India News Highlights: Our alliance committed to furthering national progress, says PM after NDA CMs' meet

Yehya Sinwar, the head of Hamas in Gaza, may have been killed during an Israeli raid, according to sources within the organization. Unconfirmed sources indicate noteworthy advancements in the continuing war between Israel and Hamas. There are still few details available about the operation, and Israeli officials have not yet responded to the allegations. Sinwar, a well-known member of Hamas, may pass away, which might have a big impact on the organization's future tactics and leadership.

Mumbai Police has issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against accused Shiv Kumar Gautam and Zeeshan Akhtar

Our alliance committed to furthering national progress, empowering poor and downtrodden: PM Modi after NDA CMs' meeting.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Guwahati has recorded the statement of actress Tamannaah Bhatia regarding the TPZ Token scheme case. Importantly, sources confirm that she is not an accused in the matter. Tamannaah attended an event promoting HPZ Token, for which she received an appearance fee. The ED’s inquiry appears to be part of a broader investigation into the token scheme, but her involvement remains strictly as a participant at the event, not as a suspect.

Chief Electoral Officer S. Chockalingam emphasised the importance of verifying voter registration ahead of the polls. He stated, "Election Commission of India has announced elections for Maharashtra assembly and it will be held on the 20 November 2024."Chockalingam highlighted a common issue faced by voters, noting, "Some voters check their names on the day of the poll and if it is not found there are complaints. The day of the poll is not the day to check the presence of our names in the electoral roll." He urged voters to take action now, saying, "If the name is not there on the electoral roll, please apply before 19 October midnight." Voters can register either offline or online, with Chockalingam calling it "the best way to vote for this year."

BJP leader CR Kesavan comments, "Capt. Ajay Singh Yadav's resignation from Congress has truly exposed the 'OBC virodi' and mentality of the Congress." Yadav is a leading member of the Congress and has resigned from the party's primary membership. It also revealed how Congress pursues its narrow objective of religious polarization for vote-bank politics by using OBCs and other marginalized communities as political punching bags and pawns. This resignation serves as a mirror for the Republican Party.

CJI DY Chandrachud, praised the accomplishments of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) during the International Conference on Advancements of Research and Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda (AROHA 2024). He said, "I am truly delighted to see how AIIA has made remarkable progress in eight short years." Chandrachud emphasized the institute's dedication to supporting evidence-based Ayurvedic research, highlighting its three main pillars of academics, research, and tertiary care. He continued, "Its dedication to blending ancient wisdom with modern science is paving way to holistic health solutions which have Ayurveda increasing respect and recognition worldwide."

Former DGP of UP Vikram Singh commented on the recent violence in Bahraich, calling it unfortunate. He noted that the UP police took action against the main accused, Md. Sarfaraz, who was injured and is currently receiving treatment. Singh described this as a significant achievement for the UP Police.

In the RG Kar rape-murder case, Aqueeb, a junior doctor involved in the protest, stated that their hunger strike has reached its 13th day, totaling over 286 hours. He expressed concern that protesters are risking their lives while the state government remains negligent. Aqueeb criticized the West Bengal government's approach, asserting it undermines democratic principles. He pointed out that the government claimed to the Supreme Court that all necessary measures had been taken, yet nothing has actually been done. Despite a requirement for 800 CCTV cameras, only 300 were planned, and even that number was not accurate. He added that the government made decisions without consulting doctors, and their demands have still not been met.

In a recent encounter linked to violence in Bahraich, police arrested five individuals, two of whom sustained injuries during the operation. Union Minister Giriraj Singh commented on the situation, stating, "Such criminals should be killed but they are alive that is more than enough..."

Bahraich violence accused injured in encounter, 5 arrested, BJP leader Syed Zafar Islam says, "...Protocol was completely followed and the fire was used only to bring him down. Then this is a big achievement for UP police and should be appreciated..."

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that three terrorists were killed during operations in Gaza, and they are investigating the possibility that one of them was Yahya Sinwar. However, the identities of the terrorists have not yet been confirmed. There were no indications of hostages present in the building where the operation took place. The forces involved are proceeding with the necessary caution.

