Ahmedabad, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Ahmedabad City Police reunited 64 children who had gone missing during the 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra with their parents and guardians after deploying 17 public assistance centres along the procession route to help devotees and respond to emergencies, officials said on Friday.

According to the officials, the temporary 'Jan Sahayata Kendras' (Public Assistance Centres) were established at key points on the Rath Yatra route to assist the large number of devotees attending the annual procession.

Police personnel also used loudspeaker announcements at each centre to spread awareness and guide members of the public.

The centres were set up at Jamalpur near the Jagannath Temple, Khamasa crossroads, Raipur Police Outpost, Panchkuva Gate, Kalupur Circle Traffic Outpost, Saraspur Visamo, Prem Darwaza Police Outpost, Tambu Police Outpost, Delhi Chakla, Shahpur Gate, Rangila Police Outpost, opposite R.C. High School, Ghee Kanta Police Outpost, Pankor Naka crossroads, Manek Chowk Police Outpost, Danapith crossroads and Khadia crossroads.

"The assistance centres played a key role in tracing children who had become separated from their families during the day-long procession," officials said.

A total of 41 children from the Gaikwad Haveli Police Station area, 21 from the Shaherkotda Police Station area, and one child each from the Kalupur and Shahpur Police Station areas were identified, their parents or guardians were traced, and the children were safely handed back to them.

The police said all 64 children were reunited with their families after verification by officers stationed at the assistance centres.

The 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra was taken out on Thursday from the nearly 400-year-old Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad's Jamalpur area.

The annual procession, regarded as one of India's largest Rath Yatras outside Puri, passed through the old city before returning to the temple after covering its traditional route.

Lakhs of devotees lined the route to offer prayers as the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra moved through the city.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah participated in the 'Mangala Aarti' before the procession began, while Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel performed the traditional 'Pahind Vidhi', symbolically sweeping the path before the chariots.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) A row over the relocation of the Bankra mosque inside Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has intensified following its proposed relocation due to security and runway expansion.

While the airport mosque row has turned into a high‑pitched altercation, Kolkata has a long history of shifting religious shrines or deities when the situation demanded, according to earlier reports.

In the latest incident, a highly secure area like an airport is typically a zone of absolute sterile control. Yet, deep inside the operational boundary of the airport, barely 165 metres from the secondary runway, stands the 136‑year‑old mosque, also known as the Gauripur Jama Masjid.

The removal decision has ignited a political and communal debate because it involves safety rules, heritage claims, and timing.

The controversy intensified after a change in state government, with opponents accusing the ruling party of using security as an alleged means to justify a move that previous governments avoided, turning a technical issue into a partisan flashpoint.

The mosque was built in the 1890s when the area was a quiet, rural village. In 1924, the British established the Dum Dum aerodrome on the surrounding land. During major airport expansions in the 1950s and 1960s, the state acquired the surrounding village plots, and the residential settlements were shifted across Jessore Road.

However, the mosque itself was left untouched, gradually becoming entirely enclosed by the high‑security perimeter of a growing international aviation hub, which now reportedly poses a serious threat to runway traffic and creates technical infringements.

Despite earlier warnings, successive administrations refrained from demolishing the structure. Multiple structures in Kolkata are said to have been earlier removed, relocated, or modified for infrastructure development, transit expansion, and public safety. These included unauthorised religious structures built on public roads, pavements, and government land.

Several shrines, regardless of religion, that were causing massive traffic congestion or obstructing civic projects have been removed. In recent times, reports suggest the then Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal in 2022 directed district magistrates of about eight districts to remove unauthorised religious structures from public places.

The respective police authorities were asked to assist the district administrations in implementing the order.

In 2024, then-Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had pulled up those responsible for encroachment on government land. The administration then strongly acted against illegal land encroachment, especially on tracts owned by the state government.

Meanwhile, the massive expansion of Kolkata’s East‑West Metro, particularly the underground part, repeatedly required the relocation of historic and religious items.

Two 250‑year‑old idols, one of Lakshmi and another of Mangalchandi, had to be relocated multiple times to hotels and apartments for safety, before being permanently re‑housed in their devotees’ newly constructed house this month.

Also, during the expansion of Kolkata’s Circular Railway along the Hooghly riverbanks, dozens of decades‑old unauthorised temples, ghat shrines, and mazars (graves) were reportedly cleared to secure the railway tracks.

Similar was the case when road‑widening projects were being carried out on the outskirts of the Kolkata Metropolitan Area.

In the case of the Bankra mosque, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation have long flagged the structural layout as a hazard. Large, wide‑body aircraft apparently cannot execute safe emergency landings when the primary runway is closed due to short usable runway length.

Furthermore, the structure blocks the installation of modern Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), meaning heavy winter fog routinely triggers chaotic flight delays.

Beyond technical aspects, there were other security issues. To facilitate prayers, airport security agencies and airport authorities had to screen local devotees at the outer gate and ferry them by bus directly across active taxiways.

Over time, allowing the general public to access high‑security zones based solely on standard local identity cards became an unacceptable breach, especially in a state close to the international border.

For decades, administrations ranging from the Left Front under Jyoti Basu to Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool preferred a policy of cautious deferral. Relocating a century‑old mosque carried a political risk in West Bengal, where minority sentiment is heavily courted for electoral gains.

Past proposals floated in 1995 and 2002 were quietly shelved because no ruling party wanted to trigger allegations of community targeting or risk localised law‑and‑order crises.

This institutional paralysis left the airport administration managing a delicate, daily compromise for decades.

Source: IANS

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Agartala, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) Describing the Census as much more than a statistical exercise, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Friday said it forms one of the key foundations for planning and implementing various developmental programmes.

The Chief Minister made the remarks after participating in the self‑enumeration process for the Census of India 2027 from his official residence in Agartala. He personally registered his details online, encouraging people to actively participate in the self‑enumeration process for Census 2027.

Saha said that the self‑enumeration facility has been introduced to make the 2027 Census simpler, more transparent and technology‑driven. He added that this edition of the Census is particularly significant.

Tripura on Friday formally launched the self‑enumeration process for the Census of India 2027 at Lok Bhavan, marking a significant step towards conducting the country’s first fully digital Census.

Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu, as the first citizen of the state, inaugurated the initiative on Friday morning by personally completing the self‑enumeration process on the designated online portal, setting an example for citizens across the state.

Director of Census Operations, Tripura, Ratan Biswas, said that the first phase of the Census exercise, the self‑enumeration process, commenced on Friday and will continue till July 31.

He said the second stage of the first phase, House Listing and House Enumeration, would be conducted from August 1 to August 30 across the state.

During this period, enumerators and supervisors, most of whom are government schoolteachers, will visit every household to collect details of families, residential buildings and other housing‑related information.

Another official said that the second phase of the Census, involving Population Enumeration, would be carried out in February 2027, during which enumerators and supervisors would collect detailed information about every individual, including socio‑economic particulars.

Officials said that the training of thousands of census personnel, including enumerators and supervisors, was completed on Thursday ahead of the nationwide exercise.

Highlighting the importance of Census data in the country’s planning and development, Governor Reddy Nallu earlier in the day appealed to the people of the state to actively participate in the exercise and complete their self‑enumeration within the stipulated time.

He said Census data plays a crucial role in policy making, including the establishment of schools and hospitals, planning infrastructure and the reorganisation of constituencies.

The Governor observed that while a village may continue to exist in official records, if its residents fail to participate in the Census, it could effectively be regarded as a village without inhabitants for planning purposes.

He therefore urged every citizen to participate in the Census.

The Governor also assured the public that the highest standards of confidentiality would be maintained while handling Census data.

He said the information collected would be used solely for planning and developmental purposes and would not be shared with any other agency.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad/Gwalior, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) A 25‑year‑old man from Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior has been arrested after allegedly posing as a Hindu youth on a messaging application to sexually exploit a 17‑year‑old girl, Ahmedabad Rural police said on Friday.

Police said the girl was contacted in February this year on a messaging app called “A-Chat” by someone using the name “Sonu” and claiming to be a 23‑year‑old unmarried man.

Over months, the man, who later identified himself as Bittukhan alias Sonu Rahishkhan, obtained the girl’s mobile number, moved the conversation to WhatsApp, and repeatedly pressured her to make nude video calls and to meet in person for physical relations.

“When she refused to comply, he threatened to make intimate images public and began blackmailing her. He also obtained access to her Gmail and Instagram passwords and used those accounts to monitor and coerce her," officials told IANS.

The girl eventually told her mother, who lodged a complaint at Kanbha Police Station.

The police registered an FIR under Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023, sections 75(2), 78(2), 79, 351(2); Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act) 2012 sections 8, 11 (2)(4)(5), 12; and Information Technology Act 2000 sections 66(c)(d), 67(b)(2).

A joint team from the local police station and the local crime branch carried out technical surveillance and cyber analysis to trace the accused. He was arrested within hours at his residence.

Police said that he works at a furniture shop. “Our team identified his location through cyber forensics and effected the arrest promptly. The accused is married and has a child. This information, the suspect has concealed while assuming a Hindu and unmarried identity to gain the victim’s trust," officials added.

During questioning, the accused reportedly admitted he was communicating with multiple young women on the app using the same or similar identities.

“He disclosed that he was simultaneously talking to three to four girls,” a police officer involved in the investigation said.

Police have not said whether other victims have lodged complaints; they added they will approach potentially affected girls to establish if further offences occurred.

The police emphasised that no money is known to have been taken from the victim.

Police urged parents and young people to exercise caution when using social media and messaging applications.

“Do not share personal photos or videos with unknown persons online. Verify anyone’s claimed identity before trusting them. Do not share account passwords. If someone attempts to blackmail you, contact your guardian or the nearest police station immediately,” officials emphasised.

The police confirmed the victim’s identity is being kept confidential under legal provisions. Investigations are ongoing.

