranga, including the construction of a stadium.He later clarified that the existing 10-km ESZ would remain in force until the state’s proposal is formally notified.”The Supreme Court has said that around a wildlife sanctuary, the eco-sensitive zone will normally be 1 km, and if required, it can go up to three kilometres. Until the state notifies it, the eco-sensitive zone will remain 10 km. The moment it is notified, it will be reduced to 1 km,” Sarma said.If people living around Kaziranga are displaced, who will protect Kaziranga?CM Himanta Biswa SarmaSarma has argued that retaining a uniform 10-km buffer would bring large populated areas under the regulatory framework and restrict development. “If we maintain 10 km all around Kaziranga, then everything in Kaliabor, Doboka, Jakhalabandha will be finished,” he added.”Local people have to run businesses to survive. Even the Numaligarh Refinery will have to be closed down if the 10 km area around Kaziranga is notified as ESZ,” he said. “If people living around Kaziranga are displaced, who will protect Kaziranga?” Sarma added.The chief minister has also said residents should be able to pursue livelihood opportunities, including businesses involving GI-tagged products, while continuing to coexist with wildlife.Sarma has pointed to the geographical spread of Kaziranga and its adjoining areas, saying the park extends beyond the Kohora range towards Biswanath Ghat.A uniform 10-km zone from the park boundary, he said, could affect areas towards Gohpur and Biswanath Chariali.The government has similarly cited development requirements in Bokakhat, including a proposed modern stadium and other civic infrastructure, as examples of projects that could face restrictions under the existing arrangement.”Since Kaziranga has not yet been finally notified, the default eco-sensitive zone is 10 km. Once the notification is completed, we will propose a scientifically defined 1-km eco-sensitive zone. That will remove unnecessary restrictions and allow us to undertake development works in Bokakhat while continuing to protect wildlife,” Sarma said, according to local news reports.What did the SC say?In June 2022, the Supreme Court directed that an ESZ of at least 1 km should be declared around protected forests, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.The court subsequently modified aspects of that order after states and the Centre argued that a uniform approach was not practical in all areas.It also recognised that a rigid approach could create difficulties for people living around protected areas and potentially increase human-animal conflict.The one-kilometre figure, therefore, should not be understood as an automatic instruction that every protected area must have exactly a 1-km ESZ.The extent of an ESZ can vary according to local conditions. This is the basis on which the Assam government is seeking a site-specific approach for Kaziranga.Until the proposed ESZ is formally notified, however, the existing default 10-km arrangement continues to apply, according to the state government.What is Assam government’s stand?The Assam government maintains that an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) is not a blanket ban on construction or tourism. While activities considered environmentally harmful, including mining and certain polluting activities, face restrictions, other development can be permitted subject to prescribed regulations.The government also argues that ESZs need not be uniform and can vary according to the ecological and developmental conditions of a particular area. It has cited existing ESZs in Assam to support its case.Around Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary, for instance, the notified ESZ varies from 170 metres to 8.1 km from the sanctuary boundary. Around Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, it ranges from zero kilometres along the interstate boundary with Nagaland to 22.54 km in other areas.The state says Kaziranga should similarly have a site-specific ESZ based on its ecological characteristics and the needs of surrounding communities.The ESZ debate has also become intertwined with a separate controversy over tourism infrastructure near Kaziranga. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has rejected allegations that the proposed reduction is aimed at facilitating a five-star hotel project near the park.