In response to a recent encounter in Bahraich where one accused was injured and five arrested, BJP leader Mohsin Raza emphasized the Uttar Pradesh government's zero-tolerance policy towards crime. He praised the police for their actions against criminals, asserting that law and order in the state is strong. Raza questioned the opposition's motives, suggesting they either want to revert to a "jungle raj" or protect criminals. He reiterated the police's role in ensuring the safety of the public, particularly for the state's 25 crore residents, and defended the government's commitment to security, calling the Yogi government a model for the country.

The Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Rules Committee has announced the completion of its work, with the final report ready for submission. Committee Chairman Shatrughan Singh stated, "The committee has completed its work and the printing of the report has also been completed." Singh confirmed that a copy of the UCC rules will be handed over to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami tomorrow, Friday, October 18. This milestone marks a significant step toward the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in the state, aimed at standardizing personal laws across different communities. The UCC seeks to address issues related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, promoting equality and justice for all citizens. Further discussions on the report's contents and its potential impact are anticipated following its presentation to the Chief Minister.

Assam CM Himanta Sarma Biswas tweeted that 8 coaches of Train 12520 Agartala –LTT Express derailed at Dibalong station near Lumding at 15:55 Hrs today. There has been no major casualty or injury and all passengers are safe. He also assured that relief train will reach site shortly, said, We are coordinating railway authorities and relief train will shortly reach the site . Helpline numbers at Lumding are 03674 263120, 03674 263126.

Eight coaches of the Agartala-Lokmanya Terminus Express derailed on Thursday in Dima Hasao district, Assam, according to a report by news agency PTI citing railway officials. No injuries or casualty occurred in the incident. The helpline numbers at Lumding are 03674 263120, 03674 263126.

Five suspects in the killing of a man that triggered violence in Bahraich were arrested here Thursday after an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh Police in which two of them suffered gunshot injuries, a senior official said. The accused were allegedly trying to flee to Nepal, which shares a border with Bahraich district in Uttar Pradesh, the officer said. "Five accused have been arrested," Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash told a news channel.

An Air India flight makes an emergency landing in London due to security threat

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that there are 26 pending extradition requests with Canada, along with several provisional arrest requests for specific criminals. India has provided security-related information about gang members, including those from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, and requested their arrest, but no action has been taken by Canada. He expressed confusion over the Royal Canadian Mounted Police blaming India for crimes committed by individuals India wants deported.

On Lawrence Bisnoi gang and other syndicates, Delhi has alerted the Canadian authorities umpteen times, but they have not acted on our core concerns. Canada terms 'anti-India' demonstrations as an expression of freedom of speech. This sort of demonstrations are not acceptable to India.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "We have seen comments of PM Trudeau that he believes in One India policy, but so far the actions we have requested against anti-India elements, no action has been taken. There is a gap between actions and words here."

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, several forces promoting anti-India activities are being promoted in Canada. We have been reminding Canda to take strong actions against these, but no action is being taken.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal explained that India summoned the acting High Commissioner of Canada, expressing a lack of confidence in the Canadian government's ability to ensure the safety of Indian diplomats. "We had summoned the acting High Commissioner of Canada and thereafter conveyed that we had no faith that the Canadian government will look after the safety of our diplomats and therefore, we had taken a decision to withdraw our High Commissioner and five other diplomats along with him. Subsequent to that, we saw that there was a communication from the Canadian side asking them to leave, but we had withdrawn our diplomats before their decision," says MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "We had shared some requests with the Canadian side for the arrest of those from Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang. They haven’t taken any action on our core concerns. There is a political motive also behind this."

MEA said that no action was taken by Canada on our requests. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reports that 26 extradition requests pending with Canadian side

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's clear position on the diplomatic row with Canada, noting that since September 2023, Canada has not provided any information or evidence for its serious allegations. He referenced PM Trudeau's recent comments as indicative of India's stance and stated that India will reject any false accusations against its diplomats.

MEA reported that not a single evidence was shared by Canada on Nijjar killing since September 2023.

