In a post on X, Chief Minister Sarma said the decision marks a major policy shift for Assam's tea-growing community, particularly the state's vast network of small tea cultivators.

"Today marks a historic day for the lakhs of small tea growers in Assam. Tea and plantation-class land holdings are now included in the Farmers' Registry Portal," the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting the significance of the move, Chief Minister Sarma said the inclusion will enable small tea growers to obtain a unique Farmer ID, bringing them within the ambit of the government's digital agriculture ecosystem.

According to the Chief Minister, the initiative will ensure the timely and need-based availability of fertilisers and provide seamless access to various government welfare schemes through a single digital platform.

He added that the registry will also improve access to institutional credit on better terms, helping growers reduce their dependence on informal lenders.

CM Sarma further said the new system is expected to eliminate the role of middlemen who often exploit small tea growers by restricting their access to government assistance and financial services.

"It is a major leap for the 'Chai Samuday', which can now enjoy all government benefits from a single platform," he said.

The move is expected to benefit lakhs of small tea growers across Assam, where small tea cultivation has emerged as one of the state's fastest-growing agricultural sectors and contributes significantly to overall tea production.

Officials believe the integration of tea plantation land records into the Farmers' Registry will improve transparency in the delivery of agricultural services, strengthen direct benefit transfers, and enable more efficient implementation of government support programmes for the tea-growing community.

The decision forms part of the Assam government's broader push towards the digitisation of agricultural records and the expansion of farmer-centric welfare schemes through technology-driven governance.

"The main purpose here is to extort bribes from the target in exchange for dropping criminal charges. In the custody of such people, the treatment is appalling. At least several cases have seen the abuse turn fatal. No demographic in Pakistan is safe from for-profit blasphemy accusations. But religious minorities -- Christians, Hindus, and certain sects within Islam deemed heretical -- are at increased risk," a report in Zenit mentioned.

Blasphemy accusations against a religious minority can become so volatile that everyone from the accused person's community have to leave their houses and move to different places. Dozens of houses have been destroyed in mob attacks.

"Simon, a Pakistani Christian, said that majority of blasphemy accusations these days are related to alleged behaviour on social media platforms. He said some people stalk religious minorities online and trap them into saying something that could be considered as blasphemous. He stated that if they target someone, they try to find loophole in their posts on social media that can be exploited," according to a report in Zenit.

Someone with bad intentions may start conversation with a person online in Pakistan and reveal a personal detail to build trust before taking the conversation towards faith. At this point, if the target said even one thing that might be considered critical, mocking or critical, the target is in big trouble as the screenshot of that message will be taken as an indestructible evidence.

"Now you can start extorting him. Or have a few select officials visit him. If the target stays defiant in the face of such pressure, then leak the screenshot to his employer, his family, and, of course, the local imams and activists -- they'll gladly handle it from there, with layers of institutional support behind them," a report in Zenit mentioned.

"Pakistan's blasphemy business network started in the city of Rawalpindi and the capital of Islamabad, but has since expanded across much of the country. Aside from connections to Pakistani officials, the network also has connections to prominent Islamic religious scholars. At blasphemy trials in Pakistan, mobs often surround courthouses to make sure that judges issue the 'correct' ruling. It seems many of these mob participants are motivated more by profit than spiritual indignation. This motivation became clear during disputes between mob organisers and participants who were not paid for their services," it added.

Earlier in March, a leading minority rights group alleged that Pakistan's blasphemy laws are being exploited as a tool of systematic coercion, enabling organised religious groups and their allies to intimidate judges, prosecutors, police, and politicians, effectively holding the country's justice system and broader state machinery hostage.

According to the Voice of Pakistan Minority (VOPM), this "blasphemy complex" relies on fear of mob violence, targeted killings, and economic blackmail to "paralyse" institutions tasked with protecting rights and upholding the rule of law.

"Pakistan's blasphemy provisions carry a mandatory death penalty or life imprisonment, but their wording is vague and broad, making mere accusations enough to trigger arrest and detention. Human rights organisations have documented that these laws are routinely used to settle personal scores, grab land, and persecute religious minorities, rather than to address genuine incitement or hate speech," the rights body said.

Citing recent investigations, the VOPM added that blasphemy accusations are not only spontaneous expressions of outrage but, in many cases, orchestrated by organised networks.

The rights body noted that human rights lawyers in Pakistan have described a coordinated "blasphemy business group" or "Islamist gang" that manufactures cases, often by circulating allegedly blasphemous content online, filing complaints and then extorting the accused or their families.

It added that judges in Pakistan hearing such blasphemy cases operate under an atmosphere of direct and at times lethal intimidation.

According to HRCP, human rights groups document instances where judges "have been openly threatened in courtrooms, pressured by crowds outside court premises, and denounced in sermons or social media campaigns when they show leniency or demand solid evidence".

"Lawyers defending those accused of blasphemy face similar or greater danger: several have been assassinated, including prominent rights lawyer Rashid Rehman, who was shot dead in his office after defending an academic accused of blasphemy, following explicit threats over his role in the case. Because of these patterns of violence, many lawyers refuse to take such cases, leaving the accused without meaningful legal representation and further skewing proceedings toward conviction or endless detention," the rights body mentioned.

"The climate of fear means that judges often deny bail, avoid deciding cases promptly, or pass responsibility upward in the judicial hierarchy to avoid individual blame," it added.

In a post on X, the Chief Minister said the government is committed to eliminating all forms of illegal activities that endanger society.

"We're committed to weeding out all forms of evil from our society. After an extensive crackdown on drug syndicates and child marriage offenders, we're on a mission to act against quack doctors to ensure the sanctity of our healthcare system and protect patients," Sarma said.

Using the hashtag #AssamAgainstQuacks, the Chief Minister highlighted the progress made by the state police and health authorities in the ongoing drive against fake medical practitioners.

According to figures shared by Sarma, authorities have so far registered 59 cases against alleged quack doctors across the state since 2025.

A total of 62 fake doctors have been arrested during the crackdown, reflecting the government's intensified action against unauthorised medical practice.

The campaign is aimed at identifying individuals posing as qualified medical professionals without valid credentials, who allegedly put patients' lives at risk by providing illegal and unsafe treatment.

The latest action forms part of the Assam government's wider law enforcement initiatives launched over the past few years.

The state administration has previously carried out extensive drives against drug trafficking networks, the illegal narcotics trade and child marriage, with the Chief Minister repeatedly stating that strict enforcement is necessary to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.

Officials have maintained that the crackdown on fake doctors will continue across Assam and warned that those found practising medicine without recognised qualifications or licences will face stringent legal action under the relevant provisions of law.

The government has also urged people to seek treatment only from registered medical practitioners and report any suspected cases of fraudulent medical practice to the authorities, saying public cooperation will play a crucial role in eliminating quackery and safeguarding healthcare standards in the state.

Imphal, June 26 (IANS) A day after the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) expressed regret over what it described as a "grave mistake" in the killing of six Naga hostages, the All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) on Friday rejected the apology, terming it "insincere" and demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the crime.

In a statement, ANSAM said the KZC's apology neither amounted to a genuine admission of guilt nor reflected accountability for the abduction and killing of the six Naga civilians in Kangpokpi district on May 13.

The organisation also objected to the use of the term "Katcha Nagas" in the KZC statement, describing it as derogatory and offensive to the identity and dignity of the Naga people.

The students' body asserted in a statement that no apology could be considered credible unless those involved in the abduction and killings were identified, arrested and punished in accordance with the law.

