Delhi September 30, 2024 :- In the ongoing legal battle surrounding the Tirupati Laddu controversy, the Supreme Court conducted a hearing today, issuing a strong statement urging that “at least God should be kept away from politics.” The case was presided over by a bench comprising Justice Bhushan R. Gavai and Justice K. V. Viswanathan.
During the hearing, the counsel representing Subramanian Swamy highlighted that untested materials were being used in the kitchen to prepare the sacred Laddu. The investigation revealed lapses in monitoring, raising concerns about the system’s oversight responsibility, given the religious significance of the Laddu as a sacred offering (Prasad) and the devotion it holds for the faithful.
Petitions filed in the court have called for a judicial investigation into allegations made by Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Chandrababu Naidu, claiming that animal fat and fish oil were being used in the preparation of the Laddu at the Tirupati temple. Meanwhile, a state-run committee has been stationed in Tirupati to inspect the quality of ingredients such as ghee and other materials used in the Prasad preparation.
Justice Gavai, responding to senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who represented the Andhra Pradesh government, raised critical questions. He remarked, “When you hold a constitutional office, it is expected that deities will be kept away from political matters.” The court also questioned the need for media involvement, asking, “What was the necessity to go to the press before the findings of the SIT are out?”
The court emphasized that this was the second time such a situation had arisen, urging caution in handling such sensitive issues.
CM Revanth Reddy to Inaugurate the Event and Launch State AMR Plan
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Hyderabad, September 30, 2024: The Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is set to inaugurate the Global South Conference on Infection Prevention, Control, and Antimicrobial Stewardship (G-SPARC 2024), a prestigious three-day event taking place from October 3-5 at Shilpakala Vedika, Hitech City, Hyderabad.
During the inauguration, the Chief Minister will also unveil the state’s Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Plan. Telangana will become the 7th state in India to implement such a plan, joining six other states that have already adopted it. This key initiative aims to address the growing global challenge posed by AMR.
Damodar Rajanarsimha, Telangana’s Minister for Health and Family Welfare, will be the guest of honor at the event. The conference, organized by the Infection Control Academy of India (IFCAI), the University of Hyderabad (UoH), and Pragyaan Sustainable Health Outcomes Foundation (PRASHO), aims to provide a platform for stakeholders from the Global South—countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America—to collaborate on infection control, antimicrobial resistance, and pandemic preparedness.
At a press conference held in the city on Monday, Dr. Ranga Reddy Burri, President of IFCAI and Chair of G-SPARC, emphasized the critical need for action against AMR. He highlighted how the excessive use of antibiotics has led to a “slow pandemic” that silently threatens healthcare systems worldwide. “COVID-19 had a beginning and an end, but AMR is an ongoing crisis that already claims 5 million lives globally, with millions more at risk,” he warned.
R. Govind Hari, Chairman of PRASHO and Co-chair of the event, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of South-South cooperation in tackling AMR, which disproportionately impacts developing nations.
Notable speakers at G-SPARC 2024 will include Dr. Anuj Sharma from the WHO India Office, Professor Chedly Azzouz, Chairperson of the Infection Control Africa Network, and Dr. Atul Goel, Director of the National Centre for Disease Control.
Over 1,600 delegates are expected to attend the event, which will also feature the release of an AMR action plan by the Telangana state government. A white paper on pandemic preparedness and the prevention of future health crises will be unveiled at the conclusion of the conference.
In recognition of the significance of the conference, the Government of Telangana has sponsored the venue, Shilpakala Vedika.
Rising Opposition within Congress to HYDRAA’s Actions As HYDRAA’s operations spark controversy, the Revanth Reddy government faces growing challenges, with two Congress leaders already opposing its methods and concerns of more expressing dissent
Hyderabad, September 30 2024 :- In a surprising move, Congress Working President and former MLA Jagga Reddy has come out against his own party’s leadership, opposing the decisions made by Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. Media reports have revealed that Jagga Reddy has written a letter to the HYDRAA Chief, urging them to inform him if any demolition action is planned in Sangareddy under the HYDRAA initiative. He stated that he would personally speak to CM Revanth Reddy to halt such action. Jagga Reddy reiterated the CM’s earlier statement that no demolition action would be taken without prior notice, and emphasized that this policy should also apply to Sangareddy.