The Railway Board reduced the 120-day advance reservation window for seats to 60 days starting on November 1, 2024.A Railway Board circular dated October 16, 2024 stated, "It has been decided that w.e.f 01.11.2024, the existing time limit for advance reservation by trains will be reduced from 120 days to 60 days (excluding the date of journey)." The Board states that cancellations made after the ARP of sixty days will still be accepted.

PM Modi took a jibe at previous Congress governments for their disregard for India's cultural tradition following independence on Thursday, claiming that the adoption of Pali as a classical language honors Lord Buddha's immense legacy. During an event celebrating International Abhidhamma Divas, Modi stated that although every country links its history to its identity, India was left far behind.

DGP Alok Raj reported that a total of 25 people lost their lives so far in Bihar Hooch tragedy where several people died after allegedly consuming illicit alcohol in various districts in Bihar. He reported 20 deaths in Siwan and 5 deaths in Saran districts. 12 people have been arrested till now, 3 in Saran and 9 arrests in Siwan. The information regarding the 'Sharab mafia' has been collected from the arrested persons. Strict action will be taken against all those who are involved in this chain. The SPs and DMs of both the districts and DIG Saran reached the spot. From Patna, the Prohibition Department Secretary and SP were sent to the spot.Evidence is being collected and strict action will be taken, added the DGP

Karnataka Chief Minister's Office clarifies that all ST (Scheduled Tribes) government residential schools in Karnataka will be renamed as Maharishi Valmiki Residential Schools and Raichur University will be renamed as Maharishi Valmiki University

The District Magistrate of Saran, Aman Samir reported that two suspicious deaths prompted an immediate medical response. It was discovered that the individuals had consumed liquor, and samples collected from the scene revealed that 80 percent of the alcohol contained methyl alcohol. So far, five people have died, about 12 have been discharged after treatment, and 14 remain hospitalized.

A local resident, Rabia Khatun, criticizes the state government and police, claiming they are corrupt and responsible for the destruction of homes. State government is foolish. The government and the police take bribes. They destroy homes. The government is doing everything wrong," says Rabia Khatun on the deaths and hospitalisations of several people after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in Bihar’s Siwan and Saran districts.

Consumption of poisonous liquor has led to the death of 26 people. Several others are hospitalized and receiving treatment. In Siwan, 20 people have died, while 6 people have lost their lives in Chapra.

BJP MLA Shruti Choudhry took oath as a minister in the new Haryana government during the swearing-in ceremony in Panchkula. Coming from a political family, Shruti is the daughter of BJP leader Kiran Choudhry and Surender Singh, son of former Haryana Chief Minister Bansi Lal. Bansi Lal, Shruti's grandfather, served as Haryana CM three times and held key Union portfolios like defence and railways in the Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi governments.

BJP leaders Mahipal Dhanda, Vipul Goel, Arvind Kumar Sharma, and Shyam Singh Rana took the oath as ministers during the swearing-in ceremony in Panchkula.

BJP MLA Anil Vij was sworn in as a cabinet minister in the Haryana government during a grand ceremony in Panchkula. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President JP Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and several other top NDA leaders, making it a significant occasion in the state’s political history.

Nayab Singh Saini has officially taken the oath as Chief Minister of Haryana for his second consecutive term in Panchkula. The grand swearing-in ceremony saw the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and several other top BJP leaders, making it a historic day in Haryana’s political landscape.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived at the venue in Panchkula to attend the swearing-in ceremony of CM-elect Nayab Singh Saini.

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu expressed his excitement upon arriving at Chandigarh Airport for CM-elect Nayab Singh Saini's swearing-in ceremony. Naidu said, "We are very happy. This is the confidence people are having in PM Modi. That's why it is a big victory. The mood of the nation is very clear." His remarks reflect the strong support for BJP's leadership in Haryana and nationwide.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, and other prominent Chief Ministers, Deputy CMs, Union Ministers, and NDA leaders are present at the grand swearing-in ceremony of Haryana CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini in Panchkula. The event marks a significant political moment, with key leaders attending to show their support.

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea seeking the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. The petition, filed by advocate Gopal Shankarnarayan, urges the court to reinstate the region's status as a state. This move comes after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which had led to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories.

