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“SC Probes Alleged ‘Lotus Blooms’ in Kasaragod Mock Poll as ECI Faces Scrutiny”

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“Daal Me Kala Hai? .. Supreme Court Orders ECI Probe Into Kasaragod Mock Poll”

NEW DELHI: Responding to a flurry of pleas advocating for comprehensive cross-verification of votes cast via Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) alongside Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), the Supreme Court of India, on Thursday, deferred its judgment after considering the Election Commission’s (ECI) stance.

A panel comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta concluded the hearing after reviewing the ECI’s rebuttal to the petitions.

The apex court also instructed the Election Commission to investigate claims from one of the petitioners asserting that EVMs had erroneously tallied votes in favor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a mock poll in Kerala’s Kasaragod district.

Advocates Prashant Bhushan and Gopal Sankararanarayanan represented the petitioners during the proceedings. Bhushan referenced a media report detailing mock poll results from Kerala, where purported surplus votes for the BJP were recorded. According to the report, on April 17, at least four Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) inaccurately registered votes for the BJP during mock polling in Kasaragod.

The bench apprised Maninder Singh, the counsel representing the ECI, to investigate these allegations thoroughly.

Meanwhile, the ECI refuted the claims in the Supreme Court on Thursday, categorically stating that the allegations of EVMs displaying additional votes during a mock poll in Kerala’s Kasaragod were baseless.

“These news reports are false. We have verified the allegation with the district collector, and it appears they are unfounded. We will furnish a comprehensive report to the court,” asserted senior deputy election commissioner Nitesh Kumar Vyas before the bench comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta.

Vyas, present in the courtroom, provided insights into the EVMs’ functionality to the bench.

On April 16, the Supreme Court had criticized disparagement of EVMs and calls for a return to ballot papers, emphasizing that India’s electoral process is a monumental endeavor, and endeavors should not be made to undermine the system.

Concurrently, the petitioners have pressed for a reversal of the Election Commission’s 2017 decision to replace the transparent glass on VVPAT machines with an opaque one, allowing voters to view the slip solely when the light remains illuminated for seven seconds.

“Global Protests Organized to Commemorate 101st Anniversary of Al-Baqi Cemetery Destruction”

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Hyderabad :- In a dignified display of solidarity, members of various communities worldwide prepare to stage protests commemorating the 101st anniversary of the destruction of the shrines and tombs of Prophet Muhammad’s family in Al-Baqi cemetery, Madinah, Saudi Arabia.

Shiites across the globe unite in mourning on Shawwal 8 (April 18, 2024, Thursday), vehemently denouncing the disregard shown towards the Prophet’s family. The demand for the prompt reconstruction of the cemetery resonates strongly among the protestors.

In a call for justice and respect, leaders gather to voice their condemnation and advocate for immediate action from the Saudi Arabian government. Among them are distinguished figures such as SPL,Guest Maulana ALI Quadri, Chairman of Siratun Nabi (P.B.U.H) Academy; Maulana Mushtaq Malik, President of Tahreek Muslim Shabban; and Moulan Matloob Mehdi Abedi, representing Hujjatul Islam.

The venue for this significant demonstration is set at Indra Park (Dharna Chowk) Hyderabad, where participants will assemble promptly at 10:00 AM on April 18th, 2024.

World Liver Day: Dr. Ashish Chauhan Provides Expert Guidance on Liver Health

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On April 19, the world observes World Liver Day, a pivotal occasion dedicated to fostering awareness about liver health and the imperative of maintaining a robust liver. Surprisingly, the liver ranks as the second largest organ in the human body, underscoring its profound significance. Despite its vital role, liver diseases pose a formidable global challenge.

Annually, an alarming 20 lakh individuals succumb to liver diseases, with the incidence of new cases persistently escalating. This grim reality underscores the urgent necessity for heightened awareness campaigns and proactive preventive measures.

In an effort to illuminate this pressing health concern, esteemed hepatologist Dr. Ashish Chauhan takes center stage to impart invaluable insights on liver health and the detrimental impact of liver diseases. Through a dedicated video presentation, Dr. Chauhan elucidates crucial aspects of liver health, dispenses practical advice, and underscores the paramount importance of preventive measures.

