The incident has raised concerns about the increasing use of emergency vehicles for illegal activities in the region.
Kothagudem, Telangana – September 14, 2024: In a surprising turn of events, a massive quantity of ganja being smuggled in an ambulance was intercepted in the early hours of Sunday at Ramavaram, within the two-town limits of Kothagudem.
The incident unfolded when a group of local youths came across the ambulance, which had stopped due to a flat tyre on the Kothagudem-Vijayawada highway. The vehicle, bearing a Tamil Nadu registration plate, aroused suspicion when the driver failed to provide convincing details about the supposed patient onboard.
The concerned youths decided to inspect the vehicle and, upon closer examination, discovered ganja packets concealed under a bed sheet, with the ambulance’s windows covered by black cloth to avoid detection. Immediately, they restrained the driver and alerted the local police.
Responding swiftly, the police arrived at the scene, seized the ambulance, and detained the driver for further investigation. Initial reports suggest that the driver attempted to bribe the youths to escape but was thwarted by their vigilance.
Preliminary assessments indicate the confiscated ganja weighs approximately four quintals, with an estimated market value of ₹2.50 crore. It is suspected that the contraband was en route from Odisha to Tamil Nadu. However, an official statement from the police is still awaited as investigations continue.
The incident has raised concerns about the increasing use of emergency vehicles for illegal activities in the region.
Hyderabad, September 14: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy launched the book “Prophet for the World,” written by Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, President of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board. The event, attended by notable Islamic scholars, intellectuals, and government officials, also served as a platform for discussing communal harmony and the role of religion in shaping societal values.
During his address, CM Reddy stressed the need to rise above political differences for the greater good of society. He pointed to key initiatives, such as the restoration of the Esa and Musi rivers and welfare programs for minorities, including two-bedroom housing for the underprivileged. “These initiatives were made possible through collaboration with other political parties. AIMIM has also supported the cleaning of the Musi river,” Reddy said, citing it as an example of collective efforts promoting social harmony.
The CM further lauded Maulana Rahmani’s contribution, calling his work “inspirational.” He emphasized that the book “Prophet for the World” could play a pivotal role in fostering national integration and promoting communal harmony. He encouraged people from all walks of life to embrace the message of unity the book conveys.
In his keynote address, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani reflected on the teachings of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) as a guide to living a moral and balanced life. Rahmani described the human body as a sophisticated machine created by God, noting, “On average, a human being takes 33,000 breaths a day, the heart beats 115,000 times, and the brain contains over 100 million cells. To guide this intricate creation, God sent the Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) and the Quran, His final revelation.”
Rahmani emphasized that the Quran is not just a source of knowledge but a comprehensive guide for life. He praised Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) as a model of excellence, stating, “The Prophet set the highest moral standards for how we should treat our parents, spouses, and neighbors, and even how we should care for animals and plants.” Rahmani explained that the teachings of the Prophet offer practical examples for navigating the complexities of human life.
Addressing religious tolerance, Maulana Rahmani underscored Islam’s emphasis on equal justice for all, regardless of faith, particularly in cases of serious crimes like murder and offenses against modesty. He called for respect and kindness towards all forms of life, reinforcing Islam’s message of peace and compassion.
The book “Prophet for the World” has been translated into nearly a dozen languages, including Hindi, Arabic, French, Malayalam, and Telugu, making its message accessible to diverse audiences. The author hopes the book will bridge gaps in understanding and dispel misconceptions about Islam, particularly in the face of growing Islamophobia.
Mufti Omer Abideen, son of Maulana Rahmani and Director of Al Mahadul Aali Al Islami, who compered the event, reiterated that the book aims to counter misconceptions about Islam and promote its true teachings of peace and compassion. He noted, “This book is an effort to clarify misconceptions and foster understanding of Islam’s core values.”
The launch was attended by Islamic scholars from different schools of thought, government officials, and prominent figures from the Muslim community, marking the event as a significant step toward promoting religious tolerance and unity.
Hyderabad, September 14: A major financial fraud case has been registered against DKZ Technologies by the Hyderabad police after thousands of investors from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra were reportedly duped out of several crores of rupees. The company promised investors returns between 8 to 12 percent on their investments, only to stop payments and vanish after months of operation.
According to the police, DKZ Technologies, founded in 2018, lured investors by claiming that their funds were being invested in various business ventures, guaranteeing monthly profits. The company’s operations continued smoothly until June, when payments abruptly stopped. Investors who attempted to follow up on their investments discovered that the company’s office in Madhapur was shut down. Following the realization of the scam, numerous investors filed complaints with the Hyderabad Central Crime Station (CCS), leading to the registration of the case.