Source: IANS

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Srinagar, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha said on Friday that more than 3.5 lakh Yatris have had Darshan during the 15 days since Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026 started on July 3.

L-G Sinha on Friday visited the Nunwan base camp and inspected the facilities in place for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims.

At the base camp, the Lieutenant Governor chaired a meeting with senior government officials and reviewed the arrangements being made for essential services provided to pilgrims, including drinking water, electricity, telecom connectivity, accommodation, food, healthcare, emergency services and security.

He also inspected the Yatra Registration Counter and reviewed the registration process.

The Lieutenant Governor directed all departments to work in mission mode to ensure the welfare of the pilgrims.

"Today marks 15 days since the pilgrimage began, and in these 15 days more than 3.50 lakh pilgrims have had darshan of Baba Bholenath. By the grace of Lord Shiva, the yatra is proceeding smoothly."

"There is great enthusiasm among devotees coming from every corner of the country, and local residents and service providers are also actively engaged in making this sacred pilgrimage a success," L-G Sinha added.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the officials to ensure that the environment remains fully protected.

He further instructed for special cleanliness drives along both routes and camps.

"We are dedicated to a waste-free Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and we must, working together under a whole-of-government approach, fulfill this commitment," the Lieutenant Governor told the officials.

He directed the officers to regularly obtain feedback from the pilgrims and ensure prompt redressal of any issues brought to their notice.

He instructed that all services provided to the pilgrims should strictly follow a 100 per cent prepaid system to ensure transparency and prevent overcharging.

In view of the forecast of heavy rainfall over the coming days, the Lieutenant Governor directed the Union Territory administration and all stakeholder agencies to remain fully prepared, strengthen contingency measures and ensure the safety, security and convenience of the pilgrims under all circumstances.

He also directed that each tent should have a mandatory fire extinguisher.

During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with the pilgrims and discussed about their experience during the holy pilgrimage.

The pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and appreciated the cleanliness, sanitation arrangements, security, accommodation facilities and invaluable support of the personnel engaged in Yatra duties.

The Lieutenant Governor said that the expansion of infrastructure and pilgrim facilities in recent years has been reflected positively in the feedback from devotees.

He said, alongside these advancements, it is essential to ensure that every pilgrim can access these facilities seamlessly, without any impediment.

He also interacted with shopkeepers, service providers, langar-sevadars, volunteers, and lauded their valuable contribution in facilitating the smooth pilgrimage of the devotees of Baba Barfani.

Speaking to the mediapersons, the Lieutenant Governor said: "Through the seamless coordination of all departments of J&K administration, Police, Army, security forces, Shrine Board and all stakeholders, the arrangements for this year's pilgrimage are significantly enhanced. Feedback from the pilgrims has been overwhelmingly positive."

"This pilgrimage continues to drive vital economic benefits for Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, following the Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji's appeal for visiting pilgrims to purchase local products, a large number of devotees are buying local products such as handloom and handicrafts. In the days to come, this pilgrimage will be remembered as a truly memorable and historic one."

The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; M. Suleman Choudhary, IGP Traffic J&K; Sujit Kumar Singh, IGP Security; Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Nodal Officer for Pahalgam Axis; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Javid Iqbal Matoo, DIG South Kashmir Range; Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Anantnag Deputy Commissioner; Amod Nagpure Ashok, Anantnag SSP, Anoo Malhotra, DG Rural Sanitation; and senior officers of Shrine Board, civil administration, police and security forces.

Source: IANS

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Bhopal, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, Mohan Yadav, on Friday said only those having one marriage would have the right to reside in the state, under the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which his government will introduce during the Monsoon Session of the Assembly beginning July 20.

Yadav made the announcement while addressing a gathering after inaugurating newly constructed Sandipani Schools at Jhinjhri and Bahoriband in Katni district.

"Under the new UCC law, only those having one marriage will have the right to reside in Madhya Pradesh," the Chief Minister said.

He said the proposed law would be applicable to people of all religions.

"With the blessings of Lord Ram, Madhya Pradesh is moving towards one nation, one Constitution, one flag and one law. During the Monsoon Session of the Assembly, we will bring the Uniform Civil Code for people of all religions," Yadav said.

The Monsoon Session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly will be held from July 20 to July 25, and the BJP government is expected to introduce the UCC Bill during the session.

Yadav had earlier also said that the proposed UCC would recognise only one marriage in the state.

The state government had subsequently constituted a committee to prepare the draft of the proposed law, which has submitted its report.

If the Bill is passed, Madhya Pradesh will become the second state after Uttarakhand to implement a Uniform Civil Code.

The Chief Minister also said the state was moving ahead with the objective of implementing a common legal framework for all citizens.

The announcement assumes political significance as the BJP has consistently backed the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, a key promise in its election manifesto, while the issue has remained part of the party's broader national agenda.

During the programme in Katni, Yadav also inaugurated two Sandipani Schools and addressed students, highlighting the importance of education and cultural values before reiterating the government's commitment to bringing the UCC in the upcoming Assembly session.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) A suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)-linked module carried out around eight explosive trials at different locations in Gujarat over nearly three years while attempting to perfect improvised explosive device (IED) techniques, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) said on Friday, announcing the arrest of five more suspects in the case and taking the total number of arrests to 13.

The latest arrests came after what the ATS described as intensive interrogation of the eight accused arrested earlier this month in a case registered on July 2 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

ATS Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sunil Joshi said the investigation had uncovered what he described as a local or "indigenous" module that had allegedly been radicalised over several years through extremist literature and social media, rather than acting solely on direct instructions from Pakistani handlers.

"Even if everything in the world is going perfectly well, they would still feel that this is their duty, that this obligation has to be carried out," Joshi said while describing the alleged mindset of the accused.

Referring to the alleged radicalisation process, he added: "This local, what you can call an indigenous module... They have been learning by watching social media. They have not been studying these books just recently; this has been going on for two to three years."

According to the ATS, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Harsh Upadhyay received intelligence that some youths from Banaskantha and Patan districts were in contact with Jaish-e-Mohammed operatives in Pakistan.

Investigators alleged they were translating the banned organisation's radical content into Gujarati, had created a local organisation called 'Darul Islam Gujarat' as a representation of JeM in the state and were attempting to recruit like-minded individuals.

Based on the information, a case was registered at the ATS Police Station under Sections 13, 17, 18, 38 and 39 of the UAPA and Sections 61 and 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

The initial investigation led to the arrest of eight accused, who were granted 14 days' police remand. "Searches during the earlier phase of the investigation led to the recovery of a Jaish-e-Mohammed flag, printed copies of books allegedly written by JeM founder Masood Azhar, a printed letter addressed to Azhar and Rs 1.30 lakh, which was intended for terrorist activities," Joshi told IANS.

The agency also reiterated its earlier claim that around Rs three lakh had been sent by a Pakistani handler identified as Abdullah through a dead-drop near Jalore district in Rajasthan.

Joshi said the money was allegedly used to purchase a vehicle, while the chemicals used in the explosive experiments were bought using the accused's own savings.

During interrogation, investigators alleged that several accused had been residing at Jamia Abul Hasan Madrasa in Khadiyasan and, since 2023, had been studying methods of making bombs and detonating IEDs using printed copies of the book 'Akela Mujahid Jihad Kaise Kare (How a Lone Mujahid Should Wage Jihad)' and similar publications.

The ATS alleged that members circulated the literature among themselves, studied different bomb-making techniques and later began practical experiments.

"The accused purchased potassium nitrate, sulphur and charcoal through online shopping platforms and local markets. They allegedly mixed the chemicals to prepare gunpowder, researched different timer-based and direct ignition systems, studied the quality of wires, experimented with pipes through welding and attempted to improve different explosive mechanisms," Joshi said.

According to the ATS, between 2023 and February 2026, the group conducted around eight explosive trials at different locations, mainly in isolated fields and riverbeds around Khadiyasan, Mehsana and nearby villages.

The experiments were generally conducted on Fridays or during madrasa holidays when members from different towns could gather.

"They had carried out around eight such experiments over the past two to three years in an attempt to perfect these methods. Practically, they were trying to gain expertise in making explosives," Joshi told IANS.

He said the explosive mixture was low-grade and comparable to firecracker gunpowder.

"Sometimes it only burned. Sometimes it burned very rapidly without producing a proper explosion. If packed tightly, there could be a slight blast," he said, adding that the ATS had found no evidence of injuries during the experiments.

The ATS said materials allegedly used in preparing an IED were recovered from accused Mohammad Amin Shera for forensic examination.

Investigators also alleged that Shera had delivered jihad-related speeches and sermons.

The five newly arrested accused were identified as Bilal Abidbhai Shera, 24, originally from Chatavada in Patan district and staying at Divya Palace near Kathwada GIDC in Ahmedabad while doing mechanical work; Mohammad Ayyub Kadiwala, 22, of Khadiyasan in Siddhpur, who had studied at Darul Uloom Deoband before returning to Jamia Abul Hasan Madrasa; Mohammad Ayyubbhai Sunsara alias Mohammad Khali, 20, residing at Darul Uloom Matliwala Madrasa in Bharuch; Shafi Raees Mukhi alias Shafi Chhapi, 21, from Vadgam in Banaskantha and residing at Jamia Islamia Talimuddin Madrasa in Dabhel; and Mohammad Hasan Hanifbhai Kardiya alias Hasan Haiderpuri, 20, from Patan district and residing at Darul Uloom Matliwala Madrasa in Bharuch.

According to the ATS, Bilal Shera had supplied Mohammad Amin Shera with a pen drive around three years ago containing speeches, videos, and books allegedly related to Masood Azhar.

Investigators said the material was later printed at different locations.

Joshi said the literature was shared through pen drives rather than being purchased online and that investigators were still trying to determine how the original books entered India. "Generally, these books are not available on Amazon or such platforms," officials confirmed to IANS.

