“Prominent Party Leaders Join Forces to Shape Declarations and Policies for Equitable Representation and Opportunities”
The establishment of the “Minorities Declaration Draft Committee” by Revanth Reddy, the President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, marks a significant step in addressing the concerns and needs of minority communities in the region. This committee consists of prominent leaders from the Congress party, and its main purpose is to formulate declarations and policies that cater to the interests of minority groups within Telangana.
The members of the committee, including figures like Mohd. Ali Shabbir, Zafar Javeed, Mohammed Azharuddin, Shaik Abdullah Sohail, Obedullah Kothwal, Khusro Pasha Biyabani, and Mohammed Faheem Qureshi, bring their experience and expertise to the table. Their involvement signifies a collective effort to prioritize the representation and welfare of minority communities in the political discourse of Telangana.
One of the key priorities of the committee is likely to be advocating for a 12% reservation for minorities in various sectors. Reservation policies aim to provide equitable opportunities for historically marginalized communities, ensuring their inclusion in education, employment, and other areas. The proposal for a 12% reservation underscores the commitment of the committee to address the disparities that minority groups might face and to ensure that they have access to resources and opportunities on par with the rest of the population.
By focusing on drafting declarations and policies, the committee aims to shed light on issues that disproportionately affect minorities and work towards solutions that promote social justice, inclusivity, and equal representation. The establishment of this committee is a step towards ensuring that the voices and concerns of minority communities are heard and integrated into the larger political agenda of Telangana.
“Supreme Court Questions State’s Remission Policy in Bilkis Bano Case, Demands Consistency in Approach”
In connection with the case involving the gang rape and murder of Bilkis Bano’s family during the 2002 Gujarat riots, the Supreme Court, on Thursday, raised questions regarding the selective application of the remission policy by the Gujarat government for 11 life term convicts. The top court expressed concern over the state government’s stance, remarking that it was treading on “thin ice” in this matter.
A bench comprising of Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan posed challenging inquiries to the state government, while Additional Solicitor General S V Raju attempted to rationalize the remission according to legal norms and regulations.
The bench emphasized that the opportunity for reformation should be extended to all prisoners, rather than being limited to a few. The court inquired why the remission policy was being selectively employed and stressed the importance of granting the chance for rehabilitation and reintegration to every convict. It questioned the reasoning behind providing remission to those sentenced to life imprisonment, which is the second most severe penalty after the death penalty, in such a scenario.
Raju stated that the state government was bound by a prior Supreme Court order which stipulated that the state’s remission policy would apply to the case. He explained that the remission applications were processed in accordance with Gujarat’s 1992 policy, adhering to all legal requirements.
The application of Section 432 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which deals with the power to suspend or remit sentences, was detailed by Raju in relation to these convicts. He argued that the concept of absolute deterrence doesn’t apply when considering the reformative theory, asserting that individuals should be given the opportunity to reform even after committing serious crimes.
The court scheduled the conclusion of arguments and submissions from all parties for August 24, the next hearing date. During the proceedings, the bench inquired about the necessity of seeking the opinion of the district judge of Godhra, who didn’t preside over the trial of the accused.
The composition of the jail advisory committee, including criticism regarding the presence of two BJP MLAs on the committee, was also queried by the court. Raju was further asked about the negative opinion provided by the CBI when consulted on the remission of convicts.
Raju contended that the legal principle doesn’t dictate perpetual punishment, highlighting the importance of allowing chances for reformation. The bench sought information on the application of this rule, which permits release after 14 years, to other prisoners and urged the counsel to furnish data on the implementation of the remission policy.
A group of petitions challenged the remission granted to the convicts in the Bilkis Bano case in August 2022. Apart from Bano’s own plea, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra, former MP and CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali, independent journalist Revati Laul, and former vice-chancellor of Lucknow University Roop Rekha Verma also filed petitions against the decision.
Amidst Cancellations and Diversions, Hyderabad’s Railway Services Witness August Modifications
In light of non-interlocking operations between Bhubaneswar – Mancheswar and Haridaspur – Dhanmandal stations within the East Coast Railway, several train services are facing cancellations this month.
The affected services include Agartala – Secunderabad (07029) on August 18 and 25, Secunderabad – Agartala (07030) on August 21 and 28, Dibrugarh – Secunderabad (07047) on August 17 and 24, Secunderabad – Dibrugarh (07046) on August 21 and 28, Shalimar – Secunderabad (12773) on August 23 and 30, and Secunderabad – Shalimar (12774) on August 28 and 29.