The investigation revealed that key individuals in the company, including Ashfaq Rahil, Iqbal, Umair, Moiz, Aslam, Bilal, Nazeer, and others holding different positions, were allegedly involved in orchestrating the fraud. The police have formed six teams to investigate further and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Several victims of the scam staged a protest outside the Hyderabad CCS office, urging the authorities to take swift action against DKZ Technologies’ management. They demanded the return of their money and harsher preventive measures against similar fraudulent schemes in the future.
This isn’t the first instance of large-scale financial fraud in Hyderabad. Over the past few years, the city has witnessed multiple scams of this nature, with unsuspecting investors often falling prey to promises of high returns. Despite several high-profile cases, including those of major ponzi schemes and chit fund scams, fraudsters continue to find ways to exploit the public’s trust.
In an alarming development, it has also come to light that many highly educated professionals were among those defrauded by DKZ Technologies, showing that no one is immune to such schemes. As one of the victims remarked, “Every time we think we’ve learned our lesson, another scam occurs, and we find ourselves grieving yet again after being cheated.”
Many are now questioning why authorities fail to keep a closer watch on such fraudulent companies before they escalate. While protests and investigations follow every scam, stricter regulatory oversight is being called for to prevent further exploitation of citizens.
The investigation is ongoing, and the police are urging other victims to come forward with their complaints.
CM Revanth Reddy Invites Union Ministers for Telangana Praja Palana Dinam Celebrations on September 17
Photo Nani
Hyderabad, September 14, 2024: Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand, along with senior officials, is actively coordinating with various departments to ensure smooth and safe Ganesh idol immersions scheduled for September 17. As part of the city’s large-scale preparations, zonal commissioners and high-level committees are overseeing the processions, focusing on ensuring an organized event.
To facilitate the immersion process, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has intensified its efforts. The corporation is clearing roads, filling potholes, and removing any obstructions like trees and wires along the procession routes. In addition, new street lamps are being installed on key roads, and pending work is expected to be completed within two days.
Commissioner CV Anand, addressing the media during an inspection on Saturday, stated that 25,000 police officers will be deployed across Hyderabad to ensure security and smooth management of the immersion. He emphasized that arrangements are tailored according to the requirements of pandal organizers. “We are monitoring the idols in the tri-commissionerate areas heading toward Hussain Sagar for a peaceful immersion,” Anand said.
Cranes and vehicles have been stationed at Hussain Sagar, where the grand immersion will take place. The renowned Khairatabad Ganesh idol is set to be immersed at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, September 17. Rituals will be completed overnight, and the idol will be transported to the immersion site the next morning.
In preparation for the massive event, GHMC will deploy 15,000 personnel to manage sanitation, portable toilets, and food services for those attending the immersion. GHMC Commissioner Amrapali Kata noted that both stationary and mobile cranes will be positioned at major ponds across the city to assist with the immersion. “We anticipate the immersion to conclude by the morning of September 19,” she said.
CM Revanth Reddy Invites Union Ministers for Telangana Praja Palana Dinam Celebrations on September 17 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has extended invitations to four Union Ministers to attend the ‘Telangana Praja Palana Dinam’ celebrations on September 17. The CM sent formal invitation letters on Friday to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy, and Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay.
The Telangana government has decided to mark September 17, 1948, as ‘Telangana Praja Palana Dinam’ to commemorate the beginning of democratic governance in the state. The official celebration will take place at Nampally Public Gardens in Hyderabad, and the Chief Minister has personally requested the presence of the Union Ministers at the event.
Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner, along with MP Lava Sri Krishna Devarayalu, actor Regina Cassandra, and Chaitanya MRSK at the official launch of the Young Leaders for Social Change program in Hyderabad. Photo: Style Photo Service.
Hyderabad, 14 September 2024:- In a bid to foster youth involvement in democracy and social change, Democratic Sangha has unveiled its latest initiative, the Young Leaders for Social Change program. Aimed at high school students, the program seeks to inspire young minds to become changemakers within their communities and beyond.
The program was officially launched in Hyderabad by Mr. Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, alongside Chaitanya MRSK, Founder of Democratic Sangha, and co-founder, actor Regina Cassandra. The event was attended by educators, parents, and students. The initiative is supported by the Hyderabad-based Global Tree Foundation.