The ATS alleged that Mohammad Ayyub Kadiwala, along with Mohammad Amin Shera, Ahmad Ghaziwala, Zakariya Ghagha and others, assembled at a mosque where they learnt to assemble an IED and successfully conducted an explosive test.

Investigators also alleged that members held three "dawat" gatherings. Clarifying the term, Joshi said it referred to inviting people into the group rather than simply sharing a meal.

According to the ATS, the accused used these meetings to study extremist literature and invite other madrasa students to join jihad. Joshi said all 13 accused identified so far had been arrested.

"As of now, everyone identified is in our detention. If further interrogation or analysis of their mobile phones reveals additional accused, they will also be arrested," he confirmed.

The DIG said investigators had not found evidence that the five newly arrested accused were directly in contact with Pakistani handlers. "Our investigation has not revealed that they were receiving direct instructions from outside," he said.

Instead, he alleged they had been inspired by JeM literature for several years before any handler came into contact with the group.

He also said investigators had found no evidence so far of any involvement by the madrasas where the accused had studied or stayed. "So far, we have not found any such role," he said.

According to Joshi, communication took place through Instagram, WhatsApp and Telegram at different times, while investigators continued to examine digital evidence.

The ATS is also continuing efforts to identify a Kashmiri man whom investigators allege met some of the earlier accused on the instructions of the Pakistani handler and supplied extremist literature.

However, Joshi said "no conclusive identification" had yet been made.

Asked whether investigators had identified any specific planned target, Joshi said the ATS had no documentary evidence indicating where the alleged group intended to strike.

Describing the suspects as "highly radicalised", Joshi said: "The ATS believes they were still in the process of learning and improving explosive techniques when the investigation disrupted the alleged conspiracy. The investigation is continuing."

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prohibitory orders have been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 prohibiting assembly of four or more people around the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata from Friday morning and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel have also been deployed there to avoid any violations of the order.

The actions have been taken following the announcement by former West Bengal Minister, Siddiqullah Chowdhury, for holding mass prayers later in the day today at the Bankra Mosque within the airport premises.

The process for the relocation of the 136-year-old mosque had started last week on national security grounds.

Although the relocation process had started after years of negotiations, some minority organisations and those linked to the Trinamool Congress, the previous ruling party in the state, have started protesting over the relocation process.

Chowdhury, who is the leading face of such a protest, had given a call for mass prayers at the original venue of the mosque on Friday afternoon, ignoring the administration's order barring entry to the mosque through entry-passes and offering prayers there.

Amid Chowdhury’s call for mass prayers, the Bidhannagar City Police, under whose jurisdiction the airport comes, had issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023 around the airport premises.

A huge deployment of security personnel including CAPF, cops from the Bidhannagar City Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) had been deployed in the area to prevent any tension or violence over the call for mass prayers.

Special patrolling is also underway at Gate No. 7 of the airport, which was the earlier entry point to the mosque and the surrounding areas.

Police are constantly making announcements on microphones asking people not to violate the prohibitory orders and assemble in the area in large numbers. The administration is also keeping an eye on the situation to ensure that there is no impact on airport passengers.

The 136-year-old Gauripur Jama Masjid is known as the 'Bankra Masjid'. The mosque is located within the airport. There has been talk of relocating the mosque for a long time. The airport has two runways – the main runway is used for take-offs and landings, while the second runway is smaller. The mosque is located at a short distance from that second runway.

Experts say that if the first runway is temporarily closed for maintenance, there will be problems with large aircraft taking off and landing.

Airport officials said that the mosque also poses a risk to aircraft taking off and landing, and that work on expanding the second runway has also been stalled.

There have been discussions about moving the mosque for several decades, but no firm decision has been reached on the issue so far.

After the change of regime in West Bengal, initiatives were started by the Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari-led BJP government in the state for relocating the mosque from inside the airport.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, July 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Odisha government has confirmed the deaths of two devotees but denied reports of any stampede-like incident during the annual Rath Yatra festival, which commenced in the holy coastal town of Puri with the participation of lakhs of pilgrims from across the state, the country and abroad.

As per an official statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the world famous Ratha Yatra 2026 of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath, Mahaprabhu Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Chakraraj Sudarshana was celebrated on Thursday in Puri with immense religious fervour, devotion and exemplary administrative coordination.

It also added that despite persistent rainfall and inclement weather conditions throughout the day, the festival witnessed an estimated eight to nine lakh devotees from across Odisha, the country and abroad, reflecting the unparalleled faith of devotees in the deities.

"All the sacred rituals connected with the festival, including the pulling of the three chariots, were conducted smoothly and completed as planned. Govardhan Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya also came to the chariots and offered prayers. The state government made comprehensive and multi-layered arrangements for the successful conduct of the festival," the CMO said in the statement.

The state government also informed that extensive planning was undertaken well in advance, involving all stakeholder departments, including Police, Health, Fire Services, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Transport, Municipal Administration, Public Health Engineering, Energy and other line departments.

Round-the-clock monitoring, deployment of adequate security personnel, extensive CCTV coverage, public announcement systems, traffic regulation, sanitation measures, drinking water facilities, emergency response teams and medical infrastructure ensured that devotees could participate in the festival safely and conveniently.

The Odisha government claimed that considering the unprecedented gathering of devotees and the continuous rainfall, instances of fatigue, dehydration, suffocation and minor health-related discomfort were reported during the course of the day.

"During the course of the festival, seven persons felt unwell and were immediately evacuated by the deployed personnel and shifted to the hospital without delay. Among them, one male devotee aged above 60 years unfortunately succumbed, and the exact cause of death is being ascertained by the concerned authorities," the state government said.

As per the CMO, in a separate and an unrelated incident, a male devotee aged above 35 years suffered a cardiac arrest and, despite immediate medical intervention, unfortunately passed away.

Besides, many devotees became unwell due to incessant rain-induced illness who were given medical treatment at hospital and were discharged after proper medical treatment.

"The overall conduct of the festival remained peaceful, orderly and well managed. There was no incident of stampede or any systemic breakdown of crowd management," the government clarified.

The coordinated efforts of the administration, security agencies, servitors and volunteers ensured uninterrupted movement of devotees.

The situation remained normal throughout the festival, with all essential services functioning effectively.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the servitors and thanked the lakhs of devotees for their patience, discipline and cooperation, which greatly contributed to the peaceful and successful celebration of the festival.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government's unwavering commitment to ensuring that every devotee experiences the sacred festival with safety, dignity and convenience through continuous improvement in infrastructure, public services and administrative preparedness.

Source: IANS

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Agartala, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday said that Rath Yatra is not merely a religious festival but a timeless symbol of humanity, brotherhood, love, and unity, emphasising that such celebrations strengthen social harmony and reinforce the spirit of peaceful coexistence.

The Chief Minister made the remarks while inaugurating the Rath Yatra celebrations organised by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) here, in the presence of Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu.

Addressing the gathering, Saha said the annual chariot festival carries a message of inclusiveness and inspires people to move forward together, transcending barriers of caste, religion, and creed.

“Rath Yatra is not just a religious festival; it is a unique symbol of humanity, brotherhood, love, and unity. This festival teaches us to move forward together by taking everyone along, irrespective of caste, religion, and creed,” the Chief Minister said.

He said the present state government accords equal respect and importance to the festivals of all religions and communities and would continue extending its support in the future.

“The government has always supported festivals of every religion and community with equal respect and importance, and this commitment will continue. Such festivals play a vital role in maintaining peace, harmony, and communal amity in society. They foster unity and strengthen the bonds of mutual respect and goodwill despite our rich cultural diversity,” Saha said.

The Chief Minister noted that a large number of devotees from different parts of the state had assembled to participate in the Rath Yatra, reflecting Tripura’s long‑standing tradition of communal harmony and peaceful coexistence.

He said the devotees' enthusiasm demonstrated that people across the state believe in living together with mutual respect and harmony, and that this collective spirit is beautifully reflected in the Rath Yatra festival.

Describing Rath Yatra as a celebration of the eternal bond between Lord Jagannath and His devotees, Saha said the festival represents far more than a religious observance.

“Rath Yatra symbolises the unity between God and devotees. It is not only a religious event but also a symbol of human welfare, brotherhood and universal faith. It is the responsibility of all of us to preserve and promote this rich tradition and cultural heritage,” he said.

The Chief Minister also urged the younger generation to draw inspiration from the ideals and teachings of Lord Jagannath and uphold the values of compassion, unity and service to society.

Saha offered prayers to Lord Sri Jagannath for peace, progress, and prosperity for Tripura and the entire country, and for the welfare and well‑being of humanity.

Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder, MLA Abhishek Debroy and several other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said on Thursday here that the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) will gradually hand over the responsibility of mid-day meal service in state-run schools throughout the state gradually.

"ISKCON had already been given the responsibility of mid-day meal services in state-run schools within the Kolkata Municipal Corporation from August 1. Next, ISKCON will be given the responsibility for all state-run schools in Nadia district. Gradually the society will be given the same responsibility in all state-run schools in all districts in West Bengal," the Chief Minister told media persons at the sidelines of a Ratha Yatra festival programme at Mecheda in his native East Midnapore district.

"ISKCON has reached a preliminary agreement with the state government on this count. I assure you all that only nutritious food will be served to the school students," he added.

For so long, eggs were served in the school mid-day meals. After ISKCON was given the responsibility of providing that food to schools in Kolkata, many people raised the question on whether the students get eggs henceforth.

Chief Minister Adhikari gave clarifications on this issue and said that the school students will be provided with nutritious food.

"The students coming from ordinary families generally consume mid-day meals. ISKCON will provide them with nutritious food," he said.

However, he did not clarify what food will be served at the mid-day meals.

The Chief Minister also said that his mission and the vision and rebuilding of West Bengal is through associating organisations like the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangha and ISCON, since the vision of such organisations is selfless human service.