Rumors of HYDRAA’s planned actions in Sangareddy have already sparked fear among local residents. However, Jagga Reddy reassured the public, asking them not to worry, confidently stating, “Main hoon na.”
Meanwhile, Khairtabad MLA Danam Nagender also voiced his opposition to HYDRAA’s actions. Speaking to the media, Nagender stood by his earlier statement that no action should be taken against poor residents living in slum areas, many of whom have lived there for over 20-25 years. He added that despite earlier demolitions in FTL and Buffer Zones, those areas did not experience flooding during the recent heavy rains.
Nagender emphasized that the government itself had regularized many of these houses, providing official electricity meters and collecting taxes. He insisted that HYDRAA’s actions should not target these residents. He further expressed his frustration with those who have been criticizing CM Revanth Reddy after the recent demolition drives, saying, “I cannot bear to hear such harsh words.”
According to Nagender, around 500 people had gathered at his house, expressing their grievances over the demolitions, a scene he found deeply upsetting. He has already spoken to the PCC President, requesting that HYDRAA avoid slum areas. Nagender also shared a video of former Chief Minister KCR, in which KCR called for the demolition of all houses built on nalas (drains), criticizing the BRS for allegedly inciting the public against the government.
Nagender further mentioned discussing the issue with party advisors to find a solution, while pointing out that large establishments like I-Max Theater, Jal Vihar, and Park Hotel have been built on FTL land long ago. He suggested that the handling of such matters requires careful consideration.
As HYDRAA’s actions continue to stir controversy, the Revanth Reddy government faces increasing challenges. With two prominent Congress leaders already opposing HYDRAA’s methods, there are concerns that more party members may join the opposition in the near future.
Report: Violence in Manipur Escalates with New Threats and Rising Tensions
A year after violent outbreaks, hopes for peace in Manipur seem to be fading. Since September 1st, the Manipur valley has witnessed a surge in violent incidents. The situation has intensified to the extent that drones are now being used to drop bombs, and residential areas are under attack by RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades). Despite efforts to restore peace, the region continues to face heightened tensions.
Public Emergency Declaration In response to the growing unrest, local organizations in Imphal Valley have declared a public emergency. These organizations have issued warnings to central security forces, stating that if no action is taken against Kuki groups and peace is not restored, they will demand the withdrawal of security personnel from Manipur. The public emergency has visibly affected daily life in Imphal’s busiest areas, where shops are closed, houses are locked, and traffic has come to a standstill.
The Rising Concern for Peace Residents like Ratan from Imphal are questioning why peace has not been achieved despite numerous attempts. They are calling for more decisive actions from both the state and central governments. The increasing violence has led to the declaration of a public emergency. In one of the most serious incidents, a drone attack occurred in Kotrok village in the western Imphal district on September 1st, in the afternoon. The drone bombardment from the hills set several houses ablaze, reducing vehicles and property to ashes. Rocket impacts are still visible on rooftops, and walls have been hit by shrapnel, leaving many homes destroyed and residents fleeing the area.
Drone and RPG Attacks In addition to drones, RPGs have also been deployed in the attacks. In contrast to last year’s use of makeshift pipe guns with limited range, advanced technology has been used in this year’s assaults. Modern rocket launchers with greater firepower have destroyed several homes in the village, and even the IRB camp in the area was affected by the attacks.
Bunkers and Armed Vigilance For over a year, bunkers have been constructed in both the valley and hill regions, where armed groups from both communities stand ready to engage in combat. These bunkers remain in place today, and there is no certainty as to when the next round of violence will erupt. A volunteer from the Gram Rakshak Dal, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that he is guarding his village amidst ongoing threats. The young man alleged that the attacks originated from the hills, where militants are positioned for assault.
Weapons and Surveillance In certain areas, military-grade binoculars have been set up to monitor enemy movements in the hills. These serve as crucial tools for identifying potential threats. The bunkers are equipped with walkie-talkies, bulletproof vests, and helmets for self-defense. Modern weapons, including sniper rifles, are being used in the communal violence, although much of the weaponry remains hidden from public view. What is visible are locally-made bore rifles and cartridges, which are widely used by the armed youths. Village defense forces are stationed in various locations, and security agencies are conducting combing operations, seizing RPG grenades and heavy assault rifles.
