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New York City Declares State of Emergency Amid Torrential Rain and Flash Floods /Watch

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Residents Urged to Exercise Caution as Flash Floods Disrupt New York City

Mohammed Yousuf

New York City -Sep-29-2023 : In the wake of relentless rain and flash floods that have wreaked havoc on the city, New York City Mayor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency. Images flooding social media platforms depict partially submerged vehicles stranded on inundated roads, creating traffic jams, while pedestrians navigate through knee-deep water.

The city’s extensive subway system has also been severely affected by the flash flooding, resulting in the closure of several lines in Brooklyn. The subway system announced on social media, “There is only extremely limited subway service available because of heavy flooding. Service is suspended at many stations. Please stay home if you don’t need to travel.”

At least one terminal at LaGuardia Airport has been closed due to the flood-like conditions. The National Weather Service has issued warnings of continued flooding through late Friday, with rainfall rates reaching as high as 5.1 cm per hour. Total rainfall accumulation for Friday could reach up to 18 cm.

The weather service cautioned, “Excessive runoff will likely result in scattered to numerous instances of flash flooding in urban and poor drainage areas, as well as along quick-responding small rivers and streams.”

This intense rainfall is attributed to a low-pressure system along the mid-Atlantic coast, which draws in moist air from the ocean. The region previously experienced extensive flooding in September 2021 when Hurricane Ida struck, resulting in 13 fatalities, many of whom were trapped in basement apartments.

Women’s Reservation Bill Receives Presidential Approval, Becomes Law

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New Delhi- Sep – 29-2023: The “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhniyam,” which grants 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, has officially become law after receiving assent from President Droupadi Murmu. Last week, the bill was unanimously passed by the Rajya Sabha, marking the first legislative achievement in the new Parliament building.

On September 20, the bill received overwhelming support in the Rajya Sabha, with 454 members voting in favor and only two opposing its passage. Amendments proposed by opposition members were rejected, and separate clauses of the draft legislation were put to a vote.

The following day, on September 21, the “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhniyam” received unanimous approval in the Rajya Sabha, coinciding with the Prime Minister’s birthday on the Hindu calendar. Women members from both Houses of Parliament, including PT Usha, Union Ministers Meenakshi Lekhi and Smriti Irani, expressed their joy as they presented a bouquet to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in celebration of the historic passage of the bill.

While the Rajya Sabha had previously passed the Women’s Reservation Bill in 2010 during the Congress-led UPA government, it had not been taken up in the Lok Sabha and subsequently lapsed in the lower House of Parliament.

Following the successful passage of the bill in both Houses last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked that the “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhniyam” would usher in a new era of enhanced representation and empowerment for women in India.

In his social media statement, PM Modi said, “A defining moment in our nation’s democratic journey! Congratulations to 140 crore Indians. I thank all the Rajya Sabha MPs who voted for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhniyam. Such unanimous support is indeed gladdening. With the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhniyam in Parliament, we usher in an era of stronger representation and empowerment for the women of India. This is not merely legislation; it is a tribute to the countless women who have made our nation. India has been enriched by their resilience and contributions.”

Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi also praised PM Modi for the passage of the bill, stating that it would be remembered in history for empowering women.

While the bill received broad support from opposition leaders, some raised concerns about the lack of an OBC sub-quota in the draft legislation.

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC K Kavitha, a key advocate for legislation promoting fairer representation of women in law-making bodies, described the passage of the quota Bill in Parliament as a significant step toward stronger and more meaningful participation of women in the country’s political process. However, she added, “There are a couple of omissions that catch one’s eye. The non-provision of a sub-quota for OBC women is painful. They should have added a sub-quota in the Bill to ensure similar representation of women from backward classes in the country’s legislative process.”

Lightning Strikes Claim Two Lives in Telangana

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Adilabad – Sep 29- 2023 : Tragedy struck in two separate incidents as lightning strikes claimed the lives of two individuals in two different districts on Friday.

In the first incident, Shaik Yasin (38), a farmer, tragically lost his life on the spot. His wife sustained minor injuries, and their two bullocks also succumbed to the lightning strike. The unfortunate incident occurred while they were diligently working on their farm.

Meanwhile, in another heart-wrenching incident, Kedem Padma Bai (30) suffered severe injuries, and her husband sustained minor injuries after being struck by lightning at Kedegam Manneguda in Wankidi mandal. The lightning strike led to an immediate and tragic loss of life for Padma Bai. The couple was actively engaged in the task of spraying fertilizer on their cotton crop when the rain began, and they sought shelter under a tamarind tree, unaware of the impending danger.