"It is very important to provide good, nutritious food. The students who receive mid-day meals in our schools are mainly from middle-class, lower-middle-class and economically backward families. Most of the children from well-off families do not depend on this scheme. Therefore, there is a special need for nutritious food to eliminate malnutrition. That is exactly where ISKCON comes," Chief Minister Adhikari added.

He also said that during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, there had been massive irregularities in the implementation of mid-day meal project in the state.

"The involvement of ISKCON in the project will also weed out the possibilities of such irregularities henceforth," the Chief Minister added.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday said the state government is holding discussions with filmmaker Aditya Dhar to direct a high‑budget biographical film on legendary Ahom commander Lachit Borphukan, to take the story of one of Assam’s greatest heroes to audiences across India and abroad.

Speaking during a Facebook Live interaction, Sarma said the government is keen to support the making of a Bollywood‑scale feature film depicting the life and legacy of the 17th‑century military strategist, whose leadership led the Ahom army to a historic victory over the Mughal forces in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671.

The Chief Minister said he is scheduled to meet National Award‑winning filmmaker Aditya Dhar in August to discuss the proposed project in detail.

Sarma clarified that discussions are still at a preliminary stage and no final decision has been taken. He added that if Dhar is unable to take up the project, the government will approach other filmmakers to ensure that the biopic is made on a grand scale.

“If Aditya Dhar is not available, we will explore other options. Our priority is to make a world‑class film on Lachit Borphukan that does justice to his extraordinary legacy,” Sarma said.

According to him, the proposed film is intended not only to honour the iconic Ahom general but also to introduce Assam’s rich historical heritage to a wider national and international audience.

If the project moves forward, it would become the first Bollywood‑scale feature film backed by the Assam government on the life of Lachit Borphukan.

Widely revered in Assam, Lachit Borphukan is remembered as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and military brilliance.

His decisive role in defeating the Mughal forces at the Battle of Saraighat remains one of the most celebrated chapters in the state's history.

Source: IANS

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Agartala, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amid the continuing nationwide debate over the documents required to establish Indian citizenship, Tripura has, for the first time, granted Indian citizenship to two persons under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), marking the legislation's formal implementation in the state.

Director of Census Operations Ratan Biswas, who also serves as Chairman of the State‑Level Empowered Committee constituted for processing applications under the CAA, said around 23 applications have so far been received in Tripura, of which only two have been approved after completion of the prescribed verification process.

“As on date, we have granted citizenship to two persons. Around 23 applications have been received,” Biswas told the media while responding to questions during a press conference convened to brief on the upcoming Census 2027.

He clarified that the press conference was organised exclusively to discuss Census 2027, but as the competent authority overseeing CAA applications, he responded to queries regarding the status of citizenship applications.

Explaining the procedure, Biswas said the entire application process under the CAA is conducted online through the Central government’s designated portal, ensuring transparency and uniformity.

Every application is initially scrutinised by the District Level Committee (DLC). Applicants are called for physical verification of documents before their cases are forwarded for further examination.

The verified applications are subsequently examined by the State‑Level Empowered Committee (SLEC), which comprises representatives of the state government as well as officials from central agencies, including the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the Railways, and the Department of Posts. Only after all mandatory verifications, security checks, and scrutiny are completed in accordance with Central guidelines does the committee recommend eligible cases for approval, following which citizenship certificates are issued digitally.

According to official sources, the two applicants who have received Indian citizenship under the CAA are residents of the North Tripura district. They have been identified as Jhalak Das Chowdhury and Sima Rani Banik.

Following the grant of citizenship, one of the beneficiaries, Jhalak Das Chowdhury, reportedly met the District Magistrate of North Tripura to complete subsequent formalities for obtaining an Aadhaar card and other identity documents.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, enacted by Parliament in December 2019, provides a fast‑track route to Indian citizenship for eligible members of six non‑Muslim minority communities, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians, who migrated to India from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan before December 31, 2014, after allegedly facing religious persecution.

On March 11, 2024, the Centre notified the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules 2024.

The legislation had triggered widespread protests in several parts of the country, including Tripura, where many indigenous tribal organisations opposed the Act, expressing concerns that its implementation could alter the state’s demographic composition and adversely affect the interests of the indigenous population.

The issue subsequently emerged as one of the most significant political flashpoints in Tripura and contributed to the rise of the Tipra Motha Party, which is currently an alliance partner of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)‑led government in the state.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) After the main opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) also lashed out at the state government over the death of a devotee in an alleged stampede during the annual Rath Yatra in Puri, which commenced on Thursday.

OPCC President Bhakta Charan Das expressed deep grief over the death of the devotee and appealed to the Odisha Government to remain vigilant and ensure proper crowd management so that such incidents do not recur.

He said that during Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra, near Marichikote Square on the Bada Danda (Grand Road), devotee Anil Das allegedly experienced suffocation due to the excessive crowd.

Around 100 feet away from the police cordon, the devotee, a native of Keonjhar district, collapsed and was immediately rescued and shifted to the Puri District Headquarters Hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Das said such recurring incidents during the Rath Yatra are a matter of serious concern and require a thorough review. Calling the incident inexcusable, he alleged that one devotee died while over 150 have been undergoing treatment for crowd‑related suffocation and other ailments.

Referring to last year’s stampede in Puri during the Rath Yatra festival that took three lives, the OPCC president reiterated his criticism, alleging that the issuance of an excessive number of cordon passes and the permission granted to RSS volunteers to enter the cordoned area were among the reasons behind the alleged mismanagement.

He slammed the state government for performing the Pahandi Bije ritual without placing the traditional Tahia, a large, fragrant floral crown worn by the deities, on Lord Jagannath, saying this had deeply hurt the sentiments of the Odia community.

Meanwhile, the state government denied the allegations of a stampede during the Rath Yatra on Thursday, while confirming the death of two devotees in Puri.

As per the state government, during the festival, seven persons felt unwell and were immediately evacuated by deployed personnel and shifted to a hospital without delay.

Among them, one male devotee aged above 60 years unfortunately succumbed, reportedly due to suffocation.

Similarly, in a separate and unrelated incident, a male devotee aged above 35 years suffered a cardiac arrest and, despite immediate medical intervention, unfortunately passed away.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) More than 200 Jagannath Rath Yatras were taken out across Gujarat on Thursday, with the state's major 149th annual procession in Ahmedabad concluding peacefully after travelling along its traditional route from the historic Shree Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur area and returning to the temple by evening.

Besides Ahmedabad, Rath Yatras were organised in cities and towns including Gandhinagar, Surat, Rajkot, Morbi, Vadodara and several other districts, with lakhs of devotees participating in religious processions held on the occasion of Ashadhi Bij.

The police had made elaborate security arrangements across the state, with a special focus on Ahmedabad, which is regarded as the most sensitive and largest Rath Yatra in Gujarat.

The day in Ahmedabad began before dawn with Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah performing the 'Mangala Aarti' and offering prayers at the temple.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel later performed the traditional 'Pahind Vidhi', ceremonially sweeping the path before the chariots with a golden broom, and then flagged off the procession.

The yatra carried the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra along the customary 16-km route through the old city, including its traditional halt in the Saraspur area, regarded as the deities' maternal home, before returning to Jamalpur in the evening.

As the procession progressed, Patel monitored the yatra's movement and management via live feeds displayed on the Chief Minister's Dashboard at his Gandhinagar residence.

Senior officials, including Chief Secretary M.K. Das, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Home Department Sanjeev Kumar, Director General of Police (DGP) G.S. Malik and senior officers from Gujarat Police and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, joined the review.

The Ahmedabad procession witnessed one of the state's largest security deployments. More than 31,000 police personnel, along with the Rapid Action Force and other agencies, were deployed on the route.

Authorities used artificial intelligence-enabled surveillance, facial recognition cameras, drones, body-worn cameras, GPS tracking, high-resolution CCTV cameras and cyber monitoring to oversee the event and curb misinformation on social media.

Police also monitored the procession continuously from an integrated command and control centre.

Emergency medical services remained on standby throughout the day. EMRI 108 ambulances and medical teams responded to 53 medical emergencies, most of them cases of fainting, while patients requiring further treatment were shifted to nearby hospitals.

In a post on social media platform X after the conclusion of the day's events, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said: "Today, on the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, I had the privilege of participating in the Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra organised at various places in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. Jai Jagannath to all devotees."

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the 149th Rath Yatra had concluded peacefully under extensive security arrangements.

"The 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath was completed peacefully with excellent security arrangements. During the 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Ahmedabad, the police administration's planning, the round-the-clock service rendered by police personnel, and their tireless dedication to duty were clearly evident. As a result, the historic Rath Yatra festival was celebrated with dignity," he said.

He added, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the police officers and the administration who served during this Rath Yatra."

The Ahmedabad Rath Yatra, regarded as India's second-largest after the annual procession in Odisha's Puri, drew lakhs of devotees from across Gujarat and other parts of the country, while similar processions across the state concluded amid tight security and religious fervour.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 149th annual Jagannath Rath Yatra concluded on Thursday after the chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra returned to the historic Shree Jagannath Temple in the Jamalpur area, bringing to a close one of Gujarat's largest religious processions.

The procession, which began in the early hours of the day following traditional rituals at the temple, travelled along its customary route through Ahmedabad before returning to the temple by evening.

Lakhs of devotees lined the route to offer prayers and witness the annual yatra, regarded as the second-largest Jagannath Rath Yatra in India after the festival in Puri.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the procession was attended by devotees from Ahmedabad, across Gujarat, and other parts of the country.

"The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath was organised in Ahmedabad today. Lakhs of devotees who came from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and across the country welcomed the Rath Yatra with great enthusiasm," Sanghavi said.

He added, "The highest number of devotees have participated in the darshan of this Rath Yatra. Excellent arrangements were made by Ahmedabad Police, Gujarat Police, and the administration for all the devotees, and the procession is moving ahead right on time."

