Chhattisgarh: Rahul Gandhi Asserts Government Is Managed by Bureaucrats, Not MLAs or MPs

Chhattisgarh: Rahul Gandhi Asserts Government Is Managed by Bureaucrats, Not MLAs or MPs:

Gandhi emphasized the role of bureaucracy in formulating government policies and its day-to-day governance. He mentioned that around ninety bureaucrats are responsible for shaping government policies.

Furthermore, Gandhi advocated for the implementation of a caste census to promote the development of all segments of society. He likened a caste census to an X-ray of India, stating that it would provide insights into the population distribution among OBCs, tribals, and individuals from the general category. This data, he argued, would facilitate more inclusive progress for the nation.

Recognizing the importance of increasing women’s participation across all sectors, Gandhi stressed that conducting a caste census is essential for achieving this goal.

Gandhi commended the Bhupesh Baghel-led government in Chhattisgarh for fulfilling the promises made by the Congress party before the 2018 assembly elections. He cited several accomplishments, including reduced electricity bills, fair prices for paddy, unemployment allowances for over 1.30 lakh jobless youths, and significant input subsidies disbursed to farmers under the ‘Kisan Nyay Yojana.’ Additionally, landless farmers received annual financial assistance, and tribals benefited from fair pricing for minor forest produce.

Chhattisgarh: Rahul Gandhi Asserts Government Is Managed by Bureaucrats, Not MLAs or MPs
Chhattisgarh: Rahul Gandhi Asserts Government Is Managed by Bureaucrats, Not MLAs or MPs

During the event, the Chhattisgarh Gramin Awas NYAY Yojana was launched, and house sanction letters were distributed to 33,000 beneficiaries.

After the event, Rahul Gandhi traveled to Raipur from Bilaspur by train, engaging with passengers during the journey. He then departed for Delhi from Raipur by flight.

Also read: Launch of District-level Janata Darshan Program in Karnataka

Launch of District-level Janata Darshan Program in Karnataka

Launch of District-level Janata Darshan Program in Karnataka:

The Karnataka government has initiated the district-level Janata Darshan program in an endeavor to connect with the public and address their grievances effectively. Under the leadership of in-charge ministers and district officials, this program involves the handling of various applications from different departments, with immediate resolutions being provided wherever possible. Dedicated help desks have been established to guide individuals to the appropriate departments for addressing their concerns.

Priyank Kharge, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, underscored the significance of this program, emphasizing that it enables the government to reach out to the people instead of requiring them to approach the government for issue resolution. Kharge also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to proactively resolving public problems and bringing administrative solutions to citizens’ doorsteps.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who oversees Dakshina Kannada, directed authorities to take necessary action on all received applications. The Janata Darshan program will soon be extended to all taluks of the district, with a focus on eliminating delays and minimizing inconvenience for the public.

This initiative aligns with the government’s dedication to streamlining administrative processes and expediting solutions for public issues, as per the Chief Minister’s directives. Youth Affairs and Sports Minister B Nagendra, who conducted the Janata Darshan in Ballari, explained that the program allows the public to seek grievance redressal from relevant department officials on a monthly basis at the district and taluk levels.

Any delays in addressing issues will be conveyed to applicants and resolved within a specified timeframe. Grievances recorded during Janata Darshan will be logged into the Integrated Public Grievance Redressal System (IPGRS) software, ensuring prompt delivery to the respective departments.

District-level officials will subsequently take measures to resolve these issues within specified timelines. Zameer Ahmed Khan, the In-charge Minister for Vijayanagara District, attended to numerous applications during Janata Darshan, ensuring that citizens received assistance, such as widow support and handicap pensions.

Launch of District-level Janata Darshan Program in Karnataka-0
Launch of District-level Janata Darshan Program

Additionally, labor cards were distributed to 250 applicants. To maintain accountability, Khan instructed that applications received during Janata Darshan should be categorized by the department. Applicants will be informed about the status of their requests through SMS or phone calls, and action-taken reports are expected at the subsequent Janata Darshan sessions.

Also read: BJP Linked to Most Hate Speech in India: Report

BJP Linked to Most Hate Speech in India: Report

BJP Linked to Most Hate Speech in India: Report:

A report released on Monday revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s ruling party, along with affiliated groups, were responsible for the majority of hate speech incidents against Muslims in the first half of the year.

According to Hindutva Watch, a Washington DC-based research group that monitors hate crimes and inflammatory speech against minorities in India, approximately 80% of the 255 documented instances of “hate speech gatherings targeting Muslims” occurred in states and union territories governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The report highlighted an “escalating trend” of anti-Muslim speech since Modi’s ascent to power in 2014. It further revealed that more than half of this year’s documented incidents were orchestrated by the ruling BJP and its affiliates, including the Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and Sakal Hindu Samaj, which have connections to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the BJP.