To gain access to this illuminating discourse with Dr. Ashish Chauhan, viewers are invited to watch the video “Dr. Ashish Chauhan – Understanding Liver Health.”

Together, let us unite in the mission to elevate awareness, proactively nurture liver health, and collectively combat the scourge of liver diseases on a global scale.

“10 Simple Ways to Boost Your Productivity and Achieve Your Goals”

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In today’s fast-paced world, productivity is key to success. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an entrepreneur, finding ways to enhance your productivity can help you achieve your goals more efficiently. Here are 10 simple yet effective strategies to boost your productivity:

  1. Set Clear Goals: Define your objectives clearly and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks.
  2. Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most important tasks and tackle them first to make the most of your time.
  3. Create a Schedule: Use a planner or digital calendar to organize your day and allocate specific time slots for each task.
  4. Eliminate Distractions: Minimize distractions such as social media, emails, or unnecessary meetings to stay focused on your work.
  5. Take Regular Breaks: Schedule short breaks to recharge your mind and prevent burnout. Even a brief walk or meditation session can boost your productivity.
  6. Practice Time Management: Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking to manage your time effectively and improve concentration.
  7. Delegate Tasks: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks that others can handle, allowing you to focus on high-priority activities.
  8. Stay Organized: Keep your workspace clutter-free and maintain a system for organizing files, documents, and resources.
  9. Use Technology Wisely: Leverage productivity tools and apps to streamline tasks, manage projects, and automate repetitive processes.
  10. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review your progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust your strategies accordingly.

By implementing these strategies into your daily routine, you can increase your productivity, achieve your goals more efficiently, and ultimately lead a more fulfilling and successful life.

Heatwave Conditions Grip Telangana, Yellow Alert Issued

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Hyderabad, April 17, 2024: Heatwave conditions have tightened their grip over various parts of Telangana as temperatures soar past 44 degrees Celsius. Nidamanoor in Nalgonda district registered the highest temperature at a scorching 44.8 degrees Celsius. According to the Telangana State Development Planning Society, Ayyagaripalle and Garla in Mahabubabad district, Munagala in Suryapet, Nampalle in Nalgonda, and Aswapuram in Bhadradri Kothagudem district closely follow with a maximum temperature of 44.7 degrees Celsius.

In response to the intensifying heat, the Hyderabad Met Office has issued a yellow alert for several districts, anticipating a further rise in temperature by 2-3 degrees Celsius over the next four days. Heatwave conditions are expected to persist in isolated pockets across various districts including Komaram Bheem Asifabad, Mancherial, Peddapally, Jayashankar Bhupalapally, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Khammam, Nalgonda, Suryapet, and Mahabubabad on April 18.

On April 19, heatwave conditions are forecasted to continue in Adilabad, KomaramBheem Asifabad, Mancherial, Nirmal, Karimnagar, Peddapally, Jayashankar Bhupalapally, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Khammam, Suryapet, and Mahabubabad districts.

In a slight reprieve, the Met Office has predicted light to moderate rain or thundershowers at isolated places across Telangana in the next five days. Meanwhile, Hyderabad experienced a pleasant turn in weather towards the evening, with isolated light rains and cloudy skies offering relief from the sweltering heat, accompanied by cool breezes.

“LS Poll 2024: TMC Pledges to Repeal CAA, Halt NRC in Manifesto Release”

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In a significant move ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Wednesday revealed its manifesto, titled ‘Didir Shopoth’, outlining a slew of promises aimed at uplifting the nation. The manifesto, curated under the guidance of party supremo Mamata Banerjee, emphasizes a comprehensive agenda focused on social welfare and economic empowerment.

Reflecting the party’s ethos, the manifesto unequivocally commits to the repeal of the contentious Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and staunchly opposes the National Register of Citizens (NRC), aligning with Banerjee’s steadfast declarations in public forums.