The day began with Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah performing the Mangala Aarti at the temple, while Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel carried out the traditional 'Pahind Vidhi' before flagging off the procession.

Later, Patel monitored the movement of the yatra in real time through the Chief Minister's Dashboard, reviewing security and crowd management using live video feeds.

Throughout the day, the procession passed key landmarks, including the Saraspur area, traditionally regarded as the maternal home of Lord Jagannath, where the deities were ceremonially welcomed before continuing along the route.

Authorities had put in place one of the most extensive security operations for the annual event.

More than 31,000 police personnel, supported by Rapid Action Force units and other security agencies, were deployed across the 16-km route.

The arrangements included artificial intelligence-enabled surveillance, drones, facial recognition systems, high-resolution CCTV cameras, body-worn cameras, and cyber monitoring to detect rumours and misinformation.

Emergency medical teams and civic agencies also remained on standby throughout the day, providing medical assistance, traffic management, and other essential services to facilitate the smooth completion of the centuries-old procession.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Emergency medical teams had responded to 53 incidents during Ahmedabad's 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra as of Thursday evening, with fainting continuing to account for the highest number of medical emergencies reported along the procession route.

According to the latest update from EMRI 108, a total of 53 cases had been attended to during the procession.

Of these, 18 were cases of fainting, followed by seven requiring first aid, five cases each of falls and breathing problems, four road traffic accidents, three convulsions, two cases each of abdominal pain, vomiting, and headache, and one case each of dehydration, blood pressure-related illness, and chest pain.

EMRI 108 ambulances and emergency response teams remained stationed at strategic locations along the Rath Yatra route to provide immediate medical assistance to devotees and participants.

Patients requiring further treatment were shifted to nearby hospitals after receiving initial care at the scene, while others were treated on site.

The rise in fainting cases came as large crowds gathered along the procession route and devotees spent several hours outdoors to witness the annual event.

Medical teams continued to monitor the situation and respond to calls throughout the day in coordination with police, hospitals, and civic authorities.

The 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra began from the historic Shree Jagannathji Mandir in Jamalpur earlier on Thursday, following the traditional religious ceremonies, including the 'Pahind Vidhi'.

The procession carrying the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra travelled along its customary route through Ahmedabad, passing key locations including Saraspur before returning to the temple later in the day.

Regarded as the second-largest Jagannath Rath Yatra in India after the procession in Puri, the annual event attracts lakhs of devotees from across Gujarat and other parts of the country.

Authorities have put in place extensive arrangements for this year's yatra, including a multi-layered security deployment of more than 31,000 police personnel supported by artificial intelligence-enabled surveillance, drones, facial recognition systems, CCTV cameras, and an integrated command and control centre.

Emergency medical services, fire personnel, and civic teams have also been deployed along the 16-km route to ensure a prompt response to medical emergencies and facilitate the smooth conduct of the procession.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) combined heat mitigation measures with a citywide cleanliness awareness campaign during the 149th Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra, deploying mist vans, fire brigade teams, and public awareness initiatives along the procession route to improve the experience for lakhs of devotees.

With large crowds gathering for the annual procession amid hot weather, AMC coordinated multiple departments to provide relief.

Fire and Emergency Services personnel periodically sprayed water on roads along the Rath Yatra route to keep surface temperatures down, while dedicated mist vans operated continuously throughout the procession, releasing fine water mist to lower surrounding temperatures and make conditions more comfortable for devotees.

"Fire brigade teams and mist van units remained on constant patrol, spraying water wherever required as the procession moved through the city. The arrangements were made with a focus on the convenience and safety of devotees attending the Rath Yatra," officials emphasised.

Alongside the heat relief measures, AMC's Solid Waste Management Department conducted a cleanliness awareness campaign along the procession route, using the event to promote waste segregation and responsible litter disposal.

As part of the campaign, the department set up public awareness stalls and deployed a live mascot representing the city's four-bin waste segregation system.

The colourful mascot interacted with devotees throughout the route, encouraging people not to litter in public places, to segregate waste correctly, and to contribute to keeping the city clean.

The campaign sought to take the message of "Clean Ahmedabad, Beautiful Ahmedabad" to the lakhs of devotees and residents who gathered for the Rath Yatra.

Many visitors, including children, were drawn to the mascot, with several stopping to take photographs while engaging with the cleanliness campaign.

"The initiative aimed to combine the city's religious celebrations with greater awareness of environmental responsibility and civic cleanliness," officials said.

The corporation added that departments remained operational throughout the day to ensure the smooth management of the Rath Yatra while maintaining arrangements for public convenience, safety, and sanitation along the procession route.

Source: IANS

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Jammu, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) A bus carrying Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims caught fire on Thursday on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway in Ramban district, but all 47 pilgrims in the bus escaped unhurt, officials said.

J&K L-G Manoj Sinha said on X: "I have reviewed the situation with senior officials and Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, after a Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrim bus from Rajasthan returning after Darshan caught fire at Karol due to a tyre burst. By Lord Shiva's grace, all pilgrims are safe. I have directed the Ramban district administration to provide immediate assistance to the pilgrims and arrange for their safe travel back to Rajasthan."

Officials said 47 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims had a narrow escape after the bus they were travelling in caught fire on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway near Karool in Ramban district today.

Officials said the sleeper bus (RJ27PC-9921) carrying pilgrims from Rajasthan was on its way from Srinagar to Jammu after the pilgrims had performed the Yatra when it caught fire near Karool on the highway.

Soon after the incident, teams of police, CRPF, Army, SDRF, Fire and Emergency Services, and volunteers rushed to the spot and launched a rescue and firefighting operation.

All 47 occupants, including the driver and conductor, were evacuated safely before the flames engulfed the vehicle.

"No casualty or injury was reported in the incident," officials said, adding that traffic on the highway was briefly affected during the firefighting operation but was restored after the blaze was brought under control.

Since SANJY-2026 started on July 3, over 3.50 lakh pilgrims have performed the Yatra.

The 57-day SANJY-2026 will end on August 27, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals.

The holy cave shrine, situated 3,880 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, houses an ice stalagmite structure which wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe the ice stalagmite structure symbolises the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Telangana School Education Department, the Hyderabad District Magistrate, and the Commissioner of Police over allegations that a private junior college in Hyderabad made Islamic religious lessons and prayers compulsory for students through official school diaries.

A Bench presided over by NHRC Member Priyank Kanoongo took cognisance of a complaint alleging that "Success the Junior College" in Hyderabad’s Saidabad had been assigning Islamic religious lessons and prayers as compulsory homework to students through official school diaries.

According to the complaint, when parents questioned the school authorities, the management allegedly failed to provide a satisfactory explanation and described the entries as a mistake despite similar instructions appearing repeatedly.

The complainant contended that imposing religious instruction in a secular educational institution violates children's rights as well as the secular character of education.

The complainant sought the NHRC's intervention and requested an inquiry into the matter, appropriate action against the school management, and directions to prevent compulsory religious instruction in educational institutions.

Observing that the allegations, if true, prima facie indicate violations of the human rights of the victims, the apex rights body took cognisance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

The NHRC directed its registry to issue notices to the Director of School Education, Government of Telangana, the District Magistrate, and the Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad, directing them to inquire into the allegations and submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks for its perusal.

The apex human rights body has also directed the authorities to forward a copy of the ATR to it through email.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday participated in two Jagannath Rath Yatra processions organised in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar district on the occasion of Ashadhi Bij, flagging off the fifth Rath Yatra of the Jagannath Temple at Adalaj and later inaugurating the 19th Rath Yatra organised by SGVP Gurukul in Memnagar.

The Chief Minister came to the Jagannath Temple in Adalaj, where he performed the traditional 'Pahind Vidhi' with a golden broom in accordance with Vedic rituals before flagging off the temple's fifth Rath Yatra.

He also offered the Mangala Aarti to Lord Jagannath. Before the procession commenced, the temple administration welcomed Patel with a floral garland and a traditional turban.

Large numbers of devotees gathered from early morning to offer prayers to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, while chants of "Jai Jagannath" echoed through the temple premises.

The Adalaj Rath Yatra, organised for the past five years by the Shri Jagannath Cultural Academy and Research Centre, follows a route from the temple through Shani Temple, Uvarsad Bridge, and Adalaj Circle before returning to the temple later in the evening.

Among those present at Adalaj were Gandhinagar Mayor Mira Patel, former Rajya Sabha member Narhari Amin, former civil servants, political and social leaders, and members of Gujarat's Odia community, who offered prayers during the ceremony.

Later in the day, Patel travelled to SGVP Gurukul in Memnagar, where he flagged off the institution's 19th Jagannath Rath Yatra.

He offered prayers before the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, performed the Maha Aarti in accordance with Vedic rituals, and formally inaugurated the procession in the presence of saints and other dignitaries.

According to the officials, the Chief Minister prayed for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the people before flagging off the three chariots. Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot was also present.

The SGVP Gurukul Rath Yatra formed part of celebrations marking the 125th birth anniversary of Param Pujya Shastri Maharaj Shri Dharmajivandas Swami and the golden jubilee year of Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul, Memnagar.

The chariots were decorated with spiritual-themed tableaux. The procession travelled along an approximately seven-kilometre route through Memnagar and surrounding areas before returning to the Gurukul campus in the evening.

The flag-off ceremony at Memnagar was attended by Sadguru Purani Balakrishnadas Swami, city president Prerak Shah, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Water Supply Committee chairman Dharamshi Desai, local councillors, saints, community leaders, and a large number of devotees.

The events formed part of wider Ashadhi Bij celebrations across Gujarat, with Jagannath Rath Yatras being organised at several locations alongside the state's main annual procession from the historic Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi joined the 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra at the Dariyapur area on Thursday evening as the annual procession continued along its traditional route through Ahmedabad.