Anti-Drone Systems and Uncertainty In response to the drone threat, central agencies have deployed anti-drone systems in Manipur. However, the cycle of violence shows no signs of ending soon, leaving residents and authorities alike uncertain about when the situation will be brought under control.
Conclusion The conflict in Manipur has escalated with the use of advanced weaponry, posing a significant challenge to peace restoration efforts. Despite the presence of security forces and anti-drone systems, the violence continues to threaten the lives and homes of the local population. The future remains uncertain, as no immediate solution to the crisis is in sight.
(Sources: Aaj Tak)
“When will this fire be extinguished, and when will peace be restored?” people ask.
The Himalayan nation of Nepal is reeling from deadly weather as violent monsoon rains over the past three days have triggered severe floods and landslides, resulting in over 150 reported deaths and many more missing. The torrential downpour has caused massive devastation, with low-lying areas of the capital city, Kathmandu, completely submerged.
Local police confirmed that more than 100 people have lost their lives, and search operations for the missing are in full swing. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. The monsoon rains show no signs of stopping, further worsening the situation.
In Kathmandu, rivers have overflowed, flooding residential areas and leaving streets waterlogged. Many roads are blocked, causing significant distress for residents. Rescue teams are working around the clock to evacuate people trapped by the rising water.
Social media is flooded with images and videos capturing the extent of the disaster. One X user, Tilak Bhusal (@TilakBhusal75), shared aerial pictures of the flood-hit areas, commenting, “The real catastrophe began when land mafias illegally encroached the riversides. I hope recovery is swift. The best time to act was 20 years ago, and the next best time is now. We must give rivers back their space—they owned this land long before us.” The post has gained significant attention under the hashtags #NepalFlood and #ClimateChange.
Footage on social media also shows muddy water gushing into streets, while people are being evacuated using plastic boats. Authorities are deploying all available resources to carry out rescue operations, but the scale of the disaster is overwhelming.
Nepal experiences annual monsoon rains that often lead to such calamities. In July, a landslide swept two buses into a river in a mountainous region, killing 20 people and leaving around 40 others missing. Rescue efforts are now focused on preventing further casualties in the ongoing crisis.
“Implementing Effective Rainwater Management Strategies to Safeguard Metro Stations During Monsoon”
Hyderabad, September 29, 2024: Hyderabad Metro Rail’s much-anticipated second phase is nearing a significant milestone as the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are receiving final touches, according to Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) Managing Director, N.V.S. Reddy. The project is estimated to cost ₹32,237 crore and will be executed as a joint venture between the Government of Telangana and the Government of India.
Phase II Corridors Approved by CM Revanth Reddy
The second phase of the metro rail expansion will introduce six new corridors, which have been approved by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy:
Corridor IV: Nagole to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) – 36.6 km
Corridor V: Raidurg to Kokapet Neopolis – 11.6 km
Corridor VI: MGBS to Chandrayangutta – 7.5 km
Corridor VII: Miyapur to Patancheru – 13.4 km
Corridor VIII: LB Nagar to Hayat Nagar – 7.1 km
Corridor IX: RGIA to Fourth City – 40 km (Innovative design, estimated at ₹8,000 crore)
Innovative Design for RGIA-Fourth City Corridor
The RGIA-Fourth City corridor, spanning 40 km, will feature an innovative design as per the directives of CM Revanth Reddy. This corridor alone is projected to cost ₹8,000 crore, underscoring its significance in the overall metro expansion.
Awaiting Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP)
HAML (Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited) is currently awaiting the traffic study report under the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP), which is being developed by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) for the Hyderabad Metropolitan Area. This report is crucial for validating traffic projections along the proposed metro corridors.
The traffic projections for these metro routes must align with the CMP, which is a mandatory requirement before submitting the DPRs to the Government of India for final approvals.
Addressing Rainwater Management
In this new phase, it is essential to ensure that rainwater does not enter the metro stations during the monsoon season. Additionally, Rain Water Harvesting Pits should be constructed around the stations, with proper maintenance in place to prevent rainwater runoff. HMRL must consider this aspect as part of the overall planning and execution of the project.
This major metro expansion is set to significantly enhance Hyderabad’s public transport infrastructure, providing faster and more efficient travel across key areas in the city.