Additionally, due to non-interlocking work on the South Eastern Railway zone, Agartala – Secunderabad (07029) and Secunderabad – Agartala (07030) services scheduled for September 1 and 4 will be diverted.
In response to passenger demand, South Central Railway will operate a one-way special train between Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam (07055) on August 18. The train will make stops at Jangaon, Kazipet, Warangal, Mahabubabad, Khammam, Rayanapadu, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry, Samalkot, Annavaram, Tuni, Anakapalli, and Duvvada stations.
Additionally, South Central Railway has announced new stoppages for Yesvantpur – H. Nizamuddin – Yesvantpur Express and Kachiguda –Chengalpattu – Kachiguda Express trains at Mahabubnagar and Shadnagar, effective from August 20
“Ch V M Krishna Rao’s dedication and service to journalism have left an indelible mark on our profession. His profound insights, unwavering commitment, and vast knowledge made him a guiding light in the field. He will be remembered not only for his exceptional contributions but also for the warmth and affection with which he treated everyone he encountered. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists to come.”
In a deeply saddening loss, the esteemed journalist Sri Ch V M Krishna Rao garu has breathed his last. With an illustrious career spanning several decades, he held a distinguished position as the Bureau head at Eenadu, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the field of journalism.
Krishna Rao’s journey in journalism was marked by remarkable achievements and significant roles. He ascended to the position of Chief of Bureau at the prestigious Deccan Chronicle, where his journalistic prowess and dedication to the craft shone through. Later, he assumed the role of Resident Editor at The New Indian Express in Hyderabad, further cementing his legacy as a stalwart in the industry.
Known for his unparalleled expertise in various domains, Krishna Rao’s grasp extended to political reporting, budget analyses, irrigation, and power-related matters. His profound understanding made him a trusted source of information, particularly in the realm of politics. His extensive knowledge and insights made him a ready reckoner for anyone seeking comprehensive political information.
As the news of his passing reverberates, the journalism community mourns the loss of a highly knowledgeable and accomplished figure. A man of warmth and affability, Krishna Rao was noted for treating everyone with genuine affection, leaving a lasting impact on colleagues and acquaintances alike.
The team at @newstapTweets pays heartfelt tributes to the memory of Ch V M Krishna Rao, underscoring the immense contributions he made to journalism. As his great soul finds eternal rest, the industry and his family are left to cherish his remarkable legacy and extend their deepest condolences.
Telangana authorities apprehend six members, including a Greyhounds police employee, uncovering inter-state ganja network spanning Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.
In a major operation, law enforcement authorities successfully apprehended a five-member gang involved in the illegal trade of ganja. The police action, carried out on Thursday, resulted in the confiscation of a substantial cache of illicit goods, including 44 kgs of ganja, two vehicles, eight mobile phones, and a sum of Rs 12 lakh in cash.
The individuals taken into custody have been identified as Vankudoth Veeranna (33), Ajmera Veeranna (21), Surneni Manoj (20), Merugu Madhu (39), Prashanth Naik (27), and Mohd Jahangir (40).
According to Telangana State Anti Narcotics Bureau Director C V Anand, the gang operated a complex network involving the procurement of ganja from Andhra Pradesh, which was then distributed to a recipient named Nikhil in the Bheed district of Maharashtra.
Director Anand revealed that Veeranna, the alleged mastermind, utilized a novel modus operandi for each operation. He consistently adopted new SIM cards to avoid detection and employed high-end vehicles to facilitate the transportation of the contraband. At toll gates, Veeranna reportedly assumed the identity of a police officer to bypass scrutiny.
Notably, among those apprehended, Prashanth Naik is confirmed to be associated with the Greyhounds police unit, adding a layer of complexity to the case
Kochi: A 23-year-old male IT professional was apprehended by the police on Wednesday for allegedly entering a women’s restroom in a prominent mall while wearing a burqa and recording videos using his mobile phone.
The accused, identified as a B.Tech graduate, has been charged under sections 354(C) (Voyeurism) and 419 (Impersonation) of the IPC, along with Section 66 E of the Information Technology Act, all on the same day as the incident, as stated by the authorities.