In response, Abhay Verma, a senior BJP member in New Delhi, dismissed the report as “totally baseless” and emphasized that the BJP does not support hate speech or division along religious lines.

The report is the first of its kind to document hate speech against Muslims after India’s crime bureau ceased collecting hate crime data in 2017. Hindutva Watch relied on social media and news outlets to compile data, utilizing data scraping techniques and conducting in-depth investigations through journalists and researchers.

Although India lacks an official definition of hate speech, the research group used the United Nations’ language, which characterizes it as “any form” of communication employing “prejudiced or Using prejudiced language against a particular group due to characteristics like religion, ethnicity, nationality, and race.”

The report identified Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat as states with the highest number of hate speech gatherings. Additionally, a third of the documented incidents occurred in states holding legislative elections this year.

BJP Linked to Most Hate Speech in India Report
BJP Linked to Most Hate Speech in India Report

Hindutva Watch, which monitored activities in 15 states and two union territories, also noted that approximately 64% of the events promoted anti-Muslim “conspiracy theories,” including allegations that Muslims were enticing Hindu women into marriage for conversion.

In 33% of the events, violence against Muslims was advocated, while 11% encouraged Hindus to boycott Muslims.
The remaining assemblies included “speech filled with hatred and sexism” directed at Muslim women.

The report criticized government officials, including chief ministers, legislators, and senior BJP leaders, for engaging in hate speech rather than combating it themselves.

Also read: Andhra Pradesh Assembly Approves Resolution in Favor of Women’s Reservation

Andhra Pradesh Assembly Approves Resolution in Favor of Women’s Reservation

Andhra Pradesh Assembly Approves Resolution in Favor of Women’s Reservation:

The Andhra Pradesh Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution in favor of women’s reservation following a brief discussion on women’s empowerment on Monday.

Ushasree Charan, the Minister for Women and Child Welfare, highlighted that Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had already implemented 50% reservation for women in the state, three years ahead of the passage of the bill in Parliament. She emphasized the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and the support it provides to women in the YSRC party.

In light of the historic women’s reservation bill passed in Parliament, MLAs in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly engaged in a special discussion about the aid and opportunities provided to women by the state government.

Minister Ushasree criticized the previous chief minister, Chandrababu Naidu, for alleged financial misconduct and expressed pride in CM Jagan Mohan Reddy’s leadership, stating that the government has significantly increased spending on women’s empowerment compared to previous administrations.

Tourism Minister R.K. Roja expressed support for the women’s reservation bill and highlighted the YSRC party’s backing. She noted that the passage of the bill would result in 58 women MLAs in the AP Assembly.

She also praised Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s prioritization of women in welfare schemes and policies over the last four years, citing substantial financial assistance provided to women beneficiaries through various programs.

Andhra Pradesh Assembly Approves Resolution in Favor of Women's Reservation
Andhra Pradesh Assembly Approves Resolution in Favor of Women’s Reservation

Several MLAs emphasized the opportunities and schemes created for women by CM Jagan Mohan Reddy’s government and praised the state’s commitment to women’s empowerment. The Assembly unanimously passed the resolution in support of the women’s reservation bill.

Also read: Discovery of Leopard and Cubs in the Vicinity of Konaraopet Forest Area

MLA Fear: Dalit, BC Bandhu, Gruha Lakshmi & BRS

MLA Fear: Dalit, BC Bandhu, Gruha Lakshmi & BRS:

In a bid for a third consecutive term in office, the BRS Bharat Rashtra Samithi government has introduced three schemes: Dalit Bandhu, BC Bandhu, and Gruha Lakshmi. However, these very schemes are causing concerns among ruling party MLAs as protests erupt due to reported irregularities in their execution, particularly in the former Warangal and Karimnagar districts.

The BRS government planned to allocate Dalit Bandhu benefits to 300 beneficiaries in each Assembly constituency. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that BRS MLAs have favored their party activists and supporters as beneficiaries, rather than genuine applicants.

Sripelli Sudhakara Chary, a resident of Hanamkonda and a carpenter, shared his frustration, stating that despite multiple visits to the MLA’s office, his request for inclusion in the BC Bandhu scheme went unanswered. He was told that his name might be considered only after the elections.

In the former Warangal district, approximately 6 people applied for the scheme, while in Karimnagar, over 40,000 individuals submitted applications. Applicants claim that BRS MLAs have been referring 50 to 100 of their supporters from each village, leading to biased shortlisting. Some village sarpanchs have also applied for the scheme.