He was joined by Director General of Police (DGP) G.S. Malik and Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gahlaut from Lolhandwala Hospital in the area.

The senior officials were present at a key point along the Rath Yatra route, where they reviewed the procession's movement and interacted with officers overseeing security and crowd management.

The visit came as the yatra progressed under an extensive security arrangement put in place by the Gujarat government and Ahmedabad Police for one of the state's largest annual religious events.

The procession, which began earlier in the day from the historic Shree Jagannath Temple in the Jamalpur area after traditional religious rituals, is following its customary 16.2-km route through the walled city before returning to the temple later in the day.

The Ahmedabad Rath Yatra, held annually on Ashadhi Bij, is regarded as the second-largest Jagannath Rath Yatra in the country after Puri and attracts lakhs of devotees every year.

Ahead of the procession, Sanghavi personally inspected the entire route with DGP Malik and Commissioner Gahlaut, reviewed security arrangements at sensitive locations, and directed officials to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.

This year's Rath Yatra is being conducted under one of the most extensive security deployments in the city's history.

More than 30,000 police personnel, including senior officers from the state police, the State Reserve Police Force, and the Central Armed Police Forces, have been deployed along the route.

Authorities have also introduced advanced surveillance measures, including artificial intelligence-enabled monitoring, facial recognition cameras, drone surveillance, GPS tracking, body-worn cameras, and an integrated command-and-control system to monitor the procession in real time.

In addition to security personnel, civic agencies and emergency services remain stationed along the route to provide medical assistance, traffic management, and other essential services as thousands of devotees continue to participate in the centuries-old procession.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Emergency medical teams responded to 41 incidents during Ahmedabad's 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra as of 5 p.m. on Thursday, with fainting accounting for the most reported medical emergencies along the procession route.

According to EMRI 108, a total of 41 emergency cases had been attended to by late afternoon.

These included 15 cases of fainting, five requiring first aid, four cases each of falls and breathing-related problems, three road traffic accidents, two cases each of abdominal pain and convulsions, and one case each of chest pain, dehydration, vomiting and headache.

Emergency response teams stationed along the Rath Yatra route provided immediate medical assistance on site before shifting patients to nearby hospitals where necessary.

Among the cases reported, a 40-year-old person fainted near the Saraspur police chowki.

The patient was given first-response treatment, including positioning, reassurance, monitoring of vital signs, and oral rehydration solution (ORS), before being transferred to Sardaben Hospital.

In another incident at Kalupur Bridge at 2.26 p.m., a person who fainted received on-site medical care, including positioning, reassurance and monitoring of vital signs, and was later taken to Sardaben Hospital.

A separate fall was reported near the BBC Market in the Kalupur area. Medical personnel provided wound care and monitored the patient's condition before transferring the patient to LG Hospital for further treatment.

EMRI 108 had deployed ambulances and emergency response teams at strategic locations along the procession route to ensure rapid medical assistance throughout the day.

The service is working in coordination with police, civic authorities and hospitals to respond to emergencies during the annual event.

The 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra began from the historic Shree Jagannath Temple in the Jamalpur area earlier in the morning and proceeded along its traditional route through Ahmedabad.

The annual procession, regarded as India's second-largest Jagannath Rath Yatra after Puri, attracts lakhs of devotees.

Authorities have put in place extensive arrangements for the event, including more than 31,000 police personnel, AI-enabled surveillance, drones, CCTV monitoring and emergency medical services, to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the procession.

Source: IANS

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Jammu, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, on Thursday chaired the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) meeting to review management of offerings and donations at the shrine.

The meeting was attended by members of SMVDSB and senior officials. SMVDSB members attending the meeting included Mahamandleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Baleshwar Rai, Dr. Ashok Bhan, Sudha Murty, Gunjan Rana, Dr. K.K. Talwar, Kulbhushan Ahuja, Lalit Bhasin, Suresh Kumar Sharma; Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; Alok Kumar Maurya, Additional CEO, SMVDSB and other senior officials, in person and through virtual mode, at Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra.

To ensure complete transparency, accountability and adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures in the management of offerings and donations received at the holy shrine, a comprehensive review of the collection, counting, accounting, safeguarding and utilisation of devotees’ offerings was made during the meeting.

A presentation highlighted the robust systems and institutional mechanisms put in place by the Shrine Board for the secure and transparent handling of offerings received through donation boxes, donation counters, online platforms and offerings in the form of precious metals.

The Board, which met under the chairmanship of the Lieutenant Governor, was apprised of verification processes, surveillance mechanism, banking safeguards and periodic audits that govern every stage of the process.

Besides, it was also highlighted that all financial transactions pertaining to offerings and donations are undertaken strictly in conformity with prescribed banking norms, statutory provisions and the guidelines issued by the Government of India from time to time.

The Board also noted the stringent security protocols adopted for handling and storage of the offerings received in the form of precious metals as well as its secure transportation, processing and refinery through reputed Government-approved institutions including the Reserve Bank of India and India Government Mint, Hyderabad.

After a detailed review, the Board expressed satisfaction over the transparency, accountability and efficiency of the existing arrangements.

The Board also appreciated the comprehensive safeguards and monitoring mechanisms adopted to ensure that the sacred offerings made by devotees are managed with the highest standards of integrity, financial discipline and public trust.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) One person reportedly died due to suffocation in an alleged stampede-like situation during the Rath Yatra festival in Puri, Odisha, on Thursday. However, there has been no official confirmation of the devotee's death or the stampede-like situation so far.

Speaking to reporters, a devotee who was present at the spot in Puri said that near Marichikund Square, either the rope barricade of the the outer cordon collapsed, or some people lost their balance and fell on the road.

He said they saw around 40 to 50 people falling on top of one another, leaving several devotees injured, with four to five of them appearing to have sustained serious injuries.

He added that they rescued around 20 people and rushed them to the hospital by ambulance, and were now hearing that an elderly person had succumbed.

Besides, sources also claimed that around 200 patients have so far been admitted to the hospital and temporary health facilities in Puri, complaining of suffocation and various injuries amid the unprecedented rush of devotees and incessant downpour on Thursday.

Lakhs gathered in the holy coastal town of Puri to witness the grand annual Rath Yatra on Thursday. The world-famous annual Rath Yatra festival began with the Pahandi Bije ritual for the divine siblings and other deities, ahead of schedule, earlier in the day.

The holy siblings, along with other deities, during the Pahandi Bije ritual, were escorted from the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple to their respective decorated chariots in a grand ceremonial procession, accompanied by the enthralling and divine sound of traditional musical instruments such as ghanta (gong), kahali (trumpet), and telingi baja.

The priests, chanting sacred Vedic hymns, and traditional Odissi artists, with their enthralling dance performances, welcomed the deities on their nine-day sojourn at the Gundicha Temple, believed to be their birthplace.

Although the Pahandi Bije rituals began ahead of schedule, their completion was delayed by more than two hours on Thursday.

Source: IANS

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Bhubaneswar, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Torrential rain failed to dampen the spirit of lakhs of devotees who remained immersed in devotion during the annual Rath Yatra festival in Odisha's holy town of Puri on Thursday.

Devotees gathered along the Bada Danda (Grand Road) were seen holding a sea of umbrellas while chanting 'Jai Jagannath' and 'Hari Bol' and dancing in ecstasy despite the incessant downpour.

On Thursday, the world-famous annual Rath Yatra festival began with the commencement of the Pahandi Bije ritual of the divine siblings and other deities, ahead of the scheduled time.

The holy siblings, along with other deities during the Pahandi Bije ritual, were escorted out from the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple to their respective decorated chariots in a grand ceremonial procession with the enthralling and divine sound of traditional musical instruments, like ghanta (gong), kahali (trumpet), and telingi baja, etc.

The priests, chanting sacred Vedic hymns, and traditional Odissi artists with their enthralling dance performances welcomed the deities on their nine-day sojourn for the Gundicha Temple, believed to be their birthplace.

Although the Pahandi Bije rituals began ahead of schedule, their completion was delayed by more than two hours on Thursday.

Following the completion of the Pahandi ritual, Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, along with his disciples, offered puja to the holy siblings on the chariots. Later, Puri King Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singha Deb, the first servitor of the Lord Jagannath, offered prayers to the deities and conducted the ceremonial sweeping of the chariots with a golden broom.

It is worth noting that the district administration and the state housing and urban development department have made elaborate arrangements for prompt discharge of stormwater in waterlogging-prone areas across Puri town. Besides, the district administration, police and other departments have also made elaborate arrangements in the city to ensure a smooth conduct of the Rath Yatra this year.

More than 13,000 police personnel, along with an adequate number of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), have been deployed for security arrangements during the festival. The Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy will also remain on alert to check any illegal activities through the coastal route.

On the other hand, as many as 19 senior IPS officers have been assigned the duty to supervise the overall security arrangements.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) A controversy erupted after a viral video showed Maulana Jarjis Ansari claiming that Lord Krishna was a Muslim and offered namaz five times a day, with Hindu saints and right-wing groups launching a scathing attack on the Muslim cleric.

Maulana Ansari further drew the ire of the seers for reportedly reciting a verse from the Bhagavad Gita in order to support his claim.

Reacting on the cleric's remarks, Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das said: "A Maulana has claimed that Lord Krishna was a Muslim and offered namaz. Whoever cuts off his tongue will be rewarded with Rs 10 lakh. He has hurt the religious sentiments of Lord Krishna's devotees. He does not know even a single word of Sanskrit and is misinterpreting verses from the Bhagavad Gita."

Mahant Nirmal Giri of Agra's Kailash Mahadev Temple said Maulana Ansari always makes such "nonsensical statements" wherever he gives speeches, especially among the Muslim community.

"He (Maulana Jarjis Ansari) has created a kind of propaganda about how to attack Sanatan Dharma and keeps creating such an atmosphere," the saint told IANS.

