As the Maharashtra Assembly election campaign reaches its final day, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has launched a scathing attack on the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reported the ANI. Speaking in Pune on Monday, Reddy claimed that PM Modi's departure for the G20 summit is a sign that the BJP has accepted defeat in the upcoming polls. "Today is the last day for campaigning in Maharashtra. PM Modi has left the country. This means that BJP and PM Modi have accepted their defeat and they have left the battlefield," Reddy said. He further criticised the BJP for allegedly trying to divide the country for electoral gains and questioned Modi's achievements during his 11-year tenure as Prime Minister. "I saw some advertisements by the BJP in newspapers today, they are trying to divide the country to win elections... Staying the Prime Minister for three terms and 11 years, PM Modi has nothing to say about the works he has done," Reddy said. With the Maharashtra Assembly elections just two days away, the BJP has initiated an advertising campaign targeting the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). The ads urge voters to "Say No to Congress" along with MVA logo and highlight various tragic incidents that occurred during previous Congress-led governments, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the 2003 Mumbai serial blasts, and the 7/11 train bombing It also featured alleged corruption, including the black-marketing of Remdesivir by a Congress official, and claims of financial mismanagement in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The campaign also referenced the Gowari massacre and the Palghar Sadhu lynching, questioning the government's handling of these incidents, reported ANI. In response, All India Congress General Secretary Randeep Surjewala held a press conference on Sunday, criticising the BJP government. He dubbed the BJP as the "Bhagoda Jutao" (runaway) company. He outlined what he called the “four M’s” as Mumbai mortgaged, Mahayuti's guns and gundaraj (rule of goons), Mahayuti's Mehngai (inflation), Maharashtra's land exploitation by the "Khoka Group vultures." Surjewala accused the government of favouring certain business interests, particularly in Mumbai's development projects and land deals. He also highlighted concerns about rising crime rates in Mumbai and questioned the government's economic decisions. Surjewala said, "Adani now owns Mumbai Airport and electricity supply... He is the beneficiary of Maharashtra's biggest land deal -- the Dharavi Development Project." He also condemned the mandatory purchase of TDR from Adani by all builders in Mumbai, calling it unfair, stated ANI. Slamming the alleged rising crime in Mumbai under Mahayuti's rule, Surjewala stated, "Among India's biggest cities, I am sure you know Mumbai is the highest in crimes, with 14 crimes reported in a day," and accused Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of protecting criminals. Regarding inflation, Surjewala questioned the Maharashtra government decisions, asking, "How many tenders and contracts have been awarded by Mr. Eknath Shinde in the last one year?" As Maharashtra voters prepare to vote on November 20 assembly election, both parties continue to trade accusations and present their cases to the electorate.(With inputs from ANI)
18 November,2024 01:40 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentUnion Home Minister Amit Shah is set to hold a key meeting on Monday to review the security in Manipur and is expected to come up with a strategy to control the "volatile" situation in the northeastern state, reported news agency PTI. Officials such as National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka are expected to attend the meeting. The Union Home Minister also reviewed the security situation in Manipur after cancelling three campaigns for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections scheduled for November 20 with vote counting on November 23. Manipur, where ethnic conflicts have been on rise since May last year, is now volatile again following protests and violence after recovering bodies of women and children. Shah will hold a key meeting and review the situation in Manipur on Monday. He is likely to give directions for handling the current "volatile" situation in the state, stated PTI. Residence of three more BJP legislators, including a senior minister, and a Congress MLA was torched by a violent mob in Imphal Valley on Saturday night. Additionally, Security forces thwarted an attempt by agitators to storm the ancestral residence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. These incidents took place despite the ongoing curfew imposed after people, agitated by the Jiribam district incident where three women and three children were killed by militants, attacked the residences of three state ministers and six MLAs earlier on Saturday, according to PTI. Resident of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong, Hiyanglam's BJP MLA Y Radheshyam at Langmeidong Bazar, Wangjing Tentha's BJP MLA Paonam Brojen in Thoubal district and Khundrakpam's Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar in Imphal East district was torched by the violent mob. At the time of the incident, the legislators and their family members were not at home, stated police officials. The mob charged into their residential compounds, vandalised properties and set the house on fire. The police officials added that the houses were burnt partially. Last week, insurgents, camouflaged in uniforms and armed with sophisticated weapons had attacked the Borobekra police station and an adjacent CRPF camp, which led to a fierce gunfight with security forces. Manipur police reported that 10 suspected militants were killed in the incident at Jakuradhor, Jiribam on November 11. The police said that hours after the incident, suspected militants abducted six civilians, including women and children from Jiribam district. The Union home ministry, on Saturday, said all security forces presented in Manipur are directed to take necessary actions to curb violence and restore order and peace. The home ministry said strict action would be initiated against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities. Seeing the fragile situation, the Centre on Thursday reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Manipur's six police station areas, including the violence-hit Jiribam, reported PTI. Since May last year, more than 220 people have been killed with thousands left homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo community. The violent clash began after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was held in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Jiribam, an ethnically diverse region, was largely untouched by the clashes, saw violence when a mutilated body of a farmer was found in a field in June this year. (With inputs from PTI)