The government initially planned to grant Dalit Bandhu benefits to 100 beneficiaries per Assembly segment in the first phase and 1,100 per segment in the second phase. However, applicants allege that only BRS activists are reaping the scheme’s rewards.

Protesting against these irregularities, members of the SC community in Mallapur Mandal, Jagtial district, staged a roadblock, asserting that only 14 out of hundreds of applicants received Dalit Bandhu benefits due to BRS public representatives’ irregularities.

Congress leader Sammeta Mahendar Goud accused Wardhannapet BRS MLA Aroori Ramesh of enticing Dalit community members into the party by promising Dalit Bandhu benefits.

MLA Fear: Dalit, BC Bandhu, Gruha Lakshmi & BRS
MLA Fear: Dalit, BC Bandhu, Gruha Lakshmi & BRS

BSP state chief R.S. Praveen Kumar, speaking at a meeting in Peddapalli led by party leader Dasari Usha, accused the BRS government of engaging in populist vote bank politics with these schemes to secure election victories.

Meanwhile, BRS MLAs are growing increasingly anxious about these allegations and irregularities surrounding the implementation of Dalit Bandhu, BC Bandhu, and Gruha Lakshmi. They fear that instead of gaining political mileage, these schemes may prove costly in the upcoming elections.

Also read: Owaisi Dares Rahul Gandhi to Run for Elections in Hyderabad

Owaisi Dares Rahul Gandhi to Run for Elections in Hyderabad

Owaisi Dares Rahul Gandhi to Run for Elections in Hyderabad:

AIMIM Chief Challenges Rahul Gandhi to Contest Hyderabad Elections Instead of Wayanad

During a public gathering in Hyderabad, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi challenged Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to run for elections in Hyderabad rather than Wayanad. Owaisi criticized the Congress party for the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya and urged Rahul Gandhi to engage in direct competition in Hyderabad.

“I challenge your leader, Rahul Gandhi, to run for elections in Hyderabad, not Wayanad. Instead of making grand statements, come to the battleground and compete against me. Members of the Congress party may say many things, but I am prepared… The demolition of the Babri Masjid and the Secretariat’s mosque occurred during the Congress regime,” he stated.

The Congress and AIMIM are engaged in fierce competition in Telangana as both parties strive to secure victory in the upcoming state Assembly elections scheduled for later this year.

Earlier this month, Rahul Gandhi, during his address at Vijayabheri Sabha in Telangana’s Tukkuguda, asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), and AIMIM are collaborating closely in Telangana, and his party is challenging this alliance.

“In Telangana, the Congress party is not merely contesting against BRS but is facing a combined force of BRS, BJP, and AIMIM. They may identify as distinct parties, but they are working together cohesively,” Rahul Gandhi remarked.

The Wayanad MP also asserted that there are no CBI-ED cases against Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao or AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi regards them as “allies.”

Owaisi Dares Rahul Gandhi to Run for Elections in Hyderabad

All political parties are making extensive efforts to secure victory in the upcoming Telangana Assembly elections. The incumbent BRS government has released its candidate list, while the Congress has unveiled its “six guarantees,” promising their fulfillment if the party wins.

Also read: Governor Rejects Dasoju and Kurra’s MLC Nominations

Kerala Government to Conduct Regional Meetings Starting Tuesday

Kerala Government to Conduct Regional Meetings Starting Tuesday:

The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in Kerala, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), is set to conduct regional review meetings across the state, starting from Tuesday. The primary goals of these meetings are to enhance the visibility of the government’s development programs, address pending issues, and expedite ongoing development projects, as well as to improve law and order.

This marks the first comprehensive evaluation of the implementation of key welfare schemes, infrastructure initiatives, and law enforcement matters since the re-election of the Pinarayi Vijayan government in Kerala in 2021.

The meetings will be presided over by the Chief Minister and various other ministers. The inaugural meeting is scheduled to take place in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, followed by meetings in Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode on September 28, October 3, and October 5, respectively. These gatherings will encompass discussions on development, governance, and law and order, with senior police officers from each district participating. This initiative is particularly significant given recent reports of increased criminal activities, including drug trafficking, crimes against women, and the involvement of migrant workers in serious offenses like child rape.

Kerala Government to Conduct Regional Meetings Starting Tuesday
Kerala Government to Conduct Regional Meetings Starting Tuesday

Senior officials representing various government departments will conduct on-site assessments and evaluations of welfare schemes and infrastructure projects. The objective is to promptly address citizen grievances and provide solutions to significant development challenges.

Also read: Governor Rejects Dasoju and Kurra’s MLC Nominations

Governor Rejects Dasoju and Kurra’s MLC Nominations

Governor Rejects Dasoju and Kurra’s MLC Nominations:

Dr. Tamilisai Soundarajan, the Governor, has declined the nominations of Dr. Dasoju Sravan and Kurra Satyanarayana, both affiliated with the BRS, as MLCs under Tamilisai ‘s quota, as requested by the state government.