ANSAM said the killings took place in Leilon Vaiphei village, which it described as ancestral Naga land, and termed the incident an attack on the security and dignity of the Naga community.

The organisation also questioned whether the Kuki-Zo Council was authorised to issue the apology on behalf of all Kuki-Zo groups and sought clarification on whether the statement reflected the position of all constituent communities, including the Zomis.

Referring to the recent killing of three Thadou church leaders, ANSAM reiterated that the Nagas had no involvement in the incident, saying it occurred in an area where they neither exercised control nor influence.

It alleged that attempts to link the Nagas to the killings were baseless and intended to fuel communal tensions.

The association urged both the Manipur government and the Centre to ensure a speedy investigation into the killing of the six Naga hostages and bring the perpetrators to justice.

It also called for serious consideration of the demands submitted by the United Naga Council, saying justice and accountability were essential for lasting peace and reconciliation.

Acknowledging and expressing remorse over the killings, KZC Chairman Henlianthang Thanglet on Thursday apologised for the incident and called for a fair, transparent and impartial investigation into all acts of violence linked to the continuing ethnic unrest in the state.

Addressing the media at Churachandpur district headquarters along with three other leaders on Thursday, the KZC Chairman admitted that the Kuki-Zo people had made a grave mistake in killing the six Naga civilians, adding that it was done in a moment of emotion.

He strongly condemned the incident and apologised on behalf of his people.

Describing the incident as "tragic and unacceptable", and stating that it was neither authorised nor approved by any Kuki-Zo political or community leadership, the veteran tribal leader demanded that those responsible be identified and brought to justice through a fair, transparent and impartial investigation.

At least 50 people from the Kuki and Naga communities were held hostage by different armed groups in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts following the violent incidents of May 13, during which three church leaders were killed and four others injured in Kangpokpi district.

Around 30 individuals from both communities were released on May 14 and May 15 following sustained efforts by the authorities, community leaders and several civil society organisations.

On June 10, the remaining 14 Kuki villagers were released and handed over to the police at a police station in Senapati district by the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Naga People's Organisation (NPO).

The following day, June 11, the bodies of six Naga hostages were recovered from a forested area near Kharam Vaiphei village, a predominantly Kuki-Zo tribal settlement under the Saitu-Gamphazol Sub-Division of Kangpokpi district.

Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh had earlier stated that the cases relating to the abduction and killing of the six Naga villagers, along with the murder of three church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13, had already been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for a comprehensive investigation.

The killings of the six Naga villagers have drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, civil society groups and community organisations across the Northeast.

In Dharwad district's Mansur village, the festival witnessed vibrant celebrations as children danced enthusiastically to DJ music during the Moharram procession.

As part of the festivities, traditional folk performances, including Heggemela and Kolata, were organised.

The Panja idol was taken in a procession through various parts of the village, with children and devotees joining the celebrations.

Like every year, villagers observed the festival with devotion and unity.

In Gudenakatti village of Kundgol taluk near Hubballi, Moharram once again became a symbol of Hindu-Muslim brotherhood.

Members of both communities jointly celebrated the festival with deep religious faith and mutual respect.

As part of the annual tradition, two ceremonial Dolis were specially prepared. One Doli bore the message "Ishwara Allah Nee Ne Ella" (God and Allah are One), along with an image representing Lord Ishwara, symbolising communal harmony. The second Doli featured an image associated with the Islamic faith. The Dolis were crafted by Dawal Saab Eligyar and Khadar Saab Jatiger.

On the final day of Moharram, the two Dolis were taken in a grand procession from the village mosques to the Government Higher Primary School grounds, where a special stage had been erected.

Devotees offered fruits, jaggery and sugar, praying for the fulfilment of their wishes.

The Dolis later visited homes across the village, where devotees offered jaggery and sugar as part of the traditional rituals.

Residents from neighbouring villages and people belonging to all faiths participated in the celebrations.

Meanwhile, Moharram was also celebrated with great devotion across Haveri district. In Shirabadagi village of Savanur taluk, hundreds of devotees gathered to witness the traditional "Ale Devaru" ritual on the concluding day of the festival.

As part of the unique custom, devotees heated iron objects in blazing embers, while those believed to be possessed by Ale Devaru walked across the burning fire. Hundreds of devotees watched the ritual with reverence, offered prayers for the fulfilment of their wishes and returned home after participating in the celebrations.

The festivities across Karnataka once again highlighted the state's long-standing tradition of communal harmony, with people from different faiths coming together to celebrate Moharram in a spirit of unity and mutual respect.

The initiative is the Meghalaya government's flagship mission aimed at preventing drug abuse, strengthening rehabilitation, creating awareness, supporting recovery, and coordinating efforts among government departments, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, civil society organisations and communities.

Addressing the state-level observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Shillong, Sangma said the campaign seeks to replace the stigma associated with addiction with compassion and empathy while strengthening efforts to eliminate drug misuse and organised trafficking.

"This day unites governments, communities, educators and faith-based organisations in a shared mission to eradicate drug misuse, end illicit drug trafficking and replace the stigma of addiction with compassion and empathy," the Chief Minister said.

He noted that while several organisations and individuals have long been working against substance abuse, their efforts often lacked coordination. The DREAM Mission, he said, has brought these stakeholders together under a common platform to ensure greater collaboration and impact.

Sangma stressed that awareness alone would not be enough and called for concrete action. He said the government is extending support to organisations and individuals working in the field of prevention, rehabilitation and awareness, adding that public participation is crucial for the movement's long-term success.

"The movement against drug abuse cannot succeed unless common people become active participants. We are here not only to appreciate the efforts of stakeholders but also to listen to their suggestions and strengthen this collective mission," he said.

The Chief Minister also observed that addiction is not limited to narcotic substances, saying people today face different forms of dependency, including excessive screen time, mobile phone usage and compulsive shopping.

"Everyone has room for improvement and everyone needs help at some point in life," he remarked.

During the programme, Sangma administered an anti-drug pledge and inaugurated the Centre of Evolution at Reid Provincial Chest Hospital, which will provide medical treatment, counselling, therapy and rehabilitation support for individuals battling addiction.

Financial assistance was distributed to several organisations working in drug de-addiction and rehabilitation, while awards were presented to recovery champions, community champions and outreach workers.

The Recovery Track Portal was launched, and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Social Welfare Department, DREAM and SEWA Inland, Tura.

The event also featured technical sessions on disrupting drug trafficking, strengthening school-based prevention mechanisms and improving early intervention and treatment for substance use disorders.

The day's events highlight a mix of deep religious significance and state-wide coordination.

As a gazetted public holiday in Maharashtra, the state experienced a widespread pause in commercial activity.

The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) remained closed for trading.

Physical bank branches across the state were shut, which, combined with the upcoming fourth Saturday and Sunday, kicked off a three-day weekend for banking professionals.

Government administrative offices, municipal corporations, schools, and colleges across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, and Nagpur remained entirely closed.

As far as the Shia community is concerned, the day was marked with distinct, quiet reverence.

Traditional Tazia processions (carrying beautifully decorated replicas of the tomb of Imam Hussain) moved along designated routes, particularly in south Mumbai neighbourhoods such as Bhendi Bazaar, Dongri, and Crawford Market.

Mourners dressed in black gathered for Majlis (sermons) to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at the Battle of Karbala.

In the Sunni community, many observed the day through voluntary fasting (Roza), special prayers at local mosques, and charity.

True to local tradition, various communities set up Sabeels (stalls) along the procession routes to distribute water, milk, and sweet sherbet to attendees and passersby.