The following BJP MLAs will be taking the oath as ministers: Anil Vij, Aarti Rao, Shyam Singh Rana, Shruti Chaudhary, Ranbir Singh Gangwa, Krishan Bedi, Krishan Lal Panwar, Arvind Sharma, Vipul Goyal, Mahipal Dhanda, Rajesh Nagar, Rao Narbir, and Gaurav Gautam. This lineup marks a significant step in the formation of the new government under CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini.

Chirag Paswan has arrived in Chandigarh for the swearing-in ceremony of Haryana CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini. He remarked, "This is a historic win. BJP has won for the third time in a row in Haryana under the leadership of my leader, our country's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. You will see the same results in Jharkhand and Maharashtra as well on 23rd November. After that, elections will be held in Delhi and Bihar, in that too NDA's victory is certain. Congress' revival is impossible." Paswan's comments reflect confidence in the NDA's political strength ahead of upcoming elections.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has arrived in Chandigarh to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Haryana CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini. His presence highlights the significance of this event as the BJP strengthens its political ties in the region.

Maharashtra Leader of Opposition Vijay Wadettiwar has confirmed that discussions on the seat-sharing arrangement among the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) parties are progressing. He stated, “Discussions have already taken place for 216 seats, and 66 seats are left. Today, that discussion will happen, and a final decision will be made. If not this evening, then by tomorrow, we will declare the seat-sharing arrangement through a press conference.” This announcement comes ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the state.

Nayab Saini's wife, Suman Saini, and other family members have arrived at the venue for the swearing-in ceremony. CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini is set to take the oath alongside approximately 12 ministers. The event will also be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and chief ministers from around 18 states, marking a significant occasion in Haryana's political landscape.

BJP President JP Nadda has arrived in Chandigarh to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Haryana CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini. His presence underscores the importance of the event as the BJP prepares to form its third consecutive government in the state.

Haryana BJP President Mohan Lal Badoli hailed the upcoming swearing-in ceremony as a landmark moment, stating, "This historic day has come with the blessings of the people. Under the guidance of our PM, the swearing-in ceremony will take place, marking a first and a historic event in Haryana's political history." His remarks reflect the significance of the event in the context of the BJP's continued governance in the state.

On the eve of announcing the results of recruitment exams for 25,000 posts in Haryana, CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini stated, "Today, our commission has prepared its complete result. They were going to release it earlier, but Congress created obstacles for the youth." He emphasized his government's commitment to providing employment to the youth "bina parchi, bina kharchi," ensuring even children from poor families have access to job opportunities. Saini confirmed that the results for 24,000 students will be released today, reinforcing his agenda to facilitate youth employment in Haryana.

Section 6A of the Citizenship Act was introduced as part of the Assam Accord, signed in 1985 to address the issue of migration into Assam following the Bangladesh Liberation War. This provision allows individuals who migrated to India between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971, to apply for Indian citizenship, provided they meet certain criteria. The enactment of Section 6A aimed to provide a humanitarian solution to the influx of migrants during this period, ensuring that those who had settled in Assam could secure their citizenship status amidst the complex demographic challenges in the region.

Justice JB Pardiwala has dissented regarding the Citizenship Act judgment, declaring Section 6A of the Act unconstitutional. His dissent highlights concerns over the implications of the law on citizenship rights and its alignment with constitutional principles.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud provided insights into the court's recent judgment on the Citizenship Act, highlighting the unique situation in Assam. He noted that the magnitude of influx into Assam and its effects on the region's culture are more pronounced than in West Bengal. "The impact of 40 lakh migrants in Assam is greater than that of 57 lakh in West Bengal due to Assam's smaller land area," the CJI explained during the judgment. This distinction emphasizes the court's consideration of regional demographics and cultural implications in its ruling.