In separate communications to the Chief Secretary, the Governor stated that both nominees do not meet the requirements for becoming MLCs under the Tamilisai’s quota, as outlined in Article 171(5) of the Constitution. Tamilisai’s letters, dated September 19, were made public on Monday.

Tamilisai Soundararajan expressed her strong recommendation to the Cabinet and the Chief Minister to refrain from appointing politically aligned individuals to nominated positions under Article 171(5) of the Indian Constitution. She emphasized that there are several highly regarded non-political figures in the state who meet the prerequisites specified in Article 171(5).

Governor Rejects Dasoju and Kurra's MLC Nominations
Governor Rejects Dasoju and Kurra’s MLC Nominations

Disregarding these individuals and appointing politically affiliated persons to these nominated positions would undermine the merits and contributions of those with special knowledge and experience in the relevant fields outlined in Article 171(5). Such nominations could render Article 171(5) ineffective and deprive genuinely qualified individuals of opportunities.

Also read: Telangana HC Concerned Over POP Idol Immersion

Telangana HC Concerned Over POP Idol Immersion

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Telangana HC Concerned Over POP Idol Immersion:

The Telangana High Court, led by Chief Justice Bench, expressed grave concern on Monday regarding the immersion of Ganesh idols crafted from Plaster of Paris (POP) in Hyderabad’s Hussain Sagar Lake.

The Court has instructed the Hyderabad Commissioner of Police to effectively ban idol immersion in Hussain Sagar and other water bodies. Additionally, the Hyderabad Police Commissioner and GHMC have been instructed to submit a compliance report.

Telangana HC Concerned Over POP Idol Immersion

Referring to media accounts of POP idols being immersed in Hussain Sagar Lake, Chief Justice Alok Aradhe expressed concern about the lack of action by GHMC and the police. The Chief Justice also requested an explanation for not complying with the court’s directives.

Also read: Supreme Court Asks Naidu to Appear Tomorrow in Skill Development Scam Case

Supreme Court Asks Naidu to Appear Tomorrow in Skill Development Scam Case

Supreme Court Asks Naidu to Appear Tomorrow in Skill Development Scam Case:

The Supreme Court on Monday declined TDP President Chandrababu Naidu’s request for an urgent hearing of his petition, which seeks to quash the FIR filed by the Andhra Pradesh CID regarding the skill development scam case and challenges his detention in the matter. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud rejected the request for immediate consideration and instructed Naidu’s attorney, Siddharth Luthra, to bring up the matter for mention tomorrow.

Following the expiration of his two-day CID custody on September 24, the ACB Court in Vijayawada extended the judicial remand of former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu in the skill development scam case until October 5. Babu, who is presently detained in the Rajahmundry Central Jail, was presented before ACB Court Judge B.S.V. Himabindu via video conference shortly after the conclusion of his CID custody.

Supreme Court Asks Naidu to Appear Tomorrow in Skill Development Scam Case
Supreme Court Asks Naidu to Appear Tomorrow in Skill Development Scam Case

Chandrababu’s arrest earlier in the month has led to his ongoing judicial custody in connection with the multi-crore skill development scam case.

Also read: Rahul Gandhi to Inaugurate Rural Housing Scheme in Chhattisgarh

Rahul Gandhi to Inaugurate Rural Housing Scheme in Chhattisgarh

Rahul Gandhi to Inaugurate Rural Housing Scheme in Chhattisgarh:

In preparation for the upcoming Chhattisgarh assembly elections later this year, Rahul Gandhi, a Congress leader, is set to launch the Mukhyamantri Gramin Awas Nyay Yojna (MGANY) in Bilaspur district.

The objective of this scheme is to offer financial support to individuals and families living in makeshift or poorly constructed houses in rural areas.

At the ‘Awas Nyay Sammelan’ gathering, Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel will disburse the initial installment of Rs 25,000 to each of the 1,30,000 beneficiaries to aid in the construction of their homes.

The event is scheduled to take place at around 2 p.m. in Parsada (Sakri) village under the Takhatpur development block in Bilaspur district. Among the beneficiaries, 1 lakh individuals are listed on the permanent wait list (PWL) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY- rural) but have yet to receive the benefits of the Central scheme.

During this event, an amount of Rs 5 crore will be allocated to the bank accounts of 500 beneficiaries as part of the Mukhyamantri Nirman Shramik Awas Sahayata Yojana (MNSASY), which was initiated earlier this year in May. Under MNSASY, registered construction workers with the Chhattisgarh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board receive Rs 1 lakh in assistance for house construction.