Nirmal Giri echoed, saying: "The Maulana does not have any knowledge of Shrimad Bhagwat Gita and neither about Lord Krishna."

Peethadheeshwar of Tapasvi Chhawani Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya also said: "The statement made by Maulana Jarjis is baseless, without evidence, inhumane, and capable of disturbing peace in the country."

Taking the criticism further, Saint Deveshacharya ji Maharaj said: "The Maulana has lost his mind that is why he is making such absurd statements. He knows nothing about Lord Krishna, who is revered as 'Vande Jagadgurum'. If he had said that Lord Krishna was his ancestor or someone he admired, that could have been understood. But claiming that Lord Krishna recited the 'Kalma' and offered namaz is a very unfortunate statement. Such remarks only serve to spread unrest."

Vishva Hindu Parishad national spokesperson Vinod Bansal said: "Maulana Jarjis and such people have been red-faced many times before, but they feel no shame. It seems some other arrangement will have to be made for them by the government and the administration."

Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha national spokesperson Shishir Chaturvedi added: "No one dares to speak against the Quran or Prophet Muhammad, because slogans of 'Sar Tan Se Juda' are raised immediately. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government will appear weak if no action is taken in this matter."

"Akhilesh Yadav, Lord Krishna is your ancestor according to your lineage, say something on this," he told IANS, while referring to the Samajwadi Party Chief.

Addressing Akhilesh Yadav, Chaturvedi said: "Please leave this kind of appeasement otherwise Sanatanis will stop looking at you. You don't win only due to the votes of Yadav and Muslim community. 'Sanatanis' also vote for you...you spoke so much on the Ram Temple row, now address this issue as well."

Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad President Mahant Ravindra Puri also appealed to the government to take strict action against such "misleading" statements.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) A controversial speech by UP-based Maulana Jarjis Ansari has triggered a major uproar and backlash from both the political class and community leaders, with many demanding action against the cleric for vitiating communal harmony.

The Islamic cleric claimed at an event, a video of which is viral on social media, that Lord Krishna was a Muslim and offered namaz five times a day.

The video, purportedly from a religious address in Jharkhand on June 23, resurfaced recently amidst the ongoing Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute. This prompted angry protests from several Hindu groups that demanded the cleric's arrest.

Many Hindu saints, responding to objectionable commentary, demanded that he take back his words, while an Ayodhya-based seer announced a Rs 10 lakh reward for severing his tongue.

Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya, Peethadheeshwar of Tapasvi Chhawani, said, "The statement made by Maulana Jarjees is baseless, without evidence, inhumane, and capable of disturbing peace in the country. Lord Shri Krishna, the Divine Purushottam, was the Supreme Being and God Himself."

Deveshacharya Ji Maharaj termed his remarks unfortunate and reprehensible.

"The Maulana has lost his mind. That is why he is making such absurd statements. He knows nothing about Lord Krishna, who is revered in the 'Vande Jagadgurum' mantra. If he had said that Lord Krishna was his ancestor or someone he admired, that could have been understood. But claiming that Lord Krishna recited the Kalma and offered namaz is a very unfortunate statement,'' he stated.

Ayodhya-based saint Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das offered a Rs 10 lakh award and said, "A Maulana has claimed that Lord Krishna was a Muslim and offered namaz. Whoever cuts off his tongue will be rewarded with ₹10 lakh. He has hurt the religious sentiments of Lord Krishna's devotees. He does not know even a single word of Sanskrit and is misinterpreting verses from the Bhagavad Gita."

Mahant Nirmal Giri of Kailash Temple said, "He always makes such nonsensical statements wherever he gives speeches, especially among the Muslim community. He has created a kind of propaganda about how to attack Sanatan Dharma and keeps creating such an atmosphere. He says that Lord Shri Krishna used to offer namaz five times."

The political class also reacted to his comments, terming them a publicity stunt and supporting action against him for violating sentiments.

Former minister and BJP leader Mohsin Raza said, ''We oppose his remarks. There should be an investigation into which organisation this person is associated with. The opposition parties, especially the Samajwadi Party and the Congress, keep such Maulvis with them so that they can insult our deities and attack Sanatan culture. Such irresponsible Maulvis are being allowed to hurt religious sentiments."

LoP in Jharkhand Assembly Babulal Marandi said, "Who is he trying to explain this to? Is he addressing Hindus or Muslims? If he is speaking to Hindus, then there is nothing to worry about because Hindus already worship Lord Krishna. He should instead explain it to those who do not worship him"

Congress leader Mahendra Pratap Singh said, "This is highly condemnable and extremely unfortunate. He should apologise immediately to the Sanatan and Hindu communities. By making such statements, he is hurting our religious sentiments and insulting Sanatan Dharma. Islam came around 1,400 years ago, whereas Lord Krishna existed more than 5,000 years ago. So what kind of statements is he making? Has he lost his senses?"

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) spokesperson Vinod Bansal rebuked the shameless behaviour.

"This is nothing new. Earlier, Arshad Madani had also made similar remarks about Lord Shankar at a rally in Delhi. Maulana Zarjees and such people have been red-faced many times before, but they feel no shame. It seems some other arrangement will have to be made for them."

The cleric’s comment that stirred widespread furore read, "If our brothers do not mind, then even Krishna ji used to offer prayers five times a day. If you do not believe, then see the 10th verse of the 6th chapter of Shri Bhagavad Gita," Ansari said before reciting the verse.”

The cleric further claimed, "If these Hindu Muslims read their books... then they will believe that they will start loving Islam. Because Islam is the religion of the world, and not just Islam.”

Source: IANS

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Ranchi, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 335th historic Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath was taken out in Ranchi on Thursday amid an atmosphere of deep faith, tradition, and communal harmony.

The grand procession, which began from the historic Jagannathpur Temple, drew lakhs of devotees from across the region.

Amid chants of “Jai Jagannath”, the blowing of conch shells, and devotional songs, the idols of Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra were ceremoniously placed on the ornate chariot and taken towards Mausibari (the maternal aunt’s abode).

Following traditional rituals and special prayers, the deities were installed on the chariot before the procession commenced.

As the Rath Yatra began, enthusiasm among devotees reached its peak. Thousands joined hands to pull the chariot with ropes along the nearly half-km route to Mausibari.

Lord Jagannath will remain there for nine days, granting devotees darshan, before returning to the main temple during the traditional Ghurti Rath Yatra.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren also participated in the celebrations. Extending his wishes on the occasion, he prayed that the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra bring happiness, peace, prosperity, and good health to all.

He said the Rath Yatra inspires people to walk the path of service, social harmony, faith, and humanity.

The Ranchi Rath Yatra is regarded as one of the oldest such processions in the country. Its origins date back to 1691, when Nagvanshi ruler Aninath Shahdeo drew inspiration from the famed Jagannath Temple in Puri and constructed the Jagannathpur Temple atop a hill in Ranchi.

He subsequently initiated the Rath Yatra tradition, which has continued uninterrupted for over three centuries. Today, the festival forms an integral part of Jharkhand’s cultural and religious identity.

The architecture and rituals of the Jagannathpur Temple closely resemble those of the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are worshipped according to age-old traditions. For devotees, pulling the sacred chariot is considered an act of immense spiritual merit.

One of the defining features of the Ranchi Rath Yatra is its enduring message of social cohesion. For generations, people from different castes and communities have played traditional roles in organising and managing the festival. This shared participation has transformed the event into more than just a religious celebration, making it a symbol of cultural heritage, inclusivity, and communal goodwill.

The nine-day fair that accompanies the Rath Yatra is also expected to attract large numbers of visitors from across Jharkhand and neighbouring states, further enhancing the festive spirit surrounding one of the region’s most cherished religious events.

Source: IANS

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Dehradun, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Amid a row over the alleged embezzlement of management of offerings made at Badrinath temple in Chamoli district, the Shri Badarinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has submitted its 18-page internal enquiry report to the Uttarakhand Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT), sources said on Thursday.

According to official sources privy of the matter, an internal review of CCTV footages of June 22 and 25 reportedly identified some suspicious individuals.

The Uttarakhand Police SIT may question the suspects today as part of the investigation.

Moreover, the SIT has also taken possession of the DVR containing CCTV footages of June 29 and July 2 for further examination.

A day earlier, BKTC Chief Executive Officer, Sohan Singh Rangad, said that the temple body's treasurer has been transferred amid the alleged irregularities at the temple in Uttarakhand.

Speaking exclusively to IANS, Rangad said: "The Treasurer has not been removed; he has been transferred."

"An investigation team had given us a report regarding certain things that were kept in the double-lock, specifically materials made of silver. There was a discrepancy between that material and the entry in the register -- the amount recorded in the register was less, while the actual material found at the site was more. So, it is quite possible that this was a human error, especially because the quantity of the material was larger. Had it been less than what was recorded, I would have said that some of it had been taken out," he said.

However, Rangad said that since the metals and ornaments recovered from the holy site were more than the entry made in the register, "it may have been overwritten".

"Keeping in view the sensitive nature of the matter, the Treasurer has been transferred," he stated.

The BKTC CEO also denied allegations that laptops and an ambulance that were received as donations had gone missing. saying: "We have three ambulances, out of which one was declared 'without purpose' and auctioned in 2016 following due process. The second was formally handed over to CMO Rudraprayag and the third one is in Ukhimath (town)."

"The laptops that were received as donations were distributed among the employees. After conducting a probe, we found that those are still with the employees," he added.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) The BJP, along with Hindu saints, on Thursday strongly reacted after a Class 2 student of a private school in Hyderabad was asked by a teacher to recite the 'Kalma', calling it a "backdoor conversion of Hindu students" and urging people to keep children away from exposure to religious issues.

Following the incident in Hyderabad’s Saidabad area, the school management terminated the services of the teacher.