Following his arrest, he was presented before a local court which subsequently remanded him to 14 days of judicial custody, as confirmed by an official from Kalamassery police station.
The incident transpired at Lulu Mall here on Wednesday. The accused, employed in a leading IT firm situated at the Info park in the area, allegedly disguised himself by wearing a burqa and entering a women’s restroom. Inside, he positioned his mobile phone within the restroom and concealed it using a small cardboard box. He had ingeniously created a hole in the box to facilitate the camera’s recording of visuals, which he then affixed to the restroom door, according to police sources.
Kerala techie arrested for planting camera in Kochi mall's women's bathroom
Police arrested Abhimanyu (23) for trying to place a camera in the washroom of Lulu Mall, Kochi, Kerala
Once the camera was in place, the suspect exited the restroom and stood near its main entrance. Acting upon his suspicious behavior, the mall’s security staff promptly alerted the police, who arrived at the scene and initiated questioning of the accused.
Subsequent inquiries revealed that the individual had indeed disguised himself as a woman and was illicitly recording activities within the restroom using his mobile phone. Consequently, both the burqa and the mobile phone employed by the accused were confiscated, and he was taken into custody.
An investigating officer disclosed that efforts are ongoing to determine whether the accused had engaged in similar unlawful activities elsewhere in the past.
“Torrential Rainfall Disrupts Frankfurt Airport: Flight Cancellations and Waterlogged Runways Follow Severe Thunderstorms in Hesse” Watch “social media-shared video showcased planes parked amid substantial standing water“
On Wednesday, Frankfurt, Germany’s largest airport, faced a cascade of flight cancellations due to heavy rainfall. The downpour resulted in water accumulation on the runways, stranding passengers aboard landed aircraft without the ability to disembark.
A social media-shared video showcased planes parked amid substantial standing water, with intermittent lightning illuminating the scene. The inclement weather prompted the cancellation of approximately 70 flights, as stated by the Frankfurt Airport website. Meteorological Warnings and Impact on Hesse The German Weather Service (DWD) had sounded an alert for the entire Hesse state, forecasting severe thunderstorms on Wednesday evening.
Had quite a few DM’s from people wondering why flights were diverting away from Frankfurt….here’s your answer 👇💦
The accompanying rain, gale-force winds, and lightning triggered a series of fire department interventions across the central German state, where Frankfurt Airport is situated. Between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. local time, some regions experienced notable rainfall, measuring up to 60 liters per square meter.
Over the span of one hour, meteorologists recorded an astonishing 25,000 instances of lightning strikes, according to the local public broadcaster Hessische Rundfunk. Griesheim saw gale-force winds reaching 81 kilometers per hour (60 mph), while Offenbach experienced winds of 71 kilometers per hour
“Unraveling the Cultural, Environmental, and Geographical Treasures of Earth’s Lowest Exposed Wonder”
The rapid decline of the iconic Dead Sea is evident in aerial views, with the water body receding approximately one meter annually. This natural wonder, positioned as Earth’s lowest exposed point, boasts therapeutic waters so saturated with salt that bathers effortlessly float to the surface.
With historical ties to ancient Egyptian mummification practices and biblical narratives surrounding Sodom and Gomorrah, the Dead Sea holds immense cultural significance. Over time, the Dead Sea has lost a third of its once-expansive surface area, leaving behind a landscape characterized by salt deposits and cavernous gaps.
Nestled along the borders of Jordan, Israel, and the occupied West Bank of Palestine, this renowned tourist attraction faces challenges. The diversion of the River Jordan, which used to nourish the Dead Sea, for agricultural and domestic water needs has contributed to its decline. Furthermore, human activities such as mineral extraction by chemical corporations have substantially disrupted the delicate ecosystem of the Dead Sea.
Despite its reputation for healing mud and captivating blue waters, the future of the Dead Sea hangs in the balance. Urgent efforts are needed to combat its ongoing deterioration and ensure the preservation of its unique beauty for generations to come.
“There’s a way of Hyderabad’s own, it’s our duty to preserve its beauty.”
Following the completion of restoration efforts, the historical 17th-century Gulzar Houz fountain in the old city is on the verge of being inaugurated by Minister for MA&UD, KT Rama Rao. The reconstruction, which was carried out in an unprecedented four-month period, incurred a cost of Rs 40 lakh and was a collaborative endeavor involving the Quli Qutb Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA) and Deccan Terrain Heritage.