Program Objectives and Structure
The Young Leaders for Social Change program is specifically designed for students from grades 8 to 12. It offers a robust curriculum focused on leadership development, civic engagement, and social entrepreneurship. The program includes:
Lectures: Six expert-led sessions covering critical topics such as democracy, human rights, climate change, and leadership.
Interactive Sessions: Panel discussions, roundtables, and fireside chats, allowing students to engage directly with global thought leaders.
International Leadership Tour: A seven-day educational tour to the United Kingdom, where participants will attend masterclasses and cultural activities at a prestigious university.
Internship Opportunity: A one-month internship with a nonprofit organization, enabling students to gain practical experience in social impact initiatives.
Parliament Visit: A visit to the Parliament of India, offering students insights into democratic governance and the legislative process.
The program will conclude with an optional leadership tour to the UK in May 2025, providing students with global exposure to further enhance their leadership skills.
Leaders at the Helm
Chaitanya MRSK, a dedicated social reformer, has been actively involved in human rights advocacy since the age of 17. A student of the late Swami Agnivesh, Chaitanya has been at the forefront of various nonprofit initiatives. He believes that spirituality should transcend ritual and focus on societal good. Democratic Sangha, founded by Chaitanya and Regina Cassandra, strives to uphold democratic values and social justice through education and activism.
Actor Regina Cassandra, known for her involvement in social causes, highlighted the importance of youth leadership in creating sustainable social change during the event.
The program launch saw enthusiastic participation, with British Deputy High Commissioner Gareth Wynn Owen emphasizing the need for youth participation in democracy and social reform. MP Lava Sri Krishna Devarayalu also supported the initiative, reinforcing its potential to shape future leaders.
As Democratic Sangha continues its mission to strengthen democracy, the Young Leaders for Social Change program is set to play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of socially conscious leaders. Through its innovative curriculum and experiential learning opportunities, this initiative promises to make a significant impact on youth leadership and community transformation.
Rising Fire Incidents in Mumbai: A Wake-Up Call for Safety Measures in 2024
Mumbai: A fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday in a seven-storey building located in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar area, leaving 13 residents suffocating due to heavy smoke. The incident took place at 1:35 am in the Shanti Sagar Building, situated in Ramabai Colony, Pantnagar, prompting an immediate response from the fire brigade.
The fire is believed to have started in the electric meter room on the ground floor of the building. According to officials, the blaze was contained to the wiring and installations in the meter room, but it generated thick smoke that rapidly spread throughout the building.
Firefighters rescued around 90 residents stranded on various floors, evacuating them via the staircase. The fire was brought under control by 2:05 am, but by then, the smoke had already caused respiratory issues for several people. Among the 13 affected by suffocation, 12 were rushed to a nearby hospital, while one individual was treated at the OPD and discharged. Of the 13 injured, nine were women, as confirmed by officials. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire.
Similar Incidents in Mumbai This Year
Mumbai has seen several such fire-related incidents in recent months, raising concerns about fire safety in residential buildings.
June 13, 2024: A major fire broke out at a commercial complex in the Andheri East area, leaving four people dead and several others injured. The fire, which started at around 2:30 am, was linked to faulty electrical wiring. Rescue operations lasted several hours as the fire brigade struggled to control the flames due to the narrow lanes leading to the building.
August 1, 2024: A fire at a high-rise residential building in the Malad West area resulted in the death of two senior citizens due to asphyxiation. The fire started at around 3:45 am in the basement, quickly filling the upper floors with smoke. Despite the quick response from fire services, two lives were lost due to late evacuation.
September 5, 2024: In a tragic incident in the Colaba area, a fire in an old, dilapidated building caused a structural collapse, leading to the death of five people. The fire broke out at around 11:00 pm, and before rescue services could control it, a portion of the building gave way. Residents had been asking for repairs for months before the incident occurred.
These recurring incidents have raised alarm over the state of fire safety protocols in Mumbai’s older buildings and those with faulty electrical systems. Authorities have repeatedly called for stricter safety regulations, regular inspections, and proper maintenance of electrical installations, especially in high-rise buildings. The Ghatkopar fire is another reminder of the urgent need for better safety measures to prevent such life-threatening events in the city.
Kothagudem, 14 September 2024:- The detention of Civil Liberties Committee (CLC) leaders by police has triggered widespread condemnation, as prominent figures within the organization were stopped while on a mission to investigate a recent encounter site near Mothe village under Karakagudem police station limits.