18 November,2024 12:14 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentTamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday morning held discussions with the 16th Finance Commission at the Secretariat in Chennai. During the meeting, CM Stalin warmly welcomed the Finance Commission’s Chairman and members and underscored the significance of their recommendations in shaping India’s future as a developed nation. Addressing the gathering, Stalin remarked, “On behalf of Tamil Nadu and its people, I extend a warm welcome to the 16th Finance Commission Chairman and its esteemed members. I firmly believe that the recommendations made by this commission should meet the expectations of all Indian states. These recommendations will play a vital role in transforming India into a developed country while strengthening its federal structure.” Stalin emphasised the need for equitable and inclusive recommendations that would empower all states, ensuring that the financial needs and aspirations of diverse regions are adequately addressed. He expressed confidence that the commission’s suggestions would contribute significantly to fostering national growth and unity. Meanwhile, on Saturday, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence convened a meeting in Chennai to evaluate the Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) efforts in safeguarding India's extensive maritime borders. According to an official statement, the meeting focused on enhancing coastal security measures and ensuring the protection of India’s maritime interests. The committee was led by Member of Parliament Shri Radha Mohan Singh, who chaired the session. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and ICG participated in the discussion. Director General S Paramesh, PTM, TM, provided a comprehensive briefing on the Coast Guard’s operational capabilities, strategic initiatives, and readiness to address emerging challenges. The discussions highlighted the ICG’s ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination among stakeholders, improve maritime safety protocols, and bolster response mechanisms for security threats. CM Stalin appeals for fishermen’s release Separately, earlier this week, Chief Minister Stalin urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to secure the release of Tamil Nadu fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy. Stalin’s letter detailed two recent incidents: on November 9, twenty-three fishermen from Rameswaram and two mechanised fishing boats were apprehended, followed by another boat and 12 fishermen on November 12. The CM called for urgent intervention to ensure the safe return of the fishermen and their boats, stressing the need to protect the livelihood of Tamil Nadu’s fishing communities.
18 November,2024 10:59 AM IST | ChennaiIndigo Airlines issued a travel advisory for passengers due to fog conditions in New Delhi on Sunday, ANI reported. In a post on X, the airlines recommended passengers to allow extra travel time and check flights before the start of the journey. "Fog is currently affecting visibility in Delhi, which may result in slow-moving traffic and delays in flight schedules. We recommend allowing extra travel time and checking flight status before starting your journey. Safe travels!" the post mentioned. #6ETravelAdvisory: Fog is currently affecting visibility in Delhi, which may result in slow moving traffic and delays in flight schedules. We recommend allowing extra travel time and checking flight status before starting your journey https://t.co/rpnOvAOxQl. Safe travels! — IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) November 17, 2024 Earlier the Delhi government directed to impose Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from Monday following the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital crossed the 450 mark on Sunday falling under the 'Severe+' category. Delhi's daily average AQI rose sharply to 441 by 4 pm on Sunday, and by 7 pm further increased to 457, as per Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) data. This severe spike prompted an emergency meeting of the GRAP Sub-Committee, ANI reported. "Keeping in view the prevailing trend of deteriorating air quality of NCR, and to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the Sub-Committee today has taken the call to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of GRAP - 'Severe+' Air Quality (Delhi's AQI > 450), w.e.f. 08:00 AM of 18.11.2024 (tomorrow) in the entire NCR," the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said in a statement. This is in addition to the preventive actions mentioned under Stages I, II and III of GRAP which are already in force. According to ANI, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the National Capital Region (NCR) is classified under four different stages of adverse air quality in Delhi: Stage I -- 'poor' (AQI 201-300); Stage II -- 'very poor' (AQI 301-400); Stage III - - 'severe' (AQI 401-450); and Stage IV -- 'severe plus' (AQI >450). The stage-IV response comprises an 8-point action plan designed to reduce the air pollution crisis. Key measures include prohibiting non-essential truck traffic into Delhi, except for trucks that are carrying essential commodities or are providing essential services, ANI cited. Delhi battles 'severe plus' air pollution as Yamuna toxic foam adds to crisis Delhi's air quality worsened significantly on Monday morning as a thick blanket of smog covered several parts of the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plunged to 'severe plus' levels, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording an AQI of 483 at 7 am in the national capital, according to ANI. The toxic foam was observed floating on the Yamuna River in Kalindi Kunj, and residents reported breathing difficulties and eye irritation. A local resident shared, "I have been living here for 20 years... This (air pollution) causes burning in the eyes, breathing difficulties, cough and cold. Pollution is very high here. Water is polluted too... We are habituated now. But someone new won't be able to stay here, they would fall ill immediately." Despite the smog, train services continued to operate in Delhi. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) issued a notice stating that low visibility procedures were in place, although flight operations were normal. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines for updates. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced on Sunday that physical classes for all students, except those in classes 10 and 12, would be discontinued. Schools will shift to online classes in light of the worsening pollution levels. In a post on X, she stated, "With the imposition of GRAP-4 from tomorrow, physical classes shall be discontinued for all students, apart from Class 10 and 12. All schools will hold online classes, until further orders." (With inputs from ANI)
18 November,2024 10:47 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIn response to escalating violence in Manipur, authorities have imposed a curfew in both Imphal East and Imphal West districts until further notice, as per ANI. The decision follows the discovery of six bodies amidst ongoing unrest in the state. The Manipur government has also suspended internet services in seven districts to prevent the spread of misinformation and further unrest. Security has been significantly heightened in sensitive areas, including outside the residences of Chief Minister Biren Singh and the Raj Bhavan. Sparse vehicular movement was observed on the streets, underscoring the tense atmosphere in the region. The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has expressed deep concern over the violence, which has resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of communities, and destruction of ancestral properties. "We strongly condemn the violence and urge all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue, reconciliation, and peacebuilding efforts. The current situation is destabilising for Manipur and poses a serious threat to the harmony and security of the entire Northeastern region," stated the NPCC. The committee also called on the Union government to take swift and decisive measures to restore law and order. "The Government of India must address the underlying causes of the conflict, ensure the safety and dignity of all citizens, and provide support to displaced families. Rebuilding trust among diverse communities is paramount," it said, appealing to the people of Manipur to refrain from violence and work towards unity and peace. Manipur police reported the arrest of 23 individuals allegedly involved in ransacking and arson incidents. Arrests were made in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts. Authorities also recovered a .32 pistol, seven SBBL rounds, and eight mobile phones from the suspects, according to ANI. The violence in Manipur began on May 3 last year during a rally organised by the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) protesting the demand for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe category. Despite various efforts to restore peace, the state continues to grapple with periodic outbreaks of violence. The imposition of a total curfew and suspension of internet services underscores the seriousness of the current escalation. Authorities and local leaders continue to urge restraint and peaceful dialogue to bring stability to the troubled region. (With inputs from ANI)
18 November,2024 10:21 AM IST | ManipurWelcome to Mid-Day's Top News at this hour! We bring you a curated selection of the most significant and compelling news from around the globe. Stay informed with the latest developments in the nation, Mumbai, entertainment, sports, and more. Let's dive into the headlines shaping our world today. Sensex, Nifty decline in early trade as FPIs selling spree, IT stocks dampen market sentiment Equity benchmark indices declined in early trade on Monday, owing to relentless foreign fund outflows, selling in IT stocks and weak leads from the US markets. The BSE benchmark Sensex declined 156.72 points to 77,423.59 in early trade. The NSE Nifty dipped 64.25 points to 23,468.45. Mumbai: Gokhale bridge work misses deadline again The BMC has once again missed the deadline for Gokhale bridge. The corporation had set a deadline to lower the second girder of the bridge by November 14, but it is still as high as it was two-and-a-half months ago. The deadline for completion of the entire bridge was set for April 2025, which may be pushed further. So far, several deadlines set for the bridge work have lapsed. These include an assurance to complete two lanes by May 2023 and four lanes by the end of that year. Read more. Mumbai: Man held for murder of nine-year-old in Santacruz The Santacruz police have arrested a man for allegedly abducting and killing a nine-year-old boy. The incident took place on the evening of Chhath Puja. Police said the accused, identified as Maheshwar Mukhiya, 31, a garment shop worker, abducted the boy on the evening of the festival from near his residence in Santacruz West and strangled him to death. Read more. ‘India hurt, want to prove a point’: Yuvraj Singh In an exclusive interview with mid-day, former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh says he backs the team to bounce back strongly in Oz despite their 0-3 drubbing at home by New Zealand. Read more. Tiger Shroff begins shooting for Baaghi 4, leading lady yet to be finalised Over four years after Baaghi 3’s (2020) release, Tiger Shroff has stepped back in the film’s universe. On Sunday, the actor kicked off the shoot of the A Harsha-directed venture at the Golden Tobacco factory in Vile Parle. No prizes for guessing that filming began with an elaborate action set-piece, staying true to the franchise’s a-fight-a-minute blueprint. Read more.