“We are thrilled to unveil our Manifesto for the Lok Sabha Elections, 2024! With Didir Shopoth, we affirm our dedication to enhancing the lives of every Indian through initiatives such as guaranteed employment, universal housing, free LPG cylinders, fair MSP for farmers, and scholarships for students from marginalized communities,” announced the TMC via a social media proclamation.

The manifesto underscores the TMC’s commitment to grassroots-level welfare, promising doorstep ration delivery and the provision of 10 free cooking cylinders for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. Furthermore, the party pledges to ensure dignified housing for every economically disadvantaged family nationwide.

Addressing the pressing issue of unemployment, the TMC manifesto introduces a bold proposal of providing 100 days of guaranteed work to all job card holders, coupled with a commitment to ensure a minimum wage of up to 400 per day for workers.

In a gesture towards inclusivity, the TMC released the manifesto in five languages, underscoring its commitment to reach out to diverse segments of society and ensuring that its promises resonate across linguistic boundaries.

With ‘Didir Shopoth’, the Trinamool Congress aims to set a benchmark for inclusive governance and socio-economic development, striving to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all citizens of the nation.

Supreme Court Debates Plea for 100% EVM-VVPAT Verification: Human Intervention Sparks Concerns

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New Delhi, Apr 16 : -(Live Law.in ) The Supreme Court on Tuesday delved into the petitions advocating for comprehensive verification of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) data against Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) records.

After a marathon hearing lasting over two hours, the bench comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta deferred the matter to April 18 for further deliberation. Notably, this decision comes on the eve of the commencement of the first phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 19.

At the onset of the proceedings, the bench apprised Advocate Prashant Bhushan (representing the Association for Democratic Reforms) of the Court’s prior consideration of the issue in 2019. During that hearing, the Court had mandated the increase in VVPAT count from one EVM to 5 EVMs per assembly segment in a constituency. Bhushan contended that the order was issued due to time constraints preceding the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and asserted that the matter remains open for adjudication.

“We aren’t alleging manipulation of EVMs. We are stating they can be manipulated, both EVM and VVPAT,” Bhushan argued. He highlighted the programmable nature of EVMs and VVPATs, emphasizing the potential insertion of malicious programs.

Responding to queries regarding the relief sought, Bhushan proposed three alternatives:

  1. Return to the paper ballot system;
  2. Permit voters to physically deposit VVPAT slips in the ballot box and tally the slips;
  3. Introduce transparency by making the glass of EVMs transparent, enabling the inspection of all VVPAT slips.

Bhushan advocated for prioritizing the VVPAT count over the EVM count in case of discrepancies.

During the discourse, Justice Khanna underscored concerns regarding human intervention, opining, “Normally, human intervention is going to create problems. Machine normally, without any wrong human intervention, will work properly, will give accurate results.” He expressed apprehension over potential manipulation due to unauthorized human intervention.

In response, Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan echoed Bhushan’s arguments, emphasizing the objective of enhancing voter confidence.

As the hearing progressed, the bench directed queries to Senior Advocate Maninder Singh, representing the Election Commission of India (ECI), regarding measures ensuring EVM security. The ECI assured the bench of stringent sealing protocols and highlighted legal provisions penalizing EVM tampering.

The petition, filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms through Advocate Prashant Bhushan, seeks expanded verification of EVM-VVPAT data and asserts voters’ fundamental right to verify their votes. While the petition awaits adjudication, it has reignited debates surrounding the efficacy and transparency of India’s electoral process.

Heavy Rains Claim 18 Lives in Oman; Flash Floods Wreak Havoc Across UAE

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Watch the lightning and Dubai airport’s tarmac is flooded after heavy thunderstorms and rain showers batter parts of the UAE.

Torrential downpours and flash floods have ravaged parts of the Gulf region, resulting in the loss of at least 18 lives in Oman and wreaking havoc in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

In Oman, the tragic toll, announced on Tuesday, includes the lives of nine schoolchildren and their driver, who were swept away by floodwaters in Samad A’Shan on Sunday. The National Committee for Emergency Management disclosed that rescue teams continue to search for two missing individuals.

As a precautionary measure, the government granted administrative leave to public and private sector employees across several provinces, while remote work was advised in other regions of the sultanate. Residents were urged to seek refuge in shelters if they perceived any danger or received directives from authorities.