The CLC, a respected human rights body in Telangana, has long been known for its role in monitoring and investigating incidents of police excesses and safeguarding civil rights. On this occasion, CLC president Professor Gaddam Laxman, general secretary N Narayana Rao, and nine other members were on their way to examine the site of the encounter that raised concerns regarding potential human rights violations. However, their journey was abruptly interrupted when the police intercepted their bus at the Sri Abhayanjaneya Swamy Temple area near Manugur.
The group was detained and initially taken to Aswapuram police station in a school bus before reportedly being transferred to Khammam. This action has ignited protests in Kothagudem, where members of various people’s organizations gathered at the bus stand area, expressing their outrage over the police’s actions.
Protesters, consisting of rights activists, political organizations, and concerned citizens, condemned the state government for stifling civil liberties. They raised slogans against the ruling government, criticizing its failure to protect freedom of speech and expression. The CLC leaders were on a fact-finding mission, a routine procedure for the organization, yet they were detained without proper justification, activists said.
Critics particularly targeted Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, accusing him of hypocrisy. They recalled his earlier promises to establish a democratic government that would uphold the rights of the people and ensure freedom of expression. The recent incident, they argued, exposed the gap between his promises and the state’s actions, as the CLC leaders were simply conducting their duty to ensure transparency and accountability regarding the recent police encounter.
The Civil Liberties Committee has historically played an important role in advocating for the marginalized and investigating incidents where police or state authorities are accused of human rights abuses. Their work often includes gathering independent facts, speaking to affected communities, and bringing to light any discrepancies in official versions of events. The detention of these leaders, while on such a mission, has raised serious concerns about the state’s attitude towards civil rights defenders and independent scrutiny.
The protesters vowed to continue their agitation until the CLC leaders are released and the government takes accountability for what they see as an attack on democratic values. The incident has highlighted the ongoing tensions between civil society groups and state authorities in Telangana, particularly when it comes to issues related to police encounters and human rights investigations.
Hyderabad’s Law and Order in Crisis: 28 Murders in 30 Days Highlight Growing Violence Under Congress Rule
Hyderabad, 14 September 2024 :- BRS working president KT Rama Rao launched a fierce criticism of the Congress government in Telangana, accusing Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of fostering lawlessness and violence in the capital city. Addressing the media after visiting BRS MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy’s residence, which was attacked by a Congress mob led by MLA Arekapudi Gandhi, Rao condemned the lawlessness in broad daylight, blaming the current state of affairs on the incompetence of the Chief Minister.
Rama Rao expressed concern over the escalating violence in Hyderabad, citing 28 murders in the last 30 days as proof of the deteriorating law and order situation. He held the Chief Minister, who also oversees the home ministry, responsible for failing to maintain peace, questioning his capability to remain in office given his frequent trips to New Delhi.
Rao also defended Kaushik Reddy’s questioning of Gandhi’s political affiliations, reiterating his concerns. He alleged that Revanth Reddy is employing tactics to distract the public from pressing issues and attempting to manage headlines. According to Rao, Revanth Reddy will be remembered as the most inept leader in the state’s history.
Comparing Revanth Reddy to past leaders like N Chandrababu Naidu, Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, N Kiran Kumar Reddy, and K Rosaiah, Rama Rao emphasized that Hyderabad had enjoyed a decade of peace under BRS governance. He further accused Revanth Reddy of holding a grudge against the people of Hyderabad for their overwhelming support of BRS during the last assembly elections, where Congress failed to secure any seats.
Rama Rao claimed that Revanth was resorting to coercive measures, such as demolitions, to undermine the BRS’s accomplishments. He stressed that during the BRS rule, there were no Andhra-Telangana disputes, unlike the divisions the Congress was allegedly trying to create for political advantage.
The BRS leader vowed that his party would continue to hold the Congress accountable for failing to deliver on its promises. He demanded action against the police officers who reportedly escorted the mob that attacked Kaushik Reddy’s residence, questioning what could have happened if family members had been harmed.
Rao also criticized the police for allegedly attempting to harass senior BRS leaders, including T Harish Rao, but noted that public support had prevented such efforts.
Touching on the High Court’s directive for action against defected MLAs, Rao revealed that Kaushik Reddy had played a key role in filing disqualification petitions against Congress turncoats such as Danam Nagender, Tellam Venkatrao, and Kadiam Srihari. He expressed gratitude to the judiciary for this intervention.