“There is no connection between the hotel project and the ESZ debate. The ESZ framework primarily restricts mining and certain polluting and environmentally damaging activities, rather than prohibiting hotels or tourism facilities. If somebody is protesting against the hotel on the grounds that it will fall within an ESZ, they do not understand what an ESZ is,” he said.Sarma has argued that tourism is important to Kaziranga’s economy and cited Jim Corbett as an example of tourism infrastructure around protected areas.However, the regulations do impose restrictions on certain tourism projects. A 2025 Gauhati high court record concerning tourism infrastructure noted that new commercial hotels and resorts are prohibited within one kilometre of the protected-area boundary or the applicable ESZ limit, whichever is nearer. Tourism projects beyond that distance but within the ESZ remain subject to applicable regulations and plans.A balance between wildlife and peopleAt the heart of the Assam government’s argument is the question of how conservation rules affect people living around Kaziranga.Thousands of residents live in the park’s surrounding areas, with livelihoods linked to agriculture, tourism, local businesses and other economic activities. The state government has argued that the existing 10-km arrangement can make it difficult for communities to build homes and develop basic infrastructure.That argument has also found support among some residents. On August 18, hundreds of people from areas including Bagori and Kuthori rallied from Kuthori to Haldhibari in support of the proposed reduction. Residents said restrictions associated with the 10-km zone had affected their everyday lives and backed a site-specific approach.They argued that communities living alongside Kaziranga should have room to build homes, pursue livelihoods and improve basic infrastructure while continuing to coexist with wildlife.The rally came a day after Assam Congress workers held a demonstration near Kaziranga opposing the proposal, underscoring the wider debate over where to draw the line between protecting a fragile ecosystem and allowing communities around it to grow.Congress raises mining concernsThe Assam Congress has strongly opposed the proposed reduction. State party president and Lok Sabha deputy leader of opposition Gaurav Gogoi led a protest at the Kohora range and demanded that the proposal be withdrawn.Gogoi alleged that the move could provide a “legal cover” for mining and weaken wildlife conservation.”Rampant illegal coal, stone and sand mining patronised by the ruling dispensation has triggered catastrophic floods across upper Assam, destroying over 4,000 houses and claiming more than 100 lives,” Gogoi alleged.He also claimed that deforestation and hill mining had pushed tigers and elephants towards human settlements, worsening human-animal conflict.The allegations have been rejected by the state government. Sarma has accused the opposition of politicising the issue and argued that criticism should be based on an assessment of the proposed ESZ’s likely environmental impact.Mining is particularly significant in the debate because it is among the activities subject to strict restrictions within ESZs.The Gauhati high court’s March 2026 order noted that mining was prohibited within the applicable 10-km ESZ under the prevailing arrangement.Reducing the ESZ could therefore change the regulatory framework applicable to areas that currently fall within the 10-km zone.Why conservationists are concernedKaziranga’s wildlife does not always remain within the park’s legal boundary. Every year, when floodwaters rise, animals move towards higher ground outside the park.For conservationists, this makes the landscape surrounding Kaziranga an important part of the larger ecosystem.Wildlife conservationist Jadav Payeng said, “[Kaziranga National Park] is not just Assam’s pride, but it’s a world heritage site. The proposal, if implemented, would have a drastic effect on wildlife in the national park.”He said rhinos, deer and elephants leave Kaziranga during annual floods and move towards nearby higher areas for safety.According to Payeng, reducing the ESZ could restrict these movements and leave animals vulnerable. He also questioned the need to reduce the ESZ to facilitate construction activities near the national park.Terming it as trespassing into the animal territory would be fair as reducing the eco-sensitive zone from 10 km to 1 km is disheartening to the wildlife and local community.Environmentalist Kavita AshokEnvironmentalist Kavita Ashok also raised concerns over the proposed reduction.”Terming it as trespassing into the animal territory would be fair as reducing the eco-sensitive zone from 10 km to 1 km is disheartening to the wildlife and local community,” Kavita said.“The routes will be disrupted and animals would be displaced from their terrain. Traffic, development and maybe even construction of any sort will create imbalance in the otherwise peaceful Kaziranga zone,” she added.The concern is particularly relevant because Kaziranga is a flood-dependent ecosystem. Annual floods replenish its wetlands and grasslands, but severe flooding can also become deadly for wildlife.More than 130 wild animals, including at least six rhinos, died during the 2024 floods, according to the conservation assessment. The deaths included 117 hog deer, two sambar deer, a rhesus macaque and an otter.In 2017, more than 350 animals died during floods and vehicle collisions as wildlife moved through corridors towards higher ground.This makes the landscape outside Kaziranga more than just a development zone. For animals moving out during floods, the surrounding areas can become temporary refuge and passage routes to safer ground.Ecosystem that extends