Given the scale of the afternoon and evening processions, the Mumbai Police and local traffic authorities across cities like Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) implemented pre-planned traffic diversions early in the day.

The deployments ensured that the traditional mourning walks proceeded safely without disrupting emergency services or public transit.

In Ahmedabad, processions passed through designated routes in the old city amid heavy police deployment and traffic diversions.

Authorities implemented barricading at sensitive junctions, while surveillance was strengthened using CCTV systems and drone monitoring to ensure crowd management and route discipline.

Surat witnessed organised processions beginning from approved localities, with organisers strictly adhering to guidelines on route movement and Tazia specifications.

More than 7,000 security personnel have been deployed across the city, while drones and CCTV cameras are being used to closely monitor every movement.

Vadodara and Rajkot also reported peaceful processions, with additional police deployed in sensitive pockets and major intersections to manage gatherings and ensure the smooth passage of religious activities.

Senior officers supervised arrangements on the ground. Statewide, Gujarat Police had activated a comprehensive security plan ahead of Muharram.

According to official inputs, 919 sensitive locations across the state were identified for heightened surveillance, risk assessment and preventive policing measures.

A high-level review meeting was held earlier this week at Police Bhavan, chaired by the Director General of Police (DGP), G.S. Malik, with all Police Commissioners, Range Heads, and District Superintendents joining virtually to review preparedness.

During the meeting, officers were directed to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance patrolling in sensitive areas, and ensure coordinated deployment along procession routes.

The DGP instructed district units to conduct risk assessments in localities with past incidents during Muharram and to maintain real-time monitoring through technological support.

Security arrangements included deployment of State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) units, local police, and rapid response teams at strategic points.

Officials said the coordinated policing model, combined with cooperation from organisers and community representatives, ensured that Muharram processions across Gujarat concluded peacefully without any major incident.

He asserted that MPs are being split so that in the coming days it becomes easier to implement the Delimitation Bill.

The Samajwadi Party MLA also made strong remarks on the Ram Mandir donation controversy. He alleged that in such cases "big people are protected while small ones are trapped".

He questioned the transparency in the handling of temple donations and demanded accountability from those responsible for its management.

Azmi also raised concerns that only lower-level individuals may face action while those in higher positions could escape scrutiny.

He called for a fair and transparent investigation into the entire matter.

In a conversation with IANS on Friday, Abu Azmi said that under the Delimitation Bill, efforts are being made to determine seats in a way that ensures the ruling party (Bharatiya Janata Party) continues to win.

He alleged that the political system is being shaped to suit their interests.

He also said that the public must be made aware of this, adding that those who are leaving their parties should feel ashamed.

He also reacted strongly to alleged irregularities in donations to the Ram Mandir, questioning the role of Champat Rai, who resigned as General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and Anil Mishra, who has also quit post of the Temple trustee.

He said they should know from where the property is being purchased and what the purpose of the donation boxes is.

The Samajwadi Party MLA asked whether they were unaware of these issues and suggested that it indicates possible involvement.

Abu Azmi also called Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav a "true devotee of Ram".

He said that the way Akhilesh Yadav is raising the issue of alleged irregularities in Ram Mandir donations shows that he is a true Ram devotee and praised his stand on the matter.

He also targeted the BJP, saying that "after the Supreme Court verdict, the path was cleared for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, but after its construction, the management is unable to handle it properly".

He alleged "there has been theft from the temple's donation boxes" and claimed, "smaller individuals will be targeted while bigger ones will be protected".

He demanded strict action against all those responsible for managing the temple and said there should be complete transparency and public accounting of every rupee.

He praised Akhilesh Yadav for raising the issue.

"BJP is engaging in politics in the name of religion," Azmi alleged.

Thousands of mourners participated in the procession, which traditionally started from Bibi Ka Alawa and concluded at Chaderghat on the banks of the Musi River after passing through various parts of the old city.

The procession passed through Sheikh Faiz Kaman, Yakutpura Darwaza, Etebar Chowk, Charminar, Gulzar Houz, Panjeshah, Mani Mir Alam, Purani Haveli and Darulshifa.

The 'Bibi ka Alam' was carried on a caparisoned elephant 'Sreedevi', brought from Kerala.

'Yaum-e-Ashura' or the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is observed in memory of the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson Imam Hussain and his followers at the battle of Karbala.

The gold-and-diamond-studded 'alam' or standard is believed to contain a piece of wooden plank on which Bibi Fatima Zehra, daughter of Prophet Mohammed, was given the final ablution.

The 'alam' was installed over 430 years ago during the Qutub Shahi dynasty, and the practice of carrying the 'alam' on an elephant has continued since then.

Groups of self-flagellating mourners led the procession.

Blood oozed out from the heads and chests of bare-chested Shia mourners who flagellated themselves with sharp-edged objects.

Amid cries of 'Ya Hussain' and recitation of 'marsiya' (elegies) and 'noha-khwani' (poems expressing sorrow), barefoot youths using knives, blade-encrusted chains and other sharp-edged weapons inflicted injuries on themselves to show solidarity with the sufferings of the martyrs.

Others were seen crying and beating their chests.

The police made elaborate security arrangements, deploying around 2,000 personnel.

Policemen on horses were seen piloting the procession.

Traffic was diverted at a few points for the annual procession.

Top government officials, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar, leaders of different political parties and representatives of the family of Nizam, ruler of the erstwhile Hyderabad State, offered 'Dhattis' en route the procession.

The Police Commissioner personally stationed himself at the historic Charminar to supervise the security arrangements and traffic management.

Along with senior officers from the Law and Order and Traffic wings, the Commissioner offered traditional 'Dhattis' and floral garlands to the sacred Alam on behalf of the Hyderabad City Police, paying traditional respects.

Sajjanar told the media that robust security arrangements were in place, involving over 2,000 police personnel, to ensure the smooth conduct of the massive procession.

The Commissioner highlighted several key measures undertaken this year.

These include conducting a prior trial walk for the elephant, multi-layered security to manage crowds effectively, deployment of drone cameras for aerial surveillance along the entire route, and the presence of mounted police (horse-riding teams).

The Commissioner credited the peaceful and successful execution of the event to the seamless coordination among the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB), and the Electricity Department.

Continuing the tradition, HEH Nizam Trust and HEH Awqaf Committee offered 'Dhatti' to Bibi Ka Alam at Peeli Gate (Yellow Gate), Purani Haveli.

Nawab Abul Faiz Khan, Trustee of the Mukarram Jah Trust for Education and Learning and HEH Awqaf Committee, and representing the Nawab Mir Muhammad Azmet Ali Khan, the ninth titular Nizam of Hyderabad, offered 'Dhatti'.

He was joined by Charminar MLA Mir Zulfeqar Ali and senior officials of the Awqaf Committee.

The Sunni Muslims observed the day by fasting and holding meetings to remember the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and his followers, who were martyred in 61 Hijri or 681 CE at Karbala in present-day Iraq.

Fasting is observed on two days â€" the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th, of Muharram.

Religious gatherings and food distribution camps were organised.

Various organisations conducted charity programmes to mark the day.

In Tinsukia district's Margherita town, one of the prominent observances took place at the Central Margherita Eidgah Maidan, which was specially decorated for the occasion. Hundreds of devotees and local residents gathered to participate in the religious programmes.

A grand Tazia procession, the highlight of the Muharram observance, was taken out from the Eidgah Maidan and passed through National Highway 315 before moving through different parts of the town. The procession drew participation not only from members of the Muslim community but also from people belonging to various other religions, reflecting the spirit of brotherhood and peaceful coexistence that has long characterised the region.