In his final remarks, Rama Rao recalled that Revanth Reddy had once declared that defecting MLAs should be punished severely. He linked the recent attack on Kaushik Reddy’s home to Gandhi’s appointment as Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Chairman, interpreting the incident as a retaliation for questioning Congress’s commitment to democratic values.
Hyderabad,:- Hyderabad police are mobilizing over 25,000 personnel to ensure a smooth and peaceful Ganesh idol immersion on September 17. The extensive security arrangements will involve around 15,000 forces from within the city and an additional 3,000 personnel from surrounding districts. Another 8,000 officers will be on bandobast duty, given the proximity of the Ganesh immersion and Milad-un-Nabi processions.
In a significant decision ahead of the immersion, Hyderabad police have announced that immersions will not be allowed in Hussain Sagar Lake this year. All immersions are to be strictly confined to NTR Marg, with restrictions placed on Tank Bund and other nearby locations to manage the event effectively.
City Police Commissioner C.V. Anand held a meeting on Friday with senior officers to review security preparations, emphasizing vigilance against those attempting to exploit social media for spreading fake news or communal tensions. The commissioner also instructed officers to bind over known troublemakers to prevent any disturbances during the festivities.
South Zone DCP Sneha Mehra met with members of the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Committee (BGUS) to discuss security measures and address concerns raised by the organizers. She assured that the department is fully committed to executing the immersion plan without any disruptions, while also cautioning those intent on breaking the law.
With drones and CCTV surveillance in place, along with stringent monitoring of public areas, the Hyderabad police are determined to ensure both the Ganesh idol immersion and Milad-un-Nabi processions proceed peacefully.
“Watch: Emotional Reunion as Sufiyan Meets His Parents at the Airport”
Narayanpet, Telangana – Emotional scenes unfolded at the home of Syed Zahur Pasha and Nausin Zahur as their son, Sufiyan, returned home safely after being stuck in war-torn Russia for nearly nine months. The family members embraced Sufiyan tightly, overwhelmed with relief and gratitude after enduring months of uncertainty and fear.
Sufiyan’s return marked the end of a grueling ordeal that left his family on the brink of losing hope. “My parents had almost given up, but thanks to the Indian Government, my brother is back home safely,” Sufiyan’s brother, Salman, shared with deep emotion.
Sufiyan, who had been working in Russia under dangerous conditions, was finally freed after his contract was canceled on September 6. Following the cancellation, he and five others were instructed to prepare to leave for India. Once the necessary documentation and formalities were completed, Sufiyan boarded a flight from Moscow to New Delhi on Thursday. After arriving in New Delhi early in the morning, he took a connecting flight to Hyderabad, finally reuniting with his family on Friday night.
Salman recounted how Sufiyan kept his family in the dark during the final stages of his journey. “Even when his commandants told him to pack his bags and get ready to leave, he didn’t call us. He only informed us after reaching Moscow airport,” Salman said, reflecting the ongoing uncertainty his brother faced.
The 23-year-old was among a group of Indian youths who were duped by agents and deployed in the Russia-Ukraine war zone. Sufiyan, who had been working as a helper in the packing section at Dubai airport, was lured by Faizal Khan, an agent who promised him a job as a security guard in Russia.
Sufiyan’s journey took him from his hometown in Narayanpet to Chennai in December, before he ultimately reached Russia. Once there, instead of the promised job, he was forced to perform grueling tasks in the war zone, including fetching water, cleaning bunkers, and arranging firewood.
Sufiyan had limited communication with his family due to strict surveillance by local forces, intended to prevent location tracking by drones or other equipment. His phone calls were brief, often lasting no more than two minutes, his brother Salman tearfully recalled.
Now back in the comfort of his home, Sufiyan’s return has brought immense relief to his family, but it also highlights the dangers faced by young Indians lured into foreign countries under false promises.
8 నెలలుగా రష్యా ఆర్మీ చేతిలో బంధీగా ఉన్న సోఫీయాన్
ఎట్టకేలకు రష్యా ఆర్మీ చెర నుంచి బయటపడ్డ భారతీయ యువకుడు.8 నెలలుగా రష్యా ఆర్మీ చేతిలో బంధీగా ఉన్న సోఫీయాన్ .నారాయణపేట జిల్లాకి చెందిన సోఫియాన్ . క్షేమంగా ఇండియా కి తిరిగి వచ్చిన సోఫియాన్. pic.twitter.com/KBYFBtBsXV