Akasa Airplane Makes Emergency Landing in Varanasi After Bomb Threat

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Mumbai – Sep 29- 2023 : An Akasa Air aircraft, carrying 166 passengers and crew, made an emergency landing at Varanasi airport today following a bomb threat received via social media, as confirmed by an airline spokesperson.

Flight QP 1498, en route from Mumbai to Varanasi, experienced the emergency situation when the captain received an “emergency alert” from the Varanasi Air Traffic Controller. The pilot swiftly executed all required emergency procedures, ensuring the safe landing of the aircraft in Varanasi.

“At 11:30 am, Akasa Air received a bomb threat message on social media. We immediately notified local authorities in Mumbai and initiated the process of filing an FIR,” the spokesperson explained.

In response, the airline activated its emergency response mechanism and, as part of the security protocol, alerted all 16 airports where it operates regarding the bomb threat, placing them on high alert.

The airline later classified the threat as “non-specific.”

The Akasa Air flight included 166 individuals, comprising 159 passengers, one infant, and six operating crew members on the Mumbai-Varanasi route.

Varanasi Airport Director Puneet Gupta reported that a thorough security check was conducted, revealing nothing objectionable, and the aircraft was officially declared safe.

In a statement, the airline reassured the public, saying, “Akasa Air flight QP 1498, flying from Mumbai to Varanasi on September 29, 2023, received an emergency alert from Air Traffic Control. The captain followed all required emergency procedures and landed safely in Varanasi.”

The airline confirmed that all mandated security procedures have been diligently completed, and the aircraft has been officially cleared as safe.

Harish Rao: Every Home Benefits from Welfare Schemes, Every Village Develops

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Nalgonda- Sep 29- 2023 : Minister for Health T Harish Rao emphasized that every household in the state is benefiting from the government’s welfare schemes, and every village has witnessed development over the past nine years.

During a program in Nakrekal, where he distributed Rs 8.6 crore worth of checks to 86 Self Help Groups (SHGs), Harish Rao highlighted the positive impact of welfare programs and development initiatives undertaken by the BRS government. He noted that these efforts have significantly improved living conditions and amenities in urban and rural areas across the state.

Rao cited several examples, including Kalyana Lakshmi, Rythu Bandhu, Rythu Bheema, free power for the agriculture sector, and residential schools for underprivileged students, as evidence of the government’s commitment to the welfare and development of its citizens.

Reflecting on the past, Rao mentioned the challenges faced by farmers during the previous Congress government, where low voltage often led to motor pumpset damage, costing farmers Rs 5,000 each time. He contrasted this with the current situation where farmers in Telangana provide employment opportunities to workers from other states, such as Bihar, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh, due to pro-agriculture policies.

Rao recalled the difficult conditions in Telangana before the formation of the separate state, when many people had to migrate to Andhra areas for labor work. Today, Telangana’s farmers are in a position to provide employment, thanks to the state government’s pro-agriculture policies.

He also mentioned the improvement in electricity supply, highlighting that during the previous Congress government, only six hours of electricity were provided to the agriculture sector. He criticized the Congress party for its six guarantees, which were made during elections but were not fulfilled. He questioned why the Congress wasn’t implementing those guarantees in states where it is in power.

Rao announced plans for a 100-bed hospital in Nakrekal, which will have 30 doctors to provide medical services. He also mentioned the filling of the Brahmanavellemla project with Krishna water after the Nagarjuna Sagar Project received water.

Regarding upcoming elections, Energy Minister G Jagadish Reddy anticipated that election notifications for the Telangana State Legislative Assembly might be released within a week, with elections taking place within two months. He urged the people to hold Congress accountable for neglecting Telangana’s development and to reject false promises.

Harish Rao also laid the foundation stone for a 30-bed hospital in Ramannapet and the Aitipamula lift irrigation scheme in Kattangur mandal during the event.

Prominent figures including Rajya Sabha member Badugula Lingaiah Yadav, MLC M Koti Reddy, Nalgonda Zilla Parishad Chairman Banda Narender Reddy, and Telangana State Sheep Development Corporation Chairman Dudimetla Balaraj were present at the meeting.