beyond boundaryThe debate is therefore not simply about whether the ESZ should be 1 km, 3 km or 10 km. The larger question is what lies within those boundaries.Kaziranga is recognised internationally for its exceptional biodiversity. Unesco describes the park as an important habitat for the one-horned rhinoceros and other threatened species, including wild water buffalo, swamp deer, elephants and tigers.The 2025 Conservation Outlook Assessment also highlights Kaziranga’s importance for rare and endangered mammals and birds. It describes the park as the world’s major stronghold of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and notes its significant populations of wild water buffalo, swamp deer and Bengal tigers.The assessment identifies several pressures on the landscape, including flooding, traffic along the highway bordering the park, tourism pressure, wildlife movement through corridors, invasive species, livestock grazing and human-wildlife conflict.Unplanned tourism infrastructure around the park has also raised concerns because construction can affect animal movement through wildlife corridors.This makes the exact mapping of the proposed 1–3 km ESZ critical. A smaller zone may not necessarily mean weaker conservation if it is scientifically designed to protect the most sensitive areas.Its effectiveness, however, will depend on whether important wildlife corridors, flood escape routes, wetlands, grasslands and other ecologically sensitive areas are included in the final notified zone.The Assam government has repeatedly stressed that reducing the ESZ would not reduce the area of Kaziranga National Park.Kaziranga was inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List in 1985. The World Heritage property covers 42,996 hectares and is recognised for its exceptional biodiversity and its importance as a habitat for the one-horned rhinoceros.The proposed ESZ lies outside the protected-area boundary. A change in the ESZ therefore does not, by itself, change the boundary of the national park or its World Heritage status.At the same time, Unesco has historically stressed the importance of protecting areas around Kaziranga and encouraged India to provide a legal basis to protect the buffer zone south of the park, including the Mikir Hills and Karbi Plateau.What happens next?The Assam government has said its proposal will go through the prescribed process involving the Centre and scientific examination before a final ESZ is notified.Until then, the existing default 10-km arrangement will continue to apply. The final notification will be crucial because it will determine not just the width of the ESZ, but also which villages, roads, development projects, wildlife corridors and ecologically sensitive areas fall within it.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThat is likely to be the real test of the proposal.For Kaziranga, the challenge is to protect a landscape that does not end at a line on a map while ensuring that communities living alongside one of India’s most important national parks have space for homes, livelihoods and essential infrastructure.The debate over 1 km versus 10 km is therefore not merely about a number. It is about finding the point where the needs of people and the movement of wildlife can coexist without one coming at the cost of the other.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorKanchan YadavKanchan Yadav is a writer at The Times of India, where she covers business, politics, international affairs and social issues. Her reporting also focuses on policy, governance and economic developments, with a close lens on how decisions in corridors of power affect everyday lives and community well-being.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation‘Proportionate Response’: MEA Explains Bulldozer Action Outside Pakistan High Commission In Delhi4-Year-Old Viral Sensation Karga Tinkle EXCLUSIVE | “Don’t Call Me Chinese, I Am Indian”‘Making Provocative Remarks Against India For Years’: MEA Slams US Body Over RSS Sanctions Call123Photostories10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? Expert explains what humidity, sweat and rainwater are doing to your scalp and how to prevent itFrom a net worth of over Rs 2,000 crores to a lavish house in Delhi: Shalini Passi’s luxurious lifestyleHow to wash citrus fruits properly to remove wax, germs and dirtMen with heart disease may face a higher cancer risk, study suggests: 7 simple ways to keep your heart healthy and happy10 bizarre luxury fashion trends that stunned the internet: From Margaret Qualley’s ‘barefoot’ Chanel shoes to Balenciaga’s trash bags123Hot PicksTCS laptop monitoring softwareTNEA counselling3 year practice ruleCM Revanth ReddyWeather tomorrowNEET UG 2026US-Canada tradeSIM card rulesBank holiday todayTop TrendingMumbai Rape AirhostessReservation Hatao AndolanLucknow Double Murder SuicideMadhapur Road AccidentMaharashtra Hill TragedyAbhijeet DipkeJharkhand Factory FireRahul GandhiBengaluru RapidoAston Martin Crash ‘Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai’ actor Rajesh Kumar