Participants offered prayers for world peace, communal harmony and prosperity, while people from different castes, communities and linguistic backgrounds walked together in the procession, sending a strong message of unity and mutual respect.

Organisers said the celebrations once again highlighted Margherita's long-standing tradition of religious tolerance and social harmony, where festivals of all communities are observed collectively.

Muharram was also observed peacefully in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Nagaon, Barpeta, Dhubri, Hailakandi, Sribhumi, Cachar, Goalpara and several other parts of Assam.

Tazia processions, majlis, religious gatherings and special prayers were organised under tight security arrangements made by the district administrations and police.

Authorities deployed adequate security personnel at sensitive locations and along procession routes to ensure peaceful observance of the festival. Traffic diversions were also put in place in several towns to facilitate the smooth movement of the processions.

Muharram, which marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, is observed with mourning, prayers and remembrance by the Muslim community. The peaceful celebrations across Assam once again reflected the state's enduring legacy of communal amity and mutual respect among its diverse communities.

A review meeting on the proposal was held on Friday under the chairmanship of Mona Khandhar, Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment's Additional Secretary.

Senior officials including Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani, representatives of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, along with officers from the Social Security and Police departments, participated in the discussions.

The initiative will be implemented under the Union government's SMILE scheme.

As part of the plan, "Beggary Homes" will be established in Ahmedabad to provide temporary shelter and structured support for individuals engaged in begging.

Each shelter home, with a capacity of around 50 persons, will receive a central grant of Rs 55 lakh.

These facilities are intended to function as rehabilitation centres offering healthcare services, skill development training, employment linkages and access to eligible welfare schemes for residents.

Officials also discussed broader coordination between the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, law enforcement and allied departments for rehabilitation measures, including family reunification for those separated from relatives, provision of care for elderly and persons with disabilities, and skill-based support for those capable of employment.

The discussions also covered measures related to temporary shelters and structured reintegration pathways under the scheme.

This week, a large-scale rehabilitation effort under Ahmedabad’s ongoing "beggar-free city" initiative has seen hundreds of people rescued and shifted to temporary care facilities and across the last two years, according to official drive data.

During a three-day citywide operation conducted recently, around 244 individuals, including adults and children, were rescued from identified locations across the city and transferred for further care and rehabilitation as part of coordinated action by civic and police authorities.

Authorities said the individuals identified through such drives are placed under shelter-based care and linked to rehabilitation processes, including access to welfare schemes, education, skill training and family reunification wherever applicable.

Pooja had previously appeared in the BPSC and UPSC exams six times. However, she could not succeed. Despite this, she did not lose hope. Pooja continued her preparation with strong self-belief that she would succeed one day. After her success, there is an atmosphere of celebration in her village. Her family and villagers now dream of their daughters becoming like Pooja.

In a conversation with IANS, Pooja Kumari on Friday said she is from Kesath village in Buxar district. Her father is a farmer, and her mother is a homemaker.

Pooja said she prepared for the DSP post for about 7–8 years. In the 64th BPSC exam, she reached the interview stage but was not selected. In the 65th, she could not clear the prelims. In the 66th, she cleared the mains but did not succeed further. After that, she failed to clear prelims three more times. Finally, in the 70th BPSC exam, she secured 999th rank and achieved the DSP post.

She said that after every failure, she felt she might never succeed, but continuous encouragement from her parents and family kept her motivated. Instead of relying heavily on coaching, she focused more on self-study. She began her education at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Kaimur, and later completed her BA from IGNOU. She also prepared for UPSC but was not successful.

While advising students, Pooja said, "Never lose hope. NCERT books are very important for the basics. Solve previous years' question papers. Do not spend too much time on current affairs—one hour daily is enough."

She credited her success mainly to her parents and family support. She said her family stood by her throughout the exam journey, and her siblings also helped in every possible way.

Pooja added that one should not stop based on exam results, because those who stop do not grow—only those who keep moving forward achieve progress.

Addressing the International Conference on Women Farmers and Sustainable Organic Agriculture at the State Convention Hall here, Sangma said women occupy a central role in Meghalaya's agricultural landscape, and their ownership of land has helped foster a strong sense of responsibility, commitment and sustainability in farming practices.

He said the state's governance model has consistently placed farmers, particularly women, at the centre of its development agenda over the past eight years, with the government implementing farmer-centric policies aimed at building a resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

Sangma said Meghalaya has consciously adopted development strategies suited to its own geographical, cultural and ecological strengths instead of replicating models from elsewhere.

According to him, strengthening community institutions has been a key priority, with significant growth in self-help groups and farmer producer organisations helping improve collective action, market access and rural livelihoods.

The Chief Minister stressed that indigenous agricultural knowledge and traditional farming practices of the Northeast should be preserved and promoted alongside modern scientific innovations.

He said the region possesses a rich natural heritage that has sustained communities for generations and called for blending traditional wisdom with technology to enhance productivity without compromising ecological balance.

Emphasising regional cooperation, Sangma said the Northeast should be viewed as one integrated region with shared ecological and cultural characteristics. Such an approach, he noted, would enable governments and stakeholders to scale up successful initiatives, attract greater investments and create a stronger global impact in sustainable organic agriculture.

He also underlined the importance of forging partnerships with institutions, development agencies and the private sector to mobilise resources, encourage innovation and expand the reach of organic farming initiatives while ensuring that farmers' interests remain protected.

The conference, organised by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare in collaboration with IFOAM â€" Organics Asia, brought together national and international delegates, policymakers, experts and stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening women-led agriculture, conserving natural heritage and advancing sustainable organic farming practices through greater collaboration and knowledge sharing.

All eight accused who had been arrested earlier were remanded to judicial custody. The investigators turned focus to possible involvement of banking officials. Police, in fact, suspect the alleged embezzlement was part of an organised racket that siphoned off temple funds over several years.

According to sources, Rai and Mishra resigned on moral grounds days after a Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted preliminary findings highlighting serious lapses in the management of donations and cash offerings made by devotees at the Ram Temple. Their exit is being viewed as the first major accountability measure after the controversy triggered widespread outrage and demands for action against those responsible for supervising the temple's day-to-day administration and the handling of offerings.

The resignations followed the registration of an FIR against eight persons, including temple attendants, cash-counting staff and a retired bank employee, who are accused of working in collusion to divert cash and valuables donated by devotees.

All eight accused were arrested and presented before a magistrate on Friday, who remanded them to three-day judicial custody till June 29. Police are expected to seek their custodial remand for detailed interrogation to unravel the alleged conspiracy, trace the flow of funds and identify other beneficiaries, say sources.

The accused include Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu, Avinash Shukla, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, Ramashankar Mishra and retired bank employee Subhash Srivastava. Investigators believe each played a specific role in the alleged embezzlement of offerings received at the temple.

Among them, Ramshankar Yadav a.k.a. Tinnu has emerged as the central figure in the investigation.

Tinnu, a former driver of Champat Rai, allegedly enjoyed considerable access within the temple administration, say sources. He is suspected of exploiting his position to manipulate the handling of donations, they add.

His proximity to senior members of the Trust has intensified questions over administrative oversight, although no evidence has yet been made public linking the resigned Trust officials to the alleged financial irregularities.

Investigators are also examining the role of former banking personnel and serving bank officials after preliminary findings suggested that the alleged racket extended beyond temple premises. Subhash Srivastava, a retired bank employee who supervised cash-counting operations, is alleged to have coordinated duty allocations and facilitated the diversion of funds.