18 November,2024 10:18 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDelhi's air quality worsened significantly on Monday morning as a thick blanket of smog covered several parts of the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plunged to 'severe plus' levels, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording an AQI of 483 at 7 am in the national capital, according to ANI. Toxic foam was observed floating on the Yamuna River in Kalindi Kunj, and residents reported breathing difficulties and eye irritation. A local resident shared, "I have been living here for 20 years... This (air pollution) causes burning in the eyes, breathing difficulties, cough and cold. Pollution is very high here. Water is polluted too... We are habituated now. But someone new won't be able to stay here, they would fall ill immediately." Despite the smog, train services continued to operate in Delhi. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) issued a notice stating that low visibility procedures were in place, although flight operations were normal. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines for updates. In Agra, a thick haze enveloped the Taj Mahal, with air quality in the city remaining in the 'poor' category, as per the CPCB, ANI reported. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced on Sunday that physical classes for all students, except those in classes 10 and 12, would be discontinued. Schools will shift to online classes in light of the worsening pollution levels. In a post on X, she stated, "With the imposition of GRAP-4 from tmrw, physical classes shall be discontinued for all students, apart from Class 10 and 12. All schools will hold online classes, until further orders." Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai will meet with departmental heads on Monday to discuss the effective implementation of GRAP IV measures. According to ANI, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the enforcement of Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from 8 am on November 18. Stage IV, categorised as 'severe plus' (AQI >450), includes an eight-point action plan. Key measures include banning non-essential truck traffic into Delhi, restricting certain vehicles, and extending the ban on construction and demolition activities to public infrastructure projects. State governments have been advised to consider shifting more classes online, limiting office attendance to 50%, and implementing work-from-home policies. Emergency measures like closing colleges, reducing non-essential activities, and introducing odd-even vehicle policies are also being considered. The CAQM urged citizens to stay indoors, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with health conditions. ANI reported that the situation is being monitored closely, with reviews planned to determine further actions. (With inputs from ANI)
18 November,2024 09:01 AM IST | New DelhiIn a major drug haul, Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with Manipur Police, recovered 578 grams of heroin worth around Rs 2.31 crore in the international market on Sunday in Manipur's Senapati district, officials said. According to an official release, the operation, conducted on NH-02 between Tadubi and Mao Gate in Senapati district, was based on credible intelligence. The forces successfully seized the contraband at Marty's Park, Mao Gate, on the National Highway, as stated by HQ IGAR (East). The seized heroin, along with the vehicle and the individual involved, has been handed over to the Mao Police Station for further investigation. "In a significant breakthrough, a joint operation conducted by Assam Rifles and Manipur Police from Mao Gate resulted in the recovery of 578 gms of Heroin of approximate amount of Rs 2.31 Crores in International Market on 17 November 24. The operation was carried out on NH-02 between Tadubi and Mao Gate road of Senapati district of Manipur," the release mentioned. "Acting on credible intelligence the forces undertook the meticulously planned operation successfully seizing contraband. Heroin at Marty's Park, Mao Gate on the National Highway. The seized heroin, vehicle and individual were handed over to Mao police station authorities for further investigation and necessary action," it added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