Nikhat Zareen Secures Olympic Quota, Assures India of Medal at Asian Games

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In a decisive victory, Nikhat Zareen emerged triumphant over her opponent from Jordan, Nassar, securing her advancement in the Asian Games. Image Source : X/@Media_SAI

Hangzhou, China – September 29, 2023: In a momentous achievement, two-time World Championship winner Nikhat Zareen has secured her spot at the upcoming Paris Olympics and, in doing so, assured India of a medal at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. Her remarkable journey continued as she clinched victory in the quarterfinal bout.

Facing off against Hanan Nassar of Jordan in the women’s 50kg quarterfinals, Nikhat Zareen needed less than two minutes to secure her triumph through a knockout, prompting the referees to halt the bout.

Zareen’s dominance in the boxing ring has been nothing short of exceptional, with a second World Championship crown added to her accolades earlier this year. She had previously clinched gold at the Commonwealth Games, showcasing her prowess on the international stage.

With this win, Nikhat Zareen has advanced to the semifinals in her weight category, guaranteeing India at least a bronze medal. However, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of the ultimate prize – the gold.

In other boxing action on this eventful Friday, India’s Lakshya Chahar faced a tough battle and lost to Bekzhigit Uulu Omurbek of Kyrgyzstan in a closely contested split decision in the Men’s 80kg Round of 16.

Adding to India’s achievements, the 2022 World Championships bronze medalist, Parveen Hooda, emerged victorious with a commanding 5-0 win over China’s Xu Zichun in the Women’s 57kg Round of 16, securing her spot in the quarter-finals.

Nikhat Zareen’s stellar performance in the previous round saw her assert her authority over her South Korean opponent, Chorong Bak, with a decisive 5-0 victory in the women’s event.

Hailing from Telangana’s Nizamabad, Nikhat Zareen boasts an illustrious record of medals, including two World Championships titles and a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Her achievements also include a bronze at the Asian Championships and a gold at the World Junior and Youth Championships.

During her bout against Hanan Nassar, Nikhat Zareen left no room for doubt about her dominance. Swift punches from Zareen had her opponent on the defensive right from the start. Within just 53 seconds, the referee had seen enough to stop the contest, as Nassar was counted down thrice. This resounding victory propels Zareen into the final four, marking a historic moment in her career and securing India’s presence on the podium at the Asian Games.

Stay tuned as Nikhat Zareen’s pursuit of gold continues in the semifinals, and as India’s boxing contingent aims for further triumphs in this prestigious competition.

Multiple Explosions in Pakistan Leave at Least 52 Dead and Dozens Injured

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A series of devastating explosions have rocked two provinces in Pakistan today, resulting in a significant loss of life and numerous injuries. The tragic events unfolded as follows:

In a suspected suicide blast that shook the Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan, at least 52 people have lost their lives, and approximately 50 others have been injured. The incident occurred in Mastung district near Madina Mosque on Al Falah Road. Devotees had gathered at the mosque to commemorate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, as part of the Eid Miladun Nabi celebrations. Tragically, the explosion took place during a procession, and among the victims was Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nawaz Gashkori, who was killed when a suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive device near his on-duty vehicle.

Hours later, in Pakistan’s restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a suicide blast occurred inside a mosque during Juma prayers. This second blast resulted in at least three fatalities and left six others injured. Preliminary reports suggest that 30 to 40 worshippers were present in the mosque at the time of the explosion, and authorities suspect it to be another suicide attack.

In response to these tragic incidents, security measures have been significantly heightened in major cities across Pakistan. Karachi police have announced via Twitter that they have increased security measures in light of the blasts.

The nation mourns the loss of innocent lives and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured in these horrifying attacks. Investigations into the incidents are ongoing as authorities work to determine the motives and perpetrators behind these acts of violence.

According to a comprehensive report by Al Jazeera, the twin blasts that rocked Pakistan today have left the nation in shock and mourning as details of the tragic events continue to emerge.

Eyewitness Account by Sarfaraz Ahmed Sasoli:

Sarfaraz Ahmed Sasoli, who witnessed the explosion in Mastung, shared his harrowing experience with Al Jazeera. He stated, “I was on security duty for the procession outside the Madina Mosque. We were preparing for the Prophet’s birthday procession when a suicide bomber blew himself up near the stage where our chief guests were sitting. My two brothers were injured in the blast, and we have shifted more than 100 injured to Quetta for treatment.” Sasoli’s firsthand account underscores the immediate and devastating impact of the explosion on innocent bystanders.