Furthermore, Rahul Gandhi and Bhupesh Baghel will officially launch and lay the cornerstone for various development and construction initiatives totaling Rs 524.33 crore in the Bilaspur district. Additionally, they will distribute appointment letters to 2,594 recently hired teachers.

The MGANY scheme aims to provide financial aid to homeless families that were excluded from the survey list of the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011 (SECC-2011). A socio-economic survey conducted in 2023, under the direction of the Chief Minister, identified 10,76,545 families as homeless or residing in kutcha houses.

Rahul Gandhi to Inaugurate Rural   Housing Scheme in Chhattisgarh
Rahul Gandhi to Inaugurate Rural Housing Scheme in Chhattisgarh

Consequently, Baghel announced the launch of a rural housing scheme in July, which will provide Rs 1.30 lakh in assistance to each beneficiary in remote areas and Rs 1.20 lakh in plain areas for house construction. The scheme also aims to benefit 6,99,439 eligible beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY- rural) who are on the permanent waitlist and have not yet received PMAY benefits due to the Central government’s non-allocation of targets.

Also read: Telangana BJP Chief Kishan Reddy Criticizes BRS for Association with ‘Anti-Women’ AIMIM”

“Telangana BJP Chief Kishan Reddy Criticizes BRS for Association with ‘Anti-Women’ AIMIM”

“Telangana BJP Chief Kishan Reddy Criticizes BRS for Association with ‘Anti-Women’ AIMIM”:

Telangana BJP President G. Kishan Reddy has questioned the alliance between the ruling BRS party and AIMIM, a party that voted against the Women’s Reservation Bill in Parliament.

He highlighted that the issue of women’s reservation has been a long-standing topic of discussion in the country, yet no party or leader has been able to bring it to a conclusive resolution.

Reddy praised Prime Minister Modi for his decisive actions on various pending issues over the last nine years, including taxation, Article 370, the Ram Janmabhoomi dispute, and the construction of toilets for underprivileged individuals.

He mentioned that the Women’s Reservation Bill, which allocates one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Delhi assembly for women, was passed in the new Parliament building as per the Central government’s decision. Reddy expressed disappointment that the Hyderabad-based AIMIM was the sole party to vote against this bill in Parliament.

Referring to AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi as CM K Chandrasekhar Rao’s mentor, Reddy called on Rao to explain to the public how his party (BRS) could maintain a friendly relationship with AIMIM, a party that opposes women’s rights.

Reddy also noted that three Congress MPs from Telangana did not participate in the vote on the bill, expressing shame that AIMIM and three Congress MPs hail from the state.

Telangana BJP Chief Kishan Reddy Criticizes BRS for Association with 'Anti-Women' AIMIM
Telangana BJP Chief Kishan Reddy Criticizes BRS for Association with ‘Anti-Women’ AIMIM

In response, Congress Lok Sabha member Komatireddy Venkat Reddy criticized Kishan Reddy, accusing him of trying to tarnish the reputation of the Congress. Venkat Reddy clarified that the Congress fully supported women’s reservation and pointed out that many BJP MPs were also absent from Parliament during the vote. He attributed the absence of Congress MPs to traffic delays.

Also read: Modi to Kick Off BJP Campaign in Bhopal

Modi to Kick Off BJP Campaign in Bhopal

Modi to Kick Off BJP Campaign in Bhopal:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to officially commence the BJP’s campaign for the year-end Madhya Pradesh assembly elections by addressing a mega assembly of party workers in Bhopal on Monday.

During the event, PM Modi will administer the ‘Vijay Sankalp’ (oath of victory) to party workers in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, as announced by Narendra Singh Tomar, the state election management committee convener and Union minister.

This significant gathering, referred to as the Karyakarta Mahakumbh, will mark the culmination of the party’s mass outreach campaign, known as the ‘Jan Ashirwad Yatras,’ which was initiated in the state on September 3. The event is expected to bring together around ten lakh BJP workers from across the state at the expansive Jamboree Ground in Bhopal.

The tradition of organizing such a large assembly of party workers in Bhopal before the commencement of campaign activities for every assembly election is a longstanding practice within the party.

Following this mega event, party workers and leaders will disperse across the state to campaign for the BJP in preparation for the year-end assembly elections. During the Karyakarta Mahakumbh, the Prime Minister is anticipated to provide valuable guidance on achieving electoral victory to booth-level workers, grassroots activists, and local party leaders.

Significantly, this workers’ gathering coincides with the birth anniversary of BJP ideologue Deendayal Upadhyaya.