During questioning, investigators claim some of the accused disclosed the names of additional banking officials who allegedly acted as conduits in the misappropriation of donations.

The State Bank of India had been authorised to handle the counting and processing of cash offerings at the temple. Investigators are now examining whether banking procedures were manipulated to facilitate the alleged siphoning of funds. Sources familiar with the probe indicated that more officials could face legal action if evidence of collusion emerges.

Police suspect the operation may have been active for nearly two to three years.

According to investigators, cash bundles were allegedly concealed inside washrooms within the temple complex before being removed during the night, later distributed at separate locations and channelled into accounts linked to members of the alleged syndicate. CCTV footage and financial records are being analysed to establish the movement of cash and identify all those involved.

The investigation was launched after the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a three-member SIT on June 14 at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

Its preliminary report flagged multiple irregularities in the handling of donations, prompting the registration of the FIR and subsequent arrests.

An FIR was lodged against eight people in the case and followed by the resignations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trust member Anil Mishra. The eight accused were sent to three-day judicial custody.

Speaking to IANS, a petitioner in Varanasi's Gyanvapi mosque-temple dispute, Sohan Lal Arya claimed that more arrests are yet to be made in the case.

"The SIT investigation is likely to reveal the names of more people. This entire incident is highly condemnable. The alleged theft of offerings has deeply hurt the faith of the Hindu community. We want everyone involved in the theft, whether small or big, to be exposed so that the truth comes out and people's faith in Shri Ram Janmabhoomi remains intact," he said.

Former litigant in the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi case, Iqbal Ansari was of the view that Ram Temple Trust Chief Champat Rai should not have resigned at this stage.

"If something had come out in the investigation, only then he should have resigned. At this stage, his resignation was not appropriate. If any employee has done something wrong, then Champat Rai should not be punished for it," he told IANS.

Meanwhile, seer Mahant Bhaktcharan Das Maharaj asserted there should definitely be proper action against the eight arrested people.

"Champat Rai ji is a worker who contributed a lot in getting the Ram Temple built. So, we get hurt when allegations are levied against him," he said.

However, he added: "Whoever is involved in such misdeeds should be legally brought to justice."

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of the Niranjani Akhara, Swami Kailashanand Giri Maharaj, also said that Champat Rai is a senior RSS 'pracharak', who has worked tirelessly since the construction of the Ram Mandir began.

"When the investigation comes to light, then I believe he will be reinstated to his position again. Whoever is found guilty in the probe, will be definitely punished," he told reporters.

In Prayagraj, Mahant Yamuna Puri echoed: "The matter should be investigated with complete clarity. Whoever is found guilty should be punished so that a clear message goes out that such incidents will not be repeated in the future."

Mahant Aniruddh Dev Das in Ayodhya, called the controversy a "question mark on Sanatan culture".

"Now it is clear that theft of donations has taken place. It is my appeal to take strict action against those found guilty, as they have not only stolen donations but also defamed all Hindus as well as defamed Sanatan. They have shamed those who had their faith on the Ram Temple," he told IANS.

The reactions came after an FIR was lodged against eight people in the case and following the resignations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trust member Anil Mishra.

Addressing reporters after his visit to the Ram Temple, AAP national Convener Arvind Kejriwal said: "The very people who committed the theft have to take action in the matter. Obviously, they will not act against themselves. They are trying to completely shield themselves."

"A fake Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted, and now a fake FIR has been registered. In that fake FIR, only eight small pawns have been made accused. There are no big names in it," he added.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said it is for the first time in India's history that a "scam" has taken place in donations made at a temple.

Referring to Champat Rai's resignation, he said: "Just resigning won't work. Champat Rai had the entire responsibility to look over the functioning, but people close to him are involved in the irregularities."

"He (Rai) and Anil Mishra should also be made accused, and an FIR should be lodged against them too," Singh said.

Congress leader Rajeev Shukla called the alleged embezzlement a "betrayal", demanding a Supreme Court-monitored probe.

"If such an act has been taking place for a long time despite the presence of CCTV cameras, then big names must be involved in it," Shukla told IANS.

CPI General Secretary D. Raja criticised the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, saying: "Yogi Adityanath claims that his government has zero tolerance for corruption. He should be truthful to the people, to the country and to Lord Ram, in whom he believes."

"What has surfaced today is just the tip of the iceberg. The truth must come out. That is why the CPI has demanded a high-level judicial inquiry," he echoed.

Echoing a similar view, Samajwadi Party MLA Ravidas Mehrotra said: "An investigation has taken place, but Champat Rai's name has not been included in the FIR, who is the main accused. The government is trying to protect him."

"Now Champat Rai has resigned. There should be an investigation under whose orders and instructions he was carrying out this theft," Mehrotra told IANS.

"Uttar Pradesh CM is also responsible for the incident, and we demand his resignation," he added.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra said: "There is no audit trail or receipt of crores of donations at the temple despite the issue being flagged by auditors in 2020."

She said that the government should be answerable for the alleged missing funds as millions of Hindu devotees have placed their faith on the Ram Temple.

"Multiple kilos of gold, silver, 200 crores of cash, padukas, and the necklace of the Lord are also missing. These are eight small-time people who have been arrested," she told reporters.

"Dalian, emblematic of this decline, reflects the broader struggles of a society caught between past promises and present realities. Factories that once symbolised prosperity now stand silent, while families wrestle with financial strain and fading hope. This unfolding crisis is more than an economic downturn; it is a human story of resilience tested against relentless structural and demographic challenges," the report in Japan Forward said.

"The situation in Dalian and across northeast China has reached a breaking point. Once a proud industrial hub, the region is now filled with unemployed, bankrupt, indebted, and depressed citizens who struggle to afford basic medical treatment. Making money has become painfully difficult, and the streets are dominated by middle-aged and elderly residents," it added.

Young people are either shifting to south China or have given up hope of finding opportunities locally. Social hostility is increasing, with incidents like fights occurring over cutting in line, demonstrating the growing frustration and anxiety of residents, it noted.

Northeast China is often called China's "rust belt", sparking comparisons to Detroit in the US and mining regions of Western Europe. The situation is familiar with economic downturn, brain drain, declining birth rates, ageing populations, and further collapse. The situation in other regions took centuries to unfold. However, it took only 40 years to occur in northeast China, making the decline rapid and devastating, as per the report.

Earlier, the northeast was the most industrialised region of China, politically important and tightly linked to the planned economy. However, it fell behind after reform and opening up. The mindset shaped by years of rigid planning continued, influencing governance and society, according to the Japan Forward report. Family planning policies were implemented strictly in northeast China, resulting in demographic decline. Rampant corruption and political failures also impacted the region, resulting in the downfall of many officials and undermining people's trust.

"Northeast China exemplifies the collapse of an industrial base under rigid political control, failed reforms, demographic decline, and economic stagnation. Once a proud industrial hub, it now struggles with unemployment, migration, ageing, and hopelessness. The region's present may foreshadow the future of the entire country if systemic issues remain unresolved," the report said.

As police prepared to recreate the crime scene and intensified their probe by questioning key witnesses, both the victim's and the prime accused's families made emotional appeals for justice.

Ketan's father, Vishal Agarwal, dismissed reports that his son's use of a hair patch could have been a motive for the killing, insisting the accused's family was already aware of it, while Siya Goyal's parents said their daughter should face the harshest punishment if found guilty.