Hyderabad, September 29 2024 :- On Saturday night, tension escalated in Chanchalguda when the government allotted a 2BHK flat to a family affected by the Musi riverbed demolitions. The family, recently displaced by the demolitions, shifted their belongings into the allotted flat. However, the situation turned hostile as a group arrived later that night and threw their possessions out, leading to a scuffle. Police quickly intervened, bringing the situation under control, but they had to resort to using mild force to disperse the crowd. An investigation is now underway.
It is reported that this 2BHK flat had previously been allotted to another family by the former government, raising questions about how the current government could reassign the same flat. Moreover, doubts have surfaced as to why the original family was not residing in the flat, to begin with.
The incident has sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many blaming the Revanth Reddy government for administrative lapses. People are questioning how such mismanagement occurred and why families are being put through these ordeals.
The allotment of 2BHK flats to the Musi victims has drawn sharp opposition from earlier applicants of the Chanchalguda Double Bedroom Scheme, who claim that their rightful homes have been reassigned. The clashes highlight the growing discontent with the government’s handling of the housing scheme, intensifying tensions between displaced families and local residents.
Police were forced to use mild force to calm the situation as tempers flared. Clashes between citizens are being attributed to the improper administration and lack of coordination in the 2BHK allotment process under CM Revanth Reddy’s government.
“We Will Shield Your Homes: Bulldozers Will Have to Go Through Us First”
Hyderabad , September 29 2024 :- In a bold statement, BRS leader Harish Rao assured the residents of Langar Houz that he stands with them in their battle against the ongoing demolitions by the Telangana government’s Hydra initiative. During his visit, Harish Rao said, “If you call me, I will be there within 15 minutes. And if they try to demolish your houses, the bulldozers will have to go through us.”
Harish Rao’s visit to Hyder Sha Kot was part of the BRS party’s efforts to support the victims of the Hydra demolitions and the Moosi river encroachments. The party’s leaders, led by Rao, inspected the houses marked for demolition and met with distressed families. “Be brave. Don’t lose confidence. We will stand by your houses without touching them. Even if bulldozers come, they will have to pass through us first,” he reassured the affected residents.
The Hydra demolitions have caused significant uproar, with three people already having lost their lives in related incidents. Residents continue to express their outrage as their homes, some of which have been built decades ago, face the bulldozers without proper notice.
A resident shared tearfully, “We don’t want Indiramma’s houses; we want our own homes, the ones we’ve lived in for 30 years.” Several protestors held placards reading “Say No to Demolitions” and “We Want Justice,” demanding that the government reconsider its actions.
Harish Rao took a strong stance against Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s administration, accusing it of prioritizing beautification projects over the well-being of the poor. “Your government is only five years old, but the houses you are demolishing have a lifetime of memories and stability,” he said.
The Hydra demolitions have become a highly contentious issue, with many pointing to the contrast between the current administration and past leadership. “During Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s time, he won the hearts of the people and was known as a compassionate leader. But now, under Revanth Reddy, we see the destruction of homes rather than the creation of security for the poor.”
Protestors and political leaders alike have called for justice, with Rao challenging the government, “Why are you demolishing the homes of the poor while allowing large, illegal buildings to remain untouched? The poor are not voiceless, and BRS stands with them.”
As Telangana’s assembly elections took place on November 30, 2023, with Congress emerging victorious, the BRS party has pledged to continue standing by the poor and marginalized communities of Hyderabad, where they managed to retain a stronghold.
In an emotionally charged plea, Rao urged the government to reflect on the situation, stating, “Even the heart of stone melts when seeing the pain and tears of these people. Why doesn’t Revanth Reddy’s heart melt?”
“During this visit, former ministers Sabitha Indra Reddy, Mahemood Ali, Kartik Reddy MLA, and other BRS leaders were present alongside Harish Rao.”
Background:
The Hydra demolition initiative, led by the Telangana government, has been a cause of concern for many residents whose homes were marked as part of flood-affected areas and buffer zones. The initiative, aimed at clearing illegal encroachments, has been criticized for a lack of due process and insufficient notice periods for affected residents. BRS leaders, including Harish Rao, have voiced their opposition, vowing to support the residents in their struggle.