18 November,2024 08:49 AM IST | Senapati | ANIIrate mobs set fire to the residences of three more BJP legislators, one of whom is a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in various districts of Imphal Valley even as security forces foiled the attempt of agitators to storm the ancestral residence of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The fresh incidents of violence took place on Saturday night even as an indefinite curfew was clamped after people, agitated by the killing of three women and children each by militants in Jiribam district, attacked the residences of three state ministers and six MLAs. Enraged people torched the houses of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Hiyanglam’s BJP MLA Y Radheshyam, Wangjing Tentha’s BJP MLA Paonam Brojen and Khundrakpam’s Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar.BJP wants Manipur to burn: Congress As fresh violence erupted in Manipur, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday alleged the ruling party deliberately wants the border state to burn as “it serves their hateful divisive politics”. He said the people of state will never forgive or forget that PM Narendra Modi left them to fend for themselves and never set foot in their state to heal their miseries. “@narendramodi ji, Under your double engine governments, ‘neither Manipur is one, nor is Manipur Safe,” Kharge said in a post on X. State demands withdrawal of AFSPA The Manipur government has requested the Centre to review and withdraw AFSPA from areas falling under the jurisdiction of six police stations in the state, an official said. A letter from the Joint Secretary (Home) to the Centre on Saturday, mentioned that “the state cabinet has deliberated upon the same (reimposition of AFSPA) in its meeting held on November 15 and has decided to recommend to the central government to review and withdraw the said declaration.” This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
18 November,2024 07:47 AM IST | Imphal | AgenciesThe SC has flagged the “complete failure” of agencies in implementing the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in the national capital and directed the chief secretary of the Delhi government to call a meeting of all stakeholders to discuss the issue. The apex court observed it is a matter of immense importance that the 2016 Rules are implemented in their true letter and spirit. “If we find that all other authorities do not come together and tell us the time-bound schedule for implementation of the 2016 Rules, the court may have to consider passing harsh orders,” a bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih said in its order passed on November 11. The bench said, “We direct the chief secretary of the Delhi Government to call a meeting of all the stakeholders, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, to discuss the issue of implementation of the 2016 Rules”. The court said the exercise of holding a meeting and coming out with a common response shall be completed by December 13. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
18 November,2024 07:35 AM IST | New Delhi | AgenciesNationalist Congress Party (SP) supremo Sharad Pawar on Sunday warned his detractors to "mess with anyone but him" and urged voters not only to defeat those who rebelled under Ajit Pawar, but to "defeat them big." According to news agency PTI, while addressing a rally in Solapur district of Madha, Sharad Pawar reminisced about an episode of defection that cost him the position of Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly nearly four decades ago. He also spoke about his determination that led to the defeat of all those who had "backstabbed" him. "In the 1980 elections, 58 candidates won from our party, and I became Leader of Opposition. I had gone abroad, and when I returned, I realised that Chief Minister AR Antulay had worked some kind of miracle, and 52 of the 58 Members of Legislative Assembly (MLA) had switched sides. I lost the post of LoP," he said. "I did nothing (at the time). I simply started reaching out to people across the state and worked hard for three years. In the next elections, I fielded young candidates against all 52 MLAs who had left me. I am proud of the people of Maharashtra that all 52 who betrayed me were defeated," PTI quoted him telling the gathering. The 83-year-old political stalwart, emphasising his undefeated record since becoming an MLA in 1967 at the age of 27, stated, "I have my own experiences. The people who betrayed should be shown their place. Don’t just defeat them, defeat them big," he said. According to PTI, as Sharad Pawar made this statement, the crowd responded enthusiastically, chanting his name when he paused and remarked that a message should be sent: "You can mess with anyone but me." The NCP split in July last year after Ajit Pawar and eight MLAs joined the Eknath Shinde government. Following the Election Commission's decision, Ajit Pawar's faction retained the name and the 'clock' symbol, while Sharad Pawar's faction was recognised as NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) and received the 'man blowing tutari' symbol. The NCP (SP) has fielded Yugendra Pawar, Sharad Pawar’s grandnephew, to challenge Ajit Pawar in Baramati, a seat the Deputy CM has held as an MLA since 1991. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Ajit Pawar also fielded his wife, Sunetra Pawar, against Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar’s daughter, who was the sitting MP from Baramati. Sule won the seat comfortably, and since then, Ajit Pawar has admitted that fielding his wife was a mistake. (With PTI inputs)
17 November,2024 10:14 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