Describing the alleged crime as not merely a criminal act but a disturbing social issue, Fadnavis called for introspection into why educated youth from affluent families were increasingly developing a "vengeful and distorted mindset".

Police allege that Ketan Agarwal was pushed off a cliff at Lohagad Fort on June 18 by his fiancee, Siya Goyal, and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary, after the duo conspired to eliminate him because she no longer wanted to go ahead with the marriage scheduled for November. Investigators are now set to recreate the crime scene using a dummy body to establish the sequence of events, while relying heavily on circumstantial evidence in the absence of eyewitnesses. Seven people have been questioned so far, including an employee whose mobile phone was allegedly used by Chaudhary to communicate with Goyal on the day of the incident.

Meeting Ketan's father in Pune, Fadnavis assured the family that the state would spare no effort in securing justice and accepted their demand for a fast-track trial. Following the meeting, the government approved the appointment of veteran prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam to lead the prosecution. Ketan's father also demanded the death penalty for the accused and said he had been informed that a Special Investigation Team had been constituted to probe the case.

Rejecting speculation that his son's use of a hair patch triggered the alleged crime, Vishal Agarwal said Goyal and her family had known about it well before the engagement. "If she did not want to marry him, she could have simply refused," he said, while disputing claims that his son had insisted on trekking, maintaining that she had wanted to visit the fort.

In a rare public statement, Siya Goyal's parents expressed grief over Ketan's death and extended condolences to his family. While describing the tragedy as one that had destroyed two families, they maintained that if their daughter was found guilty, she deserved the strictest punishment under the law. Goyal's lawyer, meanwhile, said she was cooperating with investigators and that her vakalatnama would be filed before the court shortly.

"West Bengal will move forward with the slogan of Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee as its guiding principle. Along with the Uniform Civil Code, the state government is going to bring strict laws against Land Jihad, Love Jihad and forced religious conversion," the Chief Minister said while addressing a function on the occasion of the 189th birth anniversary of Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the writer of India's national song, Vande Mataram.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister further said that henceforth West Bengal will have no place for anti-national forces and individuals.

"West Bengal is the land of Chaitanya Dev, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. Besides bringing strict laws against Land Jihad, Love Jihad and forceful religious conversion, we are committed to first sending illegal infiltrators to holding centres and from there to the place they came from," the Chief Minister said.

He also said that the state government under his leadership would never allow anti-national activities on the soil of West Bengal.

"The people of West Bengal had done half the work of protecting the state from anti-national activities in the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly polls. The remaining task will be completed by us. West Bengal will have no place for those who ridicule Operation Sindoor, insult the nation and remain silent during the Pahalgam attack," the Chief Minister said.

However, the Chief Minister said that all refugees who have taken shelter in India due to religious persecution would be granted citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

On Monday, five new Bills will be placed on the floor of the West Bengal Assembly, of which the two most crucial Bills will be those concerning the Uniform Civil Code and measures to address anti-social activities in the state.

With the tabling of the Uniform Civil Code Bill on Monday, West Bengal will be the fourth Indian state to adopt a system replacing the existing religion-based personal laws with a single, unified set of civil laws that apply equally to all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste or tribe.

The three other states that have already adopted the UCC are Uttarakhand, Gujarat and Assam.

Speaking to the media at the airport after arriving in his home district from Delhi on Friday, Shekhawat said Jodhpur Airport is not just an airport for the city but a key hub for air connectivity across western Rajasthan.

He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India's expanding economy and rapid development have led to a significant increase in air travel.

"People who once could not even imagine travelling by air are now flying," he remarked.

The growing demand had placed considerable pressure on the existing terminal, making the construction of a new, modern facility essential.

Shekhawat said the long-awaited dream is now becoming a reality. The technical approval process for the terminal is in its final stages, with an inspection committee currently on site.

He expressed confidence that all required formalities would be completed by Friday evening or, at the latest, by Saturday, followed by the final inspection as scheduled.

Expressing confidence ahead of the inauguration, the Union Minister said that from July 4, the people of Jodhpur and the entire western Rajasthan region would benefit from a smoother, more convenient and enhanced air travel experience through the state-of-the-art terminal.

He added that, besides meeting the region's growing aviation needs, the new terminal is expected to provide a major boost to tourism, trade and investment.

Earlier, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced that Prime Minister Modi is set to gift a major infrastructure boost to Jaipur on July 4, which will strengthen the city's transport system.

The Jaipur Metro Phase-2 project will be developed at a cost of Rs 13,000 crore, and PM Modi himself will lay the foundation stone for it on July 4.

Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the Pachpadra Refinery in Barmer, Rajasthan, on July 4. The refinery was originally scheduled for inauguration on April 21. However, a fire broke out at the facility on April 20, forcing the postponement of the Prime Minister's visit.

Now, alongside the refinery inauguration, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for the Jaipur Metro Phase-2 project.

In preparation for the Prime Minister's visit, Chief Minister Sharma held a high-level meeting with officials. During the meeting, he issued directives regarding the various inauguration and foundation-laying ceremonies, including those related to the refinery and the metro project.

He also instructed officials on arrangements for the ceremony to distribute appointment letters to youths selected for various government jobs.

The Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Kolkata Police and other agencies are involved in the rescue operation.

ER has now pitched in with men and equipment. Using cold cutters and other equipment, the railway team from the Howrah and Sealdah Divisions and Liluah Workshop breached the rubble at 5 p.m. on June 26 to check for survivors, if any are trapped under tonnes of twisted steel girders and concrete pillars. The cold cutters are crucial for such operations as they generate little or no heat and cause no harm to those trapped. These equipment are used during railway accidents, when capsized coaches need to be cut open, without affecting passengers trapped inside.

"ER's 70-member heroic crew is battling time and despair. Armed with state-of-the-art technology â€" including 10 oxy-cutter sets, six abrasive cutters, and three plasma cutting units â€" these brave railway personnel are cutting through twisted steel and heavy debris, their hands guided by a singular, fierce determination to save every trapped heartbeat," an ER spokesperson said.

For the railwaymen, the rescue operation has turned into a mission. Rescuers at the spot have said that the operation will continue till the last person is brought out, no matter what his condition.

The NDRF is using dogs and infra-red equipment to trace life under the debris, while the Army has put ground-penetrating radar into use.

The godown that collapsed was being built by a private company on land owned by Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, near Taratala. The land had been taken on a 35-year lease by the company in 2024.

Five persons have been arrested on charges of negligence. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari blamed the past government in the state for clearing a faulty plan.

Addressing a programme organised on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Konyak said that in Nagaland, community and faith-based organisations, particularly the Church, possess immense influence and can play a transformative role in addressing the challenge of drug abuse.

He appealed to churches to look beyond the pulpit and establish active, institutional and compassionate interventions by setting up church-led counselling units, helping de-stigmatise addiction and mental health struggles, and promoting youth-centric mentorship programmes.

The Advisor also urged Mothers' Associations, youth organisations and student unions to work together proactively to shield young people from negative influences. The Naga leader called for the creation of drug-free localities and encouraged positive peer engagement through sports, music, cultural activities and vocational skill development.

"The old, predictable threats of traditional narcotics have mutated. We face a complex frontier of highly addictive synthetic drugs and sophisticated, technology-driven trafficking cartels that infiltrate our towns and villages right through the smartphones in our children's hands," Konyak said. He said that this day serves to remind us that drug abuse is not just an individual failure; it is a systemic threat to public health, economic productivity, and regional security.