To address the crisis in the worst-affected province of Ash Sharqiyah North, law enforcement and military personnel were dispatched to facilitate the evacuation of citizens from inundated areas, according to state media reports.

Simultaneously, heavy rainfall pummeled the neighboring UAE on Tuesday, submerging sections of major highways and leaving vehicles stranded on roads throughout Dubai.

The deluge commenced overnight, resulting in extensive flooding on streets, while gusty winds disrupted flight operations at Dubai International Airport. Prior to the storm’s onset, schools across the country had largely suspended operations, and government employees were advised to work remotely where feasible. Despite the adverse conditions, some individuals ventured out, only to find themselves stranded as their vehicles succumbed to unexpectedly deep floodwaters.

Authorities swiftly deployed tanker trucks to pump water from inundated streets and highways, as initial assessments indicated rainfall exceeding 30mm (1.2 inches) in Dubai during the morning, with projections of up to 128mm (5 inches) throughout the day.

18 Naxalites Killed in Encounter with Security Forces in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker; 3 Jawans Injured

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Kanker, Apr 16 – In a significant operation, at least 18 Naxalites were neutralized in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district on Tuesday, confirmed the Border Security Force (BSF).

During the intense gun-battle, three security personnel sustained injuries, and a substantial cache of weapons was seized from the encounter site, as per state police reports.

The confrontation erupted around 2 pm in the dense Hapatola forest, situated between Binagunda and Koronar villages under the jurisdiction of Chhotebethiya police station. The exchange of fire transpired during a joint anti-Naxal operation conducted by the Border Security Force (BSF) and the state police’s District Reserve Guard (DRG).

The BSF, actively engaged in counter-insurgency efforts, disclosed, “Bodies of 18 Maoist cadres were retrieved from the site of the encounter. Additionally, seven AK series rifles and three Light Machine Guns were seized.”

“One BSF personnel sustained a bullet injury to his leg during the skirmish; however, his condition is stable,” the statement further affirmed.

The Chhattisgarh police confirmed that three security personnel sustained injuries during the engagement and are currently being transferred to a medical facility for treatment.

Rakul Preet Singh Launches ‘Arambam – Starts with Millet’ Restaurant in Hyderabad”

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Bollywood actress Rakul Preet Singh marked a significant milestone today as she unveiled her inaugural dine-in establishment, “Arambam – Starts with Millet,” in Madhapur, Hyderabad. The actress, known for her dedication to fitness, concurrently assumes the role of brand ambassador for Arambam.

In collaboration with Curefoods, a leading F&B and cloud kitchen operator in India, “Arambam – Starts with Millet” reflects Rakul’s commitment to promoting healthy dietary habits and overall well-being. The collaboration signifies a shared vision to champion nutritious eating practices.

During the inauguration ceremony, Rakul expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m thrilled to introduce my first millet-focused restaurant in Hyderabad. As a fitness enthusiast, I continually seek nutritious yet delicious food options that encourage responsible eating. Hyderabad holds a special place in my heart, being the starting point of my acting journey. I am delighted that my venture in the F&B industry is commencing here. Our menu, crafted around millet-based delicacies, aims to prioritize health without compromising on flavor.”

The restaurant’s concept revolves around the nutritional richness of millets, offering patrons an unmatched dining experience centered on the ancient grain, integral to Indian cuisine for centuries.

Founder of Curefoods, Ankit Nagori, expressed excitement about the launch, stating, “Arambam embodies our commitment to fostering a healthy lifestyle and mindful consumption. We are thrilled about this collaboration and anticipate further expansion with the opening of two additional outlets in Bangalore and Chennai, alongside ten cloud kitchens this year.”

Millets, renowned for their nutritional benefits, serve as a rich source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber. Recognizing its manifold advantages, the Government of India actively promotes millets to enhance dietary diversity and nutritional intake. Arambam endeavors to revolutionize culinary traditions by highlighting the nutritional merits and ecological sustainability of millets, aligning with the national vision for healthier living.

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