According to Vishnu Dutt Sharma, the state BJP president, the ‘Jan Ashirwad Yatras’ have covered an extensive distance of 10,880 km, reaching 223 out of 230 assembly constituencies in the state within 21 days.

Preparations for the event were inspected by several prominent BJP leaders, including BJP national general secretary in-charge of Madhya Pradesh Shiv Prakash, Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav, Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and state party chief Vishnu Dutt Sharma.

Modi to Kick Off BJP Campaign in Bhopal
Modi to Kick Off BJP Campaign in Bhopal

Meanwhile, stringent security measures have been put in place for the Prime Minister’s program, including the deployment of an anti-drone system, according to a senior police officer. Approximately 4,000 police personnel will be stationed to maintain law and order during the event, supervised by 26 IPS officers.

Also read: Bharati Pravin Shows Gratitude to PM Modi for Third Vande Bharat Train in AP

Bharati Pravin Shows Gratitude to PM Modi for Third Vande Bharat Train in AP

Bharati Pravin Shows Gratitude to PM Modi for Third Vande Bharat Train in AP:

The inauguration of the Vijayawada-MGR Chennai Central Vande Bharat Express took place at Vijayawada railway station, with Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, in attendance on Sunday.

The third Vande Bharat Express originating from Andhra Pradesh was ceremoniously flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference. Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, serving as the chief guest, presided over the inaugural event at Vijayawada railway station. This train, connecting the major southern capitals of Vijayawada and Chennai, with a stop at the sacred temple town of Tirupati via Renigunta, fulfills a long-cherished dream of the public. Notably, this marks the first Vande Bharat train to operate between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

The atmosphere at Vijayawada station was filled with excitement, as approximately 1500 spectators eagerly awaited the opportunity to catch a glimpse of and take selfies with the nation’s most talked-about train, the pride of the nation – the Vande Bharat.

Students, along with the general public and officials, welcomed the Vande Bharat with great enthusiasm and cheers. Schoolchildren dressed up as iconic freedom fighters to greet this beloved train, and cultural performers added to the festive ambiance. The crowd enthusiastically chanted “Bharat Mata ki Jai” on this historic occasion. Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar commenced her speech with the slogan “Bharat Mata ki Jai,” receiving a resounding response from the crowd. She expressed her gratitude to PM Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and the Government of India for providing Andhra Pradesh with its third Vande Bharat train in just nine months. She highlighted that more than 1 crore people had already traveled on this indigenous semi-high-speed train.

Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar commended PM Modi’s visionary efforts to make the nation self-reliant and self-sustainable in all aspects. She hailed 2023 as a momentous year for rail travel and infrastructure development and emphasized the Vande Bharat’s significance as India’s source of pride. She thanked the crowd for their overwhelming presence and reception.

Vijayawada MP Kesineni Srinivas, Mayor Rayana Bhagyalakshmi, and MLA Malladi Vishnu from Vijayawada Central expressed their gratitude to PM Modi for providing Andhra Pradesh with its third Vande Bharat train.

Bharati Pravin Shows Gratitude to PM Modi for Third Vande Bharat Train in AP
Bharati Pravin Shows Gratitude to PM Modi for Third Vande Bharat Train in AP

With grand celebrations and fanfare, the iconic Vande Bharat embarked on its journey from Vijayawada railway station. The event saw the participation of Narendra A. Patil, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada; D. Srinivasa Rao, ADRM, Infrastructure; M. Srikanth, ADRM, Operations; and senior railway officials.

Also read: A girl from HPS receives applause from the Prime Minister

Marine Protest by Fishermen Over Naidu’s Arrest

Marine Protest by Fishermen Over Naidu’s Arrest:

Fishermen from Peda Jalaripeta in Visakhapatnam conducted an unconventional protest on Sunday morning to express their disapproval of the arrest of former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. They displayed party flags from their boats while floating in the sea, raising slogans and demanding Naidu’s immediate release from the central prison in Rajamahendravaram.

Visakhapatnam East MLA and senior Telugu Desam (TD) leader Velagapudi Ramakrishnababu, who was scheduled to inaugurate the protest, was placed under house arrest for the entire day. Nolli Nukaratnam, a TD corporator in GVMC, emphasized that many welfare initiatives for fishermen’s families had been initiated during the Telugu Desam regime.

“Naidu provided us with houses and land titles, and arresting such a man is deplorable,” Nukaratnam remarked. He also strongly condemned the house arrest of MLA Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu. Other leaders declared their determination to continue protesting until Naidu’s release from prison.