The Naga leader highlighted that the Central government, through its flagship nationwide movement, the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), has recognised that a punitive, law-and-order-only approach is insufficient. Under the vision of a Viksit Bharat, the focus has drastically shifted towards institutional demand reduction, grassroots counselling, data-driven mapping of vulnerable hotspots, and dignified rehabilitation.

In alignment with the Centre, the Nagaland government conducts massive awareness campaigns across the state through the District Level Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) Committee headed by Deputy Commissioners.

The state government is also committed to strengthening mechanisms to enforce the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, tightening border monitoring, and increasing the number of De-addiction centres in the state, the Advisor added.

Konyak further appealed to teachers and educators to ensure that schools remain safe havens free from the menace of substance abuse.

In a separate similar programme, Director General of Police (DGP), Rupin Sharma, expressed concern over the growing incidence of drug peddling and substance abuse in the state, noting that the easy availability and accessibility of drugs continue to pose a serious challenge, particularly among the youth.

He observed that many people often fail to distinguish between psychological or medical counselling and religious counselling. "While religion provides moral and ethical guidance, he noted that addiction requires professional treatment and medical intervention," the senior IPS officer said and pointed out that the state's rehabilitation infrastructure remains inadequate.

He noted that there is a need to promote a culture of clinical and psychological counselling. Sharma stated that drugs are not a solution to challenges such as depression, unemployment or financial hardship, but instead worsen such problems and have adverse consequences for individuals, families and communities.

He further encouraged citizens to actively cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting cases of drug abuse and trafficking, noting that such actions could help save lives. The police chief assured that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.

A series of anti-drug campaigns, awareness programmes and community events were organised across Nagaland on Friday to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The police are now preparing to seek police remand to interrogate the accused and ascertain how they hatched and executed a plan to embezzle the devotees’ donations, running into crores.

According to the police, all the accused were produced before the Magistrate's Court, due to the public holiday on account of Muharram, which ordered them to be sent to judicial custody.

A total of eight accused have been booked for alleged theft at the temple, and all were subsequently arrested. The FIR was registered at Ayodhya Kotwali police station on Thursday, based on a complaint filed by Krishna Mohan, a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

Those named in the case include Ramshankar Yadav (alias Tinnu), who is associated with temple management; Trust employees Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, Ramashankar Mishra, and Avinash Shukla; and retired bank employee Subhash Srivastava.

The filing of the case came soon after a three-member SIT flagged several irregularities at multiple levels in its preliminary report.

The police state that the entire episode of alleged theft will be uncovered based on interrogation of the accused and CCTV-based evidence. If more names are revealed in the investigation, action will be taken against them as well.

The preliminary probe has highlighted key roles played by each accused at various levels. The role of Ramshankar Yadav alias Tinnu Yadav is particularly under increased scrutiny.

The police are likely to investigate the dubious appointment process of cash counting staff, find out the key recruiter and also how the ex-banking staff played a role in siphoning off the offerings via banking channels.

Police officials said that during the remand period, they will seek to piece together the chain of events and links regarding the alleged irregularities through detailed interrogation of the accused.

"The prestigious sporting events -- ISF World School Wrestling Championship and the ISF World School Badminton Championship in Delhi -- will feature more than 1,000 athletes from over 50 countries, further strengthening the city's global sporting identity," Minister Sood said.

He added that this agreement will boost the morale of young athletes, enhance their performance, and provide them with exposure to world-class sporting facilities and international competition.

It will also strengthen Delhi's sports ecosystem and further establish the national capital as a capable host for future national and international sporting events, he said, adding that preparations for these championships is already underway.

The Minister said that, with this agreement, Delhi has received the opportunity to host the ISF World School Championships for the first time.

The event will bring together thousands of student-athletes, coaches, technical officials, and delegates from across the globe.

Minister Sood also said that the championships will give fresh momentum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Khelo India' and 'Fit India'.

He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Delhi government is continuously working to develop world-class sports infrastructure and establish the national capital as a premier destination for international sporting events.

He expressed confidence that the Delhi government will successfully organise this prestigious championship in a grand manner.

The Education Minister also highlighted that Delhi will host the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships next and the hosting of the ISF World School Championships in 2027 will further strengthen the city's global sporting identity.

The event will provide Indian school athletes with an invaluable opportunity to compete at the international level, promote a vibrant sporting culture, and mark another significant step towards realising India's vision of becoming a global sporting powerhouse.

The noted sculptor, however, stood behind the Temple Trust officials, particularly its general secretary Champat Rai, calling him a "symbol of simplicity and uprightness."

Arun Yogiraj, speaking to IANS, said it was very painful for him to see the unfolding events related to the embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple.

"As a devotee of Lord Ram, I feel this is deeply painful because devotees across the globe donate their hard-earned money to the temple with faith, love, and devotion, believing they are making offerings for Ram Lalla," he said.

He said that this theft is deeply shocking to crores of Lord Ram devotees and could prompt them to rethink their faith in the temple trustees.

He called for strict action against all the miscreants who connived to steal temple money and brought the temple into disrepute; however, he had some kind words for the Temple Trust members, particularly Champat Rai.

"I have been associated with the Trust for quite a long time, for about eight to nine months. I know Champat Rai and other trust members. For me, they are symbols of simplicity, hard work and dedication," he remarked.

"They maintained the highest level of transparency and accountability in their conduct, and it's beyond belief to see things panning out the way they have in the past few days," he added.

Arun Yogiraj and his team spent around seven to eight months in Ayodhya, tirelessly sculpting the Ram Lalla idol, capturing the delicate balance of divinity and childlike innocence.

He further stated that it is hard to believe that such irregularities occurred at the temple under the Trust's watch, yet cited its proactive role in initiating the SIT probe.

"It was Champat Rai, who approached the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to initiate a probe into wrongdoings in the Chadhava collection. This shows his utmost devotion to Lord Ram and maintaining the highest moral conduct," he said, referring to his and other Trustees' reported resignation on moral grounds.

Recalling his previous association with the Temple Trust, he said that he had always seen the members act with morality and uprightness, adding that they would reach any decision after taking everyone into confidence.

Hoping for quick and exemplary action against the culprits over alleged misappropriation of donations, he stated, "With the passage of time and vast expansion in devotees' turnout at the temple, some miscreants milked the opportunity to their advantage. But, I firmly believe that all those who colluded to steal the temple's money will be booked and brought to justice soon."

Banerjee was produced before the lower court at Alipore in South Kolkata on Friday evening. Public prosecutor Sourin Ghoshal, in his arguments, informed the court that the accused was responsible for clearing faulty construction plans in exchange for money.

"Even if the plan was not eligible for approval, it would have been passed by the accused against money. The accused had even formed a team to prepare documents to get the flawed design approved. The police are trying to find out who the others were in this core team of the accused," the public prosecutor informed the court.

He also argued that, given his influential backing, the accused might try to influence witnesses and tamper with evidence if released on bail. Thereafter, the public prosecutor sought his police custody for further interrogation.

In his counter-argument, while also moving a bail plea, Banerjee's counsel said that his client was arrested from his residence on Thursday evening without any specific evidence linking him to the warehouse roof collapse.

"Since all relevant details are available on the website of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, there is no requirement for further interrogation of my client," Banerjee's counsel argued.

However, the judge of the lower court rejected Banerjee's bail plea and remanded him to police custody till July 4.

Banerjee's arrest on Thursday evening came after the statement made in the West Bengal Assembly earlier in the day, where he was referred to as Kali and it was claimed that no plan was passed in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation without his clearance.