Analysis by Amir Rana, Director of Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies:

Amir Rana, the director of the Islamabad-based research organization Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies, provided expert analysis to Al Jazeera. He suggested that both incidents appear to be the work of ISIL (ISIS). Rana highlighted a significant aspect of the attacks, noting that while the Islamic State Khorasan Province primarily operates from the Peshawar region in Pakistan or Afghanistan, the Islamic State Pakistan Province is based out of Balochistan. He speculated that this may be the first time they coordinated for twin attacks, marking a concerning escalation in their operational capabilities. Rana warned that such incidents challenge the state’s command and pose a substantial threat to national security.

Watch/ Train Derails and Climbs Platform at Mathura Railway Station.

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In a shocking incident at Mathura Junction an electric multiple unit (EMU) train en route from Delhi derailed and unexpectedly mounted a platform, causing chaos and injuring one individual. Fortunately, passengers had disembarked from the train prior to the mishap.

The situation took a terrifying turn when a railway staff member attempted to park the train. Instead, it accelerated uncontrollably, smashing through barriers and ascending onto the platform.

The aftermath of this harrowing accident left the platform in ruins, with substantial damage inflicted on an overhead electricity pole. Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine the cause of this unprecedented mishap.

Over 20 MLAs from Manipur Demand Swift Action from Centre in Students’ Killing Case

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New Delhi : In a significant development, over 20 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Manipur, who are currently in Delhi, have appealed to the Central government to take decisive action against those responsible for the recent abduction and murder of two students in the strife-torn state.

The legislators have also urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to expedite the ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the incident.

Rajkumar Imo Singh, one of the MLAs, took to social media to voice their collective concern, stating, “Most legislators present in Delhi have already called upon the central government to deliver swift justice. Let us ensure that justice is served in the coming days by apprehending the culprits involved.”

Singh implored the people of Manipur to refrain from resorting to violence, emphasizing the importance of peaceful forms of protest and agitation to seek justice. He further added, “Our primary goal is to ensure justice for the slain students as swiftly as possible.”

Expressing dissatisfaction with the pace of the CBI investigation, Singh warned, “If the CBI fails to deliver justice within the next few days, we may convene here in Delhi alongside our constituents to chart a new course of action.”

However, he underscored the necessity of maintaining focus on their shared objectives, stating, “Our common cause to protect indigenous populations, identify illegal migrants, take action against insurgent groups violating established rules, and complete border fencing should not waver.”

The BJP MLA appealed for unity, stating, “At this crucial juncture, our unity is paramount. If we become divided, those seeking to exploit our divisions will succeed. Let us all stand together for Manipur.”

Singh also strongly denounced what he described as an “act of brutality by the armed forces” and questioned their use of force. He suggested that alternative methods, such as water cannons, should be employed to control such situations. He added, “Those involved should be held accountable under the law.”

The recent incident has triggered violent protests in Manipur’s capital over the past two days, with thousands of students taking to the streets to demand justice for the slain students. A clash between Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel and local residents erupted on Tuesday night, resulting in tear gas and rubber bullets being fired at protesters, leaving 45, primarily students, injured. Similar clashes occurred on Wednesday, resulting in around 20 more protesters being injured.

Since May 3, when ethnic violence erupted in Manipur during a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ protesting the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status, more than 180 people have lost their lives, and several hundred have been injured in the ongoing turmoil.

Revanth Reddy’s Alleged Loyalty to TDP Sparks Controversy

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Hyderabad : The President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), A Revanth Reddy, has once again stirred the political pot by expressing support for Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu. Reddy suggested that there was nothing amiss with Information Technology (IT) employees in Hyderabad protesting against Naidu’s arrest in Andhra Pradesh.

During a casual interaction with the media on Wednesday, the TPCC president criticized the Telangana government’s decision to prohibit IT employees from staging protests in Hyderabad, deeming it meaningless.

Reddy contended that Naidu’s arrest was not confined to a single state and asserted that Naidu had made a significant impact on the national stage.

The TPCC president’s indirect affirmation of his continued admiration for Naidu prompted a swift response from the ruling Bhartiya Rashtriya Suraksha (BRS) party. They accused Revanth Reddy of being an agent of Chandrababu Naidu, alleging that the Telugu Desam Party was making concerted efforts to exert influence in Telangana.

“Revanth Reddy has once again demonstrated that he is a pawn of Chandrababu Naidu. Chandrababu Naidu is attempting to gain control over Telangana through Revanth Reddy. Congress workers and leaders, take heed,” cautioned Dasoju Sravan, BRS Greater Hyderabad incharge, in a tweet.

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