The Class 2 student was reportedly assigned the task as a homework activity in his school diary, the pictures of which are widely circulated on social media. As the parents learnt about the alleged attempt by the teacher to memorise Islamic religious texts, they took up the matter with school authorities and confronted the management. They expressed deep anger and questioned the inappropriate conduct of the school, questioning the attempts to vitiate the academic environment for children.

Speaking to IANS, BJP leader T.R. Sriniwas referred to the incident as "backdoor conversion of Hindu students".

"A private educational institute in Saidabad asked a non-Muslim student to memorise the Holy Quran's Surah Al-Fatiha and the Kalma. I really wonder what is going on in Hyderabad. Are we trying to turn a blind eye to this conversion?" he asked.

Questioning Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, he said: "What is the Chief Minister of Telangana doing? Is this the definition of secularism here - trying to convert Hindu students, trying to convert non-Muslim students?"

Seeking a thorough probe into the incident, Sriniwas said: "I demand a thorough investigation by the Police Commissioner. The Education Chief Secretary and the Education Minister have to come out and give a statement here. Is the covert agenda of the Congress being implemented here? This is objectionable, and the Telangana BJP demands an explanation."

BJP spokesperson Mahesh Naamani said that whatever happened is "not fair for the students because it is a breach of trust on the part of the school". "Students should not be exposed to religious issues in an academic environment," he asserted.

The BJP leader also demanded a thorough inquiry and strict action against those responsible from the school management.

Moreover, he asked the Congress and its INDIA bloc allies not to do "vote bank politics" over the incident.

Several Hindu seers also strongly condemned the incident.

Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das alleged: "There are some radical elements in Hyderabad who are trying to convert Hindu children to Islam. Their objective is to increase the Muslim population in India. They target Hindu children, ask them to write in Urdu, recite the Kalma, and memorise it. This is their goal."

Seer Sitaram Das called the incident a "conspiracy to convert Sanatani children". "It is extremely condemnable; such incidents won't be tolerated," he told IANS.

Source: IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) The 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra reached Saraspur area on Thursday afternoon, marking the completion of the first major leg of the annual procession as Gujarat Police continued to monitor the event through an extensive technology-driven security network.

Speaking to IANS, Ahmedabad Cyber Cell DCP, Dr Lavina Sinha, said the first segment of the procession had reached Saraspur while the second segment was on its way, with the yatra progressing as scheduled under heavy security.

"Surveillance was being carried out from the police control room, with the entire 16-km procession route covered by CCTV cameras, including high-resolution pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras that provide real-time monitoring of crowds and movement," she said.

In addition to physical deployment, police have intensified cyber surveillance to curb the spread of rumours and misinformation during the procession.

"We have police deployed and a cyber cell for media monitoring. All platforms of social media and the media are being monitored for any rumours or misinformation. We are keeping a watch," a senior police officer said.

Asked about action taken against social media accounts, Lavina said, "We are still taking action. I think the exact number we will be able to tell tomorrow."

Officials said this year's security arrangements rely heavily on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies.

"We have surveillance all across. For media monitoring we have an AI-enabled tool for social media monitoring. Then we have drone surveillance from the sky and CCTV surveillance at all points. The entire route is covered. The control room is also enabled with AI and face recognition abilities," the officer said.

Explaining the facial recognition system, the officer said, "There is a database of people that we create and leverage for the recognition of miscreants, if any."

According to the Crime Branch, high-tech drones, facial recognition cameras, audio surveillance systems and social media monitoring are being used to keep a close watch on the Rath Yatra route and surrounding areas throughout the day.

The annual Rath Yatra, which began from the historic Shree Jagannath Mandir in Jamalpur earlier in the day, follows its traditional route through Ahmedabad, with Saraspur regarded as one of the most significant halts.

The locality is traditionally considered the maternal home (mamera) of Lord Jagannath, where the deities are ceremonially welcomed and offered mahaprasad before the procession resumes its onward journey.

Regarded as India's second-largest Jagannath Rath Yatra after Puri, the Ahmedabad procession is being conducted under one of the city's most extensive security operations, with more than 31,000 police personnel, Rapid Action Force units and other security agencies deployed to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the centuries-old religious event.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a shocking development, a Class 2 student of a private school in Hyderabad was asked by a teacher to recite the 'Kalma', leading to anger and outrage from the student’s parents and local residents.

The incident took place in Hyderabad’s Saidabad area. As the school came under fire from all quarters, the management on Thursday terminated the services of the teacher.

The Class 2 student was reportedly assigned the task as a homework activity in his school diary, the pictures of which are widely circulated on social media.

As the parents learnt about the alleged attempt by the teacher to memorise Islamic religious texts, they took up the matter with school authorities and confronted the management. They expressed deep anger and questioned the inappropriate conduct of the school, questioning the attempts to vitiate the academic environment for children.

Some videos of parents engaged in verbal exchange with school authorities are also doing the rounds on social media.

The parents demanded stern and swift action against the school authorities and those involved in pressurising students to undertake such activity. The matter turned bigger as local community members joined the parents in protesting against ‘inhuman practices’ at the school.

Facing flak from all quarters, the school has terminated the services of the school teacher.

In an order dated July 16, the school said, Your services as Mother Teacher at Success the School are terminated."

"You are informed that you are permanently disqualified to apply for employment in future in the Success group of education institutions,” the order said, addressed to a teacher named Shaikh Aisha Parveen.

The parents have also demanded a formal investigation, seeking that religious practices remain distinctly separate from classroom activities. They have also approached the local police to hold the school accountable for the alleged incident.

The incident drew strong condemnation from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP).

Calling it an assault on children’s impressionable minds, VHP’s Vinod Bansal said, “Schools are temples of knowledge, not centres for imposing religious educational kalma or jihadist agendas. The incident of teaching kalma to innocent second-grade students in Bhagyanagar (Hyderabad) is a direct assault on children's constitutional rights and parents' trust. Strict action should be taken against the guilty school management.”

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari claimed it to be the handiwork of the conversion mafia in Telangana while implying that the Congress party was the ‘inspiration’ behind it.

Referring to its previous “Congress = Muslims” stand, he alleged that the conversion mafia in Telangana was motivated by the grand old party’s designs and was trying to convert them by forcing them to read ‘Kalma’.

“Rahul Gandhi supports conversion mafia. Congress and Asaduddin Owaisi are hand in glove. Congress is anti-Hindu,” he wrote in a post on X.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) A controversy erupted at a private school in Hyderabad following an allegation that a Hindu student of Class 2 was assigned Islamic religious verses as homework.

The student was asked to recite ‘Kalima’ and ‘Sura Fatiha’. The incident occurred at a school in the Saidabad area.

The parents of the student confronted the school management, questioning the appropriateness of such an act within an academic environment.

The parents lodged their protest with the management of ‘Success’ school and demanded action against the teacher involved.

Following the protest, the school management sacked the teacher. She has been permanently disqualified from applying for employment in future in the ‘Success’ group of educational institutions.

According to the parents, the teacher had given the homework on July 15. “Read Sura Fatiha”, mentioned in the school diary under the subject ‘Deeniyath’. Earlier on July 11, the teacher had written ‘Read Kalima’, but the same was struck off by the teacher, apparently after realising that the subject did not apply to the non-Muslim student.

According to the school management, almost all the students in the school are Muslims, and they have the subject of ‘Deeniyath’ or Islamic teaching. However, the subject is not taught to non-Muslim students.

‘Kalima’ is the Islamic declaration of faith and testimony, while ‘Surah Fatiha’ is the first chapter of the Holy Quran.

The management clarified that it was an inadvertent mistake, but they still took the action of terminating the services of the teacher.

Meanwhile, independent MLA T. Raja Singh Lodh condemned the incident. He said it was deeply shameful that a Class 2 student was allegedly pressured by the school management to recite the Kalma.

“This is not the first such case in Telangana; there have been several similar incidents in the past. Yesterday, when the parents of the child went to the school and questioned the management about how they could pressure their Hindu child to recite the Kalma, the school authorities had no answer,” he said

He demanded that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy take action against schools which are forcing Hindu children to recite ‘Kalma’.

The former BJP MLA questioned the silence of AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on the issue.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, July 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) Entire Kolkata has been wrapped under blanket security coverage since early Thursday morning on the occasion of the Ratha Yatra festival, with major processions scheduled to be organised in different pockets of the city, the biggest and the most colourful of which is the one by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).

Since Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will himself inaugurate the ISKCON procession by pulling the rope of the Rath and also walk for some distance along the procession, special security arrangements have been made for the occasion.

An insider from the Kolkata Police said a total of 2,000 policemen have already been deployed on the streets of Kolkata since early morning, and the deployments are mainly on the roads where the Rath Yatra will start, move through and finally end.

Apart from these 2,000 policemen, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and Heavy Radio Flying Squad (HRFS) vans have been deployed at strategic locations and junctions to ensure absolute security over the processions. Apart from that, drones are also being used by the city police for aerial surveillance.

As per information available with the city police, more than 80 Ratha Yatra processions are scheduled in the city for the day, and the police administration is not taking chances in its attempts to prevent any unfortunate incident.

The main procession organised by ISKCON will start from the society’s office at Albert Road in central Kolkata and end at the Brigade Parade Ground. It will also move through various areas in both South and Central Kolkata, giving people an opportunity to join the procession.

The Chief Minister will remain present at the beginning of the procession and inaugurate the event by pulling the rope of the Rath. He is also scheduled to walk some distance along with the procession.

From there, he will rush to his native district of East Midnapore and take part in Rath Yatra functions there.

The state government this time has adopted several initiatives concerning the Rath Yatra. The government has decided to provide financial assistance to 60 Rath Yatra committees this year. Each committee is being given Rs 5 lakh. Accordingly, a total grant of Rs 3 crore has been allocated.

The state government claims that this financial assistance will play an important role in better organising the traditional Rath Yatra and related cultural activities in different parts of the state.

Source: IANS

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