A five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, which grants citizenship to immigrants who entered Assam before January 1, 1966. This provision was added to the Act in 1985 after the Assam Accord was signed between the Rajiv Gandhi-led central government and the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU). The Accord followed a six-year-long agitation against the influx of migrants from Bangladesh into Assam.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh has arrived in Chandigarh to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini. He remarked, "Haryana's victory has proved that today the whole country is celebrating the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Forming a government for the third time is not an easy task." Singh highlighted the challenges posed by the Congress party and the entire INDIA alliance, stating they resorted to negative propaganda during the Haryana elections. However, he noted that the people of Haryana have reaffirmed their support for Modi's governance by rejecting such tactics.

Vistara flight UK 028, operating from Frankfurt to Mumbai on 16 October 2024, faced a security threat received via social media. Following established protocols, authorities were promptly informed. The flight safely landed at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and was directed to an isolation bay where all passengers were disembarked. A Vistara spokesperson emphasized that the airline is fully cooperating with security agencies to complete mandatory checks, reaffirming that the safety of customers, crew, and the aircraft is their top priority.

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale congratulated Nayab Singh Saini as he prepares to take the oath as Chief Minister of Haryana for the second consecutive time. Speaking ahead of the event, Athawale expressed gratitude to the people of Haryana for bringing the BJP back to power for the third time in the state. "Under the leadership of PM Modi, BJP is becoming stronger," he noted. Athawale, who attended as a Union Minister and representative of the Republican Party of India (Athawale), extended his support to the newly elected government.

On the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti, Haryana CM-designate Nayab Singh Saini offered prayers at the Valmiki Temple in Panchkula ahead of his swearing-in ceremony. Expressing his gratitude, Saini said, "It is my good fortune that today is the birth anniversary of Lord Valmiki... I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all on this auspicious day."

Nayab Singh Saini, the CM-designate of Haryana, is set to be sworn in for his second consecutive term today in Panchkula. Saini, who has been a key leader in the state's political landscape, will take the oath in a ceremony attended by top officials and party leaders, marking the beginning of his new tenure as Chief Minister.

Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud has nominated Justice Sanjay Karol Khanna as his successor. Justice Khanna is set to assume the role of CJI following Chandrachud’s retirement on November 10. As per tradition, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court is appointed as the next Chief Justice, and Justice Khanna’s nomination aligns with this convention. Read more.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, speaking at the Foreign Interference Commission, defended Canada's stance on India, reiterating, "'One India' is the official Canadian policy." He emphasized that while some Canadians may advocate differently, it doesn't reflect the country's official position. Trudeau expressed disappointment in the Indian government's response, stating, "Instead of seeking resolution, they attacked Canada, its citizens, and our governance, undermining the integrity of our democracy." He further stressed that Canada does not wish to engage in conflict with a key trading partner, highlighting the importance of diplomatic ties between the two democracies.

US President Joe Biden is set to meet with the leaders of key NATO allies—Germany, France, and the UK—during his visit to Berlin this week. According to the White House, Biden will hold talks on Friday with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This meeting underscores the ongoing collaboration between the countries on critical global issues.

Vice President Kamala Harris took aim at former President Donald Trump’s leadership approach, stating, "Turning the page from the last decade... we have been burdened with rhetoric from Donald Trump that has been designed to divide our country." She emphasized that true leadership is not about "who you beat down," but rather about "who you lift up," signaling her commitment to a more unifying approach to governance.

During External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar's recent visit to Islamabad, no discussions were held regarding the resumption of cricket ties between India and Pakistan, according to sources. The focus of the visit remained on diplomatic and bilateral issues, with cricket not being part of the dialogue.

Vice President Kamala Harris stated on Wednesday that the United States' immigration system is "broken" and in urgent need of reform. During a rare interview with Fox News anchor Bret Baier, Harris emphasized the necessity of fixing the system, acknowledging the ongoing challenges. "The point is that we have a broken immigration system that needs to be repaired," she asserted in a spirited exchange with the conservative network's popular host.

North Korea has formally amended its constitution to declare South Korea a "hostile state," state media confirmed Thursday. This marks the first time the North has officially codified the South as an enemy, following leader Kim Jong Un’s push for the change. The updated constitution also removes the goal of peaceful unification and solidifies North Korea's sovereign territorial stance. This announcement comes just two days after Pyongyang demolished unused road and rail links that once connected the two nations.

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