Marine Protest by Fishermen Over Naidu's Arrest
Marine Protest by Fishermen Over Naidu’s Arrest

Later in the evening, police thwarted a protest rally planned by Telugu Mahila leaders led by former MLA Gandi Babji, who was in charge of Visakhapatnam south for the party. The police prevented party workers from garlanding N.T. Rama Rao’s statue at RK Beach. They were taken to the Three Town police station and subsequently released. Witnesses noted that the police did not permit visitors to access RK Beach due to the TD protest.

Also read: Telangana Teachers Stage Protest Demanding Expedited Spousal Transfers

Backward Class Ticket Seekers in Congress Request Allocation of 34 Seats

Backward Class Ticket Seekers in Congress Request Allocation of 34 Seats:

“Congress MLA Hopefuls from Backward Classes Urge Party to Fulfill Promise of 34 Seats Allocation”

During a gathering, Congress aspirants for MLA tickets from Backward Classes emphasized the importance of the party honoring its commitment to allocate 34 seats, as originally pledged in The commitment was initially made within the party’s Political Affairs Committee (PAC) and the Pradesh Election Committee (PE).

In recognition of the pivotal role played by the Backward Class communities in strengthening the party, they underlined that the Congress would be unable to secure a governing position without their support. These leaders are scheduled to meet with AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Sonia Gandhi, with the issues to be formally addressed in the screening committee and the Central Election Committee (CEC).

Backward Class Ticket Seekers in Congress Request Allocation of 34 Seats
Backward Class Ticket Seekers in Congress Request Allocation of 34 Seats

Furthermore, the gathering expressed its gratitude to Rahul Gandhi for advocating for OBC, SC, and ST reservations within the Women’s Reservation Bill.

Also read: Telangana State Sees Decline in Cultivated Area Due to Unpredictable Rainfall

Telangana State Sees Decline in Cultivated Area Due to Unpredictable Rainfall

Telangana State Sees Decline in Cultivated Area Due to Unpredictable Rainfall

Unpredictable Rainfall Causes Significant Decline in Telangana’s Kharif Crop Area

Telangana‘s agricultural sector has faced adverse consequences over the past few months due to erratic rainfall patterns, resulting in a reduction of nearly 6.5 lakh acres in the sown area for the kharif season compared to the previous year, as reported by the agriculture department.

The region experienced heavy rain followed by a delayed monsoon period, followed by another bout of heavy rains, which disrupted farming activities.

As the southwest monsoon prepares to withdraw, this year’s kharif crop sown area decreased to 1.25 crore acres, down from 1.32 crore acres in 2022. However, paddy cultivation remained stable, accounting for 44.22 lakh acres, the largest among all other crops.

Telangana State Sees Decline in Cultivated Area Due to Unpredictable Rainfall
Telangana State Sees Decline in Cultivated Area Due to Unpredictable Rainfall

According to the agriculture department’s report submitted to the state government, the total sown area for kharif crops in TS as of September 20 stood at 1,25,77,607 acres, in contrast to 1,32,25,878 acres the previous year, marking a decline of 6,48,271 acres.

Also read: Bandi Alleges KCR Used Donations for Ganesh Pandals to Attract Voters

Bandi Alleges KCR Used Donations for Ganesh Pandals to Attract Voters

Bandi Alleges KCR Used Donations for Ganesh Pandals to Attract Voters:

BJP’s National General Secretary and Karimnagar MP, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, accused Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) of employing various tactics to secure votes in upcoming elections. Sanjay Kumar alleged that KCR’s party had contributed substantial amounts of money to establish Ganesh pandals in each assembly constituency and was using Ganesh Chaturthi festivities for political gains. He made these claims during a media interaction after visiting Ganesh pandals in different Karimnagar city neighborhoods.

The MP further accused KCR of allegedly distributing sums ranging from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000 per vote during past by-elections in the state, criticizing KCR’s tenure as ten years of mismanagement and political maneuvering, devoid of significant achievements for the people.

Sanjay Kumar condemned KCR for suspending Group-I examinations, impacting the lives of numerous students, and expressed concerns about the state’s inability to conduct 10th and intermediate examinations effectively. He underscored the adverse consequences of KCR’s rule on youth, highlighting the tragic suicide of a student named Murali Mudiraj at the university.

The BJP MP called for the state government to grant Rs 1 lakh to each Group-I examination candidate and requested age relaxation for future exam attempts to enable all unemployed youth to participate. He also advocated for financial support of Rs 3,116 for every unemployed individual until they secure employment.

Bandi Alleges KCR Used Donations for Ganesh Pandals to Attract Voters
Bandi Alleges KCR Used Donations for Ganesh Pandals to Attract Voters

Bandi Sanjay Kumar expressed concern about the high prevalence of drug use in the state and criticized KCR’s promotion of liquor, which, he claimed, was contributing to alcohol addiction.