An official from QQSUDA highlighted that the restoration process was underpinned by comprehensive research conducted by Deccan Heritage Terrain, which meticulously studied the original construction of the fountain. As a result, the octagonal fountain now boasts a sequence of approximately 200 spouts, artfully arranged, and is accentuated by the incorporation of LED lights, a touch that adds to its visual charm.Previously left neglected and in a state of disrepair, the illustrious nearly 400-year-old fountain garnered the attention of MA&UD officials, leading to its remarkable reconstruction.
Positioned at the center of four arches – namely, Machli Kaman, Kaman-e-Sehar-Batil , Kali Kaman, and Charminar Kaman – Gulzar Houz remains surrounded by a bustling market that contributes to its vibrant ambiance.
Upon its public unveiling, the fountain is expected to swiftly establish itself as a favored ‘selfie point,’ particularly during late hours when a substantial influx of tourists flock to Charminar to bask in its nocturnal splendor. The strategic incorporation of LED lighting serves to heighten its allure during these nighttime hours, adding an extra layer of attraction.
Calls for Intervention Rise as Tourists Express Concerns over Unruly Behavior
District Superintendent of Police, Koti Reddy, issued a statement assuring that legal actions will be taken in response to these actions. He emphasized that stricter measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents from recurring. For more detailed information, please refer to the accompanying video footage.
Situated just 6 kilometers from the district headquarters of Vikarabad, the tourist destination Ananthagiri Hills witnessed an influx of visitors, including those from Hyderabad, on the occasion of Independence Day. However, amid this celebration, a few young individuals chose to disturb the serene environment by engaging in unauthorized car and motorcycle racing within the hills’ jungles and mountainous terrains. This reckless behavior left both locals and tourists alarmed and fearful.
The community and tourists in the area are demanding swift action against these young individuals involved in such activities. They advocate for strict measures and legal consequences to deter them from endangering others through their actions and to preserve the peaceful environment.
During the Independence Day celebrations, the police and forest authorities were busy with official events when a considerable number of youths from various places arrived at Ananthagiri Hills. From 10 AM to 1 PM, these youths gathered at the View Point#, a crucial location that provides a panoramic view of the entire Ananthagiri Hills. Here, they engaged in dangerous racing with cars, jeeps, and motorcycles, creating a hazardous atmosphere and distressing both tourists and locals.
Approximately 30 cars and 70 motorcycles participated in the unauthorized races, as revealed by initial investigations by the police. These figures have been obtained by identifying vehicle numbers present in video evidence and CCTV footage. Those involved in organizing and participating in these races will face legal consequences.
Watch full video
Videos captured during the event portray a chaotic scene, with the sight and sound of speeding vehicles dominating the landscape. The ongoing races, with cars and motorcycles revving, created an environment of noise and chaos, covering the area in dust and smoke, causing inconvenience to all present. Unfortunately, these activities were carried out without any official authorization, disregarding the principles of ethical tourism and natural preservation.
In response to the sudden occurrence of such an event and the irresponsible behavior of these youths, District Superintendent of Police Koti Reddy, IPS, expressed that the police and forest authorities were engrossed in Independence Day activities and parades, leaving them unable to address the car and motorcycle racing organized by these youths. He emphasized that strict legal action would be taken against those responsible for alarming tourists and polluting the serene atmosphere. He further underscored the commitment to ensure tighter surveillance in Ananthagiri Hills, a destination where tourists visit with their families for recreational purposes.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader P. Karthik Reddy, the son of the state’s Education Minister P. Sabitha Indira Reddy, expressed his concern over the incident. He underscored the need for immediate action to curtail such behavior and protect the serenity of Ananthagiri Hills. In his tweet, he stated, “This should be stopped at any cost. These miscreants are not from our local area and are mostly from Hyderabad. Ananthagiri is such a peaceful and beautiful region, and this behavior will not be tolerated.
” Ananthagiri Hills, located just 6 kilometers away from Vikarabad and 70 kilometers from the state capital Hyderabad, offers a lush natural landscape that rejuvenates eyes and minds alike. Encompassing 3,762 acres of forested area, Ananthagiri Hills is renowned for its historical Musi River, flowing between Hyderabad and this tranquil destination, adding to the region’s allure.