It aims to cover crucial project components, expedite nearly complete water supply schemes, and allow the advance release of state funds before Central funds are received. The decision was taken at the state Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The Cabinet has approved an estimated allocation of Rs 22,898 crore from state funds to cover expenses beyond the regular Central-state matching ratio. The Cabinet's approval comes days after the state government on Monday presented supplementary demands worth Rs 97,706.40 crore amid strained finances.

"The total availability of funds will be around Rs 44,000 crore. In this, Rs 11,000 crore will be given by the Centre and the state will match the same. The remaining Rs 22,898 crore will be borne by the state from its own funds," an official said.

According to the official, the Rs 22,898 crore has been distributed across several key technological, structural and community initiatives, comprising retrofitting projects worth Rs 10,079.53 crore, revised water supply schemes worth Rs 8,233.23 crore, community contribution of Rs 2,337.62 crore (to be provisioned by the Rural Development Department through the Finance Commission and other grants), water quality, inadmissible costs and support components worth Rs 1,138.60 crore, Internet of Things (IoT) initiatives worth Rs 692.00 crore, electrochlorination units (EC) worth Rs 328.63 crore, and National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) schemes worth Rs 89.04 crore.

To ensure that villages reap the benefits of these projects without delay, the Cabinet has earmarked dedicated funds to fast-track schemes that are already in advanced stages of physical completion.

For schemes that are 75 per cent to 99 per cent complete, the state will provide Rs 5,934 crore from its own funds to ensure that these nearly finished projects are completed on priority.

An allocation of Rs 3,769 crore from the state's funds has been approved to finalise fully completed projects. A sum of Rs 680 crore has been sanctioned for support components and water quality monitoring for both categories of projects.

Furthermore, the government will provide community contributions worth Rs 543 crore for fully completed schemes and Rs 816 crore for schemes that are 75 per cent to 99 per cent complete through Finance Commission allocations and other grants. By authorising the advance release of these funds from the state treasury, the government aims to eliminate bureaucratic delays, ensuring that the dream of Har Ghar Jal (water in every home) becomes a reality across rural Maharashtra.

The state government's move to allocate funds from its own kitty assumes significance as the government, during the winter session, had stated that the state had not received Central funds for the Jal Jeevan Mission from October 2024 and was using its own resources to complete the ongoing projects. The state had accepted that a lack of funds had hampered the pace of the ongoing works. The government further stated that a total of 51,560 schemes had been sanctioned under the mission, of which 25,429 were still ongoing.

On Wednesday, in a written reply submitted to the Legislative Assembly, Maharashtra Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Gulabrao Patil informed that, out of approximately 51,560 projects currently underway under the Jal Jeevan Mission in the state, about 27,823 projects have been completed and the remaining works are in progress.

"According to the implementing agencies, as of the end of May 2026, bills amounting to approximately Rs 5,183 crore submitted by contractors are pending at the district level due to a lack of funds," the reply stated.

The minister further added in the written reply that, noting that water is a state subject, the Central government has directed the state government to arrange advance state-share funding until the Central share is received.

"Accordingly, the state government has made total funds of approximately Rs 4,831.87 crore available to the implementing agencies as a special grant, comprising approximately Rs 2,483.58 crore for the financial year 2024-25 and approximately Rs 2,348.29 crore for 2025-26, which has helped in maintaining the progress of the projects."

(Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)

The resignations are being viewed as a significant part of changes within the temple administration after allegations of misappropriation of Ram Mandir donations, estimated at more than Rs 7 crore.

Though not directly implicated, their decisions were seen as taking moral responsibility amid mounting scrutiny.

The alleged theft has snowballed into a major controversy, affecting public faith in the temple's administration.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) found lapses in donation handling, leading to arrests of eight individuals.

While neither Champat Rai nor Anil Mishra were accused directly, their leadership roles placed them at the centre of the controversy.

Both resigned from the Temple Trust to allow a free investigation and to uphold the sanctity of the Ram Mandir.

Champat Rai, now 80, was born in Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh, and initially worked as a Chemistry professor before dedicating himself to public life. He became associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at a young age and later joined the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in 1980. He was a prominent figure in the decades-long struggle for the Ram temple. He spent 18 months in jail during the Emergency, which strengthened his resolve to work for a cause he believed in.

Following a Supreme Court judgment that cleared the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust was formed in February, 2020, and Champat Rai was appointed the General Secretary. He is said have been overseeing the temple construction, administration, and donation management.

Anil Mishra was a trustee of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the body set up to oversee the construction and management of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. His role was primarily administrative, working alongside other trustees to supervise temple affairs, including donation handling and organisational oversight.

Before joining the Temple Trust, Anil Mishra was known as a local figure in Ayodhya's civic and social circles, with involvement in administrative and community activities. His background was more rooted in local governance and organisational work rather than national-level activism. His appointment as trustee reflected the Trust's effort to include individuals with strong local connections to Ayodhya's temple and community life.

As trustee, say reports, Mishra was responsible for oversight of donations and offerings ('chadhava') at the temple. His role placed him in close proximity to financial operations, making his accountability reportedly significant in the controversy.

The hexagenerian's decision is said to have also been intended to ensure transparency and allow the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct its probe without questions of bias or conflict of interest.

The tragedy remains one of the worst terrorist attacks in the history of civil aviation. On June 23, 1985, a Boeing 747 exploded midair off the coast of Ireland while operating on the Montreal–London–Delhi route, killing all 329 passengers and crew. Most of those killed were Canadian citizens of Indian origin. The bombing was attributed to the terrorist outfit Babbar Khalsa, which advocates for a separate Khalistan, as per a report in Khalsa Vox.

"The incident raises profound and uncomfortable questions about Canada's stance towards extremist elements operating within its borders. Some argue that Canada's permissive approach to these extremist factions contributed to this tragic event. The Canadian government's subsequent handling of the incident has also been a point of contention and disappointment for the Indian and Sikh diaspora, who feel that justice was not adequately served," it noted.

According to the report, Canadian intelligence agencies had received warnings about the potential threat posed by pro-Khalistan extremist groups in the lead-up to the bombing. However, the warnings were not acted upon effectively, contributing to one of the deadliest terrorist attacks.

"Why did Canada fail to take these threats seriously? Some suggest that the country's commitment to multiculturalism and tolerance may have blinded it to the potential dangers lurking within its borders. This tolerance, in turn, may have been exploited by extremist groups, leading to tragic consequences," it mentioned.

The report stated that the Kanishka bombing was not only an attack targeting India but also one of the deadliest acts of terrorism against Canadian citizens, with 280 of the 329 victims being Canadians, most of them of Indian origin.

This fact, it said, has raised uncomfortable questions about whether the victims' ethnicity contributed to the perceived lack of a thorough investigation into the incident by the Canadian authorities.

"While we may never have a definitive answer, the disappointment and dissatisfaction expressed by the Sikh and Indian diaspora suggest a perceived lack of urgency and dedication in the investigation," the report stated.

Emphasising the lasting impact of the Kanishka bombing, the report said the tragedy left a deep scar on the Indian and Sikh diaspora in Canada, who felt the Canadian government had failed them in the handling of the incident.

Despite the devastating loss of lives, it said, the case resulted in only one conviction, that of Inderjit Singh Reyat, leaving families of the victims with a lingering sense of injustice.

"Adding to this sense of disappointment is the perceived ongoing support of Khalistan elements by Canadian politicians. This support is often seen as a vote-bank strategy aimed at garnering the favour of certain sections of the Sikh community. However, this approach is viewed by many as short-sighted and potentially harmful," the report highlighted.