"15 Minutes"
If you call me, I will be there within 15 minutes. And if they try to demolish your houses, the bulldozers will have to go through us. Harish Rao assured the residents of Langar Houz whose houses were marked as in the FTL and buffer zone.@BRSHarish… pic.twitter.com/EkINVlflgQ
Adilabad :- A case has been registered against Ganganna and several others from Khanapur, Adilabad, for verbally abusing Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. The incident took place following a heated confrontation over the Telangana government’s demolition activities carried out by HYDRAA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority), which involved bulldozing several homes. Locals expressed their anger, accusing the government of demolishing their homes without prior notice or giving them enough time to retrieve their belongings.
Residents alleged that the demolition was executed hastily, with bulldozers flattening properties without giving homeowners even an hour to salvage their belongings. This led to widespread outrage, with many families openly directing their frustration at CM Revanth Reddy. Videos of people using abusive language and expressing their anger have gone viral on social media, further fueling public sentiment against the government.
The demolition drive, which began under CM Revanth Reddy’s leadership, has targeted properties that the government claims were built on encroached land. However, affected families allege that they were not given proper notice before their homes were razed.
Social Media Outrage and Legal Action
The situation escalated when videos surfaced showing individuals hurling abuses at CM Revanth Reddy, accusing him of being responsible for their displacement. These videos have garnered significant attention, amplifying the voices of those affected. Minister Poonam Prabhakar, in a recent media briefing, directed the police to take swift legal action against individuals using abusive language against the Chief Minister.
In response, a case has been registered under Section 296 B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and relevant sections of the Information Technology Act against Ganganna and others in Khanapur. These individuals were identified as having verbally assaulted CM Revanth Reddy during a government survey related to the boundaries of an irrigation tank in Khanapur. Adilabad Town 1 Police Inspector D. Sunil Kumar confirmed that legal action has been initiated.
Survey Controversy
The confrontation between the locals and government officials occurred during a survey conducted by the Municipal and Revenue Departments to identify the boundaries of a nearby irrigation tank. The residents, who claim to have been living in the area for over 30 years, opposed the survey, fearing that their homes would be demolished. Their resistance led to the temporary suspension of the survey on Friday.
Municipal Chairperson Jogu Premender urged officials to explore alternative solutions before proceeding with the survey. During a general body meeting, he emphasized the need for a more community-friendly approach.
Meanwhile, Adilabad RDO Vinod Kumar issued a press statement clarifying the purpose of the survey. He stressed that the survey was intended to prevent future encroachments on the irrigation tank and reassured the public that no houses would be bulldozed during the process.
The situation remains tense, as residents await further updates from the government, hoping for a resolution that does not involve further displacement.
Community leaders gathered to emphasize the importance of moral integrity and called for continuous efforts to counter societal moral degradation as part of a nationwide campaign.
Style Photo Service
Hyderabad September 28 2024:- Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Telangana held a significant community event as part of their nationwide campaign, Morality is Freedom, aimed at raising awareness about the alarming decline in moral values within society. The program brought together various leaders from the community to address the pressing issue and encourage positive change.
The event was presided over by Shaista Rafat, National Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, who highlighted the importance of moral integrity. “By adhering to moral principles, we not only safeguard our own integrity but also contribute to the greater good of society,” she emphasized in her address.
Dr. Rafat Seema, Director of Jamia Makarimul Aqlaq, underscored the need for such campaigns to reach all sections of society. She called for continuous efforts to combat moral degradation, stressing that it is a challenge that requires sustained action.
Maria Tabassum, Director of Madina Education Society, spoke on the significance of building friendly and open relationships with children, stating that family bonds are essential in nurturing moral values.
Tarjumaan-e-Ahle Hadith, Azeema Saheba, expressed concern over the growing trend of materialism, which she believes is driving people towards selfishness and eroding the moral fabric of society.
Dr. Asra Mohsina, the Campaign Convenor, elaborated on the campaign’s core message, stating, “Moral values serve as the foundation of our actions, guiding us in making decisions that are aligned with what is right and just.”
The event saw participation from notable figures, including Mufeeq Hafeez from Jamaatul Ahle Hadith, Yasmeen Sultana, Executive Member of Tanzeem Bint-e-Haram, Fauzia Begum, Assistant Professor at St. Joseph’s Degree College, Azeema Saheba, and Khatija Mahveen, State Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Telangana.
The program reflected a collective commitment to addressing the moral crisis and reinforcing ethical principles in everyday life, with a call for continued efforts to bring positive change to society.