He emphasized the BJP’s efforts to challenge and potentially unseat CM KCR, urging the public to join forces with the BJP in opposing the BRS government.

Also read: Kamal Nath Unveils Statue of Shivaji in Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh

Jana Sena and Telugu Desam to Collaborate Closely: A Unified Effort

Jana Sena and Telugu Desam to Collaborate Closely: A Unified Effort:

Nara Brahmani, the spouse of Telugu Desam General Secretary Nara Lokesh, emphasized on Sunday the need for Jana Sena and Telugu Desam to collaborate closely, akin to a fraternal bond, in order to collectively remove the YSRC from power.

During their meeting with Brahmani in Rajamahendravaram, Jana Sena leaders such as Kandula Durgesh, East Godavari president, Tummala Babu, in charge of Peddapuram, Varupula Tammayya, and others expressed their solidarity with the family of the detained TD chief, Chandrababu Naidu. They vehemently criticized the arrest, deeming it unlawful.

They stressed that a unified effort was imperative to confront the YSRC. Brahmani shared her perspective on the deteriorating conditions in the state under the current administration. She mentioned having thoroughly reviewed all the CID documents and reports pertaining to N. Chandrababu Naidu, concluding that no incriminating evidence against him had been found.

Brahmani asserted that the case against Chandrababu was politically motivated and an act of vengeance. She also lamented the lack of employment opportunities for the youth, alongside the prevalent use of ganja and drugs in Andhra Pradesh.

In attendance at the meeting were Jana Sena leaders like Mootha Sashidhar, Thota Sudhir, Pithani Balakrishna, Tangella Udaya Srinivas, Polisetty Chandrasekhar, Ganta Rani, Bathula Balaramakrishna, Vasireddy Siva, Marreddy Srinivas, and others.

Former Home Minister and senior Telugu Desam leader introduced the Jana Sena leaders to Brahmani.

Jana Sena and Telugu Desam to Collaborate Closely A Unified Effort
Jana Sena and Telugu Desam to Collaborate Closely A Unified Effort

Jana Sena leader Kandula Durgesh disclosed that a coordination committee comprising representatives from both parties would be established to organize protests against the ruling YSRC. The committee would also make decisions regarding seat allocation in upcoming elections.

Also read: Bandi Alleges KCR Used Donations for Ganesh Pandals to Attract Voters

Mobile Internet Services Resume in Manipur

Mobile Internet Services Resume in Manipur:

The Manipur government has called for the termination of the free movement agreement with Myanmar, which enables residents living near the India-Myanmar border to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territory without documentation.

This move, with potential international implications, comes as mobile internet services, suspended since May 3 due to ethnic violence, are set to be reinstated on Saturday. Manipur’s Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, explained that the suspension aimed to curb the spread of fake news and hate speech during the unrest. Internet services have been resumed there.

He emphasized that the ongoing situation is a consequence of previous governments’ poorly planned policies, rather than a recent decision. Singh also noted that his government has urged the Union Home Ministry to cancel the free movement agreement and highlighted that security forces were not effectively guarding the border, often stationed 14-15 km within Indian territory instead of at the zero point.

Manipur’s Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, has disclosed that the Union Home Ministry is actively implementing measures to secure 60 km of the international border in Manipur. He emphasized his government’s commitment to addressing the issue of “illegal immigrants” and highlighted the importance of completely fencing the India-Myanmar border. Singh also confirmed the ongoing collection of biometric data from “illegal” immigrants in the state and Internet sericies too.

Furthermore, the chief minister criticized the prevalence of strikes (bandh culture) and incidents involving widespread verbal abuse directed at MLAs, ministers, and police officials. He expressed concern about these issues diverting people from genuine concerns and generating conflicts among residents.

Singh reported improvements in the security situation over the past two months, with a reduction in the frequency of firing incidents thanks to heightened security force presence in vulnerable areas.

He emphasized the rising problem of drug and substance abuse among the state’s youth and reiterated his government’s commitment to the ‘war on drugs’ initiated in 2018. Singh emphasized the need to intensify efforts to eradicate poppy plantations in the hills, facilitated by a committee established in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Narcotics & Affairs of Border (NAB). This committee will employ Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and drones for poppy plantation surveillance and eradication.

Mobile Internet Services Resume in Manipur
Mobile Internet Services Resume in Manipur

The chief minister also noted the resettlement of people from Torbung, Serou, and Koutruk, who were displaced due to ethnic violence, and the completion of prefabricated house construction in various locations.

Singh highlighted the surge in extortion, kidnappings, and other crimes committed by individuals posing as police officers and stressed that his government has initiated several measures to establish the rule of law in Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Moreh, and Imphal.

Also read: Group 1 Exams in Telangana Scrapped by High Court Decision