was in Rs 2 crore debt before ‘Saiyaara’ as left acting for farming on Sadhguru’s advice: ‘Because of his grace, I won’t call it failure’ Aries, Weekly Horoscope, August 23 to August 29, 2026: You may find new income avenues; investment decisions should be approached cautiously FIR against Abhijeet Dipke for ‘entering govt school without permission, threatening teachers’ Press Club of India president speaks out on ‘Modi chalisa’ row. Photo credit: PTI New Delhi: Press Club of India president Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty on Saturday said the journalists’ body neither organised nor endorsed the ‘Modi Chalisa’ event at its premises, calling it “a victim of a breach of trust”.Sharing a video statement on X, Pisharoty said the Press Club regularly rents out its premises and has a standard operating procedure (SOP) governing such events.“By now several of you may have noticed a photograph or a video clip featuring certain individuals reciting what they call the Modi Chalisa at the Press Club of India. At the outset, I want to reiterate clearly that that event was neither organized by the Press Club of India nor it endorsed it. A clear no,” she said.The clarification came after photographs and videos from Thursday’s event were widely circulated online, showing a cutout of Prime Minister Narendra Modi being depicted in a god-like manner as a devotional poem described as the ‘Modi Chalisa’ was recited. The Press Club had issued a clarification the same day, stating that it had not organised the event and that club authorities stopped it after the terms of the venue booking were violated.Pisharoty said the club’s rules require every event to be recommended by a member, who must also be present during the programme.“In this case, the trust placed by the club on the recommending member was breached,” she said, adding that the member was not present during the event, which was itself a violation of club rules.She said the hall had been booked for a press conference, but the organisers instead lit a live fire indoors.“Instead a live fire was lit indoors inside the hall which was a huge violation of the terms under which our venue is rented out,” Pisharoty said, adding that the secretary general has also issued show-cause notices to those concerned and initiated a review of the SOPs, she said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe organiser, Rajan Singh, vice-president of the Bihar State Transgender Welfare Board, told PTI that he planned to construct a temple for Modi in Bihar.“For the first time ever, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ensured that the transgender community gets its rights… If we want to construct a temple for him, what is wrong with it?” Singh said.He said the proposed temple for “Lord Shri Narendra Modi ji” would cost Rs 112 crore and be built on five acres of land in Bihar.Pisharoty, meanwhile, said the Press Club would continue to focus on media freedom and open discussion.“The Press Club of India has always stood for the rights and freedoms of journalists,” she said, adding that the Managing Committee was committed to “preserving and carrying forward that legacy”.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorSubhadra SrivastavaSubhadra Srivastava is a journalist with The Times of India, covering geopolitics, international and national affairs. With over three years of experience, she focuses on national and global developments, conflict, diplomacy and their impact on India. Her work combines breaking news with in-depth analysis, offering readers context and clarity on the stories shaping the world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndiGo Delhi-Gorakhpur Flight Makes Two Go-Arounds, Suffers Tail Impact During Third LandingPunjab Gangster’s Thar Rams Coconut Seller During Police Chase, CCTV Captures Entire IncidentRajasthan School Crisis: 611 Schools Lack Buildings, Thousands More Face Unsafe InfrastructureBJP Builds Gen Z Team As Rahul Gandhi Takes Student Outreach To Pune With ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’SC-ST Act Repeal, Creamy Layer Demand: Protesters Seek Major Overhaul Of India’s Reservation SystemBCI Chief Manan Mishra Rejects CJP’s Resignation Demand, Says Lawyers Can Never Be CockroachesH1N1 Cases Rise In Delhi: Health Minister Nadda Holds Meet, Reviews Swine Flu Situation‘Proportionate Response’: MEA Explains Bulldozer Action Outside Pakistan High Commission In Delhi4-Year-Old Viral Sensation Karga Tinkle EXCLUSIVE | “Don’t Call Me Chinese, I Am Indian”‘Making Provocative Remarks Against India For Years’: MEA Slams US Body Over RSS Sanctions Call123Photostories10 meaningful baby boy names inspired by positive human qualities10 famous foods that became popular when people had very little moneyFrom Ed Sheeran to Elton John: Stars who stay away from technologyBandhani to Leheriya: Indian textiles fashion lovers often mistake for each other7 telltale signs your ‘office bestie’ is quietly competing with youHair fall getting